Dark Mofo Festival: A Hauntingly Beautiful Winter Feast

When we discovered Dark Mofo, we knew we had to experience it firsthand. This extraordinary winter festival in Hobart, Tasmania, celebrates the darkness of the winter solstice with large-scale art installations, fire, music, and sensory experiences. Organized by the team behind MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), it’s a mesmerizing blend of Gothic beauty, pagan rituals, and contemporary creativity—an event unlike anything else in Australia.

One of the absolute highlights was the Winter Feast. Imagine a grand hall, dimly lit by flickering candlelight, lined with food and drink stalls, offering everything from Tasmanian whiskey and mulled wine to slow-cooked meats and decadent desserts. Long communal tables stretch through the center, where strangers become friends over shared plates and lively conversation. The atmosphere was pure magic—a feast fit for the gods, with fire pits outside adding to the warmth and spectacle of the night.

Beyond the feast, Dark Mofo transforms Hobart into a living, breathing artwork. We wandered through haunting light installations, watched fire dancers and immersive performances, and took in the pulse of live music echoing through the city streets. One of the most surreal moments was sipping steaming mulled wine under a blood-red sky, as beams of eerie light pierced the darkness, illuminating the night in a way that felt both otherworldly and intimate.

First launched in 2013, Dark Mofo has grown into one of Tasmania’s most iconic events, drawing thousands of visitors from across the world. Each year, it pushes boundaries even further, promising an even bigger, bolder, and darker experience. If you’re looking for a festival that immerses you in art, music, fire, and the mystery of the winter solstice, this is the one.

Louise and I absolutely loved every moment of Dark Mofo. It was breathtaking, eerie, indulgent, and unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania in winter, make sure this festival is on your must-do list—it’s an experience that will stay with you long after the firelight fades.