The best of Tasmania’s Off Season during School Holidays
We love winter. The chill of the air on your cheeks out in the vineyard and walking into the welcome warmth of cellar door, with its fire crackling. It’s the chilly days that makes Tasmania so unique in Australia’s world of wine and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We think it’s the best time to visit Launceston with the family, so let us show you why with our picks of the 2026 Off Season program for school holidays.
1. Visit Holm Oak’s Tamar Valley Cellar Door! 11 West Bay Road (Highway C724) Rowella, Tasmania
Nestled amongst the vines and gardens with plenty of room to stretch little legs, the award-winning Holm Oak Cellar Door is just 40 minutes from Launceston. Our local pantry is stocked for a casual bite to enjoy by the fire with a Winter Reds Wine Flight. Kids (young & old) can feed our resident pigs, Pinot Junior and Mayonnaise (they adore an apple or two). The best part? We’re now open 6 days a week, welcoming guests on Sundays from 11-4pm.
2. Island Escape | 3-5 July 2026 The Inveresk Precinct, Launceston
This 3-day festival brings the best of Northern Tasmania’s food, wine and arts together in one place. Kids aren’t a last-minute thought in this festival, the glowing, energetic performances, live music, hands-on creative and more sit happily alongside foodie masterclasses, wine tastings and live music from the likes of Spiderbait and The Beautiful Girls. Our tip: jump aboard Tasmania’s last operating heritage tram to start the adventure.
3. Christmas in July | 11 July 2026 Ben Lomond Base
Make family memories of a white winter (in July) at this favourite festival. After hitting the slopes (snowball fight, anyone?) come back to the Base to warm up, with live music, children’s entertainment, festive workshops and festive food sure to banish any remaining chill. Not keen on driving on the mountain? Bus services from Launceston can get you there without any worry.
4. Essential Basic Survival Course | 15, 22 and 29 July 2026
For those with an adventurous streak, get the kids out into the bush to learn core survival skills, real-world wilderness survival and bushcraft concepts. We know our boys would love a day of building shelters, learning how to light a fire with a ferro rod and a little competition with the timed activities!
NB, this course is suitable for adults and children 8 years and above.
5. Festival of Voices, All Out A Cappella | Thursday 9 July 2026 Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Launceston
It’s like Pitch Perfect, in real life. A high-energy concert that will have you dancing in your chair and singing all the way home. With Harambee A Cappella from Melbourne, Singcognito and Gospella will perform pop hits, playful classics, soulful grooves and probably a song or two the kids know. Early-bird tickets have already sold out, so book your seats soon! The Festival of Voices runs from 3-12 July, with many events in and around Launceston. You can check the full program here
Whatever your choice, we can’t wait to welcome you for Tasmania’s Off Season.
Want to explore some more of our tips on visiting Tasmania? Have a read of some of our other local tips:
- The Ultimate Tasmanian Driving Holiday
- Top Places to Eat in Launceston
- Top Tips for Visiting Launceston
