It’s the most magical time of the year to be in Adelaide right now, as the Adelaide Fringe festival kicks off its spectacular month-long celebration of creativity. As the largest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere and the second-biggest fringe festival in the world (right after Edinburgh), Adelaide Fringe brings together more than 6,000 global artists in a whopping 1,400-plus shows across 500 venues.
To help you navigate the festival like a pro, we’ve created the ultimate guide to everything you need to know about Adelaide Fringe 2025. Discover the must-see shows, the best spots to eat and drink, how to get tickets and more.
When does Adelaide Fringe start?
In 2025, Adelaide Fringe officially kicked off on Friday, February 21 and will run for 31 incredible nights. The opening weekend followed a Sneak Peek Week, where audiences got early access to more than 160 shows from February 16 to 20.
When does the Adelaide Fringe end?
The festival continues all through Mad March, ending with the Gluttony Closing Party on Sunday, March 23.
Where is Adelaide Fringe?
The Southern Hemisphere’s largest arts festival takes over more than 500 venues across South Australia, popping up in theatres, pubs, parks and beyond – from the heart of the city to the suburbs and even regional towns. As always, The Garden of Unearthly Delights and Gluttony are the main hubs of activity, transforming Adelaide’s eastern parklands into a whirlwind of performance venues, bars, food trucks, carnival rides and eclectic energy. Other buzzing festival hotspots include Fool’s Paradise in Victoria Square and The Courtyard of Curiosities at the Migration Museum.
When did the Adelaide Fringe start?
The first-ever Adelaide Fringe festival was in 1960, making it 64 years old.
What to see at Adelaide Fringe?
We’ve rounded up all the best cabaret, comedy and circus shows to see at Fringe here.
Where to buy Adelaide Fringe tickets?
You can buy tickets to all Adelaide Fringe shows online, with the full program available to explore here. You can also book tickets in person at the Fringe Corner Box Offices outside The Garden of Unearthly Delights and Gluttony (located on East Terrace).
How much does it cost for Adelaide Fringe?
Ticket prices vary by show, with most comedy and cabaret shows ranging from $15 to $50. The festival program also includes 120 free events, from outdoor performances and public art installations to family-friendly fun. You can check them out here.
How to get to Adelaide Fringe?
The east end of Rundle Street will be closed to traffic every Friday through Sunday night during Adelaide Fringe. You can find out more about road closures and the best transport options on the City of Adelaide website here.
Where to eat during Adelaide Fringe?
You’re spoilt for choice with food and drink options at Adelaide Fringe’s major festival hubs, including The Garden of Unearthly Delights, Gluttony and Fool’s Paradise. Expect food trucks serving up every cuisine under the sun, with plenty of gluten-free and vegan options.
Our top venue for drinking and dining between shows is Gluttony, where you’ll find 30 food vendors and an impressive 19 bars. Standouts include the brand-new Champagne Island and two exciting pop-up lakeside restaurants: Bar Lune and Oliveti.
If you’ve got time for a meal before or after the show, head to Rundle Street, where you’ll find restaurants spilling onto the street. Dine right in the heart of the action at favourites like Daughter in Law and the Exeter Hotel, or dine nearby at East End Cellars, Golden Boy or the newly opened East Asian bistro Monica. For more, check out our guide to the best restaurants and top bars in Adelaide.
Where to stay during Adelaide Fringe?
With plenty of late-night fun on the cards, staying close to the major Fringe hubs is a smart idea. You’ll be just a ten-minute walk from The Garden of Unearthly Delights and Gluttony at top picks like the Crowne Plaza Adelaide, Vibe Hotel Adelaide and Pullman Adelaide. You can check out more of the best hotels in town here.