Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues 2026: Two Days of World-Class Music in Victoria

Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues 2026

Wangaratta is preparing to welcome music lovers from across Australia for the 36th Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues, returning on 31 October and 1 November 2026. Held over the Melbourne Cup long weekend, this celebrated regional music festival will bring together outstanding Australian musicians, international influences and emerging performers for two days of exceptional jazz and blues.

With headline concerts, intimate performances, historic venues and flexible ticket options, the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues 2026 offers an excellent reason to plan a musical getaway to Victoria's picturesque north-east.

A Celebrated Australian Jazz and Blues Festival

Now in its 36th year, the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues has established itself as an important event on Australia's live music calendar. The festival celebrates the diversity, creativity and enduring appeal of jazz and blues while bringing visitors to Wangaratta and supporting the region's tourism and hospitality businesses.

Proudly supported by the Victorian Government, the festival provides a platform for established performers and emerging talent, giving audiences opportunities to experience a broad range of musical styles in distinctive regional settings.

The 2026 programme will transform Wangaratta into a musical playground, with performances taking place across several venues, including the Main Stage at the Cathedral Grounds, the Old Baptist Church, St Pat's Hall and Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Headline Acts and Outstanding Musical Talent

Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues

The 2026 programme features an exciting collection of Australian performers and musicians influenced by jazz, blues, soul and international musical traditions.

Among the headline attractions are The Bamboos featuring Kylie Auldist and Cookin' on 3 Burners featuring Stella Angelico. Both performances promise to bring energy and distinctive sounds to the festival's programme.

Audiences can also look forward to Fiona Boyes and The Fortune Tellers, Horns of Leroy featuring THNDO, ISEULA New Orleans Special, Checkerboard Lounge, Frank Sultana Blues Band and Yunior Terry's Afro-Cuban Roots.

With such a varied line-up, visitors can explore everything from soulful vocals and blues performances to vibrant horn arrangements and Afro-Cuban rhythms. The programme is designed to appeal to dedicated jazz enthusiasts as well as visitors who simply enjoy discovering great live music.

Discover Music Across Wangaratta's Unique Venues

One of the festival's attractions is the opportunity to experience performances in different venues throughout the town.

The Main Stage at the Cathedral Grounds provides a setting for major concerts, while the Tiny Jazz Series at the Old Baptist Church offers a more intimate musical experience. St Pat's Hall and Holy Trinity Cathedral add further variety to the programme.

This multi-venue format allows visitors to create their own festival experience, moving between headline performances, smaller concerts and other musical events throughout the weekend.

The much-loved Jazz Mass also returns as part of the festival offering, adding another dimension to the weekend's musical and cultural experiences.

Weekend Passes and Day Tickets Available

Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues

The return of the Weekend Pass is a highlight for 2026, providing access to performances across the Main Stage, St Pat's Hall, the Tiny Jazz Series and the Jazz Mass over Saturday and Sunday.

Visitors who cannot attend both days can choose Saturday or Sunday Day Passes instead. These flexible options make it easier to plan a visit around individual interests, travel arrangements and accommodation availability.

Festival Artistic Director Serge Carnovale, founder of Melbourne's renowned Paris Cat Jazz Club, has described the programme as a celebration of the talent and spirit of Australian jazz and blues.

Music lovers are encouraged to review the programme and ticketing information before travelling, particularly if they wish to attend specific performances.

Plan a Musical Weekend in Wangaratta

The festival offers an appealing opportunity to explore Wangaratta over the Melbourne Cup long weekend. Visitors can combine live music with regional dining, local attractions and a broader exploration of Victoria's north-east.

Travellers should consider arranging accommodation early, as major events can increase demand for rooms and other visitor services. Checking performance schedules, venue locations and transport arrangements ahead of time will also help make the most of the weekend.

Whether travelling specifically for the music or adding the festival to a regional Victorian holiday, the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues 2026 promises a memorable celebration of live performance and musical diversity.

Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues

Website: https://www.wangjazzblues.com.au/
Dates: Saturday 31 October to Sunday 1 November 2026.
Location: Wangaratta, Victoria, Australia.
Venues: Main Stage at the Cathedral Grounds, Old Baptist Church, St Pat's Hall and Holy Trinity Cathedral.

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Pullman Rotorua: Luxury Accommodation and Memorable Business Events in New Zealand’s Geothermal Heartland

Pullman Rotorua

Discover a hotel where contemporary luxury meets the extraordinary landscapes of New Zealand’s North Island. Pullman Rotorua places guests in the heart of Rotorua, close to the lakefront and within easy reach of the region’s famous geothermal attractions, native forests, hot springs and cultural experiences.

