Kites, Arts, and Carnival Fun: What’s On in Adelaide this Good Friday

Adelaide International Kite Festival

The skies over Semaphore Beach will transform into a kaleidoscope of color today as the Adelaide International Kite Festival kicks off its 2026 season. Running from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm on the Semaphore Foreshore, this free community event features massive, quirky kites from international and local flyers. It is a perfect outing for families to enjoy the fresh sea air and the spectacular aerial displays. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic rug and find a spot on the grass or sand to watch the giants of the sky dance in the autumn breeze.

Easter at the Adelaide Zoo

For those looking to celebrate the start of the long weekend with some furry friends, Adelaide Zoo is hosting its "Easter at the Zoo" event today. From 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, the zoo offers a specialized Easter egg trail that leads visitors through the various exhibits. The event has a particular focus on the Greater Bilby, featuring dedicated keeper talks and exclusive bilby-themed chocolates. It is an educational and festive way for children to learn about conservation while enjoying the holiday spirit in the heart of the city.

Adelaide Biennial of Australian Art: Yield Strength

Art enthusiasts should head to the Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA) on North Terrace to experience the 2026 Adelaide Biennial of Australian Art. This year’s exhibition, titled Yield Strength, features new works by 24 Australian artists exploring themes of selfhood, society, and material transformation under pressure. The exhibition spans across the AGSA, the Samstag Museum of Art, and the Adelaide Botanic Garden, offering a thought-provoking journey through contemporary Australian practice. Entry is free, making it an accessible cultural highlight for the public holiday.

Adelaide Easter Carnival at Civic Park

Modbury’s Civic Park is the place to be for high-energy family fun with the Adelaide Easter Carnival. This multi-day event features a wide array of carnival rides, sideshow games, and food trucks serving up festive treats. Whether you are looking for the thrill of the larger rides or a classic carousel, the carnival provides a vibrant atmosphere for the local community. The event also includes family-friendly activities like face painting and localized egg hunts throughout the afternoon.

Cinema: New Releases at Palace Nova and Wallis

If you prefer a quiet night out, Adelaide’s cinemas have a strong lineup of new releases today. Major highlights include the premiere of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which is expected to be a hit for all ages during the holiday break. For fans of independent film, The Drama and Papa Bear are also screening at locations such as Palace Nova and Wallis Piccadilly. Many cinemas are offering special holiday sessions, providing a cozy escape and a perfect way to wind down the first day of the long weekend.