Queenstown Festivals and Events: Your Guide to Exclusive Access

Queenstown: Where Every Event Feels Extraordinary

Queenstown is famous not only for its natural beauty and adventure but also for its vibrant calendar of festivals and events. From world-class food and wine gatherings to adrenaline-fuelled celebrations and international cultural showcases, the town offers unforgettable experiences throughout the year. For those who want to immerse themselves while avoiding the stress of logistics, the key is planning ahead and ensuring seamless access.

Food and Wine Festivals

Winter Fest

Often called the Southern Hemisphere’s coolest little festival, Winter Fest celebrates Queenstown’s alpine spirit with music, entertainment, fireworks, and mountain culture. It’s the perfect way to kick off the ski season in style.
Link: https://www.queenstownnz.co.nz/things-to-do/events/queenstown-winter-festival/

Gibbston Valley Wine & Food Festival

Held just 25 minutes from Queenstown, this festival is a showcase of Central Otago’s finest wines paired with artisan food. It’s an essential date for wine lovers who want a relaxed but luxurious day in the vines.
Link: https://www.gibbstonvalley.com/experience/wine-and-food-festival/

Arts and Culture

LUMA Southern Light Project

Over Queen’s Birthday weekend, Queenstown Gardens are transformed into a world of light, sculpture, and creativity. The atmosphere is magical, and strolling beneath the illuminated installations makes for a unique evening experience.
Link: https://www.luma.nz/

Arrowtown Autumn Festival

A short drive from Queenstown, this event celebrates the region’s famous golden foliage with parades, markets, and live performances. It’s an immersive blend of heritage, culture, and community in a historic setting.
Link: https://www.arrowtownautumnfestival.co.nz/

Sports and Adventure

Queenstown Marathon

Known as the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon, this event attracts runners from across the globe. Even if you’re not participating, the atmosphere is electric — and it’s an inspiring time to be in Queenstown.
Link: https://queenstown-marathon.co.nz/

Winter Games NZ

One of the world’s premier snow sports events, Winter Games brings elite international athletes to the Southern Alps. Expect world-class skiing, snowboarding, and a lively après-ski culture.
Link: https://www.wintergamesnz.kiwi/

Exclusive Access: Making the Most of It

Festivals and events in Queenstown often mean busy streets, packed parking areas, and long waits. The difference between simply attending and truly experiencing them lies in exclusive access. Arriving at your event in a private transfer ensures you skip the hassle, enjoy the journey, and focus entirely on the celebration.

At QT Cars, we specialise in luxury transfers designed to complement Queenstown’s most prestigious events. Whether it’s a vineyard festival, a cultural showcase, or a lakeside gala, our service ensures your experience is seamless from start to finish.

Plan Your Festival Season in Style

Queenstown’s events calendar is bursting with reasons to celebrate — each one offering a taste of the region’s world-class food, wine, culture, and adventure. By pairing these experiences with thoughtful planning and luxury access, you can turn any festival into a truly unforgettable occasion.

Explore more Queenstown events here: https://www.queenstownnz.co.nz/things-to-do/events/