Celebrate winter with a festival of firsts
Get ready for a winter full of firsts as Firstival returns this July to light up South Australia’s public libraries. The month-long program offers more than 300 free and low-cost events designed to help you try something new.
What is Firstival?
Firstival is a celebration of first-time experiences. Launched in 2023, it offers something for everyone – from paint and sip sessions and K-Pop dancing to ukulele playing and kombucha making. Kids can also dive into the winter school holidays with Nitro science workshops, Mario Kart challenges and nature journalling, while curious adults can explore everything from jewellery making to Bricks and Brews.
Across South Australia, councils run more than 140 public libraries – which means that, whatever people’s age or interest, Firstival provides the perfect opportunity to try something for the first time, right in local communities.
Last year, more than 42,000 people came together for Firstival events across 58 libraries and the impact was clear. Library membership, through the one card network, jumped 11 per cent in July 2024 compared to the year before, giving access to more than 4 million items spread across 140 libraries. And it’s mostly for free!
What’s On?
There is so much to explore during the month of July (and keep the kids busy during school holidays). We’ve highlighted 10 exciting events below, but head to Firstival to see what else is happening near you.
Young Writer’s Competition
July 1–31, Holdfast Bay Libraries, City of Holdfast Bay
Young writers aged eight to 18 are invited to enter a short story, poem or true account based on this year’s Book Week theme: Book an Adventure.
There are two age categories: eight to 12 and 13 to 18. One winner from each group will receive a prize valued at $150. Entries will be judged by a panel of library staff.
- Cost: Free
- Enter here
Build your first Bricks and Brews creation
July 3, 5pm-6:30pm, Noarlunga Library, City of Onkaparinga
Build, sip and repeat at a Lego night for adults! Whether you’re a master builder or just keen to try something new, this is your chance to get creative, meet new people and enjoy a drink while you’re at it. Lego will be provided, or you can bring your own set from home.
- Cost: $7.50
- Book here
Kombucha and Natural Soda Ferments Workshop
July 5, 10am–12:30pm, St Peters Library, City of Norwood Payneham and St Peters
Learn how to brew your own gut-friendly kombucha and natural sodas at home. This beginner-friendly session will cover fermenting with a SCOBY, flavouring, bottling and more.
- Cost: $10
- Book here
Portuguese Custard Tart Cooking Class
July 8, 10:30am–12:30pm, Orroroo School Community Library, District Council of Orroroo Carrieton
Discover the secrets behind Portugal’s most iconic sweet treat in this hands-on class for ages 15 and up. Learn how to roll the pastry, make the custard – and, of course, taste the results. Includes a take-home goody bag and plenty of tips to recreate the delicacies at home.
- Cost: Free
- Book here
Kaurna Night Skies Stories and Stargazing for Families
July 16, 6:30pm–7:30pm, Mitcham Memorial Library, City of Mitcham
Join Aunty Elaine for a night of storytelling under the stars. Families will hear Kaurna night sky stories and learn how to use a telescope to explore the night sky.
- Cost: $5
- Book here
K-Pop Dance Workshop for Adults
July 17, 6:30pm-8:30pm, Unley Town Hall, City of Unley
Step into the world of K-Pop dance and learn some of the hottest moves with this fun and energetic workshop designed for beginners and curious movers alike aged 18 and over – no experience needed.
- Cost: $5
- Book here
Beginner Knitting Workshop
July 18, 2pm-3:30pm, Strathalbyn Library, Alexandrina Council
New to knitting? Come along and learn the basics in a relaxed, beginner-friendly workshop. Everything you need will be provided and no experience is necessary. It’s the perfect time to start a simple project like a scarf or a sweet little love heart to keep or gift.
- Cost: Free
- Book here
Make Your Own Lip Balm & Hand Scrub
July 19, 10am–11:30am, Kapunda Library, Light Regional Council
Get hands-on in this DIY workshop and create your own skin-loving treats to take home.
- Cost: Free
- Book here
Armchair Yoga with Lynda
July 22, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm, Cowell School Community Library, District Council of Franklin Harbour
Take a seat, stretch it out and enjoy a relaxing session of armchair yoga. It's perfect for all ages and abilities.
- Cost: Free
- Book here
Uncork and Indulge – Wine and Chocolate Tasting
July 23, 6:30pm–8pm, Coventry Library Stirling, Adelaide Hills Council
Enjoy a curated tasting of Howard Vineyard wines paired with artisan chocolates from Red Cacao. Learn how to pair flavours and hear the stories behind these local producers at this special over 18s event.
- Cost: $10
- Book here
Experience your first VR armchair travel
July 26, 10am-12pm, Mount Gambier Library, City of Mount Gambier
No passport needed! Take a virtual trip anywhere in the world without leaving your seat.
- Cost: Free
- Book here
Join your First Book Club
July 29, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm, Mount Gambier Library, City of Mount Gambier
Love to read? Join your first book club and connect with others over great stories and conversation.
- Cost: Free
- Book here
Lego Club
30 July, 4:15 pm – 5:15 pm, Two Wells Council Chambers, Adelaide Plains Council
Let your imagination run wild at LEGO Club in Two Wells where you can stack, build and create your own fun.
- Cost: Free
- Book here
Paint, Taste, and Connect: Aboriginal Art & Culture
30 July, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm, Civic Centre Library, City of Playford
Unwind with a brush in one hand and a drink in the other at this fun, creative paint and sip session.
- Cost: $10
- Book here
Still curious? Browse firstival.com.au to find your first!
This article was originally published on InDaily 25 June 2025.
Image credit: City of Onkaparinga.