With 130 rooms and suites, stylish dining, wellness facilities and dedicated conference services, Pullman Rotorua is an appealing choice for leisure travellers, families, business visitors and event organisers seeking premium accommodation in a distinctive destination.

Pullman Rotorua was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s leading business events trade show, held in Auckland in June. Its participation showcased Rotorua’s potential as a destination for conferences, corporate gatherings and incentive travel.

Contemporary Comfort in Central Rotorua

Located at 1135 Arawa Street, Pullman Rotorua offers a convenient base for exploring the city and its surroundings. The hotel features 130 rooms and suites designed for comfort, with options for visitors travelling for business or leisure.

Guests can enjoy views of the lake and city, while the hotel’s facilities include a gym, day spa, restaurant and stylish bar. These amenities provide opportunities to unwind after sightseeing, meetings or a busy day exploring the region.

Its central location makes it practical for travellers wanting to combine accommodation with Rotorua’s dining, attractions and local experiences.

A Business Events Venue with Professional Facilities

Pullman Rotorua

For conference organisers and corporate planners, Pullman Rotorua offers dedicated meeting spaces supported by modern technology and an on-site events team.

The hotel provides flexible venues for executive meetings, presentations, workshops, conferences and private functions. Natural daylight and high-speed Wi-Fi support a productive working environment, while tailored event arrangements allow organisers to plan occasions around their group’s requirements.

Accommodation, meeting facilities and dining in one location can also simplify arrangements for residential conferences, helping delegates spend less time travelling between venues and more time participating in the programme.

Event planners should contact the hotel to confirm current room configurations, capacities, equipment and availability for their preferred dates.

Discover Rotorua’s Geothermal Wonders

One of Pullman Rotorua’s major advantages is its access to the region’s remarkable natural attractions. Rotorua is renowned for geothermal activity, including steaming landscapes, bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers and natural hot springs.

Visitors can also explore forest trails, discover Māori culture and enjoy the region’s wellness experiences. The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor adventures and relaxation, making Rotorua suitable for both short breaks and extended stays.

For business events, these attractions provide possibilities for pre- and post-conference activities, incentive itineraries and memorable experiences beyond the meeting room.

Dining, Relaxation and a Complete Stay

Pullman Rotorua

A successful hotel stay involves more than a comfortable room. Pullman Rotorua combines accommodation with dining and wellness facilities to create an experience for visitors with different interests and schedules.

Guests can enjoy meals and drinks at the hotel, maintain their fitness routines in the gym or make time to relax at the day spa. For event organisers, on-site hospitality adds convenience when arranging delegate meals and social gatherings.

Whether visiting Rotorua for a family holiday, a business trip or a conference, Pullman Rotorua offers a combination of central convenience, contemporary accommodation and access to one of New Zealand’s most distinctive natural destinations.

Pullman Rotorua 

Website: https://www.pullmanrotorua.com/ 

Email: Ha7w3-re1@accor.com

Phone: +64 7 343 9750 

Fax: 64 (07) 343 9751

Address: 1135 Arawa Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand 

Facebook: Pullman RotoruaContact person: Dale McCourt 

Email: dale.mccourt@accor.com 

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Thailand Tourism 2027: Discover a New Era of Meaningful Travel, Wellness and Cultural Experiences

“The Year of Transformation”

Thailand is preparing to transform its tourism industry in 2027, inviting travellers to discover more than beautiful beaches, vibrant cities and world-famous cuisine. Under its new tourism strategy, “The Year of Transformation”, Thailand aims to attract higher-value visitors, promote authentic cultural experiences, support local communities and make tourism more sustainable.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set an ambitious goal of increasing tourism revenue by at least five per cent compared with 2026. Its long-term vision is to position Thailand as “Asia’s No.1 High-Value and Meaningful Destination”, encouraging visitors to enjoy deeper connections with the country, its people and its distinctive regional experiences.

Thailand’s Tourism Vision for 2027

Unveiled at Bangkok’s historic Rajadamnern Stadium under the theme “The Ultimate Fight: Transform for the Win!”, the strategy reflects Thailand’s determination to remain competitive in a rapidly changing international travel market.

TAT Governor Ms Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the country was moving beyond tourism growth measured by visitor numbers alone, focusing instead on quality, value, traveller loyalty and the wider distribution of tourism income.

The strategy also aims for a 60:40 distribution of visitors between major and emerging destinations, helping spread economic benefits beyond Thailand’s traditional tourism hotspots.

Four Strategic Moves to Transform Thai Tourism

“The Year of Transformation”

Thailand’s 2027 tourism direction is built around four strategic priorities designed to create new opportunities for visitors and tourism businesses.

