This month, the fashion pack flocks to Sydney in their 10-inch heels, art lovers add to their collections in Melbourne and musos enjoy the sounds of Canberra. For all the rest of us, there are film festivals, surfing competitions and even a Japanese cultural fair.
It’s also time to get charitable, take a stand, and create a better future this month with cultural activities that increase our social awareness.
Whatever the month has in store for you, we hope it’s a good one.
Culture Vulture.
Australia Wide
What: Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea
What could be better than a morning filled with smoked salmon and cream cheese bagels, bircher museli, blueberry muffins and a cuppa with friends. Host a morning tea and help the Cancer Council support the 1 in 2 Australians who will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85.
When: 26th May (You can host a morning tea anytime throughout the month)
More info: https://www.biggestmorningtea.com.au/
What: World No Tobacco Day
Put down your lighters and throw away your cigarettes. It’s time you stuck to your decision to quit. Join smokers around the world to make World No Tobacco Day the day you finally quit.
When: 31st May
More info: www.australia.gov.au/quitnow
NSW
What: Royal Australian Fashion Week
Forget London, Paris and New York, it’s all about Sydney, hosting Australian Fashion Week this month. This year showcases Australia’s finest fashion talents, including Alex Perry, Camilla and Marc, Josh Goot, Ellery, Dion Lee, Therese Rawsthorne, and Zimmerman.
Where: Overseas Passenger Terminal
When: 2nd – 6th May
More info: https://rafw.com.au/australia
What: Fashion Weekend Sydney
Attention all fashionistas! Head to Fashion Weekend Sydney for all your fashion and beauty needs at discount prices. Brush up on the latest trends with a catwalk show, pick up a new dress or few and pamper yourself with beauty treatments.
Where: Royal Hall of Industries, Moore Park
When: 12th – 15th May
More info: https://sydney.fashionweekend.com.au/
What: Reader’s Photographic Exhibition
Local photographer Patricia Baillie captures the private moments of readers in unexpected public places. See her photographic exhibiton which brings to life the art of reading.
Where: Surry Hills Library
When: 1st – 31st May
More info: 8374 6230
What: The Commonwealth Bank Beachley Classic
Ride the wave and celebrate female surfers at the sixth annual Commonwealth Bank Beachley Classic. Come and marvel at the pro surfers and be entertained by the Celebrities such as Cathy Freeman and Shannon Noll trying to catch a wave.
Where: Dee Why Beach
When: 3rd – 8th May
More info: www.beachleyclassic.com
VIC
What: Art Melbourne 2011
Looking to purchase a piece of art? With contemporary and traditional works by emerging and established artists, there is a piece for every buyer on any budget. And for those of you who just want to soak up the atmosphere – there are art walks, demonstrations and a diverse range of galleries and artists on site.
Where: Royal Exhibition Building
When: 19th – 22nd May
More info: www.artmelbourne11.com.au
What: Human Rights Arts and Film Festival
Educate yourself. Become aware of the battle for human rights that so many struggle with around the world. The Human Rights Arts and Film Festival highlight the injustices and plight of others through creative film.
Where: Various venues
When: 12th – 22nd May
More info: https://hraff.org.au/
What: Japan Festival
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture. From tea ceremonies, Origami, and traditional Japanese games, to stalls selling sushi, Kimonos and Japanese cakes – there’s lots to learn and enjoy.
Where: Box Hill Town Hall
When: 15th May
More info: https://www.onlymelbourne.com.au/melbourne_details.php?id=11478
SA
What: Glittering Frost
Talented clarinetist, Martin Frost is redefining classical music with his innovative adaptation of Mozart’s most popular piece Eine kleine Nachtmusik and Brahm’s gypsy music.
Where: Adelaide Town Hall
When: 17th May
More info: https://www.aco.com.au/
ACT
What: Canberra International Music Festival
The city is transformed into a musical hub this month with the Canberra International Music Festival. 34 concerts in 11 days will showcase artists such as Finnish violinist Pekka Kuusisto, violinist Lara St John, conductors Brett Weymark, John Harding and Roland Peelman, and the world’s finest vocal ensemble, Finland’s Rajaton.
Where: Various venues
When: 11th – 22nd May
More info: https://www.cicmf.org/