The best events in western Victoria this June
Winter is coming, and so is a stacked calendar of events.
Darcie Humphreys
April 30, 2026
It’s no secret that West Vic crusts over with a decent frost this time of year, but the locals know how to make the most of it with ice-skating, homegrown artwork and, naturally, a festival dedicated to yoga.
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Ballarat Winter Festival
Image: Tourism Midwest Victoria
Ballarat comes alive in the winter. It’s the season the city is famous for, so it’s accordingly transformed with an ice-skating rink in the CBD and a huge range of frosty activities. There’s also a city-wide hot chocolate competition that could warm anyone’s spirits.
When: June 27 - July 29
Where: Ballarat
SENSE-ational Aireys
This event has a bit of everything: wellness seminars, documentary screenings, panels, art workshops, local markets, and many more. It’s a celebration of life and culture in a coastal town that is set to be a feast for the senses.
When: May 29 - June 28
Where: Aireys Inlet
The Covent Daylesford Art Gallery
Image: The Convent
The Convent Daylesford is a delightful obscurity. The former nunnery is surrounded by lush gardens, a gourmet cafe and is now a weaving maze of artwork as a multi-level gallery.
Current exhibitions include the Young at Art Gippsland Collective and Brian Nash, displayed alongside hilltop views of spa country.
When: Until the end of June
Where: Daylesford
Cost: $10 donation
Faulty Towers: The Original Dining Experience