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    Best Things to do in Wollongong / Illawarra in Spring. What’s on Guide.

    Spring into Wollongong’s best events and what’s on this season! From local markets, festivals, live music, magical bushwalks and food trails. What’s on in Wollongong reveals the best things to do Illawarra wide. It’s the perfect time to explore Illawarra, Shellharbour, Kiama and South Coast NSW and soak up everything Spring has to offer.

    Discover the best things to do, must-see events, and places to be this Spring in Wollongong!

    Main title image c/o The Boathouse, North Wollongong

    Spring Events in the Illawarra:

    Eats & Beats Spring Edition – Oak Flats, Saturday 20 September

    Spring is bursting onto the streets of Oak Flats as Shellharbour City Council brings the Eats and Beats Street Series to Central Avenue for a day of music, flavour and fun!

    Enjoy street food and tasty treats from local businesses and food stalls, live entertainment, roving performers, creative market stalls and free family activities including face painting and circus fun.

    This special event is presented in partnership with Oak Flats Public School’s Spring Festival, bringing added excitement with carnival rides, showbags and more! Plan your visit now here.

    Steel City Strings – Forest Bathing, 14 – 21 September

    Experience the healing power of nature through music with Steel City Strings’ Forest Bathing, inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. This September, immerse yourself in serene, wild, and spiritually rich compositions, including world premieres by internationally acclaimed composer Katia Beaugeais and emerging cellist Gabriel Frømyhr.

    Featuring works by Elena Kats-Chernin, Peter Sculthorpe, and Brenda Gifford, the repertoire reflects the beauty of the natural world—from the still majesty of forests to the roar of the coast—offering a tranquil space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect. Performances are on 14 Sept in Bowral, 20 Sept in Wollongong, and 21 Sept in Nowra. Secure your tickets now here.

    Currarong Campout, 19 & 20 September

    Grab your spot for a fun-filled spring getaway at Holiday Haven Currarong with 40% off powered sites for 2+ nights, movies under the stars, crackling campfires with marshmallows, and games for all ages. Plus, enjoy complimentary late checkout to make the most of your stay. Don’t wait – book now before sites disappear and make it a weekend to remember.

    Culture Mix, Saturday 20 September

    Culture Mix is a FREE, inclusive celebration open to all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. On Saturday 20 September, 11am–7pm across Wollongong CBD, Crown St Mall, the Arts Precinct, Art Gallery, and Library, enjoy music, dance, workshops, installations, and global food. Sample Chilean street eats, join K-Pop dance classes, take part in a street parade with a Traditional Chinese Lion Dance and samba band, or explore the Cultural Bazaar.

    With Culture Kids activities, storytelling, a Quiet Space, accessible parking, and Auslan programs, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant community event. Learn more here.

    The Art of Violin, Saturday 27 September

    Experience The Art of Violin this September in Wollongong! At the end of the 17th century, the violin as we know it was born, captivating Europe with its brilliance and versatility. This special concert showcases how German, Italian, and French composers shaped the violin concerto, with works by Telemann, Leclair, Handel, Vivaldi, and Bach. Performed by Artistic Director Madeleine Easton, alongside Rafael Font and Simone Slattery, this is a celebration of Baroque mastery not to be missed. At the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music, Gleniffer Brae. Book your tickets here now.

    Greenplan Plant Sales at Wollongong Botanic Garden

    Discover a wide range of native and exotic plants at the Wollongong Botanic Garden’s monthly Greenplan Plant Sales, all grown by our volunteers and perfect for local conditions. With subsidised prices from $3–$45, expert horticulturalists are on hand to help you pick the right plants for your garden. Plus, grab a coffee, tea, or hot chocolate from the on-site van while you browse! On once a month – click here for upcoming dates.

    The Wollongong Botanic Garden is also perfect for exploring winding paths, spotting wildlife, and discovering hidden treasures. Kids will love the all-abilities playground, duck pond, and sustainable garden, while adults can enjoy rainforest walks, diverse plant collections, and the nature wellness trail.

