A Winter Weekend in Penguin and Beyond

For curious travellers, cosy seekers, and light-chasers.

The Central North West is doing winter a little differently, and Penguin is right in the heart of it. From roaming light shows and mind-blowing science talks to pedal buggies, nocturnal wildlife experiences and the stirring sounds of a live didgeridoo echoing through ancient caves – here’s how to piece together a memorable winter weekend.

Start with something smart

If you’re arriving on the Friday, why not kick things off with a little spark for the brain? Dr Karl Kruszelnicki – yep, that Dr Karl – is bringing his science-fuelled storytelling to Devonport’s paranaple convention centre on Friday 15th August. It’s a one-night-only show that dives into AI, space, and the strangest things your body can do. If you’re the type who likes your entertainment sprinkled with facts then you’ll want to catch this. 

Let Penguin light the way

As night falls, make your way to Penguin, the coastal town that’s quietly become one of Tasmania’s most vibrant winter backdrops.

The Disrupted Tides light show on August 15th & 16th is an immersive projection experience beamed onto the Penguin Uniting Church. Think sweeping visuals, layered soundscapes and a contemplative look at the push-pull between nature and progress. It’s free to attend but headset bookings are recommended for the full audio experience. It runs over two nights — so you can catch it Friday or Saturday, depending on how your weekend unfolds.

Warm your hands & fill your belly

While you’re in town for the lights, pop over to Penguin Beer Co for Craic’l by Candlelight – a relaxed evening of live music, glowing fires, mulled drinks, and comforting winter food. Rug up, settle in, and let the night unfold at your own pace.

Get out and about

The beauty of this part of Tassie? You don’t have to go far to find adventure.

Start your morning in Ulverstone with a spin on the Pedal Buggies. They’re fun, flat and perfect for cruising along the coast, especially if you’ve got kids or just feel like letting loose. Hire them from 2 Beach Rd and roll along the esplanade with sea views and salty air.

If wildlife is more your pace, head inland to Wings Wildlife Park in Gunns Plains. It’s a down-to-earth, family-run sanctuary with Tassie devils, reptiles, exotic animals, and plenty of charm. You could spend an hour or the whole afternoon here.

Make it your own

These ideas aren’t set in stone, they’re a collection of local experiences designed to be enjoyed around our winter off season events. Whether you start with Dr Karl or save your energy for the caves, you can mix, match and explore at your own pace.

And if you’re not around mid-August? No stress. The weekend of 20 July offers another magic pairing:

• Sound in Space at Ulverstone’s Hive Planetarium: a cosmic mash-up of psych rock and intergalactic visuals.

• Music in the Caves at Gunns Plains: the same incredible didgeridoo experience, just a few weeks earlier.

A few local tips before you go

• Book ahead for anything that needs a ticket – the light show headset, caves, and Dr Karl all fill quickly.

• Dress for coastal Tassie – windproof layers and a good beanie go a long way.

• Bring snacks or pick up a takeaway lunch in town – winter hours can mean earlier closures, especially inland.

• Penguin makes a great base – everything mentioned is within 30 to 40 mins by car.

So, whether you’re drawn to light, music, nature or science, Penguin’s got a little spark waiting for you this winter.
Make a weekend of it. Stay curious. Stay warm. And don’t forget to look up.