Upcoming Events in Nelson, Tasman

Join in for Diwali Nelson 2026, a colourful day of culture, food, music and community celebration at Founders Heritage Park.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, celebrates light over darkness, hope, and new beginnings.

Now in its fourth year, Nelson Diwali brings people from across the community together to experience Indian culture through live performances, Bollywood music, delicious vegetarian Indian food, market stalls, rangoli making and family-friendly craft activities.

**Sunday, 1 November 2026**
**11am – 4pm**
**Founders Heritage Park, Nelson**
**Entry: $2 per person**
**Rain or shine**

Get a group together or just come on down yourself – Thursday night TWILIGHT BOWLS are a great way to relax and have some fun – with a bit of a challenge!

Doors open at 5pm, play starts at 6pm till 8pm; they’re a friendly bunch and the bar will be open from 5pm. Play is $5 per person; free tuition if you need it. The only requirement is flat-soled shoes, heel-less so you don’t damage the green.

Set in the gorgeous surrounds of Founders Heritage Park. The Great Christmas Market will feature 100+ of the region’s finest boutique makers and creatives, with stalls inside the Energy Centre, The Granary and throughout the outdoor areas. You’ll find plenty of unique gifts to tick everyone off your Christmas list!

There’ll be delicious local food to enjoy while you shop, plus visiting buskers and choirs bringing plenty of festive atmosphere throughout the day. Bring a picnic, or take a break at the ever-popular Founders Café & Brewery.

So gather your friends, bring your market bags and come ready to shop local. Cash is recommended, as not all stallholders will have EFTPOS. And don’t forget your reusable cups and bowls!

Buying handmade and New Zealand-made has never been better.

The Spectacle is a road and trail running festival held in Nelson, New Zealand, showcasing some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes alongside the vibrant atmosphere of the Nelson CBD.

With distances ranging from a kids’ one-mile race and 10km through to one of the most gruelling 100-mile races in Aotearoa, The Spectacle has something for runners of all ages and abilities. Participants can expect stunning scenery, a vibrant festival atmosphere, and an unforgettable running experience in one of New Zealand’s favourite outdoor destinations.

To round out this celebration of running, The Spectacle brings some of the world’s fastest road milers to Nelson to go head-to-head in New Zealand’s fastest road mile. The racing is followed by a free concert featuring an iconic, award-winning New Zealand band, making The Spectacle much more than a running event—it’s a celebration of running, community, and everything that makes Nelson special.

Make the Nelson Summer Fair part of your New Year’s Day holiday and enjoy a fantastic day out at Tahunanui Playing Fields.

For over 30 years, this much-loved community fair has brought locals and visitors together for a day of shopping, entertainment, food and family fun.

With more than 70 stalls featuring local crafts, products, gifts and treats, plus the popular Chocolate Wheel, Lucky Dips, live entertainment, children’s activities, food and refreshments, there’s something for everyone.

Just minutes from Tahunanui Beach, it’s an easy addition to your summer itinerary. Come along, soak up the Nelson summer atmosphere and start the year with a great community day out.

Proceeds from the 2027 Summer Fair will support the Nelson Surf Lifesaving Club’s new clubhouse redevelopment.

The Nelson Street Race, held annually on January 2nd is the pinnacle motorsport event for Nelson Tasman. Traditionally attracting thousands of spectators and competitors from across New Zealand to the region, transforming Nelson Tasman into a vibrant motorsport destination.

The days racing will showcase a wide range of motorcycles, race classes and rider skills, attracting some of New Zealand’s top motorcycle racers. The Nelson Street Race promises a high-energy, adrenalin filled experience for both riders and spectators. Public access to the pit area gives a unique opportunity to interact with riders and get a closer look at their machines.