AWBF is Tasmania's largest free event and the largest celebration of wooden boats and maritime culture in the Southern Hemisphere.

Founded in 1994, the four-day festival is held biennially in Hobart, spanning the entire waterfront and feeding into the city beyond.

Hobart's historic port bursts to life with a vibrant atmosphere, offering a curated blend of experiences. The festival features a stunning collection of 400+ wooden vessels, from historic tall ships and classic yachts to traditional fishing boats.

Visitors can enjoy the grandeur of the opening Parade of Sail, and the closing Admiral's Sail, along with on-water displays, boat cruises and tours, symposium talks, workshops, cooking demos, exhibitions, theatre, film, live music at the festival tavern, delicious Tasmanian food and drink, and a dedicated kids' maritime precinct with shaded areas and plenty of activities.

What's on:

Events and points of interest around Hobart.

24 Sep 2026 - 26 Sep 2026
Deep Dark Tales | DRILL Performance Company Inc
Folklore, fantastical creatures, cautionary tales and philosophical fables.
6 Jun 2026 - 29 Mar 2027
Julian Charrière: Hard Core
French-Swiss artist Julian Charrière is marking a descent into deep time at Mona.
25 Sep 2026 - 25 Sep 2026
The Cat Empire with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra
The Cat Empire returns to Tassie for a highly anticipated encore performance with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra.
26 Sep 2026 - 26 Sep 2026
Dancing with the Wind | Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra
Chindamo Trio Fantastique for oboe, bassoon and piano Poulenc Sonata for clarinet and piano Mozart Quintet for piano and winds in E flat major, K452
26 Sep 2026 - 26 Sep 2026
Spring Equinox Gathering
Join in for a morning that moves through both — a guided breathwork session with live harp from Stephanie Wilson.
9 Aug 2025 - 7 Feb 2027
High Tea at The Tasman
Partake in the timeless rituals of High Tea at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart.
5 Sep 2026 - 27 Sep 2026
‘Tasmanian Light’ an exhibition by Sally James
Mieke's exhibition 'So Far' celebrates her connection to the wild places of Tasmania with a comprehensive body of work in watercolour and oil.
18 Jul 2026 - 26 Jun 2027
Live Piano Every Saturday
Live music at Hadley's Orient Hotel every Saturday with Michael Roberts. Enjoy a wonderful evening out in Hobart at the Orient Bar. Free entry. Michael
26 Feb 2023 - 7 Feb 2027
Farm Gate Market
Tasmanian Farm Gate is Hobart's farmers' market showcasing and selling direct from the producer to the public.
6 Apr 2025 - 28 Mar 2027
Lunawanna Makers and Produce Market
Every first and third Sunday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 pm, the Lunawanna Makers and Produce Market is sure to inspire.
All events