Dark Mofo, A Winter Festival Like No Other

Have you ever experienced the magic of a Tasmanian winter? The island state’s naturally rugged beauty takes on a mystifying enchanted quality during this time. A winter wonderland comes to life; the air is crisp and fresh, snow falls freely on the mountains, and array of winter festivals take over the sleepy state. 

Dark Mofo is a winter festival worth travelling for. There is none more confronting, thought-provoking and absurd than the celebration of darkness that graces the streets of Hobart in the depths of winter. It combines a bizarre array of art, music, fire, tantalising feasts, and local wines.

If you love, or have the Museum of Old and New Art on your bucket list, than Dark Mofo will blow you away. Curated by David Walsh, founder of MONA, there is so much to see and do, and to be overwhelmed by. The midwinter festival was started in 2013 to attract people to Tasmania in the icy depths of winter. It showcases the dark and ancient winter solstice rituals, and explores the links between ancient and contemporary mythology, light and dark, and humans and nature.

Expect an experience like no other. It is truly unique, and each exhibit, act or meal you experience will leave you speechless. It is hard to miss, as the city of Hobart is lit up and major exhibits can be found everywhere.

While Dark Mofo releases a program every year, it can be difficult to know exactly what you’re signing up for, with the event descriptions craftily ambiguous. But for us, that is half the fun. This is an event where you leave behind your inhibitions and open your mind to the possibilities of what may lie ahead. Ticketed performances sell out fast, so take your pick and book ahead to avoid missing out on a weird and wonderful experience.

Aside from the ticketed performances, Dark Mofo also offers an array of free events to keep you busy on the cold winter nights. Pay a visit to the illustrious Dark Park, an abandoned shipyard that transforms into a night fun park known for its spectacular visual shows, or discover Dark Path, the 4km path of darkness showcasing incredible displays of art.

Tasmania is globally renowned for its food and wine, and the festival’s Winter Feast celebrates this world-class status. Held almost everyday of the festival, the huge banquet is a ‘mass celebration of cooking with fire;’ it is truly a feast for all your senses. Expect to indulge in some exceptionally delicious local food and some of Australia’s best wines, while sharing moments of awe and joy with your fellow travellers and new friends.