Event date: 28 May 2027
The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival celebrates the essence of the Burdekin region, renowned as the Sugarcane Capital of Australia, by showcasing its people, produce and culture.
Consisting of two headline events, the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival starts with the Burdekin Cultural Fair featuring First Fire on Friday night, followed by the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships on Saturday at the Home Hill Showgrounds.
The Burdekin Cultural Fair featuring First Fire celebrates the diversity of the Burdekin region bringing together a diverse range of cultures through a variety of culinary delights, interactive activities and captivating entertainment. Don't miss the highlight of the night, the lighting of the first fire of the 2027 sugarcane crushing season. Hear the crackling of the crop burning, smell the sweet essence of the burning sugar and feel the heat of the fire as it tears through the paddock.
The Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships is the ultimate test of skill and endurance, with competitors swinging their cane knives in hopes to be crowned the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Champion! Spectators will have the opportunity to walk through a paddock of burnt sugarcane, immersing themselves in the dirty, back-breaking work of a by-gone era. This family-friendly event promises great food, live music, captivating entertainment and so much more!
Mark your calendar for Saturday 3 October 2026 and head up to the beautiful Melrose Showgrounds for a classic day of rural fun, community spirit and family entertainment! From lively side shows, horse events and livestock displays to craft exhibits, delicious food stalls and kids’ activities, the Melrose Show delivers a full day of country show magic. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Mount Remarkable, it’s the perfect way to celebrate spring, enjoy local culture, and make memories with family and friends. Don’t miss the picnic show of the north!
Saturday (Weekly)
8:30 am to 3:00 pm
Salamanca Market showcases over 300 stallholders every Saturday and is an experience not to be missed. It’s the best place to find Tasmanian-designed and handmade products and discover the heart of a creative island. You will meet local artisans, designers, collectors, and producers and discover the story behind the makers that make a visit to Salamanca Market so special. With so much to see, give yourself plenty of time to browse, enjoy the buskers and musicians and soak up the atmosphere. There is delicious market food to enjoy and plenty of tastings and hot coffee to be found as you stroll around. You will find a huge selection of products to explore, including local gins, whisky and wines, preserves and cheeses, organic skincare, Tasmanian timber and ceramics, woolen products and handmade jewelry, clothing and homewares. Salamanca Market is the most visited tourist attraction in Tasmania and is open every Saturday from 8.30 am to 3 pm. The market is centrally located at historic Salamanca Place, nestled against historic Georgian sandstone warehouses. It is home to galleries, restaurants and cafes and is only a short stroll to the city center. Salamanca Market is proudly owned and operated by the City of Hobart.