WORDS: CARLA CARUSO
Feel like you’re at a European Christmas market – or in a Sweet Dreams novel – at this all-ages winter wonderland at Glenelg.
I always used to get the ‘sads’ whenever the cooler months rolled around. But I don’t know if it’s been the COVID-19 lockdowns or anything else, but I’ve since begun to embrace the change of seasons.
Even CELEBRATE our dear, old friend, winter.
Alpine Winter Festival 2021
The 2021 Alpine Winter Festival on Glenelg’s foreshore takes that celebration to another level. It’s totally hip, totally Instagrammable, and totally fun. Like heading to Victoria’s ski resorts, but without the plane trip!
The fest kicked off with a KIDDO VIP night on June 25 and runs until July 18. The foreshore is its new home after it brought ‘winter heat’ to Victoria Square and the Adelaide Riverbank in previous years.
All the trappings of winter at the Bay
Think ice-skating, stylish market stalls, sideshows, street performers, live music, and winter-appropriate fare like hot toddies, toffee apples, and buttery pretzels. (Check out the vendors at the lively Chow Town or dine at the chic Roberta’s Italian restaurant.) There’s a mix of open-air spots and sheltered areas, and it’s also pet-friendly.
STORM INSTALLATION
A highlight is the light and sound installation by local creatives Harsh Realities, dubbed STORM. Inspired by a squall at sea, the activation brings the Glenelg Jetty to life and gives off Stranger Things electronica vibes.
Ice Skating in Glenelg
But onto the focal point, the ice rink… On launch night, many kidlets displayed surprising dexterity (though there are penguin-shaped skating aids for the newbies too). Parents, meanwhile, were reliving their teenage days spent at Thebarton’s Ice Arena or rollerblading. Hallmark movie channel, look out.
Event Details
Worth noting: the festival’s FREE to enter from Sunday to Thursday. On Friday to Saturday, it’s $10 after 7pm or FREE with an ice-skating ticket or Roberta’s booking or for those under 18. (Online bookings are advised for the ice-skating.)
If you’re going to get to one winter festival this year, make it this one. Rug up – and look forward to seeing you on the ice!
For more information on this year’s festival, line-up, and tickets, visit:
