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.

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
1 Mar 2022 - 31 Aug 2027
Phoenix Creations Wooden Spoon Carving Workshops
Welcome to a day of creative mindfulness with David and Michelle of Phoenix Creations in their small Cygnet studio.
6 Jun 2026 - 29 Mar 2027
Julian Charrière: Hard Core
French-Swiss artist Julian Charrière is marking a descent into deep time at Mona.
24 Jul 2026 - 15 Aug 2026
David Stephenson | Sun Drawings
After the Earth brings together six Australian artists whose practices engage the land as something shaped, mediated, and transformed.
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,
24 Jul 2026 - 27 Jul 2026
2026 Tasmania Chinese Film Week
Explore the 2026 Tasmania Chinese Film Week, featuring film screenings and opening and closing ceremonies across Hobart and Launceston. Hosted by the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne.
24 Jul 2026 - 24 Jul 2026
Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto | Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra
The Cat Empire returns to Tassie for a highly anticipated encore performance with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra.
11 Apr 2026 - 25 Jul 2026
Tasmanian Produce Market
Tasmania is renowned for its quality produce, and that’s what you’ll find at this market.
25 Jul 2026 - 25 Jul 2026
Cygnet Folk Festival and Island Coast Spirits Tasting Event
A Georgian supra is no ordinary dinner—it's a lively feast where toasts, songs, stories and laughter matter just as much as the food.
All events