Victor Harbor Winter Whale Fest | 1-30 Jun 2026
Celebrate the magic of winter on the Fleurieu Peninsula as Victor Harbor comes alive this June for a month‑long festival of culture, coast and creativity.
Winter Whale Fest features more than 30 events including the dazzling Kondoli Lantern Parade, exhibitions, live music, markets, workshops, marine science experiences and family adventures. Discover the wonder of our coastal environment, connect with local culture, and experience the beauty of whale season in Victor Harbor.
The 2026 Winter Whale Fest program features thoughtfully curated events for the whole family. The festival is a rare opportunity to hear and learn from marine conservation leaders and to immerse yourself in the magic of the marine world firsthand. Kids of all ages can also participate in a range of educational and cultural experiences.
At the heart of this year’s festivities is the story of Kondoli – the whale from Ngarrindjeri Dreaming who gave fire to the people. This powerful story, beautifully shared by Ngarrindjeri Elders, resonates deeply, highlighting the profound and enduring connections between land, waters and culture, and inspiring every aspect of the 2026 program.
Kondoli Lantern Parade
- Saturday 20 June 2026
- 4pm – 8pm
- Warland Reserve, Ocean Street, Victor Harbor
- FREE family-friendly event — no bookings required
Witness the magic of the Kondoli Lantern Parade, a luminous highlight of the festival. The procession winds its way around Warland Reserve, ending with a special community celebration.
Created through a series of workshops, the glowing whale lanterns reflect stories of Kondoli and the connection between people, place and ocean. Gather along the route or join the parade as it moves towards the final storytelling moment by the sea.
From the Welcoming of the Whales ceremony to native tree planting at the Bluff, and even an exhilarating live metal gig at the Victor Harbor Town Hall – there’s truly something for everyone at the Winter Whale Fest.
View the 2026 Winter Whale Fest Program
Victor Harbor’s Winter Whale Fest celebrates the arrival of the Southern Right Whales on the Fleurieu Peninsula, offering the opportunity to share the passion the Victor Harbor and Fleurieu community has for the protection and preservation of their coastal landscapes and marine environment.
Whale Watching Season | Victor Harbor | May – October
Winter Whale Fest is an initiative of the City of Victor Harbor.
View the 2026 Winter Whale Fest Program
For more information and all enquiries please visit the Winter Whale Fest website or follow the Winter Whale Fest Facebook page.
What: Victor Harbor Winter Whale Fest
When: 1-30 June 2026 (various times)
Where: Victor Harbor, South Australia
Who: All ages
At Play & Go Adelaide we make every effort to provide accurate information to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We recommend confirming times, dates and details directly before making any plans as details may be subject to change.
Image Source: supplied – City of Victor Harbor
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