Its soon to be November already and the last month of Spring. As the allergies settle down and the Christmas decorations go up, it’s time to get the last of lazy Sundays in before social engagements and holiday shopping start to take precedence. Here’s our edit on the best November events and activities.
By Michelle Reed
Monthly National Charity Initiative: Dine Smart
StreetSmart Australia and its restaurant partners are calling on Australians to make a difference this Christmas by supporting the upcoming DineSmart campaign.
Now in its twelfth year, the campaign’s collaborates with participating restaurants that ask patrons to add a small $2 donation to their bill. The initiative has raised over $2.4 million since it started in 2003, where the money collected is donated directly to support homeless refuges and charities selected based on their need and proximity to participating restaurants. Resteraunt sinclude including Cho Cho San, Mamasita, Cutler & Co Dining Room & Bar, Ezard, Longrain and many more.
Everyone can take part in DineSmart and make a valuable contribution – from simply organising your annual work Christmas party at a StreetSmart restaurant, to booking a table with a group of friends.
When: November 10th -December 31st 2014
New South Wales
Sculptures by the Sea
The world’s largest temporary sculpture park, Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi is back once again. We know hoards of slow moving crowds dotted with twenty-three too many strollers can be frustrating, however this year sounds better than ever. Now in its 18th year and with Sydney’s most celebrated breakfast venue-The Grounds of Alexandria-set hold a pop up café, it’s the perfect opportunity to view 109 new works from 15 countries.
Artists from Australia, China, Denmark, England, Germany, Thailand, Japan, Spain, New Zealand, Sweden, South Korea, Argentina and the USA will all have works on show around the beautiful Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk, with a backdrop of a variety of perfect lunch spots with a view.
When: 23rd October until 9th November
Where: Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk, Sydney, Australia
IMB Sunset Cinema
As it warms up, no one wants to be trapped in a tired movie date. Spring/ Summer is all about the elegance of the open air cinema, and four new locations have just been announced. Western Sydney’s first outdoor cinema offers its’ guests an entertaining mix of both blockbusters and cult classics, as well as live music, beanbags, gourmet food and a fully licensed bar. Opening night will screen an exclusive Australia first of What If, the hilarious romantic comedy starring Daniel Radcliffe. The voice contestant Sabrina Batshon, will kick off the season with a live performance and Leanne Beck, renowned pastry chef, restaurateur and ex-MasterChef judge, will also be setting up a special food stall on site, with a menu created exclusively for the event
IMB Sunset Cinema will also be returning to Canberra National Botanic Gardens on 14th November through to the 20th December, Wollongong Botanic Garden on 26th December 2013 – 21st February 2014, and North Sydney Oval 23rd January – 21st March 2015.
When: Friday 7th November
Where: Lizard Log Amphitheatre, Western Sydney Parklands
Sydney’s White Ribbon Walk
The Sydney White Ribbon Walk is being held on 25th November (White Ribbon Day) to help raise awareness among Australian men and boys about the roles they can play to prevent violence against women. As the fight continues to unveil this hidden social issue, grab your friends and join the walk from Highcross Park, Randwick to Grant reserve Coogee down Coogee Bay road, followed by speeches in Grant reserve by White Ribbon Ambassadors and a free breakfast.
The White Ribbon Campaign is the only national violence prevention campaign, which calls for men across Australia to speak out and take an oath. An oath swearing never to commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women.
When: 25th November, 7:15 am to 9am
Where: Grant Reserve, Coogee- Arden Street, Coogee, NSW 2034
Vino Paradiso international wine and food festival
The inaugural Vino Paradiso international wine and food festival is set to provide an unparalleled opportunity for Australian wine and food enthusiasts to enjoy serious fun. With over 120 of the best Australian and international wine, food, craft beer, cider and spirit producers, activities include master classes hosted by the Vino Paradiso Tastemakers grape crushing; a design savvy lounge bar: the opportunity to participate in a treasure hunt and win a bottle of wine from every exhibitor taking part in the festival (um worth it) live artists creating artworks inspired by Vino Paradiso and a line up of DJs and performers who will set the scene for a whole lot of fun. There’s something for wine and festival enthusiasts alike.
Where: Australian Technology Park – Locomotive Street, Eveleigh
When: October 31 – November 2
Friday October 31: 11.30am – 4.30pm and 5.30pm – 10.00pm
Saturday November 1: 11.30m – 4.30pm and 5.30pm – 10.00pm
Sunday November 2: 12:00pm – 6pm
Western Australia
Margaret River Gourmet Escape
Margaret River Gourmet Escape has created affordable and irresistible packages, ideal for a quick escape form the city to soak up the annual foodie festival. The curated packages are perfect for those looking for a short getaway, which still engages all the senses offering the perfect blend of music, food and wine. Starting from $105, packages include fine dining lunches, a Neil Finn concert, and ticked to the gourmet village. See the website for more details.
When: Saturday 22nd November 6.30pm
Where: White Elephant Beach Café, Gnarabup Rd, Gnarabup W.A. 6285
Bridgewater Market Day 2014
The Annual ‘Market Day’ at Bridgewater Lifestyle Village is the perfect low key outing for a Sunday afternoon. You’ll will find a wide selection of stallholders offering everything from homemade jams to secondhand clothing and a local auction offering more than toasters and lolly bags. Under then hammer is brand-new fridge, washing machine, dryer, plasma-screen TV and a whole lot more.
