Arts, Culture & Heritage

Adelaide has a rich tradition of celebrating arts and cultural activities, as well as a passion for preserving our heritage.

Often referred to as the City of Churches, Adelaide boasts a disproportionately large number of churches. Spires complement the cityscape, particularly those of St Peter's Cathedral (North Adelaide) and St Francis Xavier Cathedral (Wakefield St, City). They represent an important part of Adelaide's colonial history.

Adjacent to the University's North Terrace campus are the Art Gallery of South Australia, the Migration Museum, South Australian Museum and the State Library, all of which are worth a visit. The Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute on Grenfell Street in the city has indigenous Australian arts and crafts on display, and there are many small art and craft galleries in the city, suburbs, and in particular, the beautiful Adelaide Hills area.

With over 500 festivals held every year, South Australia lays claim to the title the Festival State (you will often see this proclaimed on South Australian vehicle registration plates). They range from the traditional to the offbeat, and from international arts festivals to small regional events.

Along with Edinburgh and Avignon, the Adelaide Festival of Arts is one of the three great arts festivals of the world, and is held in Adelaide's summer every two years (it will next be held in 2008). It is a showcase of the finest opera, music, dance, theatre, cabaret and visual arts the world has to offer.

Sister festival to the Festival of Arts is the Adelaide Fringe (now held annually). The Fringe is more alternative and attracts a diverse range of performance and artistic events, including comedy, film, writing, digital arts and more.

WOMADelaide is a world festival of music and dance, held every year in the Botanic parklands of Adelaide.

The City of Adelaide is also host to many leading arts organisations such as the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, State Opera of South Australia, Festival Theatre and Australian Dance Theatre, and enjoys regular visits from major interstate and international artistic groups.

During your time in Adelaide, you will have the opportunity to experience a diverse range of different cultures, celebrations and activities. For more information about festivals and events in Adelaide and South Australia, see ArtsSA or visit the SA Tourism Commission.

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