    Oktoberfest events across Wollongong & the Illawarra! September & October

    Oktoberfest celebrations are returning to Wollongong and the Illawarra, bringing the spirit of Bavaria to the South Coast! From traditional German food and steins of beer to live music, games, and plenty of festive fun, there are events and gatherings across the region for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re after a lively party atmosphere, a family-friendly day out, or just a chance to sample seasonal brews, Oktoberfest in the Illawarra is the perfect way to welcome spring with good food, good music, and great company. Prost! Plan your Oktoberfest celebrations here.

    Duck Pond, 22 – 25 October, Merrigong Theatre Co

    Duck Pond by Circa – where ballet meets circus! Internationally acclaimed circus company Circa reimagines Swan Lake with breathtaking acrobatics, cheeky humour, and dazzling aerials. From sequined, flipper-wearing ducks to a burlesque black swan, this witty, high-energy performance is touching, funny, and unforgettable. Don’t miss a spectacular tale of swans, princes, and finding your true self – with feathers, thrills, and jaw-dropping stunts that will leave you spellbound! For ages 10 years + Grab your tickets now here.

    Wedding Open Evening at the award-winning Figbird Cottage, Saturday 15 November

    Searching for the perfect wedding venue? Figbird Cottage in Terara (just 1 hour from Wollongong) is hosting a Wedding Open Evening. Explore the stunning gardens, boutique accommodation & NEW wedding packages + meet talented local suppliers. Limited spots – RSVP now here.

    Check out more Spring events coming to our region here!

    Spring Outdoor Activities Illawarra:

    Scenic bike rides near me

    Take advantage of the sunny weather and explore Wollongong by bike! From flat coastal paths to mountain trails, there are routes for all ages and skill levels. Perfect for a family outing, a scenic ride with friends, or a solo adventure — get some fresh air, exercise, and enjoy the beautiful spring scenery. Get our Guide to the best bike routes in Wollongong & across the Illawarra here.

    OR – if you are after something a little more challenging and off the traditional bike trails, explore the best MTB bike trails in the Illawarra here.

    Illawarra Markets & Craft Fairs

    Celebrate spring by exploring Wollongong and South Coast markets. Hunt for fresh produce, handmade treasures, and tasty treats, enjoy live entertainment, and soak up the vibrant community atmosphere. Perfect for a sunny weekend outing with family and friends. Get our guide to the best Spring markets & pop ups in the Wollongong & Illawarra region here.

    Wollongong Makers Market, Saturday 8 November – Sunday 9 November

    The Wollongong Makers Market returns for 2025 on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 November, from 9am to 3pm! Save the date now to make sure you don’t miss the Illawarra’s best handmade shopping experience, perfectly timed to help you find one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts.

    Held at the UOW Innovation Campus in North Wollongong, this free-entry, biannual artisan market celebrates high-quality handmade creations—from painters and authors to jewellers, ceramicists, and printmakers. Enjoy over 100 stalls across two levels, live jazz, and delicious food, all in a relaxed, scenic setting opposite Puckeys Beach. With free parking, nearby cycleways, and a welcoming community vibe, it’s the perfect weekend outing. Don’t miss this standout event for local creativity and talent!

    Whale watching & takeaway picnic hampers at The Imperial at Clifton

    Perched along the scenic Northern Illawarra escarpment just 500m from the Sea Cliff Bridge, The Imperial at Clifton offers award-winning breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and gourmet picnic hampers. Enjoy stunning coastal views, relax with delicious food, and take in spring whale watching right from your table or nearby spots. Perfect for a scenic spring outing.

    PLUS – you can check out our guide to further whale watching spots across the Illawarra here!

    Wollongong’s Best Barefoot Bowls / Wiso’s

    Kick off your shoes and enjoy a fun, relaxed day on the green! From glow-in-the-dark bowls with friends, to kids’ bowls during school holidays or a casual work party with a beer in hand, the Illawarra has the perfect barefoot bowls venues for everyone. Great value, welcoming vibes, and plenty of laughs guaranteed – time to lose the shoes and roll some bowls. Get our Guide to the Best Barefoot Bowls in Wollongong & the Illawarra. Including Glow Bowls & Bowling Parties here.

