Fixtures
The recurring cultural moments across the year ahead: awards seasons, finals, sales events, the big releases. High confidence, because they happen every year, so you can plan for them now. Filter by type to cut the noise.
Culture
MEDIUM
happening now
Vivid Sydney
23 May–15 Jun 2026 · Culture
Why it matters
A three-week festival of light, music and ideas that turns the harbour into an installation. Australia's biggest winter tourism and night-out driver.
Move first
Tourism Australia and Air New Zealand chase the inbound winter trip; Sonos has a natural music-and-ideas tie.
Culture
HIGH
happening now
End of Financial Year Sales
12–30 Jun 2026 · Retail / Finance
Why it matters
The biggest discount moment of the AU winter, landing right as cost-of-living anxiety peaks.
Move first
1. [Amazon] Lead with genuine value, not manufactured urgency — the audience is fatigued by fake scarcity.
2. [Bankwest] Own smart-spending, not just spending.
Last year
Cost-of-living signals (Eggflation, Discount Loading) dominated June 2026.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Clara La San live in AU
13–17 Jun 2026 · live music
Why it matters
Clara La San is a British artist known for atmospheric, late-night R&B and electronic textures, playing a run of Australian dates. She appeals to a moody, online-discovered listening crowd.
Move first
Sonos could build a late-night-listening playlist moment around Clara La San's atmospheric sound.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Luude live in AU
13–20 Jun 2026 · live music
Why it matters
Luude is the Australian producer and DJ behind the drum and bass reworking of Down Under that became a global hit. His shows pull a young festival and club crowd across multiple dates.
Move first
Uber could own late-night safe rides home across Luude's multi-city run.
Live
HIGH
happening now
The Jungle Giants live in AU
13–20 Jun 2026 · live music
Why it matters
The Jungle Giants are a Brisbane indie-electronic band with triple j staples and a big, danceable live show. They're a reliable festival and headline draw for a young Australian audience.
Move first
Uber could run cross-city ride promos across The Jungle Giants' multi-date tour.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Kim Churchill live in AU
13–18 Jun 2026 · live music
Why it matters
Kim Churchill is an Australian roots and folk singer-songwriter known for energetic one-man-band performances built on guitar, harmonica and percussion. He draws a festival and listening-room crowd across his multi-date run.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Sanguisugabogg live in AU
14–19 Jun 2026 · live music
Why it matters
Sanguisugabogg are a US death metal band with a deliberately grim, gore-soaked aesthetic, playing a run of Australian dates. Expect a committed, heavy-music underground crowd rather than a mainstream one.
Live
HIGH
happening now
IMAGINATOR live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
IMAGINATOR reads as an immersive or experiential show, though I can't confirm specifics, so I'll keep it honest: a multi-day arts and theatre event aimed at families and experience-seekers. The school-holiday-friendly run suggests broad appeal.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Elmo’s Circus Dream live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
Elmo's Circus Dream is a Sesame Street live show built for very young children and their families. It's an early-years outing with strong preschool brand recognition.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Silvers Circus live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
Silvers Circus is a long-running Australian touring circus, a school-holiday staple that moves town to town for family audiences.
Move first
McCain could sponsor a family meal-and-show deal across the regional tour stops.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Anastasia - The Broadway Musical (Australia) live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
Anastasia is the Broadway musical based on the animated film, following a young woman's search for her identity amid the fall of the Russian imperial family. It's a sweeping, romantic production aimed at musical-theatre fans and families.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Disney Presents The Lion King (Australia) live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
Disney's The Lion King is the globe-conquering stage musical famous for Julie Taymor's puppetry and the Circle of Life opening, a perennial blockbuster on Australian stages. It's a marquee family event with broad school-holiday appeal.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Prima Facie live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
Prima Facie is Suzie Miller's acclaimed one-woman play about a barrister who defends sexual assault cases until she becomes a complainant herself, a searing examination of how the legal system treats survivors. It's a major, serious work that has travelled from Sydney to the West End and Broadway.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Tootsie (touring) live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
Tootsie is the Broadway musical comedy based on the film, a touring crowd-pleaser for the mainstream musical-theatre audience.
Move first
A feel-good night-out play: McCain could anchor a dinner-and-show family promo.
Live
HIGH
happening now
MJ The Musical live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
MJ The Musical is the Tony-winning Broadway show built on Michael Jackson's catalogue, a big-ticket touring production for the musical-theatre and pop crowd.