The first, Rebalance Market Portfolio, will diversify international markets, strengthen domestic travel and attract travellers interested in premium accommodation, family holidays, wellness, culture, nature and gastronomy. Thailand will also seek opportunities in emerging markets, including Eastern Europe and Latin America, while improving transport connections.

The second, Shape Experience Platform, aims to strengthen the Amazing Thailand brand by presenting the country as a meaningful destination where travel offers relaxation, discovery and personal enrichment. The concept “Healing is the New Luxury” highlights wellness and experiences that help travellers reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.

The third, Build New Growth Engine, will develop new tourism opportunities through distinctive experiences, health and wellness, festivals and sustainable travel.

The fourth, Transform Together, will encourage stronger cooperation between government agencies, tourism operators, communities and technology businesses to improve the visitor experience and create lasting economic benefits.

Discover Thailand Beyond the Famous Attractions

Travellers can expect greater promotion of regional destinations, local traditions and community-based tourism. Thailand plans to connect visitors with experiences that showcase the individual character of its regions, from cultural heritage and nature to traditional crafts and local food.

Five destinations have been identified for initial Signature Destination Branding: Chiang Rai, Ubon Ratchathani, Songkhla, Trat and Samut Songkhram.

The strategy also aims to strengthen the UNESCO Thailand Network across 29 areas and more than 55 community tourism destinations, creating additional opportunities to explore the country's heritage and discover places beyond the best-known holiday centres.

For visitors, this direction offers a compelling reason to look beyond familiar itineraries and include regional towns, cultural celebrations and locally led experiences in their travel plans.

Wellness Holidays and Exclusive Thai Experiences

“The Year of Transformation”

Health, wellbeing and premium experiences will be important drivers of Thailand’s tourism growth. The country intends to strengthen its position in medical tourism, science-based wellness and traditional local knowledge, appealing to visitors seeking relaxation, rejuvenation and healthier lifestyles.

The planned “Unseen Luxperience 2027” initiative will showcase exclusive experiences and hidden gems, drawing on Thai textiles, gems and jewellery, traditional Thai massage and Muay Thai.

These offerings will complement Thailand’s established appeal as a destination for spa retreats, luxury accommodation, distinctive cuisine and personalised holidays.

Festivals and Celebrations Throughout the Year

Thailand is also developing its Festival Economy under the theme “365 Days of Celebration”. The programme will encompass international events, Pride celebrations, music festivals, art, design, sport and adventure.

Cultural highlights receiving additional attention include the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession, the Nakhon Phanom Illuminated Boat Procession and the Sakon Nakhon Christmas Star Parade.

By promoting these events as must-experience attractions, Thailand hopes to encourage travel throughout the year and distribute visitor spending across more regions and communities.

A More Sustainable Future for Thailand Travel

“The Year of Transformation”

Sustainability is another central pillar of the 2027 strategy. TAT plans to expand sustainable tourism initiatives, develop additional low-carbon accommodation partnerships and encourage tourism businesses to adopt recognised sustainability assessment frameworks.

Improved visitor data, digital technology and artificial intelligence will also support better planning and more personalised travel experiences.

For international visitors, Thailand’s new direction promises a broader choice of holidays that combine cultural discovery, wellbeing, memorable celebrations and responsible travel.

With its “Transform Together, Win Together” philosophy, Thailand is preparing to build a tourism future focused on quality rather than quantity alone. For travellers planning a holiday in 2027, the strategy signals exciting opportunities to experience the country in more meaningful and rewarding ways.

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

Website: www.tourismthailand.org
Email: center@tat.or.th
Phone: +66 2 250 5500 

Tourist Information Call Centre: 1672
Address: 1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
corp.tourismthailand.org

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The Mekong Boatmen of Laos: Discovering the River Through Local Eyes

The Mekong Boatmen of Laos

Imagine settling into a boat on the Mekong River as the mountains of northern Laos rise around you. The water appears calm, the scenery changes slowly and villages seem to emerge from the forest as you drift downstream.

For a visitor, it can look as though the river is simply carrying the boat along.

For an experienced Mekong boatman, however, the river is never quite that simple.

Every journey involves reading the water, understanding the current and recognising how the river changes with the seasons. Travelling the Mekong in Laos offers tourists an opportunity to experience one of Southeast Asia's great rivers while discovering the knowledge of the people who navigate it every day.

Reading the Mekong River

The upper Mekong can appear peaceful, but beneath its surface are currents, rocks, channels and changing depths.

Water levels can rise or fall dramatically with seasonal conditions. Areas that appear straightforward during one part of the year can become more challenging after heavy rain or when river levels change.

Experienced boatmen develop an understanding of these variations through years spent travelling the same stretches of water.

For visitors, watching a boatman navigate the river can be fascinating. Small changes in the surface may indicate what lies below, while the direction of the current can help determine how a boat approaches a bend, island or narrow channel.

