The Goldfields boasts a rich calendar of festivals and events. From music, wine and dancing to food, antiques and sport, there's always 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. Alternatively, enjoy a local drop at the Bendigo Winemakers Festival, held in historic Rosalind Park, or sample your favourite brews at the Bendigo Craft Beer and Cider Festival.
Take in a great regional arts festival and ten whole days of exhibitions, performances and more at the celebrated Castlemaine State Festival. Feeling the music? Head to Bendigo to join crowds rocking out to local and international acts at Groovin' the Moo.
Winter warmers
Sample the region's winter delights with a season of farmers markets, festivals and literary events. Time your holiday for the food, wine and entertainment of Heathcote on Show and the Heathcote Wine and Food Festival. In Bendigo, roll up your sleeves for the Australian Goldfields Open snooker tournament or get bookish at the Bendigo Writers Festival. In Ballarat, prepare your peepers for the exhibitions and events held in historic buildings across town at the 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.