Discover a new first this July at Firstival
03/06/2026
This July, the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters Libraries invites you to experience something new as Firstival returns with an exciting and diverse program designed to spark curiosity, creativity and connection.
As part of South Australia’s largest celebration of library life, this year’s program brings together a dynamic mix of hands-on workshops, thought-provoking talks and interactive experiences—most of them completely free, making it easier than ever to try something new.
From sustainability and technology to creativity and well-being, Firstival offers something for every interest.
For those drawn to creativity, spoken word artist Matthew Pankhurst will lead two engaging workshops—an Introduction to Spoken Word and Slam Poetry, followed by a deeper dive into performance and technique.
Whether you're picking up a pen for the first time or refining your voice, these sessions offer a supportive space to create and share.
Nature lovers can explore the hidden world of local wildlife in Fantastic Frogs & Where to Find Them, uncovering the fascinating ecosystems along the Karrawirra Pari (River Torrens), or learn how to support injured wildlife through an insightful session with Fauna Rescue SA.
Technology takes centre stage with a series of accessible, beginner-friendly sessions.
Learn the basics of artificial intelligence in Intro to AI, or sharpen your digital awareness in Can You Spot AI?, where you’ll gain practical tips to navigate an increasingly complex online world.
Curious about emerging technologies? Discover how 3D printing works and what it can create, or step behind the scenes of the world’s largest online encyclopedia in Wiki Skills, where you’ll learn how to contribute to Wikipedia yourself.
Sustainability continues with Intro to EV, an informative session exploring the benefits and realities of electric vehicles—perfect for anyone considering making the switch.
Firstival isn’t just about learning something new—it’s also about connection and enjoyment.
Get moving with Wellness in Motion, a session focused on building strength and confidence in a welcoming, inclusive environment.
Or experience something completely different at the Silent Disco, where you can dance the night away in a library setting like never before.
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the History Road self-guided trails offer a unique way to discover local stories and hidden gems across the City, blending history with interactive fun.
Firstival continues to redefine what a library can be—transforming spaces into vibrant hubs of learning, creativity and community connection.
Whether you're interested in trying a new skill, exploring local culture, embracing new technology or simply meeting like-minded people, this year’s program is your invitation to step outside the everyday.
With events running throughout July across multiple library locations, there’s never been a better time to get involved.
Join us for Firstival 2025 and discover the unexpected.
See full list of events here: Firstival 2026
Aug24
Baby Time
Monday, 24th Aug 2026•St Peters Library | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters & Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow
This event runs for multiple dates
Sing, play and connect. Baby Time is a fun, interactive session filled with songs, rhymes and shared reading. It supports early language, listening and literacy...
Aug24
Story Time
Monday, 24th Aug 2026•St Peters Library | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters & Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow
This event runs for multiple dates
Where stories begin. Story Time is a fun, interactive early literacy session for children aged 18 months–3 years, featuring stories, songs and playful learning. Children...
Aug26
Click Smart | Online Safety & Scams
Wednesday, 26th Aug 2026•St Peters Library | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters
Don't let the internet feel like a minefield. This friendly small group session will turn cyber safety into simple, manageable habits. We strip away the...
Aug29
Kent Town Street Art Walk and Talk
Saturday, 29th Aug 2026•Washdog Studio | 12 King William St, Kent Town SA 5067•$25.00
Join local artist and director of Washdog Studio, Dave Court, for a walk and talk winding through the alleyways of Kent Town. Hear about the...
Aug29
Contemporary springART
Saturday, 29th Aug 2026•Loreto College, 316 Portrush Road, MARRYATVILLE SA 5068
This event runs for multiple dates
Contemporary springART is one of South Australia's largest art exhibitions, featuring over 60 professional artists. Saturday 29, 11.00am - 4.00pm Gallery Open, Free Admission Live...
Aug30
Grow Your Own Food Forest
Sunday, 30th Aug 2026•Linde Community Garden, Stepney•$5.00
This event runs for multiple dates
Grow, learn and connect at the Linde Community Garden Whether you are a first time gardener or looking to build on your skills, join us...
Sep1
Beyond the Kerb | Waste & Recycling Tour
Tuesday, 1st Sep 2026•374 Payneham Road, Payneham
Join KESAB for a FREE Waste & Recycling facilities tour. Discover how materials are processed locally, learning from industry experts so we can take simple...
Sep1
Meet the Author | Tess Woods
Tuesday, 1st Sep 2026•St Peters Banquet Hall | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters•$10.00
A sweeping story of sisterhood, love and resilience, The Cairo Bridal Shop by Tess Woods is a powerful novel set against the vibrant backdrop of...
Sep3
Connect & Collaborate: Professional Networking
Thursday, 3rd Sep 2026•Reform Distilling, 91 Little Rundle St, Kent Town SA 5067
Join Bambrick Legal for our next instalment in the Connect & Collaborate: Professional Networking series, hosted at Reform Distilling. This event offers an opportunity to...
Sep3
Drop-in Tech Help: September
Thursday, 3rd Sep 2026•St Peters Library
This event runs for multiple dates
Have a quick tech question or just need a little nudge to get started? Drop by our Tech Help Sessions—no booking required! Staffed by friendly...
Sep4
1 on 1 Tech Help: September
Friday, 4th Sep 2026•St Peters Library
This event runs for multiple dates
Take the stress out of technology with our friendly, one-on-one Digital Literacy sessions! These relaxed 45-minute appointments give you a patient, private space to learn...
Sep5
Don Dunstan · 100 Years Exhibition
Saturday, 5th Sep 2026•The Gallery at St Peters Town Hall, 101 Payneham Road, St Peters
This event runs for multiple dates
Marking 100 years since the birth of one of South Australia’s most influential leaders, Don Dunstan · 100 Years invites visitors to step into the...
Sep15
The Process to Profitable Networking
Tuesday, 15th Sep 2026•The Maid Hotel | 1 Magill Road, Stepney•$38.00
Welcome to PM Enrich professional development and networking. Are you finding it difficult and time-consuming to attract new clients? Is your current network bringing you...
Sep16
Food Secrets + EWAT Bus Tours 2026
Wednesday, 16th Sep 2026
This event runs for multiple dates
Discover authentic local food and drink. Join a Food Secrets + Eastside Wine & Ale Trail (EWAT) Bus Tour and enjoy an immersive tasting experience...
Sep16
Movies at the Library - September
Wednesday, 16th Sep 2026•Payneham Library
Come along for a cuppa, chat, and movie at the library. An ordinary man sets out on an unplanned walk across England after receiving life-changing...