January Festivals
New Year’s Day: there is always something to catch on New Year’s Day ranging from family fun in the parks to bars opening their doors to adults only. Whatever events you choose to join, don’t forget to catch the amazing firework displays that are usually held at the waterfront. Botanic Gardens Magic Concert: the Botanic Garden is the site of more than 20 free concerts in January. Performers usually feature some of Wellington’s best bands that entertain with jazz, country, pop, blues, oldies and much more. At night, the garden is illuminated and looks much like a fairy-tale garden. Fringe Festival: is held in February each year and it is a time to enjoy alternative and experimental performances in dance, music, visual arts and theatre. Wild and sometimes bizarre, it never fails to entertain and also provoke. February/March Festivals
Cuba Street Carnival: is one of the most enjoyed celebrations as it involves many hundreds of artists and performers who entertain with a myriad of performances. Street performers, an illuminated night parade, international performers, dancers and musicians will leave you wanting more and more. There are wild street parades, fairs, live music and much more to be enjoyed. The carnival is biennial and is usually held in February or March. March Festivals
Karapoti Classic: this is the leading mountain bike event in New Zealand. The 50km race takes place at the rugged beauty and landscape of the Akataraw Ranges. The Karapoti Classic is the toughest mountain bike race in the Southern Hemisphere and usually takes place in March. Dragon Boat Regatta: is a day of fun and friendly competition that takes place at the Wellington Waterfront. Chinese dragons and lions dance to the beat of Chinese drums and colourful costumed participants in decorated boats. The event is both exciting and entertaining. April Festivals
Classic Fighters: those who love planes of any sort should not miss this spectacular exhibition that includes an airshow, military re-enactments and a theatre show. Although the April weekend is spent mostly looking up into the sky, there is also lots of other entertainment. May Festivals
Kathmandu Crazyman: is the longest running multisports event held in New Zealand. Held in May each year it usually attracts more than 400 participants and many supporters and tourists. World ranked athletes and rookies are all participants in this community event that takes participants over the hills, rivers and beaches. Wellington Film Festival: is usually held in August although this is not fixed. The festival has gained a wide reputation for the fantastic features, documentaries, animated and short films that it screens. Fans of movies from all over the world congregate here to take in the festival as there are many other activities to be enjoyed including dance and other live performances. October Festivals
Diwali: is the Indian New Year and it is celebrated with light, colour and gaiety at the fantastic Diwali with Lights extravaganza in October. Part of the activities include dancing, Indian food, Indian crafts for sale and of course the lights. November Festivals
Wellington International Jazz Festival: is held in various locations beginning in November. For about 10 days, jazz fans will get to enjoy the very best jazz music played by international and local musicians. | 
