West Coast

As one of the most picturesque regions in Tasmania, the West Coast of Tasmania has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is celebrated through various nationally or globally recognised annual events. These events range from music and arts festivals to historic commemorations and natural wonders that attract visitors from across the world. Here are some of the events that people might observe in and around the West Coast of Tasmania.

1. Strahan Regatta: Held every year since 1896, the Strahan Regatta is a popular sailing event that draws participants from across Tasmania and beyond. The regatta features sailing races, boat displays, live music, and plenty of fun and frivolity for all ages.

2. Targa Tasmania: Known as one of the world's most demanding tarmac rallies, Targa Tasmania sees over 200 cars compete across 38 stages over five days in late April or early May. The rally goes through various regions of Tasmania, including the West Coast, where the picturesque landscapes and challenging roads provide a spectacular backdrop for the event.

3. Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival: Running for three days each July, the Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival is a celebration of Tasmania's apple-growing heritage and pagan traditions. The event features a fiery bonfire, Wassailing (a traditional cider toasting ceremony), storytelling, feasting, and live music.

4. Burnie Ten: Established in 1985, the Burnie Ten is a 10-kilometre road race that attracts thousands of runners and walkers from across the country. The race takes place in 18th October along the picturesque coastal town of Burnie.

5. Agfest: Held annually in early May, Agfest is Tasmania's premier rural event that draws thousands of visitors and hundreds of exhibitors from across Australia. The three-day festival features farm machinery displays, animal exhibitions, live entertainment, and plenty of food and drinks.

6. Cradle Mountain Film Fest: Every April, the Cradle Mountain Film Fest brings together filmmakers, cinephiles, and nature enthusiasts for a celebration of nature through the power of cinema. The festival showcases a range of documentaries, shorts, and feature films that explore environmental issues, adventure, and wilderness.

7. Rosebery MTB Enduro: The Rosebery MTB Enduro is a popular mountain bike race that features five stages of cross-country and downhill racing, held every October. The race takes riders through some of the most challenging and picturesque trails in the West Coast region of Tasmania.

8. Taste of Tasmania: Running between Christmas and New Year's, the Taste of Tasmania is the largest food and wine festival in the state. The festival celebrates Tasmania's world-renowned food and drinks, and features over 70 gourmet stalls, cooking demonstrations, live music, and other entertainment.

9. Queenstown Heritage & Arts Festival: The Queenstown Heritage & Arts Festival is held annually in late October. The event celebrates the rich mining heritage of the region, featuring a range of cultural displays, theatre, music, workshops, and other activities.

10. Gordon River Cruise: A cruise through the Gordon River is one of the must-do activities when visiting the West Coast of Tasmania. The tour takes visitors through the pristine rainforest and wilderness of the region, featuring scenic lookouts, wildlife sightings, and a visit to the historic Sarah Island.

the West Coast of Tasmania offers a diverse range of nationally or globally recognised annual events that cater to all interests. From outdoor activities and sporting events to cultural and heritage celebrations, there's something for everyone in this picturesque corner of Tasmania.