No matter what time of year you're visiting Christchurch there's sure to be an event that appeals. Food and wine is a popular theme, with plenty grown and produced in the region. Sporting events are on every week. Local arts and music events often have a strong local flavour, and you can also catch the best international acts in world-class venues.
Click on a subheading below, to find out what's on in Christchurch that’s right for you.

French Farmers Market
Sunday 5th October 2008–Sunday 12th April 2009

On Sunday the 28th of September the first French Farmers Market of the year will take place. Opened at 9:30 by Jim Harre a senior wine judge who comes from a family of wine makers.
Set in the remains of an old historic stable block in the heart of inner city Christchurch, the French Farmers Market is a must see.
Held every Sunday over the summer months, the French Farmers Market showcases local produce from around the Canterbury region, providing an authentic French environment for city dwellers and tourists alike to sample and purchase fresh local fare; including fresh fruit and vegetables, cheese, bread, meat, venison, handmade chocolates, flowers and much more.

The New Zealand International Jazz and Blues Festival - April 2009

Each year Christchurch hosts the country’s biggest dedicated festival of jazz and blues, attracting audiences from around New Zealand who come to see the finest local and overseas artists performing in nine venues around the city.

SBS Marathon - May 2009

Since 1974, the fast, flat streets of Christchurch have been home to one of the world's fastest marathon courses. The SBS Marathon - Christchurch was inspired by the 1974 Christchurch Commonwealth Games marathon, and today runners and walkers from all over the world can experience that historic route.

New Zealand Grand National Racing Carnival - August 2009

The Grand National Carnival highlights top class racing featuring the spectacular jumpers as Riccarton Park hosts:
Aussie Browne's Pharmacies Winter Cup, Saturday August 1
HANZ Grand National Hurdles, Wednesday August 5
PGG Wrightson Grand National Steeplechase, Saturday August 8
Plenty of non racing activities plus free competitions-winter racing at its best.

Christchurch Arts Festival - August 2009

The 8th biennial Christchurch Arts Festival will hit Christchurch this July and August, with organisers promising a showcase of the best and brightest talent, both national and international.
As the South Island’s largest arts event, the Festival encompasses theatre, dance, fine music, contemporary and world music, jazz and cabaret, circus arts and visual arts, and becomes the mid-winter arts focal point for all of New Zealand.

Lyttelton Harbour Festival of Lights - June 2009

Lyttelton Festival of Lights is a mid-winter light spectacular transforming Lyttelton Harbour into a twinkling jewel. A masquerade party brings the festival to life on opening night. This is followed by a series of events featuring local food, music and performances at restaurants, clubs and other local venues in and around the harbour.

New Zealand Cup Meeting - November 2009

Three days of outstanding premier racing at Riccarton Park. Saturday November 7th (a taste of Racing with the Guineas), Wednesday November 11th (Coupland’s Bakeries Mile) and Saturday November 14th (Christchurch Casino Cup day)
Teeming with fine fashions and lavish champagne, socialising at its famed car park parties, New Zealand Cup week at Riccarton Park is always celebrated in spectacular style.