It’s now been 40 years since Australia won the America’s Cup — a moment where Prime Minister Bob Hawke declared any employer that made their staff come to work that day was “a bum” and we whole-heartedly agree. This historic day continues to live on in the hearts and minds of the nation.
On this milestone anniversary, there’s one place in Perth going all out to celebrate the America’s Cup victory and, of course, the long weekend.
Fremantle is hosting a heap of city-wide activities and celebrations and one of the most exciting — or at least most delicious — is its 1,000 ice cream giveaway.
It’s no secret that this beloved port city has some of the best scoops in the state; from the nostalgia of the ice creams that have been served up at the iconic Fishing Boat Harbour as long as we can remember, to the new innovations and collaborations of Chicho.
There’s no better way to spend a long weekend than basking in the spring sunshine as you stroll the cobbled streets of Perth’s old town, or sinking your toes into the warm sand as you watch the glistening waves crash on the banks of Freo — except, of course, if you add free ice cream to the mix.
Free Ice Cream Locations
There are 10 venues that will be serving up free scoops of ice cream in Fremantle:
- Muffle
- Gelatissimo
- Ben & Jerry’s
- Chicho Gelato
- Freo Ice Cream & Waffles
- Fry’d
- Cicerello’s
- Swan River Gelato
- Twin Fin
- E Fresh
Get the full scoop on these best ice cream shops in Fremantle at Visit Fremantle.
Free Ice Cream Details
The free ice cream offer will only be valid on Saturday, September 23rd. Each of the ice creameries above will provide 100 free ice creams that will be given away on a ‘first come, first serve’ basis — so don’t walk, run.
The free ice creams are also only valid for kids under the age of 12 with a limit of one per person and for a single scoop only (regular cone or small cup).
Celebrate Australia II / King’s Birthday Long Weekend in Fremantle
Over the long weekend, in a celebration of Australia II’s victory and the King’s Birthday, Fremantle will turn into a 1980s celebration with free activities throughout the city.
The Celebration
This event is free for the whole family on Sunday, September 24th, with iconic 80s rock bands playing at Freo’s Waterfront. Then as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, experience the story of the ‘unwinnable race’ told by a sound and light drone show.
The Exhibition (Australia II: 40 Years On)
Explore the stories that led to the Australia II America’s Cup Victory, discovering all of the untold stories and memorable moments.
After learning about the historic America’s Cup victory, join in the fun with a number of free family-friendly events at the WA Maritime Museum over the weekend. Bring your dancing shoes and join the silent disco, test your 80s knowledge with the Back to the 80s Quiz Show or finally learn how to master solving a Rubik’s Cube, plus much more.
General admission to the WA Maritime Museum will be free from Saturday, September 23rd to Tuesday, September 26th.
Fishing Boat Harbour Festivities
Set sail to Fishing Boat Harbour with free live music, family fun, and an al fresco bar on Saturday.
For the full list of long weekend events and activities visit Things to Do This Long Weekend in Fremantle.
