Launceston is starting to shake off the winter chill, with warmer weather and longer days incoming, now is the time to get out and start exploring Northern Tasmania.

There is something special about spring in Launceston, there is an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement.

Spring is the perfect time to explore with some fantastic festivals lined-up, new releases on offer from local wineries and fresh produce back in the forefront of people's minds.

Drink a toast to spring at Effervescence, a celebration of Tasmania's superb sparkling wines, hosted by Josef Chromy.

Don't miss our preview on pages 4 to 5 where we feature some of the festival highlights to help you plan your feast of wine and good food. This is a festival that really celebrates the best things about Tasmania, produce, experience, landscape and sparkling.

Staying on the theme of produce make a note to head to the Tamar Valley for their thrid Farmgate Festival November 23 to 24.

Here you can sample the best of the region's fresh produce and go behind the scenes as local growers throw open their gates to the public.

Another highlight in the spring calendar is the famous Tasmanian Craft Fair, make sure to check out Cassie's preview on page 8. The fair spans over 8 venues and 5 galleries bringing you more than 200 artisans that create anything from jewellery, fishing flies, stained glass and furniture.

Stepping away from festivals and fairs, this edition of Northern Exposure also previews the Kid I Am Expo, back after a year of this event is sure to be a winner for kids and parents alike, check out our highlights on page 16.

And if all that wasn't enough we have featured two great events The Fresh Comedy Gala and Picnic at Hanging Rock. So your spring calendar is covered on all fronts.

There really is no excuse to hideaway this spring, so make sure you get outside and enjoy all that Northern Tasmania has on offer.