And just like that, October is in full swing, bringing a bounty of bucket list events worth checking out. Whether you’re interested in foodie experiences, arts and culture, or kid-friendly entertainment, have your calendar ready because we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Perth this October.
Juniper Galleries
Robert Juniper was one of WA’s most loved artists, known for his poetic vision of the Australian landscape, often painted from an aerial perspective. Nestled in the picturesque Perth Hills, Juniper Galleries continues Robert’s legacy by showcasing an extensive collection of his artwork in the Private Gallery. Exhibitions by other talented local artists are also held throughout the year in the sandstone Exhibition Gallery, which was formerly Robert’s studio.
The current group art exhibition, Chrysalis, celebrates the in-between — the unknown, mutable, and secretive percolations of the soul — and features the work of 26 WA artists. For the caterpillar, a whole new world appears once it emerges from the cocoon and takes flight. This complete transfiguration is only possible through dissolution of the old. It’s the same process artists go through in creating their works, and a cycle everyone experiences throughout life.
From October 19th, the gallery will transform once again for the Mundaring Hills Open Studios trail. Juniper Galleries is open from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm on weekends and by appointment on weekdays throughout October. For more details, visit the Juniper Galleries website.
Where: 41a Dalry Road, Darlington
When: 10:00 am until 5:00 pm on weekends and weekdays by appointment
Tickets: Free
Lost & Found Festival
Lost & Found Festival is returning this October, set to unite adventurers and culture enthusiasts with a unique blend of hidden wonders, extraordinary experiences, and regional delights that define the Bunbury Geographe region.
Dive into the vibrant Kellivale on the Green concert starring classic rock bands, sip on endless Gin Spritz cocktails at the Funkee Boozy Bottomless Brunch, and enjoy the electrifying atmosphere at the Ferguson Valley Beer Fest with live music and plenty of fun activities. Saddle up for a breathtaking ride with Hold Your Horses: Ride & Sip, indulge in a luxurious feast at the Red, Red Wine Banquet, and embark on a delightful adventure with the Good Vibes in The Valley wine tour.
Where: Bunbury Geographe region
When: Thursday, October 10th to Sunday, October 13th
Tickets
HOUSE — A Barking Gecko Theatre Production
Barking Gecko Theatre’s production, HOUSE, is returning to the stage in 2024. Featuring a cast of three loveable characters and a magical flying home, HOUSE is a heartfelt and hilarious tale of friendship that is bound to be a fun-filled escapade for the whole family. The play explores loneliness and isolation, and how resilience can lead us to a place of belonging.
The production is to coincide with the release of a new picture book, House, created by Dan Giovannoni, Charlotte Lane, Luke Kerridge, and published by Fremantle Press. The picture book serves as a prequel to the theatre production, extending the story’s reach beyond the stage. The HOUSE theatre production will run from November 1st to 9th at the University of Western Australia’s Octagon Theatre.
Where: Octagon Theatre, University of Western Australia
When: Friday, November 1st to Saturday, November 9th
Tickets: from $39.00 to $45.00 per person
Groundswell Festival
WA’s biggest free youth multi-sports, lifestyle, music, and wellness event, Groundswell Festival, is set to return to Scarborough for its 11th year. Stretching across one huge weekend, from October 5th to 6th, it’s the ultimate way to close out the school holidays.
Scarborough Beach and surrounds will play home to Perth’s ultimate weekend of surf, skate, streetball comps, BMX bowl comps and stunt demos, DJs and live music, street art, food trucks, markets, free workshops, and activities.
Where: Scarborough Beach
When: Saturday, October 5th to Sunday, October 6th
Tickets: Free
Twilight Hawkers Market
The Twilight Hawkers Market is returning to the heart of the CBD for another season. If you haven’t already been, it’s all about showcasing Perth’s diverse food scene. Expect good grub, festive entertainment, and a balmy atmosphere — it’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend.
Where: Forrest Place, Perth
When: every Friday from October 4th
Tickets: Free
Oktoberfest in the Gardens
Oktoberfest in the Gardens is returning to Langley Park this spring! Expect festivities, fun, and frothies, alongside an epic range of authentic German beers, wines, cider, food stalls, and all your homegrown favourites. Embrace the carnival atmosphere with multiple stages of live entertainment, DJs, thrill rides, roving performers, competitions, sideshow alley, silent discos, Berghain-inspired rave cave, and plenty of surprises.
Where: Langley Park
When: Saturday, October 5th
Tickets: $79.90
No More Blank Walls Festival
The No More Blank Walls street art festival is back, bigger and better than ever. It’s set to take over Subiaco this October with the aim of beautifying the city and bringing people together in celebration of street art culture.
From October 17th to 27th, Subiaco will be transformed with an array of arts and culture including more than ten murals, a pop-up gallery exhibition, community events, workshops, street art tours, mural battles, a festival hub, and live art activities throughout.
Run by Blank Walls, an international street art company founded in Perth by Jerome Davenport, Will Clark, and Alex Harvey, the festival will showcase an incredible lineup of world-renowned mural artists. Think Brisbane’s Sofles, Indonesia’s Wild Drawing, and Curtis Hylton from the United Kingdom. With a diverse range of styles and techniques, these artists will bring a new creative flare to the precinct, solidifying its status as a cultural hotspot, and attracting art enthusiasts from near and far.
