Spring is about to become a whole lot more culture-soaked thanks to Noosa’s newest arts festival, ARTober. October will be lined with a handful of world-class art events, with the beloved Noosa Open Studios making a much-anticipated return from October 1–10. The annual art trail, which is the largest in Queensland, sees talented local artists open the doors to their studios and display their work in a more intimate setting than usual. Whilst there, visitors can learn about the artists’ creative processes, see their work and even make an art investment to call their own. As well as offering an opportunity to be creatively inspired by painters, ceramicists, mixed-media artists and other artisans, the trail is also the perfect excuse to explore the picturesque shire of Noosa, discovering back roads in the hinterland and other hidden treasures.

The following week (October 9–24) will welcome back one of Australia’s premier environment-focused art events in Australia, Floating Land. Highlighting Noosa’s strong ties to the natural environment and Indigenous art and culture, Floating Land showcases artist’s works in two key anchor sites this year – there will be installations rising from the water and shoreline at Lake Cootharaba in Boreen Point, whilst eye-catching pieces will make appearances along the boardwalk from Little Cove to Noosa National Park. Things take a local turn from October 29–31, when annual community event Tall Trees Art Exhibition returns to support hinterland artists in the small-yet-mighty town of Cooran. The colourful event transforms 16 different venues in the area into galleries and exhibition spaces, in a collaborative project with local businesses, musicians, artists and the community.

Looking for an excuse to escape to the beach and bush? Now you’ve got a whole month’s worth! To discover more about ARTober, head to the Visit Noosa website.

This article was written in partnership with Tourism Noosa.