Labour Day – Top things to do in NSW this long weekend

Another long weekend is almost upon us! On 1^st October, it’s Labour Day in New South Wales giving us a much needed long weekend. So, what better way to spend three days off work than by travelling around NSW and experiencing something new? To give you some inspiration on where to go and what to do, we’ve noted our top things to do this long weekend.

Balloon Aloft Fiesta (28^th – 1^st October)

The majestic sight of the Balloon Aloft Fiesta at Hunter Valley! Photo by VisitNSW

Head to the Hunter this long weekend to see the spectacle of the Balloon Aloft Fiesta fill the skies with a magnificent display of colour. From the 28^th September to 1^st October, twenty-five or more balloons will take to the sky each morning to drift majestically over the vineyards. You can either follow the excitement from the ground or for an experience of a lifetime, book on to one of the hot air balloons as a passenger. The Celebrations continue on landing at Peterson House Winery with live music, a gourmet breakfast and champagne tasting to wrap up an exciting and fun-filled morning.

Deni Ute Muster (28^th – 29^th September)

This long weekend sees the iconic Deni Ute Muster celebrate its 20^th anniversary in Deniliquin. Recognised as one of Australia’s premier rural events, it captures traditions, diversity, and the heritage of Australia. Expect sounds from some of Country’s finest stars including Carrie Underwood, Travis Collins, and Troy Cassar Daley. Don’t forget the Guinness World Record-breaking Ute muster and Blue Singlet Count which is what makes the festival unique. Expect music, competitions, rodeo, camel rides, art installations, and more.

Leura Gardens Festival (29^th September – 7^th October)

The awe-inspiring view of the Hill of Grace festival garden! Photo by Leura Gardens Festival

Now that we’re in the swing of spring, where better to head than to the Leura Gardens Festival to check out the magnificent displays of spring bloomers. The festival gardens will be open over two weekends between 29^th October and 7^th October where each garden will have its own distinctive theme. The vision of springtime colours and displays of azaleas, rhododendrons, dogwoods, camellias and other cool climate exotic plants attracts visitors from all over Australia.

StarFest (28^th September to 30^th September)

Siding Spring Observatory from above! Photo by Wikimedia

See one of the best night skies in the southern hemisphere this long weekend at StarFest on the edge of Warrumbungle National Park. Siding Spring Observatory hosts a whole range of activities over the weekend including Science in the Pub, an evening where you can engage with astronomers and ask questions about the universe. There will also be presentations and talks over the weekend with world-renowned scientists.

Let’s Dance Carinda: David Bowie Tribute (29^th September to 1^st October)

For David Bowie fans this one is not to be missed. Bowie danced his way around Carinda in those iconic red shoes in the legendary Let’s Dance music video. Now, 34 years later the Let’s Dance Carinda is a tribute to the music video which links the outback community of Carinda to rock and roll history. It will include a weekend of music, local and travelling bands and activities for families young and old whilst experiencing the true outback of Australia.

Now you know the best events to experience this long weekend in NSW, what are you waiting for? Book your hire car with DriveNow and enjoy something different this Labour Day.