Move first
Sonos could own the sound-quality angle with a curated MJ-era listening moment.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Harry Potter: The Exhibition live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
Harry Potter: The Exhibition is a touring immersive showcase of props, costumes and sets, a magnet for the franchise's devoted multi-generational fanbase.
Move first
Uber could run easy family transport to the exhibition; Amazon could tie in merch and book bundles.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Cola live in AU
14–18 Jun 2026 · live music
Why it matters
A live run billed as Cola in Australia. Without confirmed details on which act this is, treat it as a touring music date rather than a marquee moment.
Move first
A spot for an indie discovery play: Sonos could tie a small-room gig into a listening session.
Live
HIGH
happening now
I Prevail live in AU
14–21 Jun 2026 · live music
Why it matters
I Prevail are a US metalcore and hard rock band with serious streaming numbers, so an Australian tour is a genuine draw for the heavy-music crowd.
Move first
Roborock or PlayStation could run a loud, high-energy activation pitched at the mosh crowd.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Hair live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
Hair is the landmark 1960s rock musical about counterculture, war and freedom, a revival that still lands with theatre fans who know its songs.
Move first
SBS could tie a music-and-history piece to the show's protest-era roots.
Live
HIGH
happening now
Cirque du Soleil: Kooza live in AU
14–20 Jun 2026 · arts & theatre
Why it matters
Cirque du Soleil's Kooza is one of the company's signature big-top shows, and a Cirque season is always a major arts event in the Australian cities it hits.
Move first
Tourism Australia could package a Cirque weekend as a marquee city-break draw.
TV
HIGH
in 2d
The Season (TV premiere)
17 Jun 2026 · TV
Why it matters
The Season is a TV premiere we cannot verify the details of, so treat it as a new series to watch rather than a known quantity.
Move first
SBS could slot a complementary watch-along or companion piece if the genre lands.
Film
HIGH
in 3d
Toy Story 5 (cinema release)
18 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Toy Story 5 is the next chapter in Pixar's flagship franchise, one of the most bankable family-film properties on the planet. A new instalment is a guaranteed school-holiday cinema event in Australia.
Film
HIGH
in 3d
The Death of Robin Hood (cinema release)
18 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
The Death of Robin Hood signals a darker, revisionist take on the outlaw legend rather than a family adventure. Without confirmed details I'll keep it honest: a film banking on a familiar myth told grimly.
Film
HIGH
in 3d
The Musicians (cinema release)
18 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
The Musicians is a title I can't verify specifics on, so honestly: a cinema release that, by name, points to a music-driven story or ensemble. Worth watching as details firm up.
TV
HIGH
in 3d
I Will Find You (TV premiere)
18 Jun 2026 · TV
Why it matters
I Will Find You appears to be a TV adaptation in the mould of Harlan Coben's twisty thrillers, though I can't confirm the production, so I'll keep it honest: a premiere drama for a binge-minded streaming audience. The title signals a propulsive missing-person hook.
Film
HIGH
in 3d
Leviticus (cinema release)
18 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Leviticus is a single-word title I can't confirm details on, so honestly: a cinema release worth tracking as reviews and cast emerge. The biblical-sounding name hints at heavy or thriller territory.
Games
HIGH
in 3d
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales (game release)
18 Jun 2026 · Games
Why it matters
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales is a game release with no confirmed details to hand, so read it as an indie adventure title to keep an eye on.
Move first
PlayStation could spotlight it in an indie discovery slot if it lands on the platform.
Games
HIGH
in 4d
Maseylia: Echoes of the past (game release)
19 Jun 2026 · Games
Why it matters
Maseylia: Echoes of the Past is a game release we cannot verify, the title suggests a fantasy RPG but treat that as unconfirmed.
Move first
A category indie-RPG play: PlayStation could feature it for genre fans.
Film
HIGH
in 10d
Supergirl (cinema release)
25 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Supergirl is a DC superhero film built around the Girl of Steel, a major studio tentpole with broad franchise recognition. A new Supergirl outing is a sizeable mainstream cinema event.
Film
HIGH
in 10d
Glenrothan (cinema release)
25 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Glenrothan shares its name with a Scottish whisky and reads as a place-set drama, though I can't confirm the plot, so I'll keep it honest: a cinema release to watch as details emerge. The name suggests something rooted in Scotland.
