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
Nov7
145K for T1D
Saturday, 7th Nov 2026•7 Grenfell Street, Kent Town 5067•$20.00
This event runs for multiple dates
From Saturday 7 to Saturday 14 November, Beyond Bouldering is inviting the community to help climb 145,000 metres, one for each of the roughly 145,000...
Nov15
Exploring Digital Programs Series
Sunday, 15th Nov 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow•$5.00
This event runs for multiple dates
Join us for 1 or all 4 Exploring Digital Programs with Catalyst Games! Discover the world of game development through this hands-on series designed for...
Nov16
Baby Time
Monday, 16th Nov 2026•St Peters Library | 101 Payneham Road
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...
Nov16
Come & Try - Self Defence Classes
Monday, 16th Nov 2026•Payneham Community Centre, 374 Payneham Road, Payneham•$10.00
This event runs for multiple dates
Come & Try Self Defence Classes are a great way to build your physical and mental confidence, awareness and practical skills for dealing with stressful...
Nov16
Story Time
Monday, 16th Nov 2026•St Peters Library | 101 Payneham Road
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...
Nov17
The Process to Profitable Networking
Tuesday, 17th Nov 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...
Nov17
Baby Time
Tuesday, 17th Nov 2026•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...
Nov17
Story Time
Tuesday, 17th Nov 2026•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...
Nov17
The Parade Trader Forum
Tuesday, 17th Nov 2026•175 The Parade, Norwood
The Parade, Norwood is more than a shopping strip—it’s the heart of our community. It’s where we grab our morning coffee, catch up with friends...
Nov18
Speed Friending - Music Edition
Wednesday, 18th Nov 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow
Love music and good conversation? Meet new people in this relaxed speed-friending session where music becomes the starting point for connection. Share musical interests, discover...
Nov18
Movies at The Library - November
Wednesday, 18th Nov 2026•Payneham Library
Come along for a cuppa, chat, and movie at the library. The Whale A reclusive English teacher living with severe obesity attempts to reconnect with...
Nov19
Multicultural Singing Time
Thursday, 19th Nov 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow
Everybody Sing! is our multicultural song time with live musician Zhao Liang. This session engages young children and their families with global rhythms and basic...
Nov20
Anthony Callea - The CONNECTION Tour
Friday, 20th Nov 2026•Norwood Concert Hall
This October and November, Anthony Callea returns to the stage for The CONNECTION Tour, an intimate and vocally powerful live concert experience. Accompanied by a...
Nov20
Guildhouse 60th Anniversary Exhibition
Friday, 20th Nov 2026•The Gallery at St Peters Town Hall, 101 Payneham Road, St Peters
This event runs for multiple dates
To mark 60 years of service, Guildhouse presents a retrospective exhibition featuring 30 Guildhouse Members’ work at The Gallery at St Peters Town Hall. Grounded...
Nov21
Norwood Christmas Pageant
Saturday, 21st Nov 2026•The Parade, Norwood
Come and celebrate the Norwood Christmas Pageant! The Norwood Christmas Pageant is set to ignite the Christmas spirit on The Parade, Norwood with colourful floats,...