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
Aug3
Zest for Life
Monday, 3rd Aug 2026•City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters
This event runs for multiple dates
Celebrate your Zest for Life and join our exciting program of events which encourage positive and active ageing and promote community well-being. This year’s program...
Aug3
Baby Time
Monday, 3rd 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...
Aug3
Story Time
Monday, 3rd 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...
Aug4
Raising the Bar Adelaide
Tuesday, 4th Aug 2026•City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters
20 TALKS. 10 BARS. 1 NIGHT. Raising the Bar Adelaide is back! The award-winning event returns to the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters,...
Aug4
Perfume Making | SOLD OUT
Tuesday, 4th Aug 2026•St Peters Banquet Hall | 101 Payneham Road•$15.00
Discover a hands-on fragrance experience as you explore a curated library of scents and learn the fundamentals of blending your own unique creation. With expert...
Aug4
Meet the Author | Jaclyn Moriarty
Tuesday, 4th Aug 2026•Payneham Room, Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow•$10.00
Jaclyn Moriarty is an internationally bestselling author of books for children, young adults and adults. Her stories have been translated into many languages and have...
Aug5
Healthy Mindfulness: Attention & Now | SOLD OUT
Wednesday, 5th Aug 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow
This session explores common distractions, particularly those linked to the past or future, and how they can pull us away from the present moment. Life...
Aug5
Sleep Better & Live Better
Wednesday, 5th Aug 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow
Feeling stressed or not feeling refreshed when you wake up? Hear from holistic sleep scientist Sabine Christelli during this enlightening and practical workshop exploring the...
Aug6
Concert
Thursday, 6th Aug 2026•Norwood Concert Hall | 175 The Parade (entrance via George Street), Norwood•$10.00
In 1884, a group of 14 musicians from the Adelaide Metropolitan Foot Police came together to form Australia’s first Police Band. What began as a...
Aug6
Drop-in Tech Help: August
Thursday, 6th Aug 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...
Aug6
Library Resources and Services Review Workshop 2
Thursday, 6th Aug 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow
You are invited to participate in an in-person workshop to further explore lived experiences and aspirations. The workshops are scheduled for 60 minutes and will...
Aug7
Gallery 42 SALA Exhibition
Friday, 7th Aug 2026•42 Magill Road, Norwood
This event runs for multiple dates
Paint that holds itself in space, canvases that unravel, and discarded materials reimagined. No Conditions of Use, Gallery 42’s 2026 SALA Exhibition, brings together artists...
Aug7
Get into Golf
Friday, 7th Aug 2026•Tracked Golf | 482 Payneham Road, Glynde•$15.00
Join us at Tracked Golf for a fun and relaxed introduction to golf. Whether you are completely new to the game or looking to build...
Aug7
A Day in the Adelaide Hills | SOLD OUT
Friday, 7th Aug 2026•Council Depot | 30 Davis Road, Glynde•$10.00
This event runs for multiple dates
Enjoy a day in the Adelaide Hills, commencing with a visit to Beerenberg Farm for morning tea and some produce shopping, followed by free time...
Aug7
1 on 1 Tech Help: August
Friday, 7th Aug 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...