This is knowledge that cannot be fully learned from a map.

A Mekong Journey Through Northern Laos

The Mekong Boatmen of Laos

One of the most memorable ways for travellers to experience the Mekong is by boat between Luang Prabang and northern river communities.

Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage destination, is an important starting point for exploring the region. From the river, visitors can see forested hills, traditional settlements, farmland and dramatic landscapes that are difficult to appreciate from a road.

The journey can become as important as the destination.

Rather than rushing between attractions, travellers have time to observe everyday life along the river and experience the changing scenery at a slower pace.

Luang Prabang to Pakbeng

The river journey between Luang Prabang and Pakbeng is one of the best-known Mekong travel experiences in Laos.

Pakbeng sits beside the Mekong and is commonly used as an overnight stop on longer river journeys towards the Lao-Thai border. The trip provides opportunities to observe riverside villages, forested hills and the constantly changing character of the river.

For tourists, a Mekong boat journey can provide a very different perspective of Laos. The river is not merely a transport route; it is part of the country's landscape, communities and cultural life.

Official Laos tourism information promotes the country's great Mekong River as one of its defining natural features, alongside mountains, forests and other landscapes.

The River Changes With the Seasons

The Mekong Boatmen of Laos

One of the most important things for visitors to understand is that the Mekong is not a static landscape.

Rainfall and seasonal water levels can alter the appearance and behaviour of the river. Sandbanks, rocks and channels can become more or less prominent, while currents may change.

For boatmen, these variations are part of everyday navigation.

For tourists, they provide another reason to look beyond the scenery. The same journey can appear different depending on the season, weather and water conditions.

Life Along the Mekong

A river journey also offers glimpses of communities whose lives remain closely connected with the Mekong.

Travellers may see fishing boats, riverside agriculture, small villages and people using the river as part of their daily activities. Laos' official tourism information describes the country as rich in traditional lifestyles, diverse cultures and landscapes, with the Mekong forming a major part of its natural character.

Visitors should remember that these are people's homes and workplaces. Taking photographs respectfully and asking permission when appropriate helps ensure that tourism remains considerate of local communities.

Travel Slowly and Watch the Water

The Mekong Boatmen of Laos

A Mekong boat journey is not an experience that needs to be rushed.

Find a comfortable place on deck, watch the mountains slide past and pay attention to the changing surface of the river. Look for the small details that reveal how people live beside the water.

Most importantly, watch the boatman.

A bend in the river that appears completely ordinary to a tourist may require a carefully judged change of direction. A stretch of apparently smooth water may conceal rocks or stronger currents.

The boatman sees the river differently because experience has taught them where to look.

Discovering the Mekong Through Local Knowledge

For travellers exploring Laos, the Mekong offers more than beautiful scenery and an enjoyable boat trip. It provides an opportunity to understand how geography, seasons and human experience come together.

The river may look calm from the passenger deck, but it is constantly changing.

The people who navigate it have learned to read those changes.

That is perhaps the most memorable lesson for a visitor: when travelling the Mekong, do not simply look at the river. Watch it carefully, and you may begin to see what the boatman sees.

Tourism Marketing and Promotion Department, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Laos

The Mekong Boatmen of Laos

Website: https://www.tourismlaos.org/
Phone: +856 21 212248
Address: Lane Xang Avenue, Hatsadi Village, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital, Laos.

Luang Prabang Tourism Department

Website: https://tourismluangprabang.org/

Office: Ban Pakham, Sisavangvong Rd, Luang Prabang district & Province
Phone: +856-71-212-487
Email: info@tourismluangprabang.com

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Launceston’s Business Events Future Takes Shape with New Riverfront Convention Centre

Proposed Launceston Convention Centre

Launceston is preparing to enter a new chapter as a business events destination, with plans for a major convention centre on the city’s riverfront moving closer to reality.

The proposed Launceston Convention Centre at the Lindsay Street Wharf precinct is designed to provide Northern Tasmania with a purpose-built venue for conferences, conventions, exhibitions and major business events. The project is intended to transform an underused section of the riverfront while strengthening Launceston’s appeal as a destination for national and international events.

A New Scale for Business Events in Northern Tasmania

The proposed convention centre is planned as a contemporary facility of approximately 4,000 square metres, with capacity for up to 1,000 delegates under the current project description. It is also planned to include 300 car parking spaces and connect with a revitalised riverfront precinct.

The development responds to an identified need for larger conference and event facilities in Launceston. A new purpose-built venue would give event organisers greater flexibility when planning conferences, meetings, exhibitions and incentive programs in Northern Tasmania.

A Riverfront Location with Tourism Potential

Kings Wharf riverbank

Location is an important part of the proposal.

