Overview
The Goldfields boasts a rich calendar of festivals and events. From music, wine and dancing to food, antiques and sport, there's something to see and do all year round.
Summer celebrations
Ring in the new year and kick up your heels at the Maryborough Highland Games, a New Year's Day fixture for the past 140 years. Over the Australia Day weekend, celebrate liquid gold with craft beer and live music at the Ballarat Beer Festival. In February, the Ballarat Beat Rockabilly Festival's music, hot rods and fashion will have you back-combing your bangs right back to the 50s.
Autumn magic
At Easter, see Sun Loong the Chinese dragon parade through the streets of Bendigo for the annual four-day Bendigo Easter Festival, Australia's longest running cultural festival. Enjoy a local drop at Strategem Bendigo Winemakers Festival in historic Rosalind Park, or sample favourite brews at Bendigo Craft Beer and Cider Festival. Every other year, head to Castlemaine State Festival, a fabulous regional arts festival with exhibitions, performances and more.
Winter warmers
Sample winter delights with a season of farmers markets, festivals and literary events. Don't miss the twinkling lights, markets and family-friendly entertainment at Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill, June to July. Time your holiday for the food, wine and entertainment at Heathcote on Show and the Heathcote Wine and Food Festival. Immerse yourself in a world of books and writing at Bendigo Writers Festival and spend time at Ballarat International Foto Biennale.
Springtime follies
In October, tour Bendigo's heritage buildings while enjoying offerings from local restaurants at Bendigo Heritage Uncorked. Then step into spring at the Maldon Folk Festival, a four-day musical extravaganza featuring some of the country's finest folk artists.
