Sydney, Melbourne and Perth may all have their arts festivals, but none compares in size, prestige or sheer excitement to Adelaide�s. Adelaide�s world-famous Festival of Arts is held in even-numbered years (don�t ask me why, mate) for three weeks in February/March. Few places in the world have such an extraordinary range of performance spaces, from the gleaming white Festival Centre to the outdoor amphithatres and intimate lofts. The warm days (remember we�re in the southern hemisphere) and mild, star-studded nights help create the right atmosphere for a wonderful choice of events � opera, ballet, concerts, theatre, exhibitions, children�s activities, and a literary festival � all of which within 15 minutes walking distance of each other.

There is also the �Fringe Festival� for lesser-known performers and artists where literally thousands of acts arrive from all over Australia, Europe and North America. The chaotic, organic nature of the Fringe really give Adelaide a buzz! The focus tends to be around the bars and restaurants of Rundle Street East where festivities continue until dawn at the Fringe Club, but buskers and performers spread throughout the city. Every spare corner of indoor space is devoted to some art exhibition, and every stretch outdoors to a site-specific installation. By any standards, the festival is a remarkable happening!