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.

10 Aug 2025 - 6 Sep 2026
Monthly: Savour the Menu Dinner
Join us each month at Prospect Country House for an evening that celebrates Tasmania's best local food, wine, and producers.
16 May 2026 - 9 Aug 2026
The Winter Collection – Art Exhibition at Balfour House
A dynamic group exhibition has opened in Cygnet stretching across the Winter months featuring artists of the Huon Valley. Balfour House presents - The Winter
6 Jun 2026 - 28 Jun 2026
Dark Dip
Join in for Dark Dip, a floating, wood-fired sauna ritual on Hobart's waterfront during Dark Mofo in June 2026.
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.
5 Jun 2026 - 30 Jun 2026
SHIVER Ice Skating at MyState Bank Arena
For 2026, SHIVER will feature a full-size NHL ice rink, delivering a world-class skating experience right here in Hobart.
6 Jun 2026 - 29 Mar 2027
Julian Charrière: Hard Core
French-Swiss artist Julian Charrière is marking a descent into deep time at Mona.
29 May 2026 - 19 Jun 2026
After the Earth Exhibition
After the Earth brings together six Australian artists whose practices engage the land as something shaped, mediated, and transformed.
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.
22 May 2026 - 18 Sep 2026
The Cavatelli Craft: Masterclass & Lunch
Step into the heart of the 196 year old heritage guest kitchen for an intimate afternoon of flour, flavour, and fine Tasmanian hospitality.
29 May 2026 - 2 Oct 2026
“The Sapphire Secret”
Just 20 minutes from Hobart and 15 from the airport, Prospect Country House is a 196-year-old convict-built villa steeped in colonial mystery. Built in 1830,
All events