There’s nothing quite like that first mouthful of ice cream on a warm summer afternoon. Not caring if it drips down the cone and runs between your fingers, creating a sweet sticky mess, transporting you back to a carefree childhood.
The Glenelg Ice Cream Festival is back for its fifth year, turning Jetty Road into a lively coastal street party on Friday, February 6. The much-loved strip will be buzzing from 4pm, with seaside energy, family-friendly fun and an abundance of frozen treats designed to cool you down on a warm summer evening.
City of Holdfast Bay Mayor Amanda Wilson said the festival continues to be a highlight of the summer calendar.
“This much-loved street party brings families and the local community together to celebrate Glenelg’s iconic connection to beach days and ice cream,” Mayor Wilson said.
“Attracting more than 30,000 visitors, the Glenelg Ice Cream Festival not only highlights all things sweet but also showcases Glenelg as a premier destination.”
Jetty Road will be closed west of Partridge/Gordon Street for the festival, allowing local traders to spill onto the street and entice visitors with delicious food and more.
Making its debut at the festival, and as a venture, is the mobile karaoke bar Pitch. The sing-a-long fun will bring a fun, feel-good vibe to the event. The mobile Karaoke will be located in Chapel Plaza, offering free 20-minute karaoke sessions for teens earlier in the evening and for those aged 18+ later at night.
For those who can’t get enough, Pitch will remain on site, hosting karaoke sessions on Saturday 7 February, from 5pm to midnight, and Sunday 8 February, from 5pm to 10.30 pm.
As the sun sets on the ocean in front of Glenelg’s ferris wheel, ice cream lovers can expect Jetty Road to come alive with pop-up vendors, sweet stalls and plenty of opportunities to sample ice cream, gelato and frozen creations from across the state. Add in music and entertainment, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect summer night out.
Musicians such as Sax and Love, Sparks Trio and Eidolon will also perform along Jetty Road and in Moseley Square throughout the festival, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Festivalgoers can enjoy frozen delights from vendors including Bottega Gelateria, Cibo, Cold Rock Ice Creamery, Gelatissimo, Mio Gelato, Royal Copenhagen, Yo-Chi, St. Louis, Cakeboy, Yo-Bar, Waffle King, Uniqorn Eats, Mamma Carmela and new addition Gelato Messina. Offerings will range from classic favourites to dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, egg-free and vegan treats.
While in Glenelg, visitors can also take the chance to stop for a photo at the corner of Jetty Road and Brighton Road to see a striking new entry statement, Elysian Fields, a 21-metre-long avenue of 20 vibrant, towering flowers.
The popular Pawfect Zone will be back bigger than ever on Waterloo Street, just off Jetty Road, featuring dog-friendly treats, water stations, and a fun photo opportunity for festivalgoers and their furry friends.
The Glenelg Library will again offer an indoor sensory space, staffed by City of Holdfast Bay team members, remaining open until 8 pm to provide a calm, inclusive retreat for anyone needing a quieter environment during the evening.
The free event has become a big staple on Glenelg’s calendar, drawing families, couples, friend groups and most importantly, dessert lovers to wander the main road, soak up the vibes and enjoy dripping ice cream cones.
Glenelg Ice Cream Festival 2026
When: Friday, February 6
Where: Jetty Road, Glenelg SA 5045
For more info, click here.