The project centres on land at and around 95 Lindsay Street, linking the proposed convention centre with public open space, improved pedestrian connections and the Tamar River waterfront. Plans include a public boardwalk and riverbank improvements, creating a precinct intended to benefit both business visitors and the wider community.

For delegates, the combination of conferences and access to Launceston’s historic city, food and wine experiences and surrounding Northern Tasmanian attractions could provide opportunities to extend a business trip into a leisure stay.

Hotel Accommodation to Support Delegate Demand

A proposed 120-room hotel alongside the convention centre is another important component of the project.

Additional accommodation would help support larger conferences and multi-day business events, reducing the need for organisers to spread delegates across multiple locations. The wider development is also expected to encourage increased visitation to hotels, restaurants, retailers and tourism operators across Launceston.

Launceston Builds Its Business Events Future

Proposed Launceston Convention Centre

The City of Launceston has described the convention centre as having the potential to host national and international events and contribute to a revitalised mixed-use riverfront precinct. In September 2026, Council endorsed a capped contribution of up to $5 million towards the Lindsay Street Wharf redevelopment and convention centre project, subject to funding and development arrangements.

For Northern Tasmania, the proposed Launceston Convention Centre represents more than another events venue. It forms part of a broader vision for connecting business events with tourism, accommodation, hospitality and the Tamar River waterfront.

As the project progresses, Launceston is positioning itself to welcome larger conferences and business events while giving delegates another reason to discover Northern Tasmania.

City of Launceston

Website: https://www.launceston.tas.gov.au/
Email: contactus@launceston.tas.gov.au
Phone: +61 3 6323 3000
Address: Town Hall, 18-28 St John Street, Launceston TAS 7250, Australia

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Australian Museum 200th Anniversary in 2027: Discover Two Centuries of Extraordinary Stories in Sydney

Australian Museum

Sydney’s Australian Museum is preparing to celebrate a remarkable milestone in 2027, with a year-long program of exhibitions, immersive experiences, First Nations culture, scientific discoveries and special community events. The AM200 anniversary will invite visitors to explore Australia’s oldest museum in new ways while reflecting on two centuries of history, knowledge and discovery.

Officially marking its 200th anniversary on 30 March 2027, the Australian Museum will offer locals and visitors to Sydney an exciting calendar of experiences celebrating the natural world, human history and the cultures that shape Australia.

A Dinosaur Spectacle Opens the Celebrations

The anniversary program begins with The World’s Biggest Dinosaur: Dinosaurs of Patagonia, opening on 28 November 2026. The exhibition will feature a cast of the largest complete dinosaur fossil ever discovered, occupying more than 38 metres of the Museum’s international touring exhibition hall.

Dinosaurs have long been among the Australian Museum’s most popular attractions, appealing to families, children and visitors fascinated by prehistoric life. This major exhibition offers an exciting reason to plan a Sydney museum visit ahead of the official anniversary year.

Experience David Attenborough’s Story of Earth

Australian Museum

In March 2027, the Australian Museum will become the first museum outside Europe to present Our Story with David Attenborough.

This 50-minute immersive cinematic experience will surround audiences with spectacular imagery projected across four walls and the floor. It traces the story of Earth and humanity, from their beginnings to the future we share.

Running for eight months, the experience will provide visitors with a compelling opportunity to consider the planet’s natural history, humanity’s place within it and the importance of protecting our shared environment.

Four Weekends of AM200 Festival Celebrations

April 2027 will bring the AM200 Festival, a four-weekend celebration featuring science, culture, live experiences and rare behind-the-scenes access.

The festival will showcase the breadth of the Museum’s work, from its extensive collections and scientific research to the stories, discoveries and people behind its exhibitions. Visitors will have opportunities to explore areas and activities that are not usually part of a standard museum visit.

The anniversary will also feature a new one-hour documentary exploring the Australian Museum’s history and transformation, alongside The Australian Museum: 200 Years, a richly illustrated history book.

A Museum-wide Discovery Trail will guide visitors through significant objects, specimens and discoveries, revealing how scientific research helps explain environmental changes over time.

First Nations Culture and Knowledge Take Centre Stage

Australian Museum

First Nations cultures and knowledge will be central to the anniversary program.

Kalikina Country, a major permanent artwork by celebrated Tasmanian Aboriginal Elder and artist Aunty Lola Greeno and her daughter, artist Vanessa Greeno, will be unveiled in Hintze Hall.

Another highlight, Message Sticks, will explore enduring First Nations systems of communication, connection and Lore through stories, objects and living cultural knowledge.

These initiatives will provide opportunities for visitors to engage with the richness and continuity of First Nations cultures while recognising their fundamental place in Australia’s history and the Museum’s work.