Film
HIGH
in 10d
We Will Go (cinema release)
25 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
We Will Go is a title I can't confirm details on, so honestly: a cinema release worth tracking once cast and reviews land. The name leaves the genre open.
Film
HIGH
in 10d
If You had Stayed (cinema release)
25 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
If You had Stayed reads as a relationship drama or romance from its wistful title, though I can't confirm specifics, so I'll keep it honest: a cinema release to watch as details surface. The tone suggests an emotional, adult-skewing film.
Film
HIGH
in 10d
Minions & Monsters (cinema release)
25 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Minions & Monsters reads as a kids' animated outing leaning on the hugely popular Minions brand, though I can't confirm the exact production, so I'll keep it honest: a family release for the school-holiday crowd. The name points squarely at younger audiences.
Film
HIGH
in 10d
Paroxysm (cinema release)
25 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Paroxysm is a single-word title I can't verify details on, so honestly: a cinema release worth tracking, with the name hinting at intense or thriller-leaning material. Watch for reviews and classification.
Move first
A category play: hold for positioning before any cinema-side activation.
Games
HIGH
in 10d
Star Fox (game release)
25 Jun 2026 · Games
Why it matters
Star Fox is Nintendo's classic space-shooter franchise, so a new release would be a notable event for longtime fans of the series.
Move first
PlayStation does not fit a Nintendo title, so a category gaming-culture angle is the safer move.
TV
HIGH
in 11d
Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness (TV premiere)
26 Jun 2026 · TV
Why it matters
Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness reads as a wry comedy or dramedy from its title, though I can't confirm the show, so I'll keep it honest: a TV premiere for a comedy-leaning streaming audience. The name promises self-deprecating humour.
Film
HIGH
in 11d
Rod Quantock Comedy Warrior (cinema release)
26 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Rod Quantock Comedy Warrior is a documentary tribute to the late Melbourne comedian and activist, a pioneer of Australian political and absurdist comedy. It matters to local comedy history and the Melbourne arts community.
Move first
SBS could platform the doc within a homegrown comedy-heritage feature.
Film
HIGH
in 12d
Blue Sands (cinema release)
27 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Blue Sands is a title I can't confirm details on, so honestly: a cinema release to track as cast and reviews emerge. The evocative name leaves the genre open.
Film
HIGH
in 12d
The Confession (cinema release)
27 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
The Confession is a cinema release with no confirmed details to hand, so read it from the title as a likely drama or thriller, unverified.
Move first
A category cinema play: keep powder dry until reviews and rating land.
Film
HIGH
in 12d
Exposure (cinema release)
27 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Exposure is a cinema release we cannot verify, so treat the title as a hook and wait on confirmed details before committing.
Move first
Hold for a category film-night tie-in once the genre is clear.
Film
HIGH
in 12d
Laws Of Desire (cinema release)
27 Jun 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Laws Of Desire is a cinema release we cannot verify, so treat it as a new film without assuming cast or plot.
Move first
SBS could pair a curated companion film if the themes align after release.
TV
HIGH
in 14d
Adventure Time: Side Quests (TV premiere)
29 Jun 2026 · TV
Why it matters
Adventure Time: Side Quests extends the beloved Cartoon Network universe with new stories from the world of Ooo. It has a strong nostalgic following among older teens and young adults plus a kids' audience.
Retail
HIGH
in ~2 wks
End of Financial Year sales
30 Jun 2026 · Retail
Why it matters
The June 30 deadline drives a heavy discount cycle across retail, tech and autos, plus a wave of tax and business-purchase intent.
Move first
A genuine sales tentpole for Amazon, Sonos, Roborock and DJI; Bankwest and Airtasker ride the small-business moment.
Culture
HIGH
in ~2 wks
State of Origin Decider
1–15 Jul 2026 · Sport / NRL
Why it matters
Rugby league's fiercest interstate rivalry peaks — appointment viewing across QLD and NSW.
Move first
1. [Uber] Own the gameday ritual — food, mates, couch.
2. [BONDS] Lean into state-pride merch energy.
Last year
'Maroons beat Blues' spiked mid-June 2026; Origin crossed the Tasman in Feb.
