Teresa Palmer on Adelaide, Fringe Fest & Why She Always Comes Back

Adelaide has that kind of magic—the kind that sneaks up on you. It’s effortlessly cool, buzzing with creativity, and just the right mix of laid-back and lively. If anyone knows that, it’s Teresa Palmer.

Born and raised in Adelaide’s suburbs, the actor, producer, and writer has lived all over the world, but this city keeps calling her home. “There’s just something about this place,” she says. “I love how familiar it is, the memories I have here, and the time I get to spend with friends I’ve had for more than 25 years.”

While she’s made a name for herself in Hollywood (Warm Bodies, Hacksaw Ridge, A Discovery of Witches), Adelaide is where Teresa feels most herself. There’s no better time to experience the city in full force than during Fringe.

A passionate supporter of the festival, Teresa is thrilled to return this year as an official Ambassador. “The Fringe has always been such a special part of our community,” she shares. “It celebrates art, creativity, and connection in the most magical way, and I’m so excited to share that with the world.” Teresa looks forward to being back with her family to cheer on the talent, discover her favourite shows, and soak in the vibrant energy the festival brings to her hometown.

This year, there’s an extra reason to celebrate—her husband, Mark Webber, will be performing his show YOU ARE GOING TO DIE at Gluttony from 15th to 16th March.

Fringe Season: The Best Time to Be in Adelaide

Anyone who’s been in Adelaide during Fringe knows it’s next-level. The streets pulse with life, the whole city transforms, and creativity is everywhere. “Not all cities shut down entire streets, nor do people volunteer their time to keep festivals running so seamlessly,” Teresa says. “But for Adelaide, it feels like a joy—making it irresistible for the best performers to return year after year.”

Being an ambassador for Fringe feels full circle for her. “I was so honoured to receive the offer,” she shares. “Fringe has been such an integral part of my life and a formative part of my creative development as an artist. I’ve been such a big fan since I was a teenager—if younger me knew, she’d be pinching herself!”

So, what are her must-see shows? “The 360 Allstars will forever blow my mind. It’s a tradition for my family to watch this show together, and no matter how many times we go, we always leave in awe. It’s got hip-hop, motorcycles, circus tricks—something for everyone.”

If she could design her own dream Fringe show? “It would be something edgy that combines humour with the suspense of a thriller! It’s been a while since I’ve done a play, so I’d love to take on a challenging character and collaborate with an Aussie director I haven’t worked with yet.”

The Best of Adelaide, According to Teresa

Beyond the Fringe madness, Adelaide always delivers—especially when it comes to food and wine. If you’re crafting the perfect weekend itinerary, take a page out of Teresa’s book, brimming with healthy, plant-based eats, fine wine, and market days.

Morning: Start your day with a slow, sun-drenched breakfast at The Gator Club, where plant-based brilliance meets homely charm. Savour a generous plate of dill-tofu scramble, herbed mushrooms, crispy ‘bacon,’ golden hash, sautéed kale, and seared tomatoes on sourdough toast, paired with a silky oat flat white. It’s the perfect way to ease into the relaxed rhythm that makes this city so special.

Midday: A wander through Adelaide Central Market is a non-negotiable. It’s a feast for the senses, where the air hums with the scent of fresh-baked pastries, exotic spices, and just-cut flowers. “There’s no better way to get a taste of the city than by grazing from stall to stall, discovering local cheeses, artisan chocolates, and the freshest seasonal produce.”

Afternoon: An escape to McLaren Vale is a ritual for anyone who loves fine wine and rolling vineyard vistas. Just a short drive from the city, it offers world-class wineries at every turn, with cellar doors pouring everything from bold Shiraz to crisp Fiano. “It’s a rarity to have a region like this right on your doorstep, and I definitely don’t take that for granted,” Teresa says.

Evening: As night falls, head to Staazi & Co., an Adelaide institution serving up some of the best vegan street food in Australia. Their souvlaki, wrapped in pillowy pita and loaded with garlicky tzatziki, is the kind of comfort food that converts even the most devoted carnivores. Or, settle in for a long, leisurely dinner at Allegra, where plant-based fine dining is elevated to an art form. “It’s not exactly a secret, but still a revelation,” she says. The intimate setting, considered plates, and elegant wine pairings make for an unforgettable experience.

Adelaide & Balance

As someone who juggles acting, writing, and motherhood, Adelaide plays a big role in Teresa’s version of balance and self-care. “No matter how busy or exhausted I am when I arrive, I always leave feeling rejuvenated. I have so much emotional support here—seeing my family and childhood friends is always a priority for my self-care.”

And when she really needs to recharge? “There’s nothing like a dip at Port Willunga to leave you feeling completely grounded and refreshed.”

For first-time visitors, she has one piece of advice: don’t miss Fringe. “It’s Adelaide at its best. The entire city levels up, and creatives and foodies from across the country come together to put on something really special. If it’s your first time, head to the Gluttony Gardens. The energy is amazing, everyone’s friendly, and locals will gladly share their tips on what to check out.”

Take it from Teresa—this is advice worth following.

Loved our chat with Adelaide’s own Teresa Palmer? Dive into our self-care focused interview with Lindy Klim or explore our latest entertainment guide for more must-know updates and a pop culture fix.