Forest Festival Kuitpo Wirra inparri 17th & 18th April 2024
Forest Festival
17 + 18 April
Forest Festival is a thoughtfully curated celebration of children, nature, Aboriginal culture, the changing seasons and community.
It’s an opportunity to slow down. Adjust your rhythm. Wander with friends. Breathe the crisp forest air. And follow your child’s lead as their curiosity takes them on a meandering path of wonder, joy and creativity.
Our stage will be the central entertainment hub, with last year’s crowd favourite, The Amazing Drumming Monkeys, again on the lineup.
There’ll be a Welcome to Country from Kaurna/Narungga Elder, Kauwanu Tamaru, and proud Warumungu/ Yuggera man, David Booth, and acoustic sets throughout the day.
It’s the perfect place to set up your picnic rug and chairs, with food and drinks available for purchase within easy walking distance. You’re also welcome to bring your own from home.
Nature-based activities for all ages will be available throughout the day, including nature crown and mask-making, nature potions, loose parts play, wand-making, rock climbing, cubby building, Aboriginal message stone painting, storytime and reading, yoga, Evelyn Roth’s Nylon Zoo, kite flying* and guided nature walks.
There’ll be stalls and giveaways to support your experience on the day and build your confidence to engage and connect with our state’s unique natural environment in your own way and time.
As thousands come together for our seventh annual Forest Festival, we’ll immerse ourselves in nature, enjoy diverse experiences and take time to observe, listen, learn and connect with family and friends—old and new.
Forest Festival is held over two days, with single day tickets available for purchase. The program is the same for both Wednesday April 17 and Thursday, April 18.
*Bring your own kite or purchase on the day
Book Wednesday 17th April Book Thursday 18th April
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date of the event?
Forest Festival is held over two days, with single-day tickets available. The program is the same for Wednesday, April 17 and Thursday, April 18.
What time does the event start and end?
Forest Festival will start at 10am and finish at 3pm both days. You’re welcome to arrive anytime.
What is the Location of the Event?
Rocky Creek Hut, Razorback Rd, Meadows SA 5201
Where can I park?
Upon arrival, you will be directed to where to park. We suggest carpooling, if possible, to support parking management and minimise environmental impact. There may be a moderate walk. A drop-off zone will be available. If you have a disabled parking permit or special rights, you will be supported with appropriate parking arrangements. If you have any other parking queries, please contact us at events@natureplaysa.org.au
Is there public transportation access to the event location?
Unfortunately, there is no public transport to the event.
Is there an admission fee?
Yes. Tickets are $34.00 for Children (aged 1+) and $16.50 for Adults. Children under 12 months are free, but they will also require a ticket.
Can we purchase tickets at the event?
Tickets must be purchased before the event—no tickets will be available on the day. Please bring your tickets with you. Entry to the Festival will only be granted to those holding valid entry passes.
Is my ticket refundable?
Tickets are non-refundable.
Where can I find the ticket I have purchased?
Your ticket will be sent to your email from Humanatix. If you are unable to find it, it may have gone to your junk/spam folder.
What should we bring with us?
We suggest dressing for autumn weather and playing outdoors. Clothing that offers unrestricted movement and layers work well. Sturdy footwear is recommended, along with a hat and sunscreen. Our waterproof onesies will be available for purchase on the day to protect from rain, dirt, paint, etc.
We also suggest bringing picnic rugs, warm blankets or camp chairs.
You’re welcome to bring food and drinks, refillable water bottles and keep cups for hot drinks.
Whilst there will be EFTPOS facilities, the signal can be patchy in the forest, so we suggest also bringing cash.
What should we leave at home?
Forest Festival is an alcohol and smoke-free event. Please also leave pets at home. Implements for cutting trees or branches aren’t permitted.
Is the event suitable for all ages?
Forest Festival is designed for families with children aged 0–12. However, older kids are welcome, too. There will be many activities for a broad range of ages and abilities.
Are there quiet areas for children needing a break from the excitement?
Yes, there will be specific quiet areas and beautiful parts of the forest to escape to.
Is there food available at the event?
Yes! Coffee and food vans will be on site. Whilst there will be EFTPOS facilities, the signal can be patchy in the forest, so we suggest also bringing cash if you plan to buy food and drinks.
Is the event pet-friendly?
Please leave pets at home for this event.
Is the event pram friendly?
Yes. There are walking trails around the event site and some light off-road terrain to access several activities. A parent’s room and a pram-accessible toilet will be available.
Is the event wheelchair accessible?
The main trails at the event site are accessible for wheelchairs and there is some light off-road terrain to access several activities. If you have a disabled parking permit or special rights you will be supported with appropriate parking. A wheelchair-accessible toilet will be available.
What happens in case of bad weather?
We’re all about outdoor play in all weather! Our events go ahead with a forecast of rain and cold weather. We would only consider cancelling with severe weather warnings or if a Total Fire Ban is declared for Kuitpo Forest (in line with ForestrySA regulations). If circumstances do require us to cancel, we’ll advise ticket holders via email, social media and our website. Refunds will be issued under these circumstances.
What happens if I lose my child at the event?
Please be aware that while there will be trained event and support staff on-site, children remain the responsibility of parents and/or carers. Wristbands for children will be available at the entry gate—we recommend writing your phone number and attaching it to your child’s wrist.
If you need assistance, visit the large green Nature Play SA info marquee or see one of our friendly event staff in high-vis vests. Please also make your children aware they can go to the info marquee or ask our event staff for assistance if they become separated from you.
Are there first aid facilities available?
Yes.
Is there anything else I should be aware of?
As stewards of this beautiful environment, we kindly request your help in caring for it. Let’s respect nature by using only fallen natural materials in play and giving space to wildlife.
Please bring minimal waste to the event and dispose of any rubbish responsibly using the provided bin systems.
We have noticed some fungi popping up in the forest. Please refrain from touching or consuming any fungi. Some varieties can be harmful.
As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on support from caring individuals like you. Please leave event materials such as hessian, ropes, and activity materials behind so other families can enjoy them at future events.
Fires are not permitted.
Please note that, for safety reasons, the dam on site is closed during the Forest Festival. Please refrain from entering this fenced-off area.
Thank you for your cooperation!
My question was not answered. Who do I contact?
You can contact the Event Team at events@natureplaysa.org.au
This year's Forest Festival has been made possible through the support of Forestry SA, ElectraNet, Green Adelaide, Adelaide National Park City and the Mount Barker District Council.