TV
HIGH
in ~2 wks
Elle (TV premiere)
1 Jul 2026 · TV
Why it matters
Elle is a single-word TV premiere I can't verify specifics on, so honestly: a series to watch as details land. The name suggests a character-led drama.
Film
HIGH
in ~2 wks
Life Coach (cinema release)
1 Jul 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Life Coach reads as a comedy or satire from its title, though I can't confirm the film, so I'll keep it honest: a cinema release to track. The premise hints at self-improvement send-up territory.
Move first
Blackmores could lean into a tongue-in-cheek wellbeing angle if the comedy lands gently.
Film
HIGH
in ~2 wks
Good Boy (cinema release)
2 Jul 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Good Boy is a title that has been used for a horror told from a dog's perspective, though I can't confirm this is that film, so I'll keep it honest: a cinema release to track once details land. The name could swing comedy or horror.
Film
HIGH
in ~2 wks
Animal Farm (cinema release)
2 Jul 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Animal Farm is a screen adaptation of George Orwell's classic allegory about a farmyard revolution that curdles into tyranny. It carries strong literary recognition and broad adult and student appeal.
Film
HIGH
in ~2 wks
Jackass: Best and Last (cinema release)
2 Jul 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Jackass: Best and Last continues the long-running stunt and prank franchise, billed as a send-off for the crew. It has a committed audience that grew up on the films and shows.
Film
HIGH
in ~2 wks
100 Nights of Hero (cinema release)
2 Jul 2026 · Film
Why it matters
100 Nights of Hero is based on Isabel Greenberg's graphic novel, a layered fairytale about storytelling and women's lives. It has a distinct literary and illustration following.
Film
HIGH
in ~2 wks
The Birthday Trip (cinema release)
2 Jul 2026 · Film
Why it matters
The Birthday Trip reads as a comedy or drama built around a getaway, though I can't confirm specifics, so I'll keep it honest: a cinema release to watch as details emerge. The name suggests an ensemble travel story.
Culture
HIGH
in ~3 wks
NAIDOC Week
5–12 Jul 2026 · Culture / First Nations
Why it matters
A national moment of First Nations celebration that brands must approach with substance, not tokenism.
Move first
1. [SBS] Centre First Nations voices and storytelling.
2. [Google] Spotlight Indigenous creators and knowledge.
Last year
'NAIDOC Week turns 50' drove a strong signal in July 2025.
Culture
MEDIUM
in ~3 wks
NAIDOC Week
5–12 Jul 2026 · Culture
Why it matters
A week celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. A moment for genuine, led-by-community storytelling.
Move first
Authentic First Nations partnerships and platforming over branded messaging. SBS leads; other clients amplify rather than centre themselves.
TV
HIGH
in ~3 wks
Unacceptable (TV premiere)
5 Jul 2026 · TV
Why it matters
Unacceptable is a TV premiere we cannot verify, so treat it as a new series to assess once the genre and audience are clear.
Move first
SBS could consider a companion conversation piece if the subject matter fits its remit.
Film
HIGH
in ~3 wks
Moana (cinema release)
8 Jul 2026 · Film
Why it matters
Moana is Disney's beloved Pacific-set animated adventure, a family favourite with strong cultural resonance and singalong songs. A cinema outing draws a big school-holiday family crowd.
Film
HIGH
in ~3 wks
What Am I Looking At? Is It Someone’s Navel? (cinema release)
8 Jul 2026 · Film
Why it matters
What Am I Looking At? Is It Someone's Navel? is a striking, offbeat title that signals something experimental or arthouse, though I can't confirm details, so I'll keep it honest: a cinema release to watch for the curious. The name alone marks it as niche and playful.
TV
HIGH
in ~3 wks
Little House on the Prairie (TV premiere)
9 Jul 2026 · TV
Why it matters
Little House on the Prairie is a fresh take on the classic frontier family saga based on Laura Ingalls Wilder's books. The brand carries deep nostalgia and family-viewing recognition across generations.
Games
HIGH
in ~3 wks
Assassin's Creed Back Flag Resynced (game release)
9 Jul 2026 · Games
Why it matters
Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced reads as a remaster of the much-loved pirate-era entry, a nostalgia draw for the franchise's large Australian player base.
Move first
PlayStation could lead a remaster spotlight for returning Black Flag fans.
TV
HIGH
in ~4 wks
The Westies (TV premiere)
12 Jul 2026 · TV
Why it matters
The Westies is a title I can't confirm details on, so honestly: a TV premiere to track, with the name hinting at a western-suburbs or community-set story. Watch for synopsis and cast.