    This Spring, get active in the sunshine at Wollongong Tennis Club!

    Wollongong Tennis Club is the perfect spot for a hit, a lesson, or a family day out. With both grass and hard courts, expert coaching for all ages, kids’ holiday camps, and even elite junior squads, there’s something for everyone. After your game, relax with great food in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned player, or just looking for a fun outdoor activity, tennis at Wollongong Tennis Club is a must-do Spring activity this season!

    Kiama Coastal Walk

    Image c/o Destination Kiama

    The Kiama Coastal Walk stretches about 22 km from Minnamurra to Gerringong, offering breathtaking ocean views and diverse coastal scenery. Because the full walk is quite long, families are best off choosing a shorter section like the popular Kiama Blowhole to Easts Beach stretch or the path from Surf Beach to Kendalls Beach. These shorter routes are manageable for kids and perfect for a leisurely picnic stop along the way. With plenty of scenic spots and easy access, the walk is a wonderful way to enjoy Kiama’s stunning coastline without committing to the entire trail.

    Best Illawarra bushwalks with waterfalls

    Minnamurra Falls. Image courtesy of NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

    Discover some of the Illawarra’s best waterfall walks and natural swimming holes, perfect for all ages and fitness levels. From tranquil bush trails to coastal walks with stunning views, there’s nothing better than cooling off with a dip at the end — or simply soaking up the peace of running water. Many of these beautiful spots are just a short drive from Wollongong, with family-friendly trails (and even some pet-friendly ones!) making them ideal for a spring day out in nature.

    Spring Holiday Deals South Coast NSW:

    Spring Escapes with Holiday Haven Parks – Shoalhaven & South Coast

    Make the most of the sunshine this spring at one of 12 stunning Holiday Haven locations across the Shoalhaven and South Coast. From beachfront cabins to lakefront and riverfront campsites, it’s the perfect way to unwind, explore, and enjoy the great outdoors.

    Getaway Deals with Holiday Haven Parks:

    Wollongong’s Health & Wellbeing / Spring Reset:

    Hangdog Recovery Room – Infrared Sauna & Ice Bath

    Hangdog Climbing Gym has just opened its brand-new Recovery Room, featuring a refreshing ice bath and infrared sauna – and it’s open to everyone (no climbing required).

    Perfect for athletes, weekend warriors, or anyone looking to reset, boost circulation, and reduce muscle soreness. While the kids climb, you can relax, recover, and leave feeling revitalised. Casual sessions from just $10 or weekly memberships from $20. Visit now.

    Sanctuary by Thrive

    Spring Reset for Your Skin at Sanctuary by Thrive, Unanderra! As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to refresh, rejuvenate, and glow. Shake off winter dullness with treatments that exfoliate, hydrate, and stimulate collagen, from medical-grade peels to advanced laser therapies. Pair it with a holistic approach to hormonal and metabolic health for skin that looks radiant and feels revitalized this spring. Enquire now.

    Get Moving This September: Join the Million Moves Challenge in Wollongong!

    This September, Wollongong locals are invited to take part in the Million Moves Challenge, a free 21-day event designed to get the community moving, feeling good, and building healthier habits together. From 1–21 September, the goal is simple: complete 75 moves a day – whether that’s walking the dog, dancing in the lounge, cycling, stretching, or hitting the gym.

    Participants can enjoy free access to gyms, leading workout apps like SWEAT, Les Mills, The Body Coach, and Zumba, plus sessions at local fitness centres. With a prize pool of up to $125k, the challenge is fun, free, and all about creating a healthier future for Wollongong—solo, with friends, family, or colleagues. Sign up now and be part of the movement!

    Saunaus Wollongong

    Step into a season of renewal at Saunaus Wollongong, where hot rock saunas, ice baths, and infrared therapy meet total relaxation. Unwind in the recovery lounge, soak up the benefits of contrast therapy, or book a massage for the ultimate reset. Saunaus is the perfect spot to refresh your body and mind this spring. Visit here.

