A Guide to Crab Fest Weekend

Crab Fest is Mandurah’s most significant event that attracts visitors from across the State, all keen to get a taste of the lifestyle, location, culture and—most importantly—the famous blue swimmer crabs that are unique to the region. Mark your calendars (18th & 19th March) and get ready to experience the best of Mandurah and the Peel region at Crab Fest.

Crab Fest: A Celebration Of Culture & Cuisine

A Guide to Crab Fest 2023

Crab Fest is Mandurah’s most significant event that attracts visitors from across the State, all keen to get a taste of the lifestyle, location, culture and—most importantly—the famous blue swimmer crabs that are unique to the region. The weekend-long event is full to the brim with fresh food, live performances, children’s entertainment, cooking demonstrations, celebrities and more! Mark your calendars (18th & 19th March) and get ready to experience the best of Mandurah and the Peel region at Crab Fest.

After a 3-year break due to the pandemic, this much-anticipated celebration is set to take place on 18th & 19th March 2023. Held annually on the 3rd weekend in March in the beautiful coastal city of Mandurah, Crab Fest is a true feast for the senses, offering a wide range of activities for all ages to enjoy.
Channel 7 Mandurah Crab Fest 3

With the tasty Blue Swimmer Crab a local speciality around the shores of Mandurah, you can get your claws on plenty of fresh, regional shellfish products to enjoy alongside the Peel’s best brewers and wineries, plus pop-up food stalls for every taste.

It’s not all just about the crab through. Despite the name, Crab Fest features a huge range of activities for all ages. From iconic Australian entertainer Vanessa Amorosi on the Main Stage, to celebrity TV chef and author ‘Fast Ed’ Halmagyi cooking up a storm on the Spud Shed Cooking Stage, and from kids activities to family entertainment, workshops and displays.

Channel 7 Mandurah Crab Fest 2

This year, My Kitchen Rules’ season 12 contestants and Albany locals Dave and Che will be bringing the heat to Crab Fest as they recreate the dish that afforded them a score of 10/10 on the show: Crispy Skin Barramundi with Hot Thai Green Curry Sauce and Garlic Rice. 

Read more about everything Crab Fest on the Crab Fest website.

While the festival itself is free, there are also ticketed events available for those looking for a more exclusive experience. 

Getting to Crab Fest is easy. Catch the train to Mandurah. FREE shuttle buses running all weekend will meet you and bring you to the heart of the festival.

More experiences on Crab Fest weekend

There’s so much to do at the festival but also in and around Mandurah during the Crab Fest weekend. Explore further to discover the activities you’ll want to include in your itinerary. 

Luxury Crab Fest Cruise by Mandurah Boat Charters

Crab Fest Cruise with Mandurah Boat Charters

One of the best ways to take in Crab Fest is by boat!  Step aboard the lavish floating limousines that cruise along the Mandurah canals. Where comfort meets class, tour Mandurah’s picturesque waterways and historic canals while experiencing intimate views of the local marine life and vibrant Crab Fest events. The 45-minute canal cruise includes tour commentary as well as the option to BYO drinks and local cuisine from the array of restaurants and pubs supporting Crab Fest.

Prices:

  • $50 per adult (13yrs+)
  • $25 per child (1-12yrs)
  • $0/Free (0-12months)

*Wheelchair access is available and pets are welcome.

Book your Crab Fest cruise here.

Mandurah Cruises $15 Crab Fest Cruises

BC Mandurah Cruises
Dolphin Cruise & Views | Image courtesy of Mandurah Cruises

See Mandurah’s best sights on Mandurah Cruises’ half-hour $15 Crab Fest Cruises which depart every 20 minutes across Crab Fest weekend, between 10am and 5pm.

Cruise Mandurah famous waterways and luxury canals ~ filled with playful dolphins, birdlife and unforgettable scenery!

From the water, take in prime views of Crab Fest’s colour and festivities. Enjoy live commentary from local experts while relaxing in comfort on deck.

Prices:

  • $15 per adult
  • Children under 3 cruise for free

Book your Crab Fest cruise here.

Pirate Ship $15 Crab Fest Cruises

Pirate Ship Crab Fest Cruise 1
The Pirate Ship Mandurah

Join ‘Pete Blackbeard’ and his buckos at Pirate Ship Mandurah for a 30-minute cruise during Crab Fest weekend. Kids can dress as pirates, steer the wheel, ring the bell and fire water cannons.

