What’s On in Queenstown 2026

Discover the best upcoming events happening right here in Queenstown; from inspiring festivals and community gatherings to major sporting events and lakefront celebrations. Whether you’re visiting or a local planning a staycation, there’s always something to look forward to.

Queenstown Bike Festival 2026

Dates: January 16, 2026 – January 25, 2026

Returning for 10 days with more than 20 events, the Queenstown Bike Festival brings the region’s world-class riding scene to life. From heli-biking and gravel challenges to slopestyle competitions and the iconic McGazzafest, the festival showcases every corner of mountain biking culture. Expect big names, emerging talent, family-friendly sessions, and a packed social calendar of live music, BBQs and après-ride gatherings.

After a sold-out 2023 and 2024, the 2026 festival is gearing up to be the biggest yet, welcoming riders, spectators and adventure-seekers from around the country and overseas. Whether you’re here to test your skills or simply soak up the atmosphere, it’s an unmissable celebration of bikes in the world’s ultimate mountain playground.

Get tickets here

The Valley

Dates: January 24, 2026

Set in the heart of Gibbston’s wine country, The Valley Music Festival is the perfect summer celebration. Guests can enjoy boutique wines, crisp craft beers and refreshing cocktails alongside a line-up of local food stalls and producers. With live performances from some of New Zealand’s leading artists, the festival brings an upbeat soundtrack to a relaxed afternoon in the vineyards.

From sunshine and shared plates to dancing at sunset, The Valley offers the ultimate day out in one of Queenstown’s most scenic settings.

Get Tickets here

Gin Fest Arrowtown

Date: February 7, 2026

Arrowtown Gin Fest returns in 2026 for a summer celebration of craft distilling, local flavour and live music in one of the region’s most charming historic settings. Guests can enjoy tastings from more than 15 New Zealand distilleries, meet the makers behind the brands, and learn about the craft and botanicals that define modern gin.

Alongside the gin, the festival offers beer, wine, cider and non-alcoholic options, plus local food vendors and live performances throughout the afternoon. With its relaxed atmosphere and scenic Arrowtown backdrop, it’s an ideal day out for both dedicated gin lovers and those discovering it for the first time.

Learn more here

Shotover Moonlight Mountain Marathon & Trail Runs

Date: February 21, 2026

The Shotover Moonlight Mountain Marathon offers runners the chance to explore Ben Lomond Station’s spectacular high-country terrain, beginning beside the Shotover River and traversing historic mining trails, alpine ridgelines, beech forest and creek crossings. With ever-changing scenery and technical sections including a ladder climb and tunnel, it’s one of the region’s most rewarding off-road events.

Finishing near Moke Lake, participants can unwind, celebrate their achievement and take in one of Queenstown’s most picturesque backdrops. A range of distances are available, from a 10km trail run through to the full marathon and 56km ultra, catering to both seasoned athletes and adventurous first-timers.

Buy tickets here

New Zealand Open

Date: February 26, 2026 – March 1, 2026

The New Zealand Open returns from 26 February to 1 March 2026 for its 105th edition, hosted across the championship courses of Millbrook Resort in Arrowtown. As New Zealand’s premier golf tournament, the event attracts a world-class field of professional golfers alongside a Pro-Am competition that pairs amateurs with the pros on course.

Set against panoramic alpine scenery, spectators can enjoy free entry, relaxed viewing and food and beverage offerings throughout the four days. With a coveted place in The Open Qualifying Series also on the line, the atmosphere is both competitive and celebratory, appealing to dedicated golf fans and casual visitors alike.

Blending heritage, sport and the natural beauty of the region, the New Zealand Open remains a standout week on the Queenstown summer calendar.

Learn more here

Plan Your Stay

Wherever the event, make Novotel Queenstown Lakeside your home base for exploring Queenstown’s festivals, sporting events, and celebrations. Located right on the lakefront and steps from the town centre, it’s the ideal spot to stay close to Queenstown’s most exciting moments.