Summer events at your fingertips

Whether it’s open-air movies, concerts, markets or shows you’re looking forward to this summer, Nelson Tasman has the event for you.

Nelson City and Tasman District Councils’ Summer Events Guide is out now, packed with everything from sandcastle competitions to Shakespeare, to see you through the summer right up to April 2021.

Many of our favourite markets and family-friendly events are back, as well as our summer showstoppers - New Year’s Eve, Bay Dreams 2021 and Tahuna Summer Sounds.

Tahuna Summer Sounds returns with a difference in 2021. The free show will take place on 15 January and 12 February, rather than on consecutive weekends. This spreads out the fun and gives families who are away over the summer break a chance to go along when they’re back in town. Two stages will host musical acts covering a wide range of genres, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Nelson’s New Year’s Eve celebrations kick off in Upper Trafalgar Street with family-friendly fun and entertainment at the earlier time of 7pm this year, with the first 2021 countdown for children at 9pm. The celebrations will carry on until 12.30am with performances from Dagmar, Ryan Beehre & Keeli, Rabbit Hōle and Cover Me.

Bay Dreams brings top international artists to our shores, warming up with a pre-party in the Trafalgar Centre on 4 January and getting into the main event on 5 January at Rutherford Park and the Trafalgar Centre. Tickets are selling fast, so be sure to get yours soon from https://www.baydreams.co.nz/.

Skateboarders and aspiring skateboarders, can join in or just watch the extraordinary skills on display as the Skatepark Tour makes its way around Tasman from 6 January. There’s lots of thrilling action to keep everyone entertained. Stay informed at facebook.com/tasmanskate.

For those wanting a more leisurely pursuit, pack a picnic or just some popcorn, and head along to see the likes of Hunt for the Wilderpeople, To Sir with Love, and The Railway Children as part of the Summer Movies al Fresco series. This year there will be 14 screenings across seven locations, so there’s sure to be one nearby.

Nelson Mayor Rachel Reese said there was something for everyone in the summer line-up.

“We’ve got events, activities, markets and shows happening all around our beautiful region this summer. It’s the perfect opportunity to get out, explore and enjoy all the wonderful things Nelson Tasman has to offer.”

Tasman Mayor Tim King said “2020 has been a challenge, to say the least. So, it’s great to know there are plenty of free events happening all over the region. There are lots of opportunities for families to get together and have some fun this summer so grab a guide and get involved”.

The Summer Events guide is available online at http://www.nelson.govt.nz/recreation/festivals-and-events/summer-events-2/, at Nelson City and Tasman District Council’s Customer Service Centres, and our region’s libraries. Please check individual listings on itson.co.nz for more information