Winter on the Bellarine Peninsula is anything but quiet. As the temperature drops, the region comes alive with glowing light displays, roaring fires, live music, cosy dining experiences and family-friendly events that make the colder months worth embracing.
From magical winter train rides and illuminated attractions to long lunches by the fire and seaside escapes, there’s plenty happening across the Bellarine throughout the cold season.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family adventure or simply looking for an excuse to rug up and explore, winter is one of the best times to experience the charm of the Bellarine Peninsula.
Check out what’s coming up this winter on the Bellarine and start planning your next escape.
Light up the longest night
Celebrate the shortest day and longest night with fire, food, music and connection. Queenscliff’s magical Nightide returns from June 19–22 with a Creatures of the Deep theme.
From Friday’s avant-garde fringe event to Saturday’s Solstice Feast and main winter celebration — featuring live music, fire, bars, food trucks and fireworks — the festival brings warmth to the depths of winter. On Sunday, Nightide shifts into a free family event with a lighter, more playful atmosphere.
More info at: nightide.com.au
Get craic-ing at Portarlington’s famous folk festival
Every winter, the National Celtic Folk Festival brings music, culture and community spirit to the Bellarine Peninsula as visitors gather over the King’s Birthday long weekend (June 5-8) to celebrate all things Celtic.
The festival fills the town with world-class music, dance, storytelling, workshops and family-friendly events.
Returning in 2026, the expanded Celtic Kitchen series will feature hands-on culinary experiences, including a masterclass with Declan McGovern and a Celtic Cook Off hosted by Simon Toohey.
For ticketed events visit nationalcelticfestival.com or you can come along and enjoy the many free activities including the market and food stalls.
Snow and glow at Wallington’s Adventure Park
Adventure Park’s popular Winter Glow returns from 20 June 2026, running on select dates throughout the winter school holidays.
The Wallington theme park will transform into a winter wonderland featuring more than 2.5 kilometres of glowing light installations, snow play zones, ice sculpting and family-friendly entertainment.
Visitors will also get access to a range of rides, including two new attractions for 2026 – an ice toboggan and a new tower drop ride for thrill seekers.
Winter Glow continues to be one of the Bellarine’s biggest winter events, drawing families and visitors from across the region.
adventurepark.com.au/winter-glow
Take a steamy ride with Bellarine Railway
Step aboard The Bellarine Railway for a magical winter experience as Steamlight Nights returns on select dates throughout June and July.
The evening adventure begins with the hiss of a heritage steam train departing Queenscliff before winding through the night to Lakers Siding – transformed into a glowing winter wonderland complete with fire pits, marshmallow toasting, light installations and family-friendly games.
With cozy vibes, warm fires and a unique night-time train journey, Steamlight Nights has become one of the Bellarine’s most popular winter experiences for families and visitors alike.
More information and bookings available via The Bellarine Railway
