Springing into action!
Spring is shaping up to be a jam-packed season of events, music, food and seaside relaxation. Whether you’re visiting the Bellarine Peninsula for a weekend escape or planning a longer stay, now’s the perfect time to book your accommodation, secure your event tickets and soak up the coastal atmosphere.
The region’s spring and early summer calendar is bursting with things to see and do – from art and music festivals to family-friendly fairs and bustling local markets.
Arty events
Art lovers can immerse themselves in creativity during the Bellarine Arts Trail over the Melbourne Cup long weekend. This much-loved event features open studios, group exhibitions and live demonstrations, showcasing the incredible talent across the peninsula. See more info and the trail map here.
And here’s one for the film buffs: the North Bellarine Film Festival returns to Parks Hall Portarlington November 14-15. Now in its 9th year, this community run festival includes Australian and international films, kicking off with The Wedding Banquet on opening night.
Music, wine and food
The Melbourne Cup weekend also brings a new event to Portarlington – the first ever Greek Festival! There will be live music, belly dancers, market stalls and of course, Greek food at Parks Hall and surrounds from 10am to 5pm on Sunday 2 November.
Music fans are gearing up for the legendary Queenscliff Music Festival (17–20 November), attracting more than 10,000 people for a weekend of world-class performances. Check out the line-up and buy tickets here.
Meanwhile, the peninsula’s wineries are buzzing. Bellarine Estate has extended its hours to include Sunday lunches, plus happy hour on Friday and Saturday evenings. Their Texas BBQ and impressive line-up of live music make it a must-visit this spring. See our website here for more on our local wineries.
Fairs and markets
The season also brings back beloved community events like the Wallington Strawberry Fair on 2 November, celebrating 130 years of sweet tradition with stalls, games and entertainment.
Markets are in full swing too, including the Portarlington Community Market (fourth Sunday of the month), Bellarine Farmers’ Market – Ocean Grove (third Saturday), Queenscliff Community Market (last Sunday), Point Lonsdale Market (second Sunday) and Drysdale Community Market (third Sunday).
Family adventures
Families are spoiled for choice on the Bellarine Peninsula, Adventure Park at Wallington is reopening for the season on 22 November with new rides and splash zones. The popular Christmas festival of lights is also set to return from 29 November. See adventurepark.com.au for more information and bookings.
Kids will also love a ride on the Bellarine Railway’s heritage steam trains, which run special themed journeys and family days throughout spring. See here for more.