Fringe festivities have well and truly kicked off, and East End is very busy because of it. Laneway parties, pop-up eateries, and back street markets assemble on and around Rundle Street — most here for a good time and not a long one.
With none that should be missed, here’s five things you should check out in Rundle Street before Fringe season wraps up on March 19.
1. NOLA’S FRINGE LANEWAY PARTY
Every Thursday to Sunday from 6pm during Fringe season, NOLA stretches outside for a laneway party. There’s a pop-up bar by Archie Rose Distilling Co., spicy drink specials, and live music with a line-up of local artists. You can order New Orleans inspired bites just as always, including NOLA’s famous fried chicken — which tastes just as good when sitting outside on a balmy Fringe night.
2. FRINGE WEEKENDS WITH FAMILIAR
Familiar’s first pop-up of the year is sticking around for a lot longer than its usual one-day cook-ups. The trio of chefs are revisiting Hellbound Wine Bar, taking home above ground every Friday and Saturday evening of Fringe season. There’ll be a new menu each week — with cheeseburgers set for February 24 and 25 — and cocktails shaking by Man of Spirit.
3. THE AUSTRAL LANEWAY SERIES
Teaming up with The Front Room, The Austral is taking over Bent Street every Friday to Sunday from 5pm with its Laneway party series. There’s food and drink on offer to keep hips shaking amongst the sultry outdoor disco. Some of the best local DJs and collectives are joining the party, including Cmmonppl and Open, with top quality light, sounds, and vibes.
4. EBENEZER NIGHT MARKETS
Ebenezer Night Markets are welcoming clusters of small businesses to East End’s back streets. There are fashion, food, and artisan good stalls every Saturday night of Fringe season from 5:30pm to 10:30pm. On opening weekend, the markets made their debut onto Union Street with over 50 stalls and a celebration of local traders. This energy will continue through the weeks ahead for a special open-air shopping experience.
5. THE STAG FRINGE LATE NIGHT INN
The Stag is making the most of its prime views for Fringe season. Every Friday and Saturday, they’re hosting DJs and live gigs from 8pm until late, while Fringe Fizzy Sundays brings balcony parties overlooking the CBD’s Eastern Parkland Fringe hubs and the atmosphere of East End Unleashed. This Sunday is movie night themed with popcorn, films, dress ups, and a memorable festival season experience.
