Spring in South Australia brings longer days, warmer weather, and the perfect excuse to get out and explore. And what better place to soak up the sunshine than our Murray River, Lakes and Coorong region?

Only an hour’s drive from Adelaide, this stunning part of SA is buzzing with festivals, racing, live music, country shows, and iconic sporting events across October and November.

Here’s your guide to what’s on – and why you should pack a bag, make a weekend of it, and experience the Murray like never before.

Think lawn mowers are just for the backyard? Think again! The SA Lawn Mower Racing Association is transforming the Meningie Hotel into a dirt-fuelled raceway for Mowers at Meningie. These stripped-back, tuned-up mowers hit full throttle as they carve up the track – an adrenaline-pumping spectacle unlike anything else in SA. Expect laughs, mullet wigs, and plenty of high-octane fun.

Better still, make it a full long weekend in Meningie by starting Saturday at Lakeside Gourmet at the Park (4 October) at Lake Albert Caravan Park. Sip craft gin from Twin Bridge Distillery, indulge in local food, and dance along to live music from Billy W – all with an 80s dress-up twist. Cocktails by the lake, live tunes, and a Victa on steroids? Meningie is serving up the quirkiest weekend away this October.

Places to stay: Lake Albert Caravan Park, Lake Albert Motel, Coorong Cabins.

Racing fans, mark your calendars – the Carlton Draught Murray Bridge Gold Cup returns Saturday, October 11, and it’s bigger than ever. As South Australia’s richest provincial race day, this annual highlight blends thrilling horse racing with trackside glamour, food, wine, and plenty of entertainment.

Choose your style: fine dining and premium wines in the Bridges Event Centre or Bleasdale Wine Stables Marquee, or a laid-back vibe at the Pirate Life Precinct with paella or pizza packages. Families can join too, with kids under 16 welcome in the precinct. For something simple, general admission tickets give you access to the buzzing atmosphere and public food and beverage outlets.

This event sells out every year, so rally your friends, grab your hats, and experience one of SA’s most iconic spring racing carnivals in Murray Bridge.

Places to stay: Bridgeport Hotel, Adelaide Road Motor Lodge, hire a houseboat and make a weekend of it.

Step back into country tradition with the 80th Annual Coonalpyn Show – one of the last remaining country shows in the Coorong district. Held less than two hours from Adelaide, the show is a true family favourite packed with entertainment, exhibitions, and live performances.

From local cooking, crafts, flowers, and produce displays to the Stockman’s Challenge and all-day horse events, there’s plenty to see. Kids will love the Bubble Show, Mount Gambier Pipe Band, and even a visit from Bluey! Wander the trade stalls with a Trail Bag full of goodies, sample homemade cakes, or cheer on the schools competing in their annual challenge.

More than just a show, this event celebrates 80 years of Coonalpyn’s heritage, making it a perfect reason to explore the heart of the Coorong.

Places to stay: Coonalpyn Caravan Park, Motel on Becker (Tintinara)

Motorsport fans and country music lovers unite – The Bend Classic is revving up for its biggest year yet. Across three days (October 24–26), Tailem Bend will be alive with high-octane action, family-friendly entertainment, and live music.

The highlight? A massive Country Music Festival featuring Australian icons like Kasey Chambers, Casey Barnes, The Wolfe Brothers, Travis Collins, Kaylee Bell, Kingswood, and more. Whether you’re there for the cars or the guitars, it’s an unmissable weekend. Families are sorted too – with kids 15 and under free, and plenty of camping options available, it’s a chance to turn this into an unforgettable mini-holiday.

Places to stay: Rydges at The Bend, Big 4 at The Bend, Wellington holiday houses 

Lace up your sneakers and hit the track – the Murray Bridge Marathon Festival returns Sunday, 26 October. With distances for all ages and abilities – from marathons to fun runs – it’s a community event that combines fitness, fun, and the stunning backdrop of the Murray River.

Walkers and runners will love the scenic course, while supporters can enjoy the lively festival atmosphere along the riverfront. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just joining in the fun, the marathon is another great reason to spend the weekend in Murray Bridge.

Places to stay: Bridgeport Hotel, Adelaide Road Motor Lodge, hire a houseboat and make a weekend of it, Avoca Dell Caravan Park.

Two wheels, top speed, and championship glory – the ASBK Grand Final roars into Tailem Bend from November 7–9. As the concluding round of the mi-bike Australian Superbike Championship, it’s the ultimate showdown for riders and fans alike.

Over the years, The Bend has hosted Aussie greats like Jack Miller and Troy Herfoss, who has dominated here since 2021. Expect fast-paced racing, fierce competition, and an electrifying atmosphere as the nation’s best riders battle it out for the title.

Places to stay: Rydges at The Bend, Big 4 at The Bend, Wellington holiday houses 

Wine, music and good vibes – Handpicked Festival has grown from humble backyard beginnings into one of SA’s favourite boutique music events. On Saturday, 8 November, Langhorne Creek’s lush wine country transforms into a vibrant festival space where 6,000 music lovers gather.

With a line-up including the Hilltop Hoods, Meg Mac and Xavier Rudd, the 2025 edition promises another unforgettable day. Pair that with award-winning Langhorne Creek wines, delicious regional food, art market, kids activities, a cocktail forest and a welcoming atmosphere, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a spring day out.

One of the best SA music festivals – come for the music and wine, but stay a few days extra and explore the cellar doors around Langhorne Creek.

Places to stay: Camp on site, The Creek Cottage, Bremer Stayz, The Stables BNB, Frank Potts Campground.

Set sail on one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most remarkable freshwater races – the Goolwa to Meningie Cup Sailing. Covering 70 kilometres across the Goolwa Channel, Lake Alexandrina, and Lake Albert, this epic race is the longest point-to-point freshwater sailing event of its kind.

With its rich history and impressive course records, the Cup draws sailors and spectators alike. Watch the action from shore, cheer on the crews, or simply soak up the festive spirit as yachts glide across the lakes. It’s a celebration of sport and the waterways that make the Murray region so unique.

Places to stay: Lake Albert Caravan Park, Lake Albert Motel, Coorong Cabins, Meningie Waterfront Motel and Café, Coorong Island Retreat.

Round out spring with one of the biggest outdoor concerts in the country – Sounds By The River. On Saturday, November 22, Mannum Golf Club will host an all-star line-up led by the legendary Crowded House.

Joining them are some of Australia’s best-loved acts including Angus & Julia Stone, The Cruel Sea, Mark Seymour with Vika & Linda, and The Waifs. With the Murray River as the backdrop and world-class music on stage, it’s set to be an unforgettable night of entertainment under the stars.

Places to stay: River Shack Rentals, Mannum Motel, Mannum Hotel, Mannum Caravan Park, hire a houseboat and make a weekend of it.