Share Your Australian Museum Memories

The Australian Museum has invited generations of visitors to contribute to Museum Memories, an online collection capturing personal experiences and connections with the institution.

A new website will also showcase a selection of the Museum’s most significant discoveries since 1827, accompanied by stories highlighting its collections, research and achievements.

Further exhibitions, public programs, cultural initiatives and collaborations are expected to be announced as the anniversary approaches.

Plan a Visit to the Australian Museum in Sydney

Australian Museum

Located in central Sydney, the Australian Museum is an appealing destination for families, culture enthusiasts, science lovers and travellers seeking educational experiences. The AM200 celebrations will offer additional reasons to include the Museum in a Sydney holiday, whether visiting for a major exhibition, an immersive film experience or the April festival.

Supported by the Australian Museum Foundation for a number of anniversary initiatives, AM200 is proudly presented with Westpac as the Museum’s Principal Partner.

With two centuries of discoveries behind it, the Australian Museum’s 2027 anniversary promises to celebrate its legacy while looking towards the discoveries and stories of its next century.

Australian Museum 

Website: https://australian.museum/
Address: 1 William Street, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Phone: +61 2 9320 6000.
Email: info@australian.museum

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Parkes Elvis Festival 2027: Fan Favourites Bring the King of Rock and Roll to Life

Elvis Street Parade

Parkes will once again become Australia’s Elvis capital when the Parkes Elvis Festival returns from 6 to 10 January 2027 under the theme Elvis On Tour.

While headline concerts attract Elvis fans from across Australia and overseas, it is the festival’s much-loved fan favourites, colourful community celebrations and unique travel experiences that help make a January visit to Parkes unforgettable. The festival attracts more than 25,000 fans and has a global reach, transforming the Central West NSW town into a celebration of Elvis Presley’s music and legacy.

The Spectacular Evolution Mining Street Parade

Elvis Street Parade

One of the biggest highlights of the Parkes Elvis Festival is the Evolution Mining Street Parade, when the streets of Parkes erupt into a colourful celebration of Elvis.

Tribute Artists, elaborate floats, vintage cars, costumes and live entertainment combine to create one of the festival’s most spectacular community events. More than 20,000 spectators are expected to line the streets, making the parade a must-see experience for first-time visitors and returning Elvis fans alike.

The parade captures the fun, enthusiasm and community spirit that have helped establish the Parkes Elvis Festival as one of Australia’s best-known regional festivals.

Ride the NSW TrainLink Elvis Express

NSW TrainLink Elvis Express

Getting to the festival can become part of the Elvis experience with the NSW TrainLink Elvis Express.

The special festival train departs Sydney Central Station on Wednesday 6 January 2027, with Elvis-themed entertainment continuing during the journey to Parkes. Travellers can choose from themed carriages including the Graceland Express, All Shook Up Shuttle, Burning Love Bullet, Viva Las Vegas Line and Priscilla’s Place.

The return service is scheduled for Monday 11 January, making the Elvis Express a memorable way to begin and end a Parkes Elvis Festival holiday.

Take to the Skies on the Hound Dog Express

For another unusual way to reach the festival, Elvis fans can take the Rex Hound Dog Express from Sydney to Parkes.

The themed experience includes return air travel, Elvis entertainment and refreshments, together with a festival welcome pack and a ticket to the Wall of Fame Concert. The special service arrives at Parkes Regional Airport, adding another rock and roll chapter to the journey.

Miss Priscilla, Gospel and Romance

The festival program also celebrates the softer side of Elvis and the people connected with his story.

The Miss Priscilla Dinner combines dining, entertainment and glamour as the Face of the Festival is crowned. The Elvis Gospel Service celebrates the soulful gospel music that was an important part of Elvis’s career, while the Renewal of Vows offers couples the chance to recommit to each other with an Elvis wedding celebrant.

Something for Every Elvis Fan

Cooke Park Main Stage

Across Parkes, visitors can discover Elvis-themed dining, markets, exhibitions, tours, family activities, the Family Fun Zone and entertainment at the Cooke Park Main Stage. Movies in the Park provide another way to relax after a busy day, with screenings scheduled after 8pm.

Free community events sit alongside premium concerts, reserved-seat performances, dining experiences and multi-event packages, allowing visitors to create their own Parkes Elvis Festival itinerary.

With the 2027 festival celebrating 34 years and taking place from 6 to 10 January, now is the time to start planning an Elvis holiday in regional NSW.