Games
HIGH
in ~4 wks
The Alters: Last Variable (game release)
13 Jul 2026 · Games
Why it matters
The Alters: Last Variable appears to be content tied to The Alters, the survival and base-building sci-fi game, so treat specifics as unconfirmed.
Move first
PlayStation could feature it for players who liked the original's survival hook.
TV
HIGH
in ~4 wks
Lucky (TV premiere)
14 Jul 2026 · TV
Why it matters
Lucky is a single-word TV premiere I can't verify specifics on, so honestly: a series to watch as details emerge. The name leaves genre and tone open.
TV
HIGH
in ~4 wks
Ride or Die (TV premiere)
15 Jul 2026 · TV
Why it matters
Ride or Die reads as an action or relationship drama from its title, though I can't confirm the show, so I'll keep it honest: a TV premiere to track. The name suggests high-stakes loyalty.
TV
HIGH
in ~4 wks
The Hawk (TV premiere)
16 Jul 2026 · TV
Why it matters
The Hawk is a title I can't verify specifics on, so honestly: a TV premiere to track, with the name suggesting a character-driven drama or thriller. Watch for details.
TV
HIGH
in ~4 wks
The Five Star Weekend (TV premiere)
16 Jul 2026 · TV
Why it matters
The Five Star Weekend appears to draw on Elin Hilderbrand's bestselling novel about a getaway that goes awry, though I can't confirm the production, so I'll keep it honest: a premiere with book-club appeal. The premise points to a glossy adult drama.
Move first
Air New Zealand could explore a weekend-getaway tie-in if the travel theme holds.
TV
HIGH
in ~4 wks
TRINITY (TV premiere)
16 Jul 2026 · TV
Why it matters
TRINITY is a stylised one-word TV premiere I can't confirm details on, so honestly: a series to watch as cast and synopsis land. The name hints at thriller or genre territory.
Move first
A category play: wait for positioning before any activation.
Games
HIGH
in ~5 wks
Pit Panic (game release)
20 Jul 2026 · Games
Why it matters
Pit Panic is a game release with no confirmed details, the title points to a fast arcade-style party game, unverified.
Move first
A pick-up-and-play party title: PlayStation could slot it in a local-multiplayer feature.
Games
HIGH
in ~5 wks
Cornhole Hero (game release)
22 Jul 2026 · Games
Why it matters
Cornhole Hero is a game release that reads as a casual sports or party title built around the backyard cornhole game, details unconfirmed.
Move first
A backyard-summer category fit: a casual lifestyle brand could tie it to outdoor games season.
TV
HIGH
in ~5 wks
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe (TV premiere)
23 Jul 2026 · TV
Why it matters
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe reads as a comedic sci-fi adventure from its title, though I can't confirm the show, so I'll keep it honest: a TV premiere to track. The name promises an underdog, comedic tone.
Games
HIGH
in ~5 wks
Splatoon Raiders (game release)
23 Jul 2026 · Games
Why it matters
Splatoon Raiders is a release in Nintendo's colourful ink-shooter franchise, so it carries a built-in audience of family and younger players.
Move first
A Nintendo title, so a broad family-gaming category angle suits better than a console-specific client.
Games
HIGH
in ~6 wks
Aisle Survive (game release)
27 Jul 2026 · Games
Why it matters
Aisle Survive is a game release with no confirmed details, the title suggests a comedic supermarket-themed game, unverified.
Move first
McCain could have fun with a tongue-in-cheek supermarket-aisle tie-in if the game fits.
Games
HIGH
in ~6 wks
Halo Campaign Evolved (game release)
28 Jul 2026 · Games
Why it matters
Halo Campaign Evolved reads as a remaster or reworking of the Halo campaign, a landmark shooter franchise with a deep following.
Move first
PlayStation does not fit an Xbox-aligned title, so a category shooter-fan angle is the move.
Culture
HIGH
in ~7 wks
TV Week Logies
1–9 Aug 2026 · Media / Entertainment
Why it matters
Australian TV's night of nights — red carpet, nostalgia and a fortnight of pre-buzz.
Move first
1. [SBS] Ride the nomination conversation early.
2. [Amazon] Tie in streaming-era talent.