Or jump aboard the ‘White Pearl’, a skippered luxury charter seating up to 19 passengers. Cruise around Mandurah’s waterways for 30 minutes for only $15 pp.

Purchase your tickets on board the ship departing from the jetty out the front of ‘The Bay Cafe’ on the Eastern Foreshore, opposite 9 Mandurah Terrace.

BBQ Boat Crab Lunch

BBQ Boat Crab Lunch Cruise Crab Fest 2023

Captain your own Mandurah mini cruise this Crab Fest weekend, on board Western Australia’s only donut-shaped electric boats. Devour a delicious cooked crab lunch (recommended), or bring a picnic or barbecue lunch to enjoy, while cruising Mandurah’s breathtaking Ocean Marina and Venetian Canal. Your own unique way to experience Channel 7 Mandurah Crab Fest 2023!

Book your 1.5-hour BBQ Boat Crab Lunch for up to 6 people here.

Book your 1.5-hour BBQ Boat Crab Lunch for up to 10 people here.

Soulmate Charters

Soulmate Charters Mandurah Crab Fest Cruise

Soulmate Charters’ Crab Fest Cruise is another great option to explore the waterways during Crab Fest weekend. Their relaxing 45 minute cruise will take you around the Mandurah town waterways, the marina and Mandurah’s canal homes. And with a little bit of luck you’ll even spot some dolphins.

If you haven’t explored Mandurah’s much-hyped ‘Giants of Mandurah’ attraction yet, join Soulmate Charters on their popular 45-minute Giants Scenic Cruise all day on the Saturday (18/03), with tours running hourly from 9am – 3pm. Departing from the Port Bouvard Marina in Dawesville, you will visit one of the most famous Giants, ‘Seba’s Song’. This Giant faces away from land, contemplating the waters – the only Giant to do so. He can only be sighted in full by boat.

Book your Soulmate Charters cruise here.

Scenic Giant Cruise with Soulmate Charters
Seba's Song' by Thomas Dambo, Giants of Mandurah

Crab Fest Fireworks Cruise

Fireworks Cruise

See the spectacular Saturday night fireworks of this year’s Crab Fest, while cruising Mandurah’s sparkling waterways.

Watch in style on board Mandurah Cruises’ 1-hour cruise, as the night sky ignites in bursts of colour. Fun for the whole family, you’ll enjoy prime viewing of this much-loved event.

Prices:

  • $35 per adult 
  • $20 per child (3-12yrs)
  • $10 (under 3 years)

Book your Crab Fest Fireworks Cruise.

The Tourist Fun Train

If you would prefer to explore Crab Fest on land, then Tourist Fun Train’s Big Toot has a seat ready and waiting for you. Touring the whole weekend on the 18th and 19th of March, the Big  Toot train travels throughout the city, allowing you to hop-on and hop-off as you please! This is a great option if you want to explore the wide range of events happening in Mandurah or, you simply need to rest your feet.

Due to busy crowds, the Little Toot train won’t be running. 

The Bike Kiosk

Hiring e scooters from the Bike Kiosk

Make the most of the glorious Autumn weather by hiring a bike or scooter from The Bike Kiosk. With a wide range catering to all needs and requirements, you’ll be able to safely and effortlessly cruise from one festivity to another! Or book a ‘Ride the Giants’ e-bike tour and cycle through the untouched ends of greater Mandurah where nature flourishes and behemoths protect the waterways. 

Hire your e-scooter or e-bike here.

Peel Produce Market

Peel Produce Market

On the Saturday of Crab Fest, the Peel Produce Market, located at Leprechaun Reserve in Dawesville, is running a huge artisan market in conjunction with the Park Run’s 8th birthday celebration. Expect to see fresh and seasonal produce, handmade homewares, delicious foods and lot of colours as Mandurah’s wide variety of talented makers, sowers, bakers and doers join forces to make this one of the biggest markets Mandurah has ever seen. 

Mandurah Museum

Mandurah Museum

Whilst you’re soaking up the culture of Mandurah during Crab Fest, you might begin to wonder about Mandurah’s history. Satiate your hunger for knowledge by making a stop at the Mandurah Museum 11 am – 3 pm on Saturday or Sunday. The museum showcases the rich heritage of Mandurah and the Peel region, with a diverse collection of exhibits, artifacts and interactive displays that bring the past to life. From the first settlers to the present day, the museum takes visitors on a journey through the history of the area, highlighting the events, people, and industries that have shaped its unique identity. 