Parkes Elvis Festival

Website: https://www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au/
Email: elvis@parkes.nsw.gov.au
Phone: (02) 6862 6000
Address: PO Box 337, Parkes NSW 2870
Festival dates: 6 to 10 January 2027
Tickets: https://www.123tix.com.au/events/parkeselvisfestival

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QT Queenstown: Lakeside Luxury and a Distinctive Setting for New Zealand Business Events

QT Queenstown

With spectacular views across Lake Wakatipu to the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps, QT Queenstown brings together designer accommodation, contemporary art, distinctive dining and a memorable alpine atmosphere. Located in one of New Zealand’s most celebrated holiday destinations, the hotel offers an appealing combination of luxury leisure accommodation and creative spaces for meetings, conferences and special events.

QT Queenstown was among the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s national business events trade show, held in Auckland on 17 and 18 June at the New Zealand International Convention Centre. Its presence highlighted Queenstown’s appeal as a destination for business events, incentive travel and memorable group experiences.

A Stylish Lakeside Retreat in Queenstown

Situated on Lake Esplanade, QT Queenstown draws inspiration from the spectacular natural setting surrounding the hotel. Its design-led character blends contemporary style, art and playful touches with an atmosphere influenced by alpine living and après-ski culture.

The location provides a striking backdrop for visitors wanting to combine a Queenstown holiday with stylish accommodation. The town is known for its mountain scenery, outdoor adventures, lakeside experiences and dining, making it an attractive destination for leisure travellers and business visitors alike.

Meetings and Events with a Difference

QT Queenstown

For event planners, QT Queenstown offers an alternative to conventional conference venues. The hotel’s events approach combines boutique-style surroundings, personalised service, food and beverage experiences, and the distinctive QT personality.

The venue’s facilities include 11 meeting rooms and 406 square metres of exhibition space. According to the Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) supplier listing, the hotel has 225 rooms and capacity for a range of event formats, from boardroom meetings and classroom-style sessions to larger theatre presentations and cocktail gatherings.

These options make QT Queenstown worth considering for corporate meetings, incentive groups, networking functions, private celebrations and business events that benefit from a distinctive destination.

Food, Atmosphere and Personalised Service

A successful event involves more than meeting space. Dining, service and the atmosphere of a venue can all influence the experience of delegates and guests.

QT Queenstown emphasises tailored event planning, with food and beverage options and arrangements designed around the occasion. Whether organisers are planning a focused business meeting, a relaxed gathering or an evening cocktail event, the hotel’s approach aims to create an experience that feels individual rather than standardised.

Event organisers should contact the hotel directly to discuss room layouts, catering, availability, capacities and packages for their particular requirements.

Why Choose Queenstown for a Business Event?

QT Queenstown

Queenstown combines a spectacular natural environment with accommodation, dining and activities that can help extend a conference or incentive programme beyond the meeting room. Delegates can enjoy the region’s scenery and experiences before or after formal sessions, while organisers can build a destination-focused programme around the town.

For planners seeking a venue that pairs professional event facilities with contemporary design and alpine character, QT Queenstown offers a distinctive option in New Zealand’s Southern Lakes region.

Whether visiting for a holiday or organising a business event, QT Queenstown places the landscape at the centre of the experience, with Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps providing an impressive setting.

QT Queenstown

Contact person: Emilia Blaszkiewicz, 

Website: https://www.qthotelsandresorts.com/queenstown 

Email: reservations_qtqueenstown@evt.com 

Phone: +64 3 450 1340 Address: 38–54 Lake Esplanade, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand 

Facebook: QT Queenstown

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/.

Five Historic Places That Bring Old Los Angeles to Life

Sepulveda House and Museum, Photo: Yuri Hasegawa

Step away from the skyscrapers and modern attractions of Downtown Los Angeles and enter El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, where the city's earliest stories remain woven into its streets, buildings and public spaces.

Established in 1781, El Pueblo is the birthplace of Los Angeles and today offers travellers an opportunity to explore the city's multicultural heritage. Among its many attractions, five historic places stand out for the fascinating stories they tell.

Sepulveda House: Victorian Los Angeles

Built in 1887, the 22-room Sepulveda House is a striking example of Eastlake Victorian architecture. Originally combining commercial premises on Main Street with residences opening towards Olvera Street, the building reflects the cultural transformation of Los Angeles during the late nineteenth century.

Its American-style business frontage contrasts with the Mexican tradition of the inner courtyard. Visitors can explore recreated interiors, including a nineteenth-century kitchen and Senora Sepulveda's bedroom, offering a glimpse into everyday life during a changing era.

Los Angeles Plaza Park: Where the Pueblo Began

Yaanga Park | Photo: Yuri Hasegawa

At the centre of El Pueblo is Los Angeles Plaza Park, a historic gathering place dating from the 1820s. Once the city's commercial and social centre, the plaza remains an important location for festivals and cultural celebrations.

The park also commemorates the original 44 settlers who established the Los Angeles pueblo in 1781. Statues honour King Carlos III, Felipe de Neve and Father Junipero Serra, while plaques around the central gazebo recognise the founding families.

