There are plenty of events happening around Onkaparinga with the weather warming up if you’re looking to get out and about down south.
Here are some highlights, but you can find heaps more events – including at Onkaparinga’s libraries, community centres, youth centres and more – at onkaparingacity.com/events
Grenache & Gourmet Festival
The Grenache & Gourmet Festival returns to the McLaren Vale wine region on International Grenache Day (18 September) for 18 days of world-class wine, exquisite food and unforgettable moments. From exclusive tastings and paddock-to-plate feasts to immersive adventures and meet-the-maker masterclasses, Grenache & Gourmet is the festival for curious palates and thoughtful travellers, and those who appreciate craftsmanship, connection to land, and the stories behind every bottle.
Head to grenacheandgourmet.com.au for all the details. The festival is proudly supported by McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast.
Salty Finn Sauna
South Australia’s first mobile sauna has returned to Onkaparinga, setting up at Christies Beach (The Esplanade, just north of the Christies Beach Surf Club) until 15 November. The Salty Finn Sauna is a traditional timber-lined, woodfire sauna designed for an authentic Finnish experience, and it’s hosted in Onkaparinga as part of our Encore coastal activation program.
You can book a 50-minute spot in the communal sauna (up to 6 people) or opt for a private booking visit thesaltyfinn.com.au
Arts Centre exhibitions
The Arts Centre is also hosting an exhibition of artworks by local First Nations students from 22 September to 10 October.
In the lead-up to the Colours of Country exhibition, the students have worked with local artists and First Nations school staff to research a chosen theme relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture to produce pieces using modern and traditional art techniques.
An exhibition of handmade glass artworks created by people living with dementia is also on until 12 October. NEAT – A Neurological Exploration of Art that is Tactile provides an inclusive platform for people living with dementia to design, co-create or collaborate on works, fostering dignity-of-risk for these often underrepresented or socially excluded individuals due to their cognitive, psychosocial or physical limitations.
Nature Festival
SA’s annual Nature Festival returns with more than 350 events across the state from 25 September to 11 October, celebrating our unique love for nature in the state. In Onkaparinga, there are about 20 events happening across the region, ranging from tours, art workshops and exhibitions, meditation, music, birdwatching and kids activities.
Highlights include a free nature date at Reynella East’s wetlands and creeks; a beginner’s eco-etching workshop at Aldinga’s Studio 20 Youth Centre; a free Beach Detectives kids event at Aldinga Beach; a free guided family night walk at Onkaparinga River Recreation Park; art exhibitions from Jorji Gardener, Margaret Ambridge and Kultar Ahluwalia; and birdwatching/art and mark-making workshops at Port Noarlunga’s Sauerbier House.
Head to naturefestival.org.au for all the details.
Trucks on Tour
Are your children mad about trucks? (Or are you?) Then roll on down to Wilfred Taylor Reserve, Morphett Vale on 9 October for a fun-filled day of big trucks, hands-on experiences, and plenty of excitement for the whole family. There’s also a sensory hour planned from 1–2pm. Mark your calendars now. You won’t want to miss this free community event! onkaparingacity.com/trucks
Fleurieu Folk Festival
The annual Fleurieu Folk Festival returns to Willunga Recreation Park from 9–11 October, celebrating 20 years in 2026. Over 2 decades, the festival has grown into a much-loved event attracting audiences from across SA and interstate, while maintaining strong connections with local communities down south.
This year’s program of Australian and international performers, workshops, dancing, markets and family-friendly activities is not to be missed! The festival is supported by the City of Onkaparinga.
Reconciliation in the South
Come together for a free, family-friendly event at Noarlunga Centre’s Ramsay Place on 28 October, bringing the community together for reconciliation, with live music and performances, art, craft and cultural activities, stalls, free food and more.
Whether you're on your lunch break, your day off, or just passing through – the event (11am to 1pm) is for you to soak up the atmosphere and show that you're ‘All In’, aligning with this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme calling for us to step off the sidelines and take action toward reconciliation, together.
More information visit Reconciliation in the South
Players Series South Australia
Pro golf returns to Willunga Golf Course from 22–25 October for the 2026 Players Series South Australia, alongside family activities, golf activations, pop-up bars and more. Free admission.
This highly anticipated event kicks off the 2026–27 Players Series and promises a thrilling showcase of top male and female professionals, elite amateurs, and exciting junior and All Abilities competitions.