The Ultimate Adelaide Guide to Events in May 2026
Here’s our Radelaide Tours insider guide to the hottest happenings in Adelaide and across South Australia this MAY.
WHAT’S ON IN ADELAIDE — May 2026
May in Adelaide is all about slowing down and soaking things in — long lunches, cool evenings, live music, and a calendar packed with culture and flavour. If April is energetic, May is where the city really settles into its groove. It’s less hectic but still full of reasons to get out and explore.
Here are the standout events worth planning your trip around.
Tasting Australia 8–17 May 2026
If you love food (and let’s be honest, that’s half the reason people visit Adelaide), this is the big one.
Tasting Australia transforms the city into a celebration of South Australia’s world-class produce, chefs and wine culture. The heart of it all is Town Square in Victoria Square, where you’ll find:
pop-up restaurants and chef collaborations, wine tastings from across the state, live music and casual dining spaces
There are also exclusive dining events, regional tours and hands-on experiences. It’s one of the best ways to “taste” the entire state without leaving the city.
South Australia’s History Festival 1–31 May 2026
All month long, Adelaide (and the wider state) turns into a giant storytelling stage.
The History Festival features hundreds of events — walking tours, exhibitions, talks and workshops — uncovering everything from colonial history to modern cultural stories.
It’s a great excuse to: explore hidden corners of the city, visit heritage buildings not usually open and learn the deeper stories behind South Australia Perfect if you like your travel with a bit of meaning.
Bastille Festival Adelaide 28–31 May 2026 | Festival Plaza
Adelaide gets a French makeover to close out the month.
Festival Plaza transforms into a buzzing celebration of French culture, with:
wine, champagne and mulled wine, raclette, crêpes and pastries, live music, cabaret and roaming performers
It runs from morning coffee through to late-night drinks — very European in feel, and completely free to enter.
Sea to Shore Festival 15 -16 May 2026 | Glenelg Beach
Adelaide’s only dedicated seafood festival will return to the Glenelg foreshore in May. Festivalgoers can look forward to food vendors offering seafood, dessert and coffee at the outdoor event. A licensed bar in a clear-sided marquee, DJ sets, and chef- and producer-led cooking demonstrations will add to the experience.
Guy Sebastian 100 Times Around The Sun Tour 11 May 2026
One of Australia’s most recognisable voices brings his national tour to Adelaide.
Expect a mix of big hits and newer material in a polished live show — ideal if you’re after a classic night out during your stay.
AFL Premiership Matches (Adelaide & Port Adelaide) Throughout May 2026
Footy season is in full swing, and catching a game at Adelaide Oval is a must-do local experience.
Whether it’s the Adelaide Crows or Port Adelaide Football Club playing, the atmosphere is electric — even for first-timers.
Urban Wine Walk Adelaide 16 May 2026
A brilliant way to combine Adelaide’s bar scene with its wine culture.
You’ll wander between venues in the city, sampling wines from different producers along the way. It’s casual, social and very Adelaide — wine without the winery drive.
Adelaide Gaol History Day 17 May 2026
A standout event within the History Festival, this day opens up one of Adelaide’s most atmospheric historic sites.
Expect guided tours, stories from the past and a chance to explore the old gaol in detail — equal parts fascinating and slightly eerie.
Beyond Adelaide: Great May Events Across South Australia
Once you’ve explored the city, May is the perfect time to head out on a regional adventure. Cooler weather, autumn colours and harvest season make it one of the best months to explore.
Clare Valley Gourmet Festival 15–18 May 2026
Just a couple of hours from Adelaide, this is one of the state’s most loved food and wine festivals.
Expect: cellar door tastings, long lunches among vineyards, live music and regional produce
It’s relaxed, scenic and incredibly delicious — everything you want from a South Australian getaway.
Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival 15–17 May 2026 | Limestone Coast
A few hours south of Adelaide, this much-loved regional festival blends art, wine and community.
Across the weekend, you’ll find: exhibitions and workshops, live performances and markets, cellar doors and local produce
The whole Penola and Coonawarra region comes alive, making it a perfect excuse to explore one of South Australia’s best wine areas
Adelaide Hills Events & Autumn Escapes
The Hills really come into their own in May. Alongside smaller festivals and markets, it’s the ideal time for:
scenic drives through autumn foliage, winery hopping, cosy cafés and fireplaces
Events pop up across the region, celebrating everything from food to art and local heritage.
Coastal Road Trips & Regional Markets
From the Fleurieu Peninsula to the Yorke Peninsula, May brings a steady stream of:
weekend markets, seaside events AND food and wine experiences
It’s quieter than summer — but arguably more enjoyable.
Why Visit Adelaide in May?
May is one of Adelaide’s most underrated months:
Cool, comfortable weather (perfect for exploring)
Major food and cultural festivals
Fewer crowds than peak season
Ideal conditions for wine regions
It’s less about big headline festivals and more about living like a local — good food, good wine and plenty of space to enjoy both.