La Placita Church: A Historic Place of Worship

La Placita Church

La Placita Church has been part of Los Angeles history for more than two centuries. The parish was founded in 1814, with the original church completed and dedicated in 1822. A replacement chapel was built in 1861 using materials from the earlier structure.

Designated as a California Historical Landmark, La Placita remains an important religious and cultural landmark in the Plaza Historic District.

LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes: Discover Mexican American History

La Plaza de Cultura y Artes | Photo: Yuri Hasegawa

For visitors wanting to understand the cultural foundations of Los Angeles, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes provides an engaging museum experience.

Its campus combines historic buildings, public gardens and interactive exhibitions exploring Mexican and Mexican American identity and the founding of Los Angeles. Exhibits such as Calle Principal recreate a typical 1920s main street, allowing visitors to experience aspects of everyday life through immersive displays.

Pico House: Luxury in Nineteenth-Century Los Angeles

Pico House | Photo: Yuri Hasegawa

Across Los Angeles Plaza from Olvera Street stands the magnificent Pico House. Built between 1869 and 1870 by Pio Pico, the last Mexican Governor of Alta California, it was once regarded as Southern California's most extravagant hotel.

The Italianate-style building featured an impressive courtyard with a fountain and aviary. Today, Pico House forms part of the Los Angeles Plaza Historic District and is recognised as both a California Historical Landmark and a National Historic Landmark.

Discover the Historic Heart of Los Angeles

Together, these five historic places reveal how Los Angeles evolved from a small pueblo into a multicultural global city. Sepulveda House, Los Angeles Plaza Park, La Placita Church, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes and Pico House each provide a different perspective on the people, architecture, traditions and communities that shaped the city.

A visit to El Pueblo is therefore more than a sightseeing experience. It is a journey through the foundations of Los Angeles, surrounded by the colourful atmosphere of historic Olvera Street.

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument

Website: elpueblo.lacity.org
Phone: 213-485-6855
Address: 125 Paseo de la Plaza, Los Angeles, California 90012, USA

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International Food Beverage Asia Fair 2026: Discover Asia's Food and Beverage Future in Macao

FBAF

Macao will become a major meeting point for the Asian food and beverage industry when the 25th International Food Beverage Asia Fair takes place in November 2026. Part of the expanded Asia International Hotel Supplies and Catering Expo program, FBAF 2026 will connect food producers, buyers, distributors, hospitality businesses and industry professionals from across Asia and international markets.

A Major International Food and Beverage Showcase

The International Food Beverage Asia Fair 2026 is adopting a dual-city exhibition model linking Hengqin and Macao. The wider AHSE program is scheduled for 16 and 17 November at the Tianmu Qintai Conference and Exhibition Center in Hengqin, before the main Macao exhibition continues from 18 to 20 November at Cotai Expo, The Venetian Macao.

The event is expected to bring together more than 1,000 exhibitors and brands from around 30 countries and regions, with more than 20,000 professional visitors expected across the wider exhibition program.

Food, Beverage, Technology and Hospitality

FBAF

FBAF provides an extensive showcase of products and services spanning the modern food and beverage industry.

Visitors can explore food and beverages, coffee and tea, catering services, food science and technology, food processing technology, baking equipment and materials and supporting services. Other featured areas include premium foods, seafood, dairy, snacks, wine, spirits and innovative food products.

For buyers and hospitality professionals, the exhibition provides opportunities to discover new products, meet suppliers and explore emerging trends shaping the Asian food and beverage market.

Macao: A Strategic Food Industry Destination

Macao's location gives the event an important role as a meeting point between mainland China, the Greater Bay Area and international markets.

For visitors, attending FBAF can also provide an opportunity to experience Macao beyond its exhibition halls. The destination combines Portuguese and Chinese cultural influences with internationally recognised hotels, restaurants, entertainment, heritage attractions and a distinctive food culture.

The exhibition's location at Cotai Expo at The Venetian Macao also places international visitors in the centre of one of Macao's best-known hospitality and entertainment districts.

A Gateway to New Food Business Opportunities

FBAF

Whether discovering innovative food products, meeting international suppliers, exploring food technology or following the latest hospitality trends, the International Food Beverage Asia Fair 2026 offers a valuable insight into the future of food and beverage across Asia.

With its combination of international exhibitors, professional buyers, food technology, hospitality and Macao's strategic location, FBAF 2026 is set to be an important date on the Asian food industry calendar.

International Food Beverage Asia Fair

Website: https://www.fbafasia.com/
Email: info@timesmedia.asia
Phone: +853 6357 7217
Venue: Cotai Expo, The Venetian Macao, Macao, China

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/