Running until 13th of October, the festival offers something for everyone, with over 400 events across the state including art installations, family-friendly activities, and immersive nature experiences that celebrate the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
Across South Australia, families are encouraged to embark on a Nature Adventure Challenge, running from September 28 to October 13, led by astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg and explorer Tim Jarvis. This statewide initiative invites families to explore nature together and share their adventures.
Families looking for school holiday fun can enjoy the SensoryCelebration Eco Sensory Play in Hugh Johnson Boulevard Reserve on September 28, offering eco-friendly sensory activities for kids aged 6 months to 12 years. As the evening approaches, the Twilight Enchanted Forest Fairy Potion Play Party will light up Duval Drive on the same day, allowing children to craft magical potions under fairy-lit trees.
For those seeking hands-on experiences, the Kaurna Bush Tucker Workshop at the Living Kaurna Cultural Centre will offer participants the chance to learn about traditional bush foods and even plant their own bush tucker to take home. The Fruit & Veg Swap at Bower Cottages, also on September 28, invites the community to share surplus homegrown produce, fostering sustainability and connection.
Art lovers can explore nature through a different lens with Native Plants of the Gawler Region exhibition and photo competition, while nature enthusiasts can join the Wildflower Wander at Scott Creek Conservation Park for an interactive family walkthrough the region’s vibrant flora.
There’s also a chance to get creative at Painting WITHNature at The Sanctuary, Yundi in the Fleurieu Peninsula, where participants will use foraged materials to create unique works of art in a serene riverbank setting.
One of the festival’s standout installations, Pleasance, will be hosted at the Art Gallery of South Australia from September 28 to October 16, transforming the gallery’s courtyard with a stunning architecture installation by Fallow and Superbloom.
For regional participants, events such as the Wombats and Stars experience at Brookfield Conservation Park and the Black Hill Park Nature Walk will offer guided walks and astronomical wonders. On September 29, the Science of Forest Bathing at Goat Shed Café will delve into the healing powers of nature, followed by more immersive events like Along the River at Felixstow Reserve and Feathers& Wings: Bird Drawing Workshop for Kids at Wittunga Botanic Garden.
These are just a few highlights of the packed festival program, which also includes regional experiences such as the Wonderful Wildflowers and Birds in Tanunda and the Coastal Dune Walk in Spring at Semaphore Foreshore.
With over two weeks of activities spanning the state, the 2024 Nature Festival promises to engage, inspire, and delight participants of all ages. Don’t miss the opportunity to reconnect with nature, discover hidden gems, and experience South Australia’s unique natural beauty.
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