What's on

Nelson boasts fabulous regular events plus some spectacular annual and biennial signature events.

Regular events

Nelson Saturday Market

Montgomery Square, Nelson City, every Saturday 8am-1pm
Explore, Experience, Discover. Nelson’s Saturday market defies description. An absolute 'must-do' in Nelson!! For many years, artists of every kind have been gravitating to the sunny, open-minded region of Nelson. Art trails allow visitors to see potters, painters, sculptors, weavers and ceramicists at work. The Saturday market in Montgomery Square is another way to experience the creativity of Nelson's community. Here you find real people, hard cash and products made and produced by the people who are selling them. Prowl the lanes between the hundreds of stalls for Nelson's best; crafts, pottery, unique gifts, designer wear, woodwork, organic veges, breads, fruit, cheeses, gourmet foods and treasures ... treat yourself at the food stalls! (Image source: NRDA Tourism)

Nelson Farmers Market

Maitai Boulevard, Nelson, every Wednesday
Hours: 8am - 2pm
Nelson's Farmers Market is located on the Maitai Boulevard. The Nelson Farmer's Market is designated 'Certified' which means that produce is grown by the farmer presenting it for sale, and that it was grown locally. This ensures fresh, high quality produce is brought to the consumer at a reasonable price. Note: Opening hours may change for Summer/Winter seasons - visit website. (Images source: Nelson Farmers' Market)

Signature festivals and events

Nelson Summer Events

While the sun shines all year round here, summer in our region is particularly special. With an array of events in scenic locations for young and old to enjoy, our beautiful area lights up at this time of year. The Summer Events programme includes an exciting line-up of activities, supported by Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council, which are sure to inspire and entertain locals and visitors throughout the holiday season. Visit website

Evolve Festival

Founders Park, Nelson City, 26 - 28 January 2018

Evolve Festival is an annual celebration of old customs and new ways to transform the health and wellbeing of individuals, the community and the earth. Feed your mind, soul, heart – and tummy! Share knowledge about sustainable living, hear inspirational leaders and visionary pioneers – and dance, laugh and play. With so much on offer, there is something for everyone. Visit website

Marchfest

Founders Park, Nelson City, 24 March 2018

The Nelson region is New Zealand’s sole hop growing area – and has more craft breweries per head of the population than anywhere else in the country.

Unlike ordinary beer festivals, all the beers available at MarchFest have been specially commissioned for the event and have never previously been tasted by the public.

Every year around 15 regional craft breweries sign up to produce a new beer for the event. These beers all make their world debut at MarchFest. Top of the South breweries include Dale's, Dead Good Beer, Founders, Golden Bear, Hop Federation, Lighthouse, McCashin’s, Moa, Mussel Inn, Renaissance, Sprig and Fern, Totara, Townshend’s and more.  Visit website 

For more information on any of these listed events, and many more events happening in the Nelson region visit the official Nelson Tasman Tourism website (NRDA Tourism).