Spring Events In Victoria’s Heartland
Spring in Victoria's Heartland is packed with reasons to get out and explore, from daffodil festivals, open gardens and art shows to folk festivals, writers' events, food and wine experiences, cycling adventures and much more. Start planning your spring escape now.
Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival, Kyneton
The Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival is a celebration like no other, where the beauty of spring blooms meets the creative energy of the Kyneton community. With a theme of The Bulb and the Beautiful in 2026, this colourful, family friendly event features open gardens and flower shows, lively concerts and art exhibitions. Featured events include the annual Dog Dash, Ferret Race and a Daffodil Dash (fun run). The Festival culminates with a Grand Parade, expect live music, floats, vintage vehicles and plenty of daffodils.
When: 4-13 September, 2026
Where: Multiple locations in Kyneton
Tickets: Most events are free, some are ticketed. View the full list at kynetondaffodilandartsfestival.com.au
The Pub to Pub 2026, Lancefield
Kickstart your spring at The Pub to Pub in Lancefield. Set against the scenic Macedon Ranges, and returning after a hugely successful inaugural event, this fun run offers three race options - from a kids’ dash to a 15km round trip to Romsey and back again. Whether you prefer to walk with friends, jog with family, or push yourself to the limit, this event offers the perfect challenge. Celebrate your finish with music, a BBQ, and a cold drink at the Lancefield Hotel, plus a collector’s trophy glass to mark the moment.
When: Sunday 20 September, 2026
Where: Lancefield Hotel, Lancefield
Further information: lifeinthepeloton.com/the-pub-to-pub
Bolobek Garden Fair, Macedon
One of Victoria's most beloved garden events returns this October, with the Bolobek Garden Fair celebrating its 12th year. Set among the historic Bolobek gardens, the fair will feature more than 50 specialist stallholders offering rare plants, bulbs, garden tools, gourmet food and wine, alongside self-guided and hosted garden tours. This year's keynote speaker is Jo Lawson, Head Gardener at acclaimed regional restaurant Brae. More than a celebration of gardening, the fair is a significant community fundraiser, with all profits supporting horticultural, botanical and environmental projects across the Macedon Ranges. Over the past three years, the event has contributed more than $120,000 to local initiatives.
When: Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October, 2026, from 10am-4pm
Where: Bolobek, 370 Mt Macedon Road, Macedon
Tickets: $20 per person, per day. Free for children under 16 years. On sale now at bolobekgardenfair.com.au
The Dirty Docker, Lancefield
This two-day festival is all about running, riding, and good times in the stunning Macedon Ranges. Across the weekend, you can tackle three epic events: a cross-country run, an off-road cyclo-cross race, and a gravel cycling challenge. But this isn’t your average weekend slog - we’re talking rugged trails, mud pits, sand traps, obstacles, and all the unpredictable terrain that makes it an absolute belter of an adventure. The festivities crank up on Saturday night with live music, fire pits, saunas, food trucks, and an outdoor bar.
When: Friday 10 to Saturday 11 October, 2026
Where: Lancefield Park, Lancefield
Further information: lifeinthepeloton.com/dirty-docker
Two Duck Nights at Daylesford Cider
Finish the school holidays with live music at Daylesford Cider – a welcoming, family friendly destination venue only five-minutes from Daylesford. Settle into the courtyard for a long lunch with family and friends, sample some of Australia's best craft ciders and toe tap along to the band Two Duck Nights. Advance bookings strongly recommended.
When: Saturday 10 October
Where: Daylesford Cider
Further information: daylesfordcider.com.au/events
The Newstead Young Writers Festival, Newstead
Following a successful inaugural event, the Newstead Young Writers Festival returns this October for a weekend of creativity, imagination and storytelling. Held at the Newstead Arts Hub, the festival will feature more than 20 authors, illustrators and storytellers leading workshops, talks and mentoring sessions spanning character development, graphic novels, zine-making, songwriting and nature journalling. Highlights include appearances by Sally Rippin, Gabrielle Wang, Mo'Ju and Uncle Kutcha Edwards, alongside the announcement of the 2026 John Marsden Story Prize winners.
When: Saturday 10 to Sunday 11 October, 2026
Where: The Arts Hub Precinct, Newstead
Tickets: From $10 for adults, children are free.
Further information: newsteadyoungwritersfestival.com
Hepburn Swiss Italian Festa, Hepburn Springs
The Hepburn Swiss Italian Festa celebrates the Swiss Italian migrants who helped shape Hepburn Springs and Daylesford during the 1850s gold rush, leaving a lasting legacy of food, wine, architecture and mineral spring culture. First staged in 1993, the Festa features traditional and artisan food, parades, live performances, art exhibitions, heritage tours, bocce tournaments and fireworks. With special events at iconic local venues and Festa-inspired menus across the region, it is one of Victoria's most distinctive cultural celebrations.