    Special September Events:

    • Breathwork / Sauna / Ice: Wednesday 10 September | 6–8pm
    • Yoga / Sound / Sauna / Ice: Sunday 14 September | 7–9:30am

    Wollongong Best Spring Dining & Restaurants:

    Breakfast or brunch with a view at Altitude 1148, Bulli Tops

    Enjoy breakfast or brunch high above the Illawarra at Altitude1148, where panoramic views make every meal memorable. From light, fluffy pancakes to hearty options like eggs benedict, paired with expertly brewed coffee and fresh juices and smoothies, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the spring sunshine and start your day relaxed and refreshed over the Illawarra escarpment.

    Altitude 1148’s location also offers an ideal starting point for a scenic bushwalk – check out any of the amazing Illawarra escarpment bushwalks close by here.

    The Boathouse North Wollongong

    Celebrate spring at The Boathouse North Wollongong, perched on the top level of the North Wollongong Surf Life Saving Club with breathtaking ocean views. Enjoy coastal-inspired bistro dishes for lunch and dinner or relax with casual drinks and small bites on the sun-soaked terrace.

    Celebrate the season with the ultimate pairing: $5 Crab Toast + $12 Whispering Angel Rosé. Golden afternoons, long lunches, and waterside views — it doesn’t get better than this! Available 1–30 September. Book your table now.

    The Lagoon’s Spring Savours Menu!

    Enjoy The Lagoon’s special mid-week spring offering, including fresh dishes perfect for sunny days and relaxed evenings. Available for lunch & dinner, Monday to Friday.

    Spring Dining & Events at Steamers Bar & Gril

    From fresh spring flavours and vibrant cocktails to unbeatable drink deals, live music by the beach, and our Oktoberfest weekend specials, your spring calendar at Steamers Bar & Grill is looking brighter than ever. Start light with our Tie Downs – tasty bites perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself) – then make the most of Thirsty Thursday, with Happy Hour running all day and live music from 5:30 pm to set the vibe.

    The good times continue every Thursday and Saturday evening, with live performances, ocean views, and cocktails that keep the night rolling. And for food lovers, don’t miss Steamers 45 – your choice of any three chef-curated dishes for just $45pp, available daily for both lunch (11:30 am – 3 pm) and dinner (5:30 – 7 pm).

    Sundowner Sessions & Acoustic Fridays – The Imperial at Clifton

    Perched above the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge, the award-winning and iconic, The Imperial, is your go-to for chill vibes, live tunes & unbeatable views.

    Bottomless Brunch at ilu ilu Wollongong

    Unwind this spring at ilu ilu Wollongong every Saturday from 2–4 PM with two hours of bottomless drinks, including freshly made cocktails and sangria that rotate monthly for a fresh twist. Pair it with the Dish of the Month, a rotating chef’s special packed with bold, exciting flavors.

    Whether you’re catching up with friends or treating yourself, this is the perfect way to elevate your weekend. Two hours, no rush – just great food, great drinks, and spring vibes. Book your table now.

    Spring Sports and Activities:

    Urban Rec Wollongong’s Spring Sport Leagues

    It’s time to warm things up with Urban Rec’s Spring 2025 Priority Registration, running 29 Aug – 5 Sept! Urban Rec is more than just sport – it’s a social club too, with free beers during Pub Week, Saturday burger & beer deals, and more member perks.

    With 17 leagues across 8 sports in Wollongong, there’s something for everyone (18+, all levels, mixed and social), plus 6 chances to win $$$ cashback on your team rego. This is your VIP chance to lock in your crew before spots go public (and sell out fast!), with the season kicking off the weeks of 6 and 13 October. Register as a team or solo – learn more here now.

    Skydive Australia – get $25 off now!

    Wollongong locals, this one’s for you! Get $25 off tandem skydives at Skydive Sydney–Wollongong with code GONGLOCAL25.