King Carnival

If you’re looking for a way to truly excite and delight your kiddies, a stop at the King Carnival is a must during Crab Fest. At King Carnival, there will be all of your favourite carnival rides and games (including the clowns), fun and delicious show bags (starting from $5) as well as the Mandurah Ferris Wheel glowing in all of its glory. A great way to work up an appetite before lunch.

Escape the crowds

As much as we love the liveliness of Crab Fest, we also understand that some prefer to escape the crowds and find a quieter activity. For those who prefer the latter, there are plenty of quiet activities to enjoy during the festival too. 

Stag Watersports

Stag Watersports

If you’re looking for a way to steer clear of the crowds on land, then head to the water! Stag Watersports’ jet skis are available for hire and are a fantastic way to add excitement and adventure to your festivities. Whether you’re a seasoned water sports enthusiast or a first-time rider, the team at Stag offers everything you need to feel confident on the water. 

Book your jet ski experience here.

Kaleidoscope Tours

Kaleidoscope Tours

Kaleidoscope Tours is the perfect opportunity for families, couples and groups of friends to experience a more exclusive and intimate experience in Mandurah during the Crab Fest weekend. For families, book a Giants of Mandurah Tour and marvel at the impressive Thomas Dambo sculptures. For groups of 4 or more, choose the Winery Tour and enjoy a few samples of local wines as you learn about the wine-making process. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on creating unforgettable memories, Kaleidoscope Tours is a must-do activity during the Crab Fest weekend.

Choose your tour here.

Amaze Miniature Park

Amaze Miniature Park 1

Lose yourself in the wonderful miniature world at Amaze Miniature Park. With 70 miniature replicas of well-known historic buildings, you and your little kids will feel like giants as you admire the intricate details of the models. Not to mention, the Park provides a whole day of fun with mazes, mini golf, lego and more. Pack a lunch or purchase from the cafe and you’ll be ready for a whole afternoon of activities at the one location.

Ranger Red’s Zoo

Ranger Reds Zoo

Located on the banks of the Murray River in Pinjarra, Ranger Red’s Zoo is a boutique zoo that offers a hans-on experience. This is perfect for animal lovers and for families who want their little ones to experience something different. Open 9 am – 5 pm over the weekend, it’s worth the ~15-minute drive outside of Mandurah for the visit.

Edenvale Heritage Tearooms

Located at the 130-year-old award-winning homestead, find respite at the Edenvale Heritage Tearooms. Although the charming building alone is a reason to visit, the delicious rustic food makes Edenvale Heritage Tearooms a sought-after destination for brunch, lunch and dessert. Open 8.30 am – 3 pm, we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot.

Dwellingup Treetops Adventure

Treetops Adventure Dwellingup

45 minutes from Mandurah, a thrilling adventure awaits in the midst of pine and jarrah trees at Dwellingup’s Treetops Adventure. Choose from a wide range of activities, including Tree Ropes Course, Zipcoasters, Mountain Bike hire and more. Activities cater to all age groups from 1-5yrs, 8-12yrs, teens, adults and the oldies. Get everyone involved and having fun at Dwellingup Treetops Adventure. 

Crab Fest weekend

Mandurah’s Crab Fest is a weekend of fun for everyone. Welcoming families, couples, groups and solo adventurers, if you’re looking for an exciting weekend away, this is the opportunity you’ve been looking for. Mark your calendars for the third weekend of March and start writing up your itinerary—Crab Fest is just around the corner!

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WA’s Christmas Lights Capital

If you are a lover of all things Christmas, then you won’t want to miss the Mandurah Christmas Lights cruise.

WA’s Christmas Lights Capital

You won’t want to
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Christmas Festivities.

The coastal city of Mandurah, less than an hour south of Perth, is often compared to a little modern Venice because of its spectacular waterways and canal living. But did you know that Mandurah comes alive at Christmas and is known by many as Western Australia’s Capital of Christmas?

MERRY CHRISTMAS – it is time to celebrate the festive season in WA’s Christmas Capital! Experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of Mandurah. Check out our top tips for a merry festive season.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TRAIL

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The Mandurah Christmas Lights Trail presented by Seaside Estate is back bigger and better than ever before, with bright new additions around every corner from the Eastern Foreshore, into Mandjar Square and across to the Mandurah Ocean Marina.