When: 22-25 October, 2026
Where: Hepburn Springs and surrounds
Further information: swissitalianfesta.com
Castlemaine & District Festival of Gardens
Explore stunning private gardens during the Castlemaine and District Festival of Gardens from Saturday 24 October to Tuesday 3 November. A curated selection of 20 gardens will open their gates to the public for ten days up to, and including, Melbourne Cup Day. Whether you're an avid gardener or simply enjoy nature's beauty, these serene havens provide inspiration and relaxation in equal measure. The theme of this year’s festival is ‘The Solace of Gardening’ - recognising that gardens can offer pleasure and calm, a refuge from a busy life or from a noisy family. The festival features grand country gardens, historic gardens, verge gardens, sculpture gardens, and town gardens of many varieties.
When: Saturday 23 October to Tuesday 3 November, 2026
Where: 20 different gardens in and around Castlemaine
Further information: festivalofgardens.org
Duneira Bluebell Festival, Mount Macedon
Celebrate the beauty of spring at the annual Bluebell Festival, held at the historic Duneira Estate on Mount Macedon. Duneira’s spectacular heritage garden is the perfect setting for a fun day out, especially in spring when their iconic Dutch Elm Avenue is carpeted by a sea of Bluebells. Take the opportunity to walk through the Duneira homestead circa 1875 and view Stuart Stoneman's art collection. Guided garden tours will be held in the morning and afternoon (entry to the house and garden tours included in ticket price). Sample local drops, enjoy live tunes and pick up some tasty local treats.
When: 31 October – 1 November, 2026
Where: Duneira Estate, Officer Lane, Mount Macedon
Further information: visitmacedonranges.com/events/duneira-estate-bluebell-festival/#calendar
Daylesford Art Show, Daylesford Town Hall
The Daylesford Rotary Art Show 2025 returns over the Melbourne Cup long weekend with hundreds of artworks on display – from professional artists to talented local students. It’s a celebration of regional art at its best. Art lovers from across the country visit for this event every year to see if they can secure one of the amazing art works on offer.
When: 29 October – 3 November, 2026
Where: Stanbridge Hall, Central Springs Road, Daylesford
Further information: daylesfordartshow.com.au
Maldon Folk Festival, Maldon
Celebrating 51 years in 2026, the Maldon Folk Festival brings together an outstanding lineup of Australian folk, roots and acoustic artists, including acclaimed Barkindji singer-songwriter Nancy Bates, iconic Australian folk band The Bushwackers, and Marcia and Damian Howard’s Homemade Jam. Spanning traditional folk, Celtic, bluegrass, blues and contemporary storytelling, the program celebrates both legendary performers and emerging voices across a vibrant weekend of music and community.
When: 30 October to 2 November, 2026
Where: Multiple venues in Maldon
Tickets: Weekend tickets start for $200pp for adults, on sale now.
Further information: maldonfolkfestival.com
Halloween: Glitz & Glam at the Old Castlemaine Gaol
Castlemaine's most deliciously spooky night returns as the historic Old Castlemaine Gaol transforms into a glittering after-dark playground. Expect live music, DJs, dancers, cocktails and a Trick-or-Treat Alley featuring 10 creatively reimagined cells. Guests are encouraged to dress up and immerse themselves in an unforgettable evening, presented by the team behind Castlemaine Fringe Festival.
When: From 7:30pm until late, Saturday 31 October, 2026
Where: The Old Castlemaine Gaol, 36-48 Bowden St, Castlemaine
Tickets: Start from $25pp
Further infromation: castlemainefringe.org.au/upcoming-events
Creswick Garden Lovers’ Fair, Creswick
Back for its 11th year, the annual Creswick Garden Lovers’ Fair gives visitors access to some of the towns most glorious private gardens. Choose from new and exciting gardens, including large and small town gardens, quirky and eclectic gardens, sustainable gardens, and sprawling country estates.
When: Saturday 7 to Sunday 8 November, 2026
Where: Nine different gardens in and around Creswick
Further information: creswickgardenclub.com/glw.html
Dani’s Salon Series, The Old Macaroni Factory, Hepburn Springs
Chef and farmer Jenna Abbruzzese (Addington Downs) and acclaimed food journalist and restaurant critic Dani Valent (Good Food) launch Dani's Salon Series at heritage wonder, the Old Macaroni Factory in Hepburn Springs. This intimate dining experience brings people together to eat, drink and discuss food, farming and the world we want to live in. Guests will enjoy an Italian-inspired multi-course menu showcasing heritage-bred Addington Downs lamb, with matched Central Victorian wines and non-alcoholic pairings available.
When: Saturday 7 November, 6pm and Sunday 8 November, 12pm.
