As the city lights up for its major winter celebration, Illuminate Adelaide is not only dazzling audiences with light, sound, and spectacle, but also inviting them to switch off.

In line with the buzz of the school holidays, Illuminate Adelaide 2025 has opened, bringing together the boldest innovations in art, light, music, and technology.

The festival offers a 17-day multi-sensory adventure that transforms Adelaide’s cityscape. Among the many standout events in this year’s trailblazing program is the Australian debut of the Offline Club, a groundbreaking Dutch initiative that is redefining how we connect with ourselves and each other.

Founded in Amsterdam by Ilya Kneppelhout, Jordy van Bennekom, and Valentijn Klok, Offline Club was born from a desire to reclaim time, attention, and human connection in an increasingly digital world. In an age of constant notifications and screen fatigue, their curated, phone-free events create a sanctuary for conversation, creativity, and real-world interaction.

“Offline Club’s mission is to create spaces where people can disconnect from technology and reconnect with themselves, others, and the world around them,” said Illuminate Adelaide Co-Founders and Creative Directors Lee Cumberlidge and Rachael Azzopardi. “It has become a big movement in Europe, and we are thrilled to have the founders introduce the concept to Adelaide audiences.”

Presented exclusively at Illuminate Adelaide, Offline Club will host five unique events throughout the season. Guests will be invited to lock away their devices and take part in thoughtfully designed experiences—ranging from analogue games to reading, conversation and creative workshops—held in bespoke, ambient spaces across the city.

These sessions offer a rare opportunity to slow down, be present, and rediscover the joy of being offline—something increasingly rare in our hyper-connected world.

With a lineup that includes international music legends, immersive art, cutting-edge light installations, and now, a digital detox movement, Illuminate Adelaide 2025 is cementing itself as one of the country’s most daring and dynamic winter festivals.

From July 2–20, the festival offers locals and visitors alike countless reasons to rug up and embrace the night.

Thursday 10 & Saturday 12 July – The Pear Café, Queens Theatre and McGregors offering comfortable spaces for mindful activities including journaling, art, and conversation

Sunday 13 July XL Event – A large-scale experience at LUMEN BAR, Adelaide University featuring multiple activity zones including reading nooks, interactive art spaces, and facilitated discussions

For program details and tickets, visit illuminateadelaide.com.