To celebrate History Month this May, a range of activities are occurring that are being hosted and supported by the City of Playford including pop-up events, special talks and tours for people to connect, learn and capture their own history.

History Month provides an opportunity for both residents of Playford and those outside the region to learn, discover and connect with Playford’s past, understand more about our rich history, connect with others in the community and to capture local stories.

Traditionally, the activities offered throughout History Month have been very popular highlighting a genuine community appetite for local history.

Mayor Glenn Docherty has encouraged everyone to get into the spirit of History Month.

“History Month is important because it’s a chance for community to come together and reconnect with the stories, people, places and moments that have shaped our city.”

“Learning about, connecting with and celebrating our past can contribute to building pride about living in Playford and foster a sense of belonging, while also giving space for long-term residents and community members to reflect and share their experiences and knowledge.”

“We’re celebrating History Month in a big way—reserve your place, save the date and bring the family along.”

See below for the full program of activities happening across May.

Genealogy Lock In – 6 May

Participants will have the opportunity to learn about their family history with assistance from Council’s local history team.

Participants will have exclusive access to family history records and local heritage resources.

Wednesday 6 May

6pm-9pm

Playford Civic Centre Library

Book here to reserve your FREE spot.

Author Talk with Paul Flavel – 7 May

Join author and historian Paul Flavel for a walk down memory lane as he revisits the magic, the traditions, and the community spirit that made “Johnnies”, the department store that shaped generations of South Australians before its closure in 1998 an Adelaide icon.

Paul will share the story behind creating his book and reflect on why the memories of John Martin’s continue to shine so brightly after all these years.

Thursday 7 May

6pm-7pm

Playford Civic Centre Library

Ages 16+

Bookings essential- book here to reserve your FREE spot!

History Quiz Night- 9 May

A history-themed quiz night, offering an entertaining and engaging way to test knowledge and learn more about local Playford history.

Test your mettle and celebrate Playford’s past in a quiz through time with Jono Makai from Funny Quiz.

Round up your team and get ready for a night of laughs, friendly competition and great trivia with Funny Quiz! Test your knowledge across Playford history, Australia, music, sport and more.

Tickets are $15 per person or $10 per person when booking a table of 8

Includes a delicious charcuterie spread to share (1 per table) and one complimentary drink (soft drink, wine or beer). The bar will be open featuring a selection of local wines for purchase.

Saturday 9 May 6pm-9:15pm

Playford Civic Centre

Limited spots available – bookings essential

Ages 18+

Book here

Playford History Festival –16 May

History Festival will celebrate Playford’s past through displays, workshops, talks, school visits, games and more.

Uncover more about Playford’s rich history, shared nostalgia, connect with community and capture your own stories. Free BBQ, activities and more.

Saturday 16 May

10am-2pm

All ages welcome

Playford Civic Centre and Prince George Plaza

No bookings required

Holden Manufacturing Heritage Centre- Private Tour- 24 May

After selling out in record time, a second private tour of the Holden Manufacturing Heritage Centre at Lionsgate Business Park has been scheduled.

Take a private tour of the Holden Manufacturing Heritage Centre and explore the story behind one of Australia’s most iconic brands. From its beginnings in 1859 through to the final Australian-built vehicles in 2017, this guided experience uncovers the people, innovation and legacy of Holden.

Hosted by passionate former Holden employees, this is a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes and discover Australia’s manufacturing history like never before.

Sunday 24 May

9:30am-12pm

Meet at the Playford Civic Centre at 9:30am where attendees will travel on a bus to Lionsgate Business Park.

Attendees will arrive back at Playford Civic Centre at approximately 12:30pm.

Bookings are essential (names required for site access).

Tickets are $5 per person and will go on sale at 9am on Monday 11 May.

Visit Eventbrite to book your ticket or visit the Playford Civic Centre library or Stretton Centre library to receive staff assistance in purchasing your ticket.