Santa will be sparkling on the foreshore, and at 4.4m tall, you can’t miss him. He’ll be joined on the illuminated lights trail by a massive reindeer, Volkswagen bus and a 10.5m tall Christmas tree, as well as a beautifully lit pirate ship.

Say cheese! Pose with your loved ones and snap a picture sitting in the glistening selfie wreath, under the bright yellow stars, alongside the present boxes or amongst the selfie elves.

Christmas Lights Capital

This Christmas, we’re going bigger and brighter! Some new lights trail additions to extend the festive fun include a huge Christmas boot, a Sleeps ‘til Christmas Countdown Clock, 50 interactive stepping stones, Santas motorcycle and more!

With over 23 installations to make up the lights trail, you’ll see why Mandurah really is the capital of Christmas. Whether you wander through the lights up close or view them in all their glory from afar, you’re sure to stumble across reindeers, presents, stars, trees, elf’s, trains, or the big man himself in the heart of the city, this Christmas in Mandurah!

Roving Carolers

Keep an eye out for roving carolers and street performers each evening, as well as pop up activities and activations the whole family, will enjoy. Thanks to Halls Head Community Bank there will have a variety of community groups throughout the lights trail on Thursday (TBC Monday and Tuesdays). Something for everybody all month!

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CANAL TOURS

The Mandurah residents who live on the canals like to dress up their houses for Christmas with over 200 houses along the canals lit up all in the spirit of Christmas.

The best way to watch this spectacle is from a boat. Ever popular, this delightful cruise experience becomes increasingly beautiful each year. Dress for the occasion, sing along with the Christmas carols and bring your Christmas cheer.

This is a very special tour at a special time of year. Don’t miss out on this spectacular event and book your Christmas Lights Cruise early with one of our local operators.

Mandurah Christmas Pageant

mandurah-christmas-pagent

This wonderful tradition sees local community groups and businesses parade their floats through Mandurah’s CBD. Then after the parade head to the Eastern Foreshore where the festive cheer continues with lots of family fun and excitement for all ages.

  •  Visit Santa’s Grotto
  • Participate in fun festive activities and workshops
  • Listen and sing along to the wonderful live Christmas carols and more.

Mandurah Christmas Charity Ride

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The Mandurah Murray Ulysses will celebrate the 30th Anniversary of their Motorcycle Charity Ride. Join them on December 11th as they ride through the local streets and toot their horns at the spectators. Come dressed as Santa, an Elf, or just come as you are. Even Spiderman is welcome!!

Find out more information here.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

new-years-eve-2022

Visit Mandurah this New Year’s Eve for a spectacular fireworks display to welcome in 2022. The first fireworks display is at 9 pm for families followed by another grand display at midnight.

Viewing locations:
– Eastern Foreshore
– Stingray Point
– Henry Sutton Grove
– The Mandurah bridge pedestrian walkway.

Mandurah will be full of festive magic, so come visit our Christmas Wonderland by the Water.

What’s On this festive season

Thanks to Community Bank Halls Head.

Santa and Elves

Every night throughout December from 6pm – 9pm

Mandjar Square

Salvation Army – Carols on the Foreshore

Saturday 4 December

Eastern Foreshore – Rotunda

Free Kids Christmas Activities

Wednesdays 7 pm – 9 pm from 8-22 December

City Centre

Wanslea and NDIS Christmas Craft and Face Painting

Thursday 9 December from 6 pm

Eastern Foreshore

Community Activation Evenings

Thursdays 7 pm – 9 pm from 9-23 December

City Centre

Traditional Christmas Carols – Salvation Army

Saturday 18 and Friday 24 December from 7 pm – 8.30 pm

Eastern Foreshore

Community Bank Halls Head, Bendigo Bank Community Night

Wednesday 15 December from 7 pm – 9 pm

Eastern Foreshore

Kingdom City Christmas Concert

Thursday 16 December from 7 pm

Eastern Foreshore – Rotunda

Metro Modelling Christmas Performances

Thursday 23 December from 7 pm

Eastern Foreshore

Festive Roving and Street Entertainment

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday 7 pm – 9 pm from 4-19 December

For more events, click here.

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