Warm summer nights, live music, food, art and nature combine as Gather in the Garden returns to Adelaide Botanic Garden this summer, allowing visitors to gather with family and friends for a relaxed night under the stars in one of Adelaide's most iconic destinations.
After a successful first season, the event is back with more dates and longer nights.
The popular after-hours event will now run on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout December and January, excluding Christmas and New Years weekends, and will remain open until 10pm.
Set on the Museum Lawn, guests can enjoy live performances by some of South Australia's favourite jazz and Latin bands, savour food truck fare and refreshments from onsite bars, or simply bring a picnic and settle in among the Garden's lush surrounds.
Adding to the experience, ticket holders will enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the internationally acclaimed Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, presented within the Garden's rainforest-filled conservatory.
Featuring extraordinary images from around the world, the exhibition captures hidden animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world.
Visitors can also explore the magnificent Palm House and view the Glacier Ice and Lapis Chandelier by Dale Chihuly or discover the thought-provoking exhibition Tools for Quiet Activism by local artist Stephanie Doddridge in the Museum of Economic Botany.
Director of the Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium of South Australia, Michael Harvey, said Gather in the Garden was becoming a much-loved part of Adelaide's summer calendar.
"Gather in the Garden offers a unique opportunity to experience Adelaide Botanic Garden after hours and enjoy everything that makes summer in Adelaide special," Mr Harvey said.
"Whether you're catching up with friends, enjoying a relaxed date night or spending time with family, the combination of live music, great food, world-class exhibitions and beautiful garden surroundings creates a memorable summer experience in the heart of the city."
Music lineup for December (January program to be announced)
- Friday 4 December and Saturday 5 December – Luke Thompson and Capital Swing
- Friday 11 December and Saturday 12 December – Sabor A Cuba
- Friday 18 December and Saturday 19 December – Hot Club Adelaide
Gather in the Garden, Friday and Saturday evenings, 4 December 2026 to 23 January 2027 (excluding 25 & 26 December 2026, 1 & 2 January 2027), Museum Lawn, Adelaide Botanic Garden. Entry and exit via the Main Gate on North Terrace. Time: 6.45pm to 10pm (last entry 9pm). Tickets: $22-$25, children 12 and under free. Bookings can be made here.
