What’s On in McLaren Vale & the Fleurieu This Summer

What’s On in McLaren Vale & the Fleurieu This Summer

Summer is peak season in McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu Peninsula. From major wine festivals and live music to outdoor cinema, markets and vintage season energy, there’s no shortage of reasons to plan a visit. Here’s what to look forward to across January, February and March 2026.


🍷 JANUARY 2026

Summer Festivals, Cycling & Coastal Living

SummerVines Festival | Mid–Late January 2026

SummerVines remains one of McLaren Vale’s signature events, celebrating the region’s warm-weather wines, local produce and relaxed vineyard culture. Expect a program of:

  • Vineyard parties and pop-up tastings
  • Live music sessions at cellar doors
  • Food and wine experiences designed for long summer days

This is one of the best times of year to explore multiple cellar doors and discover smaller, boutique producers alongside the region’s classics.

Santos Tour Down Under | January 2026

Australia’s biggest cycling event returns, The Santos Tour Down Under with stages passing through the Fleurieu and the iconic Willunga Hill climb drawing crowds from across the state. The atmosphere across McLaren Vale is electric, with wineries, breweries and hospitality venues buzzing before and after race day.

Wine Club Exclusive Tipsy Hill Vertical | 24 January

Bec Hardy Wines will be hosting another Twilight event especially for their Wine Club members on Saturday 24th Jan to celebrate 10 years of the iconic Tipsy Hill Cabernet Sauvignon - watch this space....

Australia Day Celebrations | 26 January

Across the Fleurieu you’ll find community events, markets, live music and family-friendly celebrations - an easy way to soak up local culture while enjoying the summer weather. Onkaparinga Council will be hosting an event at South Adelaide Football Club which includes entertainment and fireworks, visit their website to find out more. 


🎬 FEBRUARY 2026

Film, Food & Festival Energy

Fleurieu Film Festival | Early February 2026

Held at the McLaren Vale Visitor Centre, the Fleurieu Film Festival is a highlight of the summer calendar. Enjoy short films under the stars, local food vendors and the option to pair your evening with regional wine and gin.

Never Never Distilling Co. – Summer Sessions

Throughout February, Never Never Distilling continues to host popular Sunday Sessions, featuring cocktails, casual eats and a laid-back atmosphere that suits warm evenings perfectly. A great stop if you’re mixing wine tastings with something different.

Down The Rabbit Hole Wines – Summer Nights

Down The Rabbit Hole regularly hosts pizza nights, DJ sessions and relaxed evening events during summer. These are social, easygoing nights that pair well with a day of tasting or a long lunch elsewhere in the Vale.


🍇 MARCH 2026

Vintage Season & Long Autumn-Teasing Days

Vintage Season Begins

March is when McLaren Vale really hums. Vintage is underway, vineyards are full of activity, and cellar doors often feel more alive than at any other time of year. It’s a fantastic month for:

  • Winemaker stories and behind-the-scenes conversations
  • Tasting current releases while the next vintage is being made
  • Experiencing the region at its most authentic

Markets Across the Fleurieu

These markets are at their best in late summer and early autumn, showcasing local produce, small goods, flowers and artisan products.

McLaren Vale Distillery – Late Summer Events

McLaren Vale Distillery often runs cocktail-focused events and tasting experiences through late summer, making it an ideal March stop for visitors wanting to expand beyond wine while staying firmly rooted in the region.


🍽️ WHERE FOOD & WINE FIT IN

The Kitchen at Bec Hardy (Lunch Only)

Open for lunch, The Kitchen at Bec Hardy is ideal for summer visits - relaxed, seasonal and designed for long lunches with family and friends. Expect:

  • Seasonal grazing plates featuring local, sustainable produce
  • À la carte specials driven by what’s fresh and available
  • A welcoming, casual atmosphere in a unique vineyard setting

Pair lunch with a tasting at Bec Hardy Cellar Door, open daily 10-4pm.

Breweries & Casual Stops

  • Goodieson Brewery – a great option for beer lovers looking to mix up their tasting trail.
  • Casual coastal pubs and beachside cafés round out the perfect summer itinerary.

🌞 PLAN YOUR SUMMER ESCAPE

Summer is one of the busiest and best times to visit McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu. Events, festivals and vintage season energy combine with beaches, wineries, distilleries and breweries to create a destination that rewards slowing down and staying a little longer.

Top tip: Book accommodation, lunches and key experiences early - January and February weekends fill fast.

And cheers to a great Summer!!