Where: Subiaco
When: Thursday, October 17th to Sunday, October 27th
Tickets: Free
Taste the Floral Freshness: Cuccini Gelato and Fox & Rabbit Collaboration
Two of Perth’s most beloved artisanal brands, Cuccini Gelato and Fox & Rabbit, have come
together to craft a spring masterpiece: the Orange Blossom Sorbet. This limited edition flavour is an inspiring fusion of fresh citrus flavours and fragrant florals, giving a taste of nature with every mouthful. Available for a limited time only, from October 1st to October 14th, this sorbet captures the true essence of spring.
Where: Cuccini Gelato
When: Tuesday, October 1st to Monday, October 14th
Low Stakes at Goolugatup Exhibition
Exhibiting at Goolugatup Heathcote, Low Stakes is an exercise in design, materials, and function. The brief is simple – create an object that can be sat on. Curated by artist Dan McCabe and featuring an impressive line-up of Australia’s most visionary minds, the exhibition will present a range of chair designs built by creatives working in the field of visual art, textiles, architecture, and design.
The project utilises play and anonymity as its core philosophy, with every piece on display being nameless. Each creative has been encouraged to experiment and lean into the freedom that comes with anonymity. The stakes are low. It’s ok to fail — it’s a chair.
Where: Goolugatup Heathcote I 58 Duncraig Rd, Applecross
When: Saturday, October 5th to Sunday, November 17th
Tickets: Free
Made On The Left — Christmas Market
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Fremantle’s Esplanade Park, Made On The Left — now in its 16th year — will see the weekend brimming with unique, handmade treasures crafted with passion by WA’s finest creators. More than 100 talented local artists and designers will showcase their creations at Perth’s longest running designer market. Best of all, the event is free to attend and welcomes both families and pets. The carefully curated selection of vendors will ensure there’s something for everyone, from handmade candles to bespoke fashion and woodwork pieces.
Where: Esplanade Park, Fremantle
When: Saturday, October 19th and Sunday, October 20th
Tickets: Free
Perth International Jazz Festival
From headline acts in the CBD to free family-friendly picnic concerts and intimate international performances at the historic Camelot Arts Centre, Perth International Jazz Festival makes its return this October. With an array of incredible jazz performances to lap up, the festival offers something for everyone with both ticketed and free community events.
Where: various locations across Perth
When: Saturday, October 5th to Sunday, November 3rd
Tickets
La Dolce Vita Dinner Series — The Raft
Perth’s floating bar and eatery, The Raft, has launched their newest culinary endeavour, the “La Dolce Vita” dinner series. The limited event offers guests an elevated, Mediterranean-inspired, two-course dining experience, perfect for date nights or a night out with friends. The menu has been designed by French Head Chef, Nelly Mikolajczak, who works across The Raft and North Fremantle’s newly revamped The Black Truffle.
Where: The Raft Perth
When: every Friday from until the end of October
Tickets: $85.00 per person
COPIA CBD Pizza Club
COPIA has launched the CBD Pizza Club, which will see the café and wine bar serve up delicious woodfired pizzas in its city courtyard. Rotating gourmet pizzas will be coming in hot from 4:00 pm every Thursday and Friday, setting the scene for a perfect evening.
Paired with a glass of wine — or two — from COPIA’s extensive wine list, pizzas will start at $10.00 and will be available until sold out. Check their Instagram for what’s coming up on the menu each week.
Where: COPIA
When: Every Thursday and Friday from 4:00 pm
Tickets
Shrek The Musical
Beloved fairy tales are timeless, but when it comes to bringing them to life on stage, Shrek The Musical redefines the magic. Exclusively taking over WA this school holidays, this internationally acclaimed Broadway sensation features iconic characters, a larger-than-life $1.3 million set, and a dragon that requires its own 40-foot shipping container!
Produced by Showcase Entertainment Group, this Shrek-tacular show introduces young minds to new vocabulary and forms of communication, including acting, dance, and music, as well as promoting diversity, acceptance, and cultural appreciation.
TIME • BAR at the TIME • RONE exhibition
After opening at AGWA in June 2024, the awe-inspiring TIME • RONE installation has already achieved record visitation. Now, for the first time, visitors can immerse themselves in RONE’s art while enjoying exquisite fine dining experiences within the installation itself.
Inspired by the prohibition era and offering a luxurious escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, TIME • BAR is located deep within the Centenary Galleries. This hidden den invites art enthusiasts and food lovers alike to unwind with signature snacks created by award-winning chef Guy Grossi. Considered a powerhouse in the food scene, Grossi is known for Garum — his acclaimed Italian restaurant in Perth — and his empire of Victorian eateries including the iconic Grossi Florentino. The drinks — including a distinctive mid-century martini — will be crafted for the venue by renowned Perth bartender, Andy McIntyre.
Where: Art Gallery of Western Australia
When: From 4:00 pm on Wednesday to Saturday during October
Tickets
Spring into Armadale
Spring into Armadale runs from August 1st to November 30th in celebration of the region’s rich tapestry of arts, culture, food, wine, and people. The picturesque location at the foothills of the Darling Scarp provides the perfect backdrop to discover the diverse collection of events and activities showcasing the region’s natural beauty and local talent. Whether you’re a foodie, hiking enthusiast, or day tripping with the family, there are heaps of fantastic events to choose from.
Where: Perth Hills Armadale
When: August 1st to November 30th
Tickets
The Perth International Burlesque Festival
This October, the 11th annual Perth International Burlesque Festival is set to take their unapologetically fabulous show across our sunburnt state. With glitter for days, glamour to boot, and almost too much fun for you to handle, the forecast will be set to hot. The festival brings unparalleled international and Australian burlesque, cabaret and variety performers to Perth and regional WA.
Where: various locations across Perth
When: Friday, September 27th to Saturday, November 9th
Tickets
