Experience the Magic of Dark Mofo from Stewarts Bay Lodge
Tasmania’s iconic winter festival, Dark Mofo, is back to cast its spell over Hobart—and it’s the perfect reason to plan a mid-year getaway to Stewarts Bay Lodge.
Held annually in June, Dark Mofo is a bold, immersive celebration of art, music, performance, and winter solstice rituals. Presented by the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), this festival invites locals and visitors alike to explore the darker side of culture through large-scale public art, provocative installations, late-night performances, and thought-provoking events that stretch well beyond the expected.
From June 13 to 23, 2025, Hobart will transform into a playground of light and shadow, where fire pits warm cold streets, red crosses glow across the skyline, and curious minds gather for everything from feasting and fire to experimental soundscapes and surreal exhibitions.
Festival Highlights
- The Winter Feast – A medieval-style banquet on the Hobart waterfront with fireside dining, local delicacies, and live music under the stars.
- Nude Solstice Swim – Brave souls gather at dawn to plunge into the icy River Derwent in a symbolic cleansing and celebration of the returning light.
- Dark Park Installations – Large-scale art and interactive experiences scattered across Hobart’s industrial spaces.
- Late-Night Music & Performance – From world-renowned musicians to boundary-pushing performances, the nights are anything but quiet.
Stay with Us, Escape the Crowds
While Dark Mofo electrifies the city, Stewarts Bay Lodge offers a peaceful and scenic retreat just 90 minutes from Hobart. Spend your days exploring the vibrant festival and return each evening to the serenity of Port Arthur. Nestled between bushland and the bay, our cosy chalets and premium cabins provide the perfect winter escape—with the added bonus of starry skies and nearby attractions like the Port Arthur Historic Site.
Whether you’re diving headfirst into the festivities or enjoying a more relaxed festival experience, Stewarts Bay Lodge gives you the best of both worlds: excitement by day, tranquillity by night.