August in Australia is the soft start to spring — it's still winter, yes, but the days are getting longer, and we're (finally) shaking off some layers. Our social calendars follow suit: we're stretching our legs outdoors, lingering a little longer at farmers markets, and finding our way back into galleries, theatres, and live music venues.

Looking for something to do? We've got you covered. Below are the best things to do around the country this August.

NSW

Bassike has partnered with Dave Rowntree, drummer of legendary British rock band Blur, as part of the artist’s global book tour celebrating the launch of No One You Know: Dave Rowntree’s Early Blur Photos. Celebrate at BTWNLNS, 105 Wilson St, Newtown on August 28 with a fan signing from 5-6pm, and a book launch party from 6-8pm. More details here.

On Saturday 16 August, RUSSH and Kérastase are inviting you to experience the exclusive Glaze Drop Smoothie, a limited-edition creation infused with hair-strengthening ingredients. Alongside your smoothie, you’ll receive a travel-size set of the complete Kérastase Gloss Absolu collection. All the details here.

Adore Beauty will open the doors to its first Sydney store on Thursday 21st August in the Broadway Shopping Centre, with the first 300 shoppers in line to receive a goodie bag filled with full-sized products. And, on Wednesday 20th August Adore Beauty will hold its buzziest ever ‘Scavenger Hunt’ in Sydney, with over $50,000 worth of beauty products hidden at iconic sites around Sydney as well as an extra special prize: three Golden Tickets worth $500 each for three lucky winners to spend on opening day.

ASICS is hosting its first-ever Australian pop-up experiences in Sydney and Melbourne this August, and they’re bringing something truly special for sneaker lovers. Celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the GEL-QUANTUM series and browse the latest sneaker drops, curated apparel, and creative workshops. The Sydney pop up will be hosted at  Chinatown Country Club, from 14 – 16 August.

The InterContinental Sydney's rooftop bar, Aster, will transform into Astrology Hour: a four-part cocktail and snack series in collaboration with Byron Bay-based astrologer Grace Tebble. Running every Thursday evening in August, expect themed cocktails, matching small plates, and personalised readings by Grace. Find more information and make a reservation, here.

RAFI North Sydney has launched it first-ever Winter Arbour – a seasonal dining experience in collaboration with Westholme Wagyu, running until August 31. Expect a banquet-style menu and bespoke cocktail list. Bookings available here.

Surry Hills favourite The Clock is teaming up with local favourites Four Pillars, Brix Distillers, Messina, Bourke Street Bakery and Young Henrys for a one-month-only collab menu: Friends of The Clock. Walk-ins welcome, or bookings available here.

VicX is transforming North Sydney with an exclusive series of collaborations with some of Sydney’s most loved food destinations, including Marrickville Pork Roll, Mary’s, Pocket Rocketz, Dopa and Cherry’s Goods. The X Series will run from Thursdays to Sundays each week, beginning August 7.

On August 13, Chin Chin will collaborate with Four Pillars Gin on their iconic Feed Me Menu, featuring four perfectly-paired gin cocktails. Tickets are available here.

From August 8, Suntory will kick off a three-month residency at Prefecture 48, featuring international guest bartenders, chefs, and of course, plenty of food and drink. More information and bookings available here.

Dear Saint Éloise is launching a new Guest Chef Series, with renowned chefs taking over the Potts Point venue on July 29, August 26, and September 27. Details and bookings available here.

Oxford House in Paddington has launched 'Sunday Snacks at Busby’s', a new weekly menu of share-style eats and magnum wine specials every Sunday until 28 September. More info and bookings here.

P.E Nation will host AFTERGLOW: the ultimate City2Surf recovery experience on August 11. From 8:30am to 1:30pm, runners, supporters and the broader community are invited to soak up a unique fusion of performance, wellness and feel-good celebration at Bondi's Glory Days.

VIC

Bassike has partnered with Dave Rowntree, drummer of legendary British rock band Blur, as part of the artist’s global book tour celebrating the launch of No One You Know: Dave Rowntree’s Early Blur Photos. Celebrate at Bassike QV, 20 Albert Coates Ln, Melbourne on August 29 with a fan signing from 5-6pm, and a book launch party from 6-8pm. More details here.

Melbourne International Film Festival makes its return this month, with over 250 titles premiering between August 7 and 24.

T2 is teaming up with cult café Good Measure for a one-night-only late-night Kissa pop-up, celebrating T2's new range of matcha flavours.  The first 100 matcha drinks are free from 7:30pm – 11:00pm on Friday August 1. 

The Winter Night Market returns to the Queen Vic Markets, running every Wednesday in the month of August, from 5pm - 10pm.

MECCA has opened the doors to its Melbourne flagship on Bourke Street on August 8. Celebrations will continue  with surprise and delight moments across opening weekend.

ST. Ali and Piccolina have extended their viral square-cut affogato collaboration until 22 August. Try it and see what the fuss is about at ST. ALi South Melbourne and all Piccolina stores for $10.

QLD

The Ekka is back this August, with rides, show bags, and plenty of family fun set to descend on Brisbane's showgrounds from 9 - 17 August. 

The 'Taste Port Douglas' Food and Drink Festival kicks off on 7 August for a four-day festival, championing world class food and drink. Tickets are available here.

Brisbane Fashion Festival returns from 24 to 29 August, with runways and events showcasing iconic designers like Gail Sorranda, Silk Laundry, and more. See the full program and secure tickets here.

MISSCHU is opening in Noosa, bringing their signature fresh dishes to the iconic Hastings Street. The doors are now open upstairs at Bay Village Noosa, 27/18 Hastings Street.

SA

OysterPalooza returns to the Never Never distillery in McLaren Vale for its fourth year, spotlighting delicious oysters across three days. Tickets are available here.