Last year
'Logie nominations' and 'TV's night of nights' both surfaced mid-2025.
Culture
HIGH
in ~3 mo
Father's Day (AU)
30 Aug–6 Sep 2026 · Retail / Gifting
Why it matters
The spring gifting peak — and a chance to move past tired 'dad' clichés.
Move first
1. [Sonos] / [DJI] Premium gadget gifting.
2. [BONDS] Comfort-led, modern-dad framing.
3. [McCain] The family meal moment.
Last year
Recurring AU first-Sunday-of-September gifting beat.
Retail
HIGH
in ~3 mo
Father's Day
6 Sep 2026 · Retail
Why it matters
A major gifting day skewing to tech, tools, grooming and gadgets. Australia's date is the first Sunday of September, out of step with much of the world.
Move first
Gadget gifting for Sonos, Roborock, DJI and PlayStation; Bunnings-adjacent tasks for Airtasker.
Sport
HIGH
in ~3 mo
AFL Grand Final
21–26 Sep 2026 · Sport
Why it matters
The pinnacle of the footy calendar — a whole-of-country viewing and hosting occasion.
Move first
1. [McCain] Own the gameday spread.
2. [Uber] Gameday delivery surge.
Last year
AFL finals reliably dominate Sept-Oct culture.
Sport
HIGH
in ~3 mo
AFL Grand Final
26 Sep 2026 · Sport
Why it matters
The biggest day on the southern football calendar: a public holiday in Victoria, huge TV numbers, and a full day of parties and food.
Move first
Game-day snacking and delivery for McCain and Uber Eats; Sonos owns the lounge-room setup.
Sport
HIGH
in ~4 mo
NRL Grand Final
28 Sep–4 Oct 2026 · Sport
Why it matters
League's season climax — huge across QLD/NSW and the Pacific.
Move first
1. [Uber] Gameday ritual.
2. [BONDS] Team-pride moment.
Last year
Recurring early-October fixture.
Sport
HIGH
in ~4 mo
NRL Grand Final
4 Oct 2026 · Sport
Why it matters
Rugby league's showpiece and the biggest day on the northern football calendar. Prime-time audience, party hosting and reactive social.
Move first
Game-day snacking and delivery for McCain and Uber Eats; a reactive social moment for any sport-adjacent brand.
Retail
HIGH
in ~5 mo
Halloween
31 Oct 2026 · Retail
Why it matters
Steadily growing in Australia: costumes, lollies, decorations and a wave of themed content from creators and brands alike.
Move first
Themed range and creator moment for McCain and Amazon; a playful reactive beat for Glow Lab and BONDS.
Culture
HIGH
in ~5 mo
Melbourne Cup Carnival
2–3 Nov 2026 · Sport / Fashion
Why it matters
The race that stops a nation — fashion, hospitality and a national day-off energy.
Move first
1. [TA] Spring-racing destination tourism.
2. [BONDS] / [Glow Lab] Spring fashion and grooming.
Last year
'Storm Clouds Over the Cup' surfaced early Nov 2025.
Sport
HIGH
in ~5 mo
Melbourne Cup
3 Nov 2026 · Sport
Why it matters
The race that stops a nation: a public holiday in Melbourne, office sweeps, fashion and long lunches right across the country.
Move first
Office and long-lunch moments for Uber Eats and McCain; a fashion beat for BONDS and Glow Lab.
Retail
MEDIUM
in ~5 mo
Click Frenzy
12–13 Nov 2026 · Retail
Why it matters
Australia's home-grown online sale event, the local warm-up act before Black Friday. A genuine spike in deal-hunting intent.
Move first
A real discount window for Amazon, Sonos, Roborock and DJI; Bankwest can ride the spend moment.
Culture
HIGH
in ~5 mo
ARIA Awards
18–19 Nov 2026 · Music
Why it matters
Australian music's biggest night and a showcase of homegrown talent.
Move first
1. [SBS] / [Google] Local-music discovery tie-ins.
Last year
Recurring November music-awards beat.
Retail
HIGH
in ~6 mo
Black Friday / Cyber Monday
27–30 Nov 2026 · Retail
Why it matters
The peak global sales weekend — now firmly an AU fixture and the year's biggest conversion window.
Move first
1. [Amazon] / [Roborock] / [DJI] Hero-deal clarity.
2. [Sonos] Premium-value framing.