    Jump from up to 15,000 feet, freefall at over 200km/h for up to 60 seconds, then float under canopy for 5–7 minutes while soaking up breathtaking views of Wollongong, the Illawarra coastline, and Southern Sydney beaches. With our headquarters perfectly positioned in Stuart Park, just 100m from the sand, there’s no better place to take the leap. Don’t miss out – this sky-high special won’t last forever. Book now and let gravity do the rest! Tick it off your bucket list this spring now!

    MS Gong Ride 2025 – Sunday 2 November

    Australia’s most epic charity cycling event, the MS Gong Ride, will take place on Sunday, 2 November 2025, in Wollongong. Since 1981, tens of thousands of cyclists have taken part in this iconic ride, raising vital funds to support more than 33,300 Australians living with multiple sclerosis.

    Riders will enjoy a scenic journey through the Royal National Park, breathtaking ocean views from Stanwell Tops, and the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge, before crossing the finish line surrounded by surf, sun, and sand. Whether riding solo or as part of a team, participants can experience a fun, safe, and well-supported event while making a real difference for people living with MS. Learn more/register now here.

    Treetops Adventure Nowra

    Take your spring excitement to new heights just 1 hour south of Wollongong! At Treetops Adventure Nowra, climb, zipline, and navigate your way through the treetops along the Shoalhaven River. Sessions run for 2.5 hours, including gearing up, with courses for all ages from 3+.

    Start small on the beginner 1-metre-high courses, or push your limits up to 35 metres above the ground for a real adrenaline kick. With levels designed for the whole family, it’s the perfect spring activity to explore, challenge yourself, and have fun outdoors. Explore now.

    Spring Picnic Places in Wollongong

    View from Mount Kiera Lookout

    There’s no better way to enjoy the South Coast of NSW than a leisurely picnic with stunning ocean views. The native wildflowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and it’s prime time to laze in the grass, soak up some vitamin D, and munch on your favourite snacks.

    Whether you’re planning a day out with kids, friends, fur babies, or even a spring date, our Top 10 Wollongong & Illawarra Picnic Spots guide has all the insider tips to help you pick the perfect location for a relaxed, scenic, and fun-filled spring day. Discover our Top 10 Wollongong & Illawarra Picnic Spots to Explore here.

    Luxury Spring Picnics with Pony & Wolf

    Celebrate spring with Pony & Wolf Pop-Up Picnics at Wollongong’s most scenic spots. Perfect for couples, groups, proposals, bridal showers, or birthdays, each picnic is styled with plush cushions, blankets, boho teepees, and gourmet grazing platters. Choose your setup, soak up coastal views, and enjoy a stress-free, unforgettable spring celebration. Learn more here.

    Celebrate Spring amongst the vines at Shoalhaven & South Coast wineries

    Photo credit Mountain Ridge Wines

    Soak up the season with a visit to local wineries, where rolling vineyards, mountain-to-ocean views, and golden sunsets set the scene. Enjoy a wine tasting, a leisurely stroll among the vines, or a delicious meal – the perfect way to celebrate spring outdoors. Get our Guide to the Best Local Wineries in the Shoalhaven & South Coast here.

    Spring Wedding Proposal Ideas in Wollongong & the Illawarra

    Did you know spring is the busiest season for wedding proposals? With blooming flowers, warmer days, and longer sunsets, it’s the perfect time to pop the question and create a magical moment. If you are after wedding proposal inspo, check out our 14 Breathtaking Proposal Locations & Ideas on the South Coast in Spring here.

    And now that you’ve popped the question – explore our guide to the best wedding proposal locations – including outdoor wedding locations perfect for spring here!

    And with the Wollongong spring school holidays fast approaching…..

    Better run, don’t walk to our What’s On for Kids Spring School Holiday Guide! We’ve rounded up the best programs, events, activities, and low-cost fun across Wollongong, Shellharbour, and the Illawarra. Keep the kids entertained with exciting ideas for all ages and make this spring school holiday one to remember.

    After more events and businesses near you? Never suffer FOMO again with our Weekly Newsletter sent straight to your in-box! Sign up HERE

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