Things to do this summer in regional Victoria
Teleisha Thomas
December 2024When the weather warms up, our beautiful regional hotspots truly shine. Immerse yourself in arts and culture, explore the outdoors, or relax and unwind, we’ve rounded up the best ways to make the most of the season.
Ballarat and the Central Highlands are buzzing with events and attractions this summer.
For an afternoon of live music and local flavours, head to Summer Sundays at Ballarat Botanical Gardens, where the pop-up Garden Bar, food trucks, and free concerts are a great way to unwind every Sunday in January.
For a more intimate festival experience, Newstead Live brings together live music, workshops, a pool party and disco across the last weekend in January.
The eighth annual Campbells Creek Collectables Fair is on January 18-19, with over 100 indoor and outdoor stalls showcasing the best local and interstate dealers in antiques, vintage, collectables and retro.
Take in more of the region’s natural beauty with a visit to Hanging Rock Winery for the Art in the Vines sculpture exhibition - a relaxing way to explore contemporary art in a spectacular outdoor setting.
Down on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, The Peninsula Film Festival, held from 17-19 January, kicks off with an Aussie feature film on Friday night, followed by a short film festival at Rosebud’s Village Green on Saturday, before wrapping up with a filmmaking workshop for aspiring directors at Peninsula Cinemas on Sunday.
Unwind and rejuvenate with a soak in the healing geothermal waters at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa. Or get back into the swing of things at one of the peninsula’s world-class gold courses, including Moonah Links, Eagle Ridge and Flinders.
On the other side of the bay, Geelong’s The Festival of Sails, held over the January long weekend, blends world-class sailing with live music, gourmet food, and entertainment.
Food lovers mustn’t miss the Portarlington Mussel Festival on January 11, celebrating the region's mussel harvest with live music, cooking demos, and over 200 stalls.
For breathtaking coastline views, head to the Ocean Grove Lookout, which has a playground for the kids and great picnic spots.
If you're into cycling or hiking, the Bellarine Rail Trail is a great way to explore the countryside from South Geelong to Queenscliff.