Last year
'Black Fri-yay' spiked late Nov 2025.
Retail
HIGH
in ~6 mo
Black Friday
27 Nov 2026 · Retail
Why it matters
Now the single biggest retail event of the Australian calendar, dwarfing Boxing Day. Deal content and spend intent build for weeks ahead.
Move first
The marquee sales moment for Amazon, Sonos, Roborock and DJI; Bankwest owns the smart-spending angle.
Retail
HIGH
in ~6 mo
Cyber Monday
30 Nov 2026 · Retail
Why it matters
The online-first bookend to Black Friday weekend, catching the deal-hunters who held out or missed the rush.
Move first
A second swing for Amazon and the tech roster; the last big spend beat before Christmas planning.
Culture
HIGH
in ~6 mo
Christmas & Holiday Retail
1–25 Dec 2026 · Retail / Culture
Why it matters
The emotional and commercial peak of the year across gifting, food and gathering.
Move first
1. [McCain] The family table.
2. [Amazon] / [BONDS] Gifting.
3. [Bankwest] Smart-spending support.
Last year
Recurring December peak.
Culture
HIGH
in ~6 mo
Spotify Wrapped
2–5 Dec 2026 · Music / Social
Why it matters
The year's biggest organic share moment — personal data turned into social currency.
Move first
1. [Google] Personalised-data storytelling, done well.
2. [SBS] Year-in-culture tie-ins.
Last year
'Spotify Wrapped, all in a bow' surfaced early Dec 2025.
Culture
HIGH
in ~6 mo
Christmas Day
25 Dec 2026 · Culture
Why it matters
A summer Christmas: backyard lunches, seafood, travel and the emotional peak of the gifting season. Brand storytelling lands in the weeks before.
Move first
The full roster plays here. McCain and Uber Eats own the table; Sonos, Roborock and DJI are hero gifts.
Retail
HIGH
in ~6 mo
Boxing Day sales
26 Dec 2026 · Retail
Why it matters
The traditional post-Christmas sale rush and the start of the summer trading run, both in-store and online.
Move first
A clearance and new-season moment for Amazon, Sonos and Roborock; the Boxing Day Test gives a sport overlay.
Culture
HIGH
in ~7 mo
New Year's Eve
31 Dec 2026 · Culture
Why it matters
Sydney's fireworks anchor a global broadcast, with parties, hosting and resolution content right across the country.
Move first
Hosting and delivery for Uber Eats and McCain; Tourism Australia rides the worldwide harbour broadcast; Blackmores owns the fresh-start beat.
Sport
HIGH
in ~7 mo
Australian Open
18 Jan–1 Feb 2027 · Sport
Why it matters
Summer's marquee sporting and influencer event — a global stage hosted in Melbourne.
Move first
1. [TA] / [AirNZ] Destination and travel.
2. [Uber] Event mobility.
Last year
'Game, set, match — AO kicks off' and heavy influencer activation Jan-Feb 2026.
Sport
HIGH
in ~7 mo
Australian Open
18–31 Jan 2027 · Sport
Why it matters
The first tennis Grand Slam of the year and Melbourne's biggest summer drawcard. Two weeks of prime-time tennis, heat and night-session social.
Move first
A summer hydration and outdoor moment for Blackmores or McCain snacking; Tourism Australia rides the global broadcast.
Culture
HIGH
in ~8 mo
Australia Day
26 Jan 2027 · Culture
Why it matters
A polarising national public holiday: long-weekend leisure for some, a day of mourning and Invasion Day rallies for others. Tone matters.
Move first
Brands should tread carefully. SBS and Tourism Australia lead with inclusive, considered messaging rather than flag-waving.
Culture
HIGH
in ~8 mo
Grammy Awards
1–2 Feb 2027 · Music
Why it matters
Music's biggest night, with Aussie winners increasingly part of the story.
Move first
1. [Google] / [SBS] Music-discovery and year-in-sound angles.
Last year
'It's Grammy season' and Tame Impala's win surfaced Jan-Feb 2026.
Retail
HIGH
in ~8 mo
Valentine's Day
14 Feb 2027 · Retail
Why it matters
A reliable retail spike for flowers, gifting, dining and date-night categories, plus a steady stream of anti-Valentine's counter-content.
Move first
Gifting and self-care angles for Glow Lab and Blackmores; Uber Eats owns the at-home date night.
