Moomba Waterfest is Australia’s largest free community festival, and it has been going since 1955.  Held over the four days of the Labour Day weekend, the Moomba Waterfest includes a carnival, fire show, water skiing, live music, the famous Moomba Parade and much more.

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has become not only a Sydney institution, but one of the world’s most popular gay and lesbian events.  Despite its name, the festival is not held on Shrove Tuesday, but runs during the month of February, making it a welcome escape for many tourists fleeing the Northern Hemisphere winter.

Carols in the Domain is Sydney’s yearly carols by candlelight event.  It is a free event, but attendees have the opportunity to raise money for the Salvation Army.  The entertainment includes performances by some of Australia’s top celebrities as well as sing-along carols.

Recently made an annual event, the Adelaide Fringe attracts performers from around the world in theatre, comedy, music and visual arts during February.  There are a number of free events, including the Fringe opening parade, which traditionally attracts over 100,000 people.

The first Fremantle Festival was held in 1905 and the festival has become an expression of Fremantle’s unique community.  There are a number of free events for the whole family, and the Fremantle Community Fringe Festival, which runs at the same time during November, provides even more entertainment.

Sydney is the best place in Australia to see out the old year and usher in the new.  Hundreds of boats take to the Harbour to view the stunning fireworks display, which is visible from vantage points around the city.

Melbourne’s Summer Fun in the City features a program of free events taking place across Melbourne’s parks and public areas during January and February.  There is something for the whole family, so pack a picnic and head out into the streets!

The Queensland Multicultural Festival is Queensland’s largest free one-day festival, taking place in October.  Celebrate Queensland’s cultural diversity with music, food and entertainment from around the world, all in Brisbane’s Roma Street Parkland.

Chinese New Year is the first day of the lunar calendar, and falls in Spring.  The two day festival includes contemporary Chinese cultural activities, dance, singing, children’s events and fireworks.

Running for three weeks during January, the annual Sydney Festival presents events including dance, theatre, music, visual arts and forums and takes place in a range of venues around the city.  There are a range of free outdoor events, most notably the Domain Concerts, which attract up to 100,000 people.