Where: Old Macaroni Factory, Hepburn Springs
Further information: To find out more and book tickets go to addingtondowns.com.au/events
Buttlejorrk’s 50th Annual Exhibition with Guest Artists Macedon Ranges Potters, The Old Auction House, Kyneton
Buttlejorrk was originally a ceramic’s guild, while that remains the focus it now also includes other crafts and art by members. Often considered a highlight for The Old Auction House Gallery each year as it fills the space with many forms of ceramics, as well as painting, textiles, woodwork, sculpture and works on paper. The perfect place to discover locally handmade art for yourself or unique Christmas gifts this year
When: on Display 7-days a week from Thursday 12th November until 4pm on Thursday 24th December 2026
Where: The Old Auction House, 52-56 Mollison Street, Kyneton
Further information: theoldauctionhouse.com.au/gallery
Budburst Wine Festival, Macedon Ranges
Budburst is back again in 2026 for another fabulous weekend of wine tasting and festivities. Taking place over the weekend 14-15 November, this is your once-a-year opportunity to go beyond the cellar door, sip rare wines you won’t find anywhere else, and meet the passionate people who craft some of Australia’s most exciting cool-climate wines. Over two days, more than 25 winemakers across 15+ Budburst venues will open their doors to offer wine tastings and share their stories. Enjoy wine tastings, curated menus, art shows, sculptor walks and live music. Explore at your own pace or jump on one of the designated Budburst bus routes.
When: Saturday 14 to Sunday 16 November, 2026
Where: Various venues around the Macedon Ranges wine region
Tickets: Festival and bus tickets are on sale now, available from budburst.com.
Energy Breakthrough, Maryborough
Energy Breakthrough is Australia's leading educational event, where students bring ingenuity and innovation to life through the design, construction and competition of energy-efficient vehicles. Hosted annually in Maryborough, the event combines STEM learning with teamwork, creativity and real-world problem-solving. Drawing thousands of participants and visitors, Energy Breakthrough not only inspires future innovators and leaders but also delivers a unique community celebration that showcases the region's commitment to education, sustainability and excellence.
When: Wednesday 18 to Sunday 22 November 2026
Where: Princes Park, Maryborough
Further information: eb.org.au
Town Folk Festival, Djaara / Castlemaine
Town Folk Festival returns to Djaara/Castlemaine this November with an impressive mix of international and Australian contemporary folk talent to Castlemaine, headlined by New Zealand's Aldous Harding, acclaimed US singer-songwriter Kevin Morby, UK duo Flyte, Melbourne favourites Folk Bitch Trio, and Dutch psych-instrumental outfit YĪN YĪN. Enjoy performances across three local venues – The Bridge Hotel, Boomtown Winery, and Shedshaker Brewery – with each stage offering its own unique atmosphere. The Main Stage is at the centre of it all, on the grassy Sunken Oval. With camping options, a dedicated festival bus, and easy V/Line access, punters can easily do a day trip or extend to an overnight experience. Expect food trucks, craft beer, kids activities, and a welcoming, family-friendly vibe.
When: Saturday 21 November, 2025
Where: Multiple venues, Djaara/Castlemaine
Tickets: SOLD OUT townfolkfestival.com
Traditional Arts Fair 2025, Buda Castlemaine
The Traditional Arts Fair returns bigger and better than ever before to Castlemaine this November. Set amongst the spectacular spring garden, Buda will showcase traditional arts, cooking and gardening in as many and varied forms as possible, in the spirit of the Leviny daughters. Embroidery, book binding, saffron, weaving, garden crafts, metalwork, felting, painting, jewellery, cooking, handmade body products, basket weaving and much more.
When: Sunday November 22, from 10am till 4pm
Where: Buda Castlemaine, 42 Hunter Street, Castlemaine
Tickets: $10 for adults, children are free, find out more at budacastlemaine.org/event/taf26
Art in the Vines 'Art in Motion 2' at Hanging Rock Winery
Art in the Vines returns to Hanging Rock Winey in the Macedon Ranges, transforming the landscape into a stunning outdoor gallery. Set among vineyards with iconic views of Hanging Rock and Mount Macedon, this free exhibition features more than 20 kinetic sculptures that respond to wind and changing conditions, making the landscape itself part of the experience and ensuring no two visits are quite the same. A highlight is the rare opportunity to see five works by acclaimed Australian kinetic sculptor Rudi Jass together in the landscape, showcasing the artist’s fascination with movement, balance and natural forces. Visitors can follow the sculpture trail before enjoying a wine tasting, local produce or the vineyard views at Hanging Rock Winery’s cellar door.
When: From 19 October until end April 2027
Where: Hanging Rock Winery, 88 Jim Road, Newham
Tickets: Entry to the exhibition is free
Further information: hangingrock.com.au