Culture
HIGH
in ~8 mo
Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras
19 Feb–6 Mar 2027 · Culture / Pride
Why it matters
A global Pride moment hosted in Sydney — celebration that demands authentic, year-round commitment.
Move first
1. [SBS] Centre LGBTQ+ storytelling.
2. [BONDS] / [Glow Lab] Inclusive, not opportunistic.
Last year
Mardi Gras and Pride beats recur each Feb-Mar.
Culture
MEDIUM
in ~9 mo
Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras
6 Mar 2027 · Culture
Why it matters
One of the world's biggest Pride celebrations, peaking with the Saturday-night parade down Oxford Street. A major moment for visibility, nightlife and inclusive brands.
Move first
Authentic, year-round LGBTQIA+ support reads. BONDS and Google have natural Pride plays when the commitment is real, not rainbow-washed.
Culture
HIGH
in ~9 mo
Academy Awards (Oscars)
7–8 Mar 2027 · Film
Why it matters
Hollywood's biggest night and a global fashion + film conversation.
Move first
1. [SBS] Film-culture programming tie-ins.
Last year
'Oscars Day' surfaced early March 2026.
Retail
HIGH
in ~9 mo
Easter long weekend
26–29 Mar 2027 · Retail
Why it matters
A four-day public holiday: chocolate, hot cross buns, road trips and a major trading break. Retail and travel both peak.
Move first
Seasonal range moments for McCain and Amazon; Air New Zealand and Tourism Australia chase the long-weekend escape.
Culture
HIGH
in ~10 mo
Coachella
9–18 Apr 2027 · Music / Culture
Why it matters
The festival that sets the year's fashion, beauty and music-discovery agenda.
Move first
1. [Glow Lab] Festival beauty.
2. [BONDS] Festival-fashion energy.
Last year
Heavy 'Coachella' signal cluster in April 2026.
Culture
HIGH
in ~10 mo
Anzac Day
25 Apr 2027 · Culture
Why it matters
A solemn national day of remembrance: dawn services, the march, two-up. A sensitive moment where commercial messaging is largely unwelcome.
Move first
Jokes off. Respect-led or silent for most brands; only genuine RSL or veteran ties should speak.
Culture
HIGH
in ~11 mo
Mother's Day (AU)
2–9 May 2027 · Retail / Gifting
Why it matters
Autumn's major gifting and wellness moment.
Move first
1. [Glow Lab] / [Blackmores] Self-care and wellness gifting.
2. [BONDS] Comfort gifting.
Last year
Mother's Day gift guides recur each year.
Culture
HIGH
in ~11 mo
Met Gala
3–4 May 2027 · Fashion
Why it matters
Fashion's Super Bowl — a single night that dominates global style discourse.
Move first
1. [Glow Lab] Beauty-look reactions.
2. [BONDS] Accessible-fashion commentary.
Last year
'Brands Met Gala outfits' and 'First Monday in May' recur each May.
Culture
MEDIUM
in ~11 mo
Eurovision Grand Final
8 May 2027 · Music
Why it matters
A camp, chaotic global music spectacle with a devoted Australian following thanks to SBS's long love affair with it. A late-night live-watch event.
Move first
SBS owns the broadcast. A second-screen social and snacking moment for McCain or Uber Eats.
Retail
HIGH
in ~11 mo
Mother's Day
9 May 2027 · Retail
Why it matters
One of the biggest gifting and dining days of the year: flowers, beauty, brunch, appliances. Spend planning starts weeks out.
Move first
Gifting hero moment for Glow Lab, Blackmores, Sonos and Roborock; Uber Eats owns the brunch-at-home play.
Culture
HIGH
in ~11 mo
Australian Fashion Week
10–14 May 2027 · Fashion
Why it matters
The home stage for AU design talent and local fashion's biggest earned moment.
Move first
1. [BONDS] Local-design partnerships.
2. [Glow Lab] Backstage beauty.
Last year
'Goth girl winter hits AFW' surfaced May 2026.
Culture
HIGH
in ~11 mo
Eurovision Song Contest
11–16 May 2027 · Music / Culture
Why it matters
A global pop spectacle with a passionate AU following — and SBS the home broadcaster.
Move first
1. [SBS] Own the broadcast and the watch-party culture.
Last year
Delta Goodrem revealed as Australia's 2026 entrant in March.