Good music, new art and quality time in the garden – what better ways are there to while away a summer weekend?

Words Zoe Rice

Sounds of the zoo

The Adelaide Zoo will be alive with the sounds of the Amicus String Quartet this weekend for Carnival of the Animals. The Friday and Saturday shows are already sold out, but get in quick for the added Sunday performance. The live orchestra will perform in the gardens of the zoo, joined by acclaimed Adelaide musicians in an outdoor concert series of Camille Saint-Saëns’ The Carnival of the Animals and Danse Macabre, and Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf. Roll out your picnic rug on the central lawns – don’t forget to order your picnic box, and an onsite bar will be available. Gates open at 6pm for a 7pm start.

New talent

Kicking off 2021 with a taste of the new, the Helpmann Academy Graduate Exhibition is serving up a curated selection of our state’s most promising contemporary visual artists. Opening night and the awards presentation is on Friday, with director of the Art Gallery of South Australia, Rhana Devenport speaking. The exhibition runs until February 13.

In the garden

Book tickets now for the Botanic Gardens of South Australia’s Short Course Series, beginning on Tuesday. The series is designed for horticulture newbies, or those who would like to expand their gardening knowledge and each session is delivered by industry experts. Choose from courses including Plant Identification Basics, Plant Propagation Basics and Garden Design for Beginners.

Soaking up the sun

Each Saturday and Sunday throughout summer, the Adelaide Botanic Garden is hosting its Summer Sessions in the Schomburgk Pavilion, with views over the Mediterranean garden. Enjoy botanically-inspired cocktails or boutique wines and beers with a menu that includes Adelaide Hills cheeses, Barossa charcuterie and mini Reuben sandwiches.