When is the Best Time to Go to Launceston?

Whether you’re going in winter, spring, summer or autumn, these are the best times to visit Launceston to make the most of all the Tasmanian city has to offer.

Launceston is one of Tasmania’s best places to visit throughout the year, no matter the season. With a cool and temperate climate, average temperatures reach a high of 25°C and a low of 11°C in the summer months. During winter, you can expect lows of 2°C and a chilly high of 13°C.

Peak travel season to Launceston usually spans from December to February – coinciding with a number of festivals, including Festivale and Mona Foma. Planning your trip to Launceston? Here’s our line-up of the best events to experience...

What’s on in winter

It’s truffle time in northern Tasmania. Join in the hunt — and maybe lunch — at Tasmanian Truffles in Deloraine. Closer to Launceston, Tamar Valley Truffles also welcomes visitors. In both cases, book ahead.

Launceston Central City describes its Winterlicious program as a “season for the senses”. Eat your way around the city’s hospitality venues as chefs plate up their finest cakes in a bid for your Cakealicious vote.

The Tasmanian scallop season is in full swing now. Celebrate the bounty with live music, cooking demonstrations, wine masterclasses and a scallop-splitting challenge at Tassie Scallop Fiesta in Bridport on 1 August.

What’s on in spring

In September, the Junction Arts Festival (pictured above) takes contemporary art and music out of their natural homes and into the streets, promising “extraordinary experiences in unique spaces”. Like most Tassie festivals, it wouldn’t be complete without food and wine.

On the weekend of 26 to 28 November, farmers, producers and vineyard owners open their gates for the Farmgate Festival. Tour the properties, sample the produce and remember to bring an empty suitcase; there’s plenty to buy.

Join the crafty crowds at the annual Tasmanian Craft Fair in charming Deloraine. The event, running from 29 October to November 1, is the largest working display of arts and crafts in the Southern Hemisphere.

What’s on in summer

The big-ticket item on Launceston’s summer calendar is Festivale, a three-day celebration of what Tassie does best — food, drink and entertainment. The 2022 event, staged under the historic elm trees of City Park, is on from 4 to 6 February.

Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries are all in season. Pick your own at Hillwood Berries and with taste taken care of, feast the eyes and nose in blooming fields of lavender at Bridestowe Lavender Estate (pictured above).

January means Launceston’s share of MONA’s summer festival, Mona Foma, Tassie’s premier contemporary music and arts event. Expect the unexpected.

What’s on in autumn

Nowhere is this dazzling season of change on better display than Launceston’s City Park (pictured above), rated one of the top 10 parks in Australia. Check out the playful macaque monkeys and soak up the park’s rich history on a gentle stroll through the grounds.

Limber up those jazz hands, the Australian Musical Theatre Festival, a high-octane program of workshops, classes and captivating performances, is heading back to Launceston in 2022. Dates to be confirmed so keep an eye on the website.

The Launceston leg of BOFA, The Breath of Fresh Air film festival is holding screenings in May.