When: Sunday November 2nd 9am-3pm
Where: Bridgewater Lifestyle Village, 106 Oakleigh Drive, Erskine
Queensland
The Lime Hotel Rooftop Cinema
Sydney’s not the only one in line for the explosion of outdoor cinemas. The Limes hotel in Brisbane is about to kick off their open air cinema on the roof-complete with armchairs and plunge pools. On every Wednesday and Thursday evening for our, The Lime hotel new and old “classics” in the open air from 7pm. Don’t worry-the bar is open from 5pm till late.
Where: 142 Constance St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
When: Wednesday and Thursdays at 5pm
High Tea on the High Seas
High teas are a dime a dozen these days in restaurants, hotel bars and even pubs. Put the refined elegance back into the experience with ‘High Teas on the High Seas’. The package includes your return trip on the ferry to Sorrento and back from Queenscliff, tea, coffee plus a drink of your choice, and a selection of delicate savory and sweet treats. Enjoy expansive views of the ocean, white table linen and finger sandwiches the way they were suppose to be enjoyed-in style.
Where: Queenscliff Ferry Teminal or Sorrento Ferry Terminan
When: Every Sunday departing at 3pm From Queenscliff or 12 noon from Sorrento
Tickets: $40 (bookings essential)
Canberra
Perception Deception
Does your brain play tricks on you? Is one person’s reality the same as yours? Answer these questions and more with the Perception Deception exhibition at Questacon. Surprise your senses and challenge your mind with over 60 hands-on and multimedia exhibits featuring perceptual test and illusions.
Where: Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre
When: 09 Aug 2014- 31 Jan 2015
Voices in the Forrest:
Voices in the Forest is a spectacular out door operatic concert held in the natural amphitheatre at the National Arboretum. This year’s concert features Latvian soprano Inessa Galante, Australian Baritone Peter Coleman-Wright and New Zealand Tenor Simon O’Neill. Whether your preference is to be seated theatre-style, or to relax with friends and family enjoying a picnic on the grass, Voices in the Forest promises to offer a rare experience.
When: 30 November 2014
Where: National Arboretum Canberra, Forest Drive, Canberra 2600
Victoria
Alex Prager exhibiton
Breakthrough American photographer and filmmaker Alex Prager will open her first Australian solo exhibition at the NGV in November. Referencing the heightened drama and saturated colours of classic Hollywood cinema, the self taught talent will exhibit a collection of elaborately conceived photographs and films that draw inspiration from classic Hollywood cinema with a strangely familiar cast of glamorous characters who resemble actors of mid twentieth century Hollywood.
Characterized by the use of constructed sets, dramatic lighting, costumes and actors, and packed with emotion and human melodrama, her work openly references the aesthetics of artists and filmmakers including Alfred Hitchcock, Cindy Sherman and David Lynch.
When: November 14th-April 19th
Where: National Gallery of Victoria
Iranian Film Festival
In a very special event that captivated audiences last year, the Iranian Film Festival Australia (IFFA) returns with the best and most interesting in Iranian cinema.
Showcasing a diverse range of films, IFFA aims to provide a better understanding of Iranian culture and is considered a key cultural event by many Iranians. Creating an opportunity for dialogue, with Iran as the focus, this year’s event will see an emphasis on themes of youth and women in contemporary Iranian society.
Where: ACMI, Federation Square, Flinders Street, Melbourne
When: Thursday 6th0Sunday 9th 2014
South Australia
Keasler Wines Picnic
Its picnic season! What better way to kick it off than a picnic on the winery lawns. With a burger theory food truck, acoustic duo Red Corduroy and coffee and wine available. Either pack a picnic and blanket or enjoy the on site activities while relaxing spring afternoon.
Where: Saturday November 22nd 12.00 – 4.00pm
Where: Kaesler Wines, Barossa Valley Way, Nuriootpa
Psychic Night
Always feeling like you want more after you read your horoscope? Psychic Nights at the Monkey Nut Café are continuing, and they variety of readers on the night including Tarot Cards, Mediums, Angel Cards and palm readings. Enjoy dinner and a physic reading with wine in hand
When: Friday Novemebr 7th
Where: Kies Family Wines, Lot 2 Barossa Valley Way, Lyndoch
Northern Territory
Wil Anderson-Wiluminati
Wil Anderson is without a doubt the biggest name in Australian comedy. His stand up shows are refreshing, impolite and strike just the right balance of wit and silliness. Each year Wil only gets better, sharpened by constant global touring, a sparkling intellect and an eagle eye for the hypocrisies, absurdities and the plain truths of modern life. Now is your chance to see him, Rescu. recommended.
When: Wednesday 19th November 2014
Where: Darwin Entertainment Centre, 93 Mitchell Street, Darwin
Tickets: Buy online
Parap Markets
Tantalise your senses with a mixture of Asian cuisine and the aroma of fresh coffee.The Parap Village Market is a great place to shop and a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Browse the markets, winding through stalls of local produce, local arts and crafts, entertainment and delicious cuisine from around the world. This Saturday morning market has become an institution and ritual among locals who just can’t survive a weekend without their Saturday morning gourmet coffee or fresh tropical smoothie.
Where: Parap Shopping Village, Parap Place, Darwin, Parap Shopping Village
When: 8am to 2pm every Saturday
Sneak peak:
Sydney
For the ultimate Christmas lunch with a view book a seat at 360 Bar and Dining on December 25th for a midday meal that looks set to involve a delicious combination of fresh seafood, salads, roast meats like pork belly, turkey, salmon, and a dessert of pudding, peach melba or lamingtons. Not impressed yet? Don’t forget the side of spectacular revolving views of Sydney. Perfect for those wishing to skip the family dinner table chaos and enjoy an elegant affair.
Where: 360 Bar and Dining, Gallery Level, Sydney Tower, 100 Market St Sydney
When: December 25th 12pm-2.30pm
Price: $160, bookings essential
