Experience the magic of the TSB Festival of Lights, a multi-award-winning event held at Pukekura Park in Ngāmotu, New Plymouth. This enchanting festival is a free community celebration featuring world-class light installations that transform the park into a luminous wonderland. The festival caters to all ages, with a range of entertainment, kids’ activities, and special events.
The TSB Festival of Lights has become a hallmark event, attracting over 140,000 visitors last summer alone. Its popularity not only brings joy and wonder to attendees but also provides significant economic benefits, contributing an estimated $8 million to the local economy. This 37-night festival is a testament to community spirit, artistry, and the transformative power of light.
Discover the beauty of Taranaki at New Zealand’s premier spring event, the Taranaki Garden Festival. This 10-day celebration showcases a variety of stunning private gardens, each with its own unique story and charm. Meet the passionate garden owners and get inspired by their beautiful creations. The festival, set against the magnificent backdrop of Mount Taranaki, includes engaging events and workshops, with the highlight being the popular Centuria Garden Party.
Since its inception in 1987 as the Rhododendron Festival, the Taranaki Garden Festival has delighted visitors worldwide. It offers an eclectic mix of gardens that cater to all interests, with a schedule packed with both free and paid events. Whether you’re seeking a family adventure or a sophisticated evening out, this festival promises a memorable experience in a spectacular natural setting.
WOMAD, the world-renowned festival of music, arts, and dance, promises an unforgettable three-day extravaganza. Hosted in the picturesque settings of New Plymouth’s Bowl of Brooklands and Brooklands Park in Taranaki, this festival transforms the park into a vibrant cultural hub. Celebrated for its eclectic mix of sounds, sights, and positive vibes, WOMAD is a true convergence of global cultures and artistic expressions. As one of the longest-running and most esteemed cultural festivals on the globe, it offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a rich tapestry of world arts.
WOMAD is an award-winning, family-friendly event, distinguished by its multiculturalism, art installations, interactive workshops, and a smorgasbord of multi-cultural cuisine. It’s not just a festival; it’s a journey of discovery and joy, offering new experiences, enlightenment, and memorable moments for all ages, friends, and Whānau alike.
The Taranaki Arts Trail is an annual event that captures the essence of Taranaki’s stunning natural beauty. Set against a backdrop of a volcanic landscape, surrounded by wild coast beaches, lush greenery, clear streams, and bush-covered slopes, this event offers a visually inspiring experience. Since its inception in 2014, the Trail has become a cornerstone event, attracting visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s scenic splendor while exploring the vibrant local art scene.
This unique event provides a rare opportunity for the public to engage directly with artists in their own studio environments. The Taranaki Arts Trail aims to foster a deeper community understanding of the artistic process and the skills involved in creating art. It showcases a diverse range of artistic mediums including painting, pottery, ceramics, sculpture, fibre arts, jewellery, mixed media, assemblage, photography, and works in wood, bone, stone, cloth, oil, acrylic, and watercolor. This trail is not just an exhibition but a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship, inviting art lovers and curious visitors alike to explore and connect with the artists of Taranaki.
Americarna, an annual celebration of American car culture since 2007, showcases a wide array of American-themed vehicles, from classic and vintage cars to modern models and motorcycles like Harley Davidson and Indian Motorcycles. The event spans several Taranaki locations, including a special night in New Plymouth CBD, where streets close for a stunning display of cars.
The festival features engaging activities for families, including Inglewood’s Thursday night event and New Plymouth’s vibrant Saturday showcase, complete with live bands and children’s activities. Whether you’re a returning enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Americarna offers a unique experience to revel in American automotive culture.
Christmas at the Bowl stands out as a highlight in Taranaki’s annual community events. Hosted in the picturesque and iconic Bowl of Brooklands, this event is a festive variety show that promises to be an evening of joy and merriment. Attendees can look forward to a lineup of everyone’s favorite Christmas carols, complemented by interactive audience sing-alongs. The evening culminates in a visually stunning finale that is sure to leave lasting memories.
Designed as a family-friendly immersion into the holiday spirit, Christmas at the Bowl is the perfect event to commence your Christmas celebrations. It’s an invitation to gather your loved ones, pack a picnic, and join a community of festive revelers for a night filled with entertainment and joyous celebration. This event is not just an opportunity to enjoy great performances but also a chance to create new holiday traditions with friends and family.
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