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
Jun26
Ageing Well: Know Your Rights - ARAS Talks
Friday, 26th Jun 2026•St Peters Banquet Hall | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters
This event runs for multiple dates
Join us for a four-part information series designed to help older people better understand their rights, choices and protections in aged care. Delivered in partnership...
Jun27
Sleep Better, Live Better Wholistic Sleep Workshop
Saturday, 27th Jun 2026•St Peters Banquet Hall | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters•$5.00
Join holistic sleep scientist Sabine Christelli for an enlightening and practical workshop that explores the science and soul of sleep. Discover how your nightly rest...
Jun27
Simon Brodkin - Live in Adelaide
Saturday, 27th Jun 2026•Norwood Concert Hall
Get ready, Adelaide… the award-winning Simon Brodkin is coming to Brown Bear Comedy Club Australia for an unforgettable night of comedy! Known for his outrageous...
Jun28
Symphonic Adiemus
Sunday, 28th Jun 2026•Norwood Concert Hall
SOLD OUT! Conductor: Michael Milton Guest choir: Adelaide Philharmonia Chorus Jonathan Siow - Quest for the King Ross Edwards - Ecstatic Dances Karl Jenkins -...
Jun29
Baby Time
Monday, 29th Jun 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...
Jun29
Story Time
Monday, 29th Jun 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...
Jul2
Tiny Tales & Big Play. A Words Grow Minds Program
Thursday, 2nd Jul 2026•St Peters Library
Tiny Tales & Big Play Words Grow Minds Program | Ages 0–5 | Free | Bookings Essential Talk. Play. Read. Sing. Tiny Tales & Big...
Jul2
Drop-in Tech Help: July
Thursday, 2nd Jul 2026•Payneham 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...
Jul3
I'd Like To Tell You About Some Jokes - Nazeem H
Friday, 3rd Jul 2026•Norwood Concert Hall
Fresh off his biggest-selling tour ever across Australia, New Zealand and London, Nazeem Hussain returns with a brand-new show, I’d Like to Talk to You...
Jul3
Wiki Skills - Learn to Edit Wikipedia
Friday, 3rd Jul 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow
Step into the world of Wikipedia like never before at our fun-filled Wiki Skills event! Ever wondered how the world’s biggest online encyclopedia actually works?...
Jul4
Green Connections: Neighbours building Nature
Saturday, 4th Jul 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow
Want more nature on your doorstep? Join us for an interactive workshop to discover how the Green Connections pilot is transforming streets into cool, leafy...
Jul4
I'd Like To Tell You About Some Jokes - Nazeem H
Saturday, 4th Jul 2026•Norwood Concert Hall
Fresh off his biggest-selling tour ever across Australia, New Zealand and London, Nazeem Hussain returns with a brand-new show, I’d Like to Talk to You...
Jul6
Breaking the Ice: Turn an Idea into a Poem!
Monday, 6th Jul 2026•St Peters Banquet Hall | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters
Discover the energy of spoken word in this interactive workshop designed for both beginners and emerging writers. You’ll explore the local scene, learn how to...
Jul7
FIFA World Cup 2026
Tuesday, 7th Jul 2026•St Peters Library | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters
Broadcasting LIVE match: Winner #81 v Winner #82 (Round 16) Join us at the library for a live screening of the FIFA World Cup 2026™...
Jul7
My First Mindfulness Session
Tuesday, 7th Jul 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow
A calm, playful session introducing babies, toddlers and their caregivers to the benefits of mindfulness. Through gentle yoga, simple breathing exercises and movement, families are...