Perth in February is the perfect place and time to bask in summer weather, festival events and sunset music.
There are so many things to do in Perth at this time of year, it still feels like summer vacation time, yet the school holidays are over, making room for you to sneak some time off without the crowds. While the weather remains balmy, seek out a rooftop bar or outdoor cinema, watch the sun go down from a beachside restaurant or cafe, and take in the many music and arts events happening around Perth.
The following events and festivals usually take place annually, however, we recommend that you check the event websites for updates and dates for the upcoming season.
Perth Festival
February in Perth is festival time, as Fringe World makes way for the Perth Festival - highlight of the year for the arts. The Festival brings performers, visual artists and writers from around the world for a feast of innovative theatre, exhibitions, circus acts, dance and music. Find out more.
FRINGE World Festival
In February, Perth's FRINGE World festival comes to an end so take the chance to catch shows that have received the best reviews. Events cover all bases - comedy, circus, theatre, visual arts, musicals, dance and cabaret - staged in 63 venues, mostly spread around the Perth Cultural Centre, Yagan Square and Northbridge. Find out more.
St Jerome's Laneway Festival
St Jerome's Laneway Festival is one of Perth's most popular music events. Laneway brings together a string of quality original and indie musicians from the US, UK and Australia - a chance to hear some of the best live music in a chilled and safe atmosphere. The Festival will spread out on the Esplanade next to Fishing Boat Harbour and take over the west end of Fremantle. It's an 18+ event and there will be food trucks, bars and market stalls; patrons are also welcome to take a pass out to enjoy other things to do in Perth's historic port city, making this a fantastic day out. Find out more.
Sunset Concerts
Make the most of balmy Perth February evenings with a picnic and live music at sunset. With live music from local artists, amazing food trucks and vans, family activities summer concerts are a great way to spend a relaxing summer evening. Here are some of our annual favs.
Summer Concerts in the Park | Lawler Park, Floreat
These are family friendly concerts with kids' activities and food trucks, or take your own picnic and settle in for a relaxing evening that everyone will enjoy.
sunset@subi | Market Square, Subiaco
Family friendly summer concert series featuring musical genres to suit all tastes. Bring a picnic or purchase snacks and coffee from the food truck.
Summer Twilight Concerts | Upper Reach Winery, Swan Valley
A twilight concert at Upper Reach Winery is a perfect way to spend the evening picnicking or dining at the RiverBrook Restaurant, with world class wines at your fingertips. Held on alternate Saturdays, the concert series focuses on the cool sounds of swing, salsa, samba and soul.
Outdoor Movies
February in Perth is the time to catch some outdoor movies before the weather changes. Catch a new release or classic at the Lotterywest Films at Somerville Auditorium or Joondalup Pines, check what's on during February at Perth's Luna Outdoor or Camelot Outdoor Cinemas. Luna Outdoor in Leederville screens some excellent independent, arthouse and documentary films, while Camelot in Mosman Park is the place to catch that blockbuster you haven't got around to seeing yet.
All except the Pines are licensed, and you can purchase food to enjoy during the movie. There are lots of outdoor and rooftop cinemas in Perth to choose from. Go to this link for more information: Outdoor Cinemas in Perth.
Chinese New Year
If you haven't experienced Chinese New Year celebrations yet, don't miss Perth's Chinese New Year Fair! Chinese New Year is traditionally celebrated over several days, the dates varying from year to year depending on the lunar calendar. The Chinese New Year Fair is centered on Chinatown in Northbridge and spread along Lake Street and James Street. It promises to be a highlight of February in Perth, with around 100 stalls, a parade, cultural activities, games, rides, a multicultural concert, photo booth, and best of all, the traditional lion and dragon dancing.
This event will be up there with the most photogenic things to do in Perth this summer. Find more Instagrammable places and events here. These links will help you find spots for a relaxing coffee or drink beyond the frenzy of the Fair: Perth City Coffee Spots, Perth City Bars and Pubs and
10 Perth Cocktail Bars.
National Basketball League
February for the Perth Wildcats basketball team is a key time, as the National Basketball League comes to a head. This is the premier basketball league for Australia and New Zealand, the season running from October to the Grand Final in early March. There's heaps of entertainment before the game and during quarter and half time. Especially popular are the Dunk Team, who put on an energetic and highly watchable series of dunks during quarter time. A dunk is a controlled shot from the air, also called a slam dunk. Other highlights are dancers, music and Wilbur the Wildcat.
Before the game, youngsters can create a banner in the Wild Kids Zone, ready to hold up during the game, while small kids can head down there to colour in a pic of Wilbur at any time during the game. The Wildcats are one of the top teams but have suffered some disappointing defeats this season, so lend your support this February in Perth Arena to help them push through to the semi-finals!
