As Good Friday approaches, many businesses across Australia are preparing for a long weekend filled with closures and reduced hours, while some establishments remain open to serve eager customers. In cities like Adelaide, Wagga Wagga, Newcastle, and Brisbane, residents can find various options for last-minute shopping and dining.
In Adelaide, many shops and eateries will close their doors to celebrate Good Friday, but there are still plenty of places to grab those essential hot cross buns and Easter eggs. For those looking to enjoy a meal or a drink, several venues will remain open. Notable events include Dawnbreak, a dance party on the Glenelg foreshore on April 18, starting at 5 am, and DinoFest at Victoria Park from April 15 to 27, featuring interactive dinosaur encounters.
Woodhouse Adventure Park will host special Easter activities from April 18 to 20, including a Tube Slide and an Easter Colouring Competition for children under 12. The Meadows Easter Fair will bring family-friendly fun from April 18 to 21, showcasing handmade goods and local produce. Additionally, the Prospect Good Friday Festival will take place on April 18, offering local food trucks, artisan market stalls, and live music from 11 am to 6 pm.
For those seeking dining options, several eateries will be open on Good Friday, including Aphelion Cellar Door, Arkaba, and Bottega Bandito, among others. Bars like Empire Bar and Pool and Holey Moley will also welcome patrons during the holiday.
Meanwhile, in Wagga Wagga, the local council has announced closures for various facilities over the Easter weekend. The Gregadoo Waste Management Centre will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, while council administration offices, libraries, and other facilities will remain shut for the duration of the weekend. Residents can expect regular waste collection services, but they are advised to check individual business hours for supermarkets and cafes.
Woolworths and Coles will close on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, with limited hours on Easter Saturday and Monday. IGA Wagga will also observe similar hours, closing on Good Friday and reopening on Saturday. For those looking for a caffeine fix, a few cafes like Makers Coffee and Casa Mia Cafe will be open on Good Friday, providing a chance to grab a bite or a cup of coffee.
Wagga Wagga will host several events over the weekend, including the Bidgee Strawberries and Cream's Easter Egg Hunt on Good Friday, which promises family-friendly fun with activities and live entertainment. Additionally, the Easter Carnival at the Riverina Paceway and the Wagga Stamp and Coin Market will take place on Saturday, April 19, offering a variety of entertainment options.
In Newcastle and the Hunter region, shopping centres including Charlestown and Kotara will close on Good Friday, with limited openings on Easter Sunday. However, Harris Farm Markets will be open throughout the weekend from 6 am to 9 pm. Residents are encouraged to check local websites for specific store hours during the holiday.
Public services such as the Newcastle City Administration Centre will be closed from Good Friday to Easter Monday, but waste collection will continue as normal. Beaches and ocean baths will be patrolled, providing a safe environment for beachgoers during the holiday weekend.
In Brisbane, many businesses will also shut down for the Easter long weekend. However, several cafes and restaurants will remain open, including Peach Café, Agnes Bakery, and Snug, providing a range of options for those looking to dine out. Notably, Felons Brewing Co and hôntô will also welcome guests throughout the weekend.
As the Easter holiday approaches, it’s essential for residents in all these regions to plan ahead, checking opening hours and event schedules to ensure they can make the most of the long weekend. While many businesses will be closed, the vibrant events and open establishments offer plenty of opportunities for community engagement and festive enjoyment.
Whether you're looking for a place to celebrate with family or just need to grab some last-minute supplies, there are options available across the board. Remember to check with individual venues for the latest updates, as details may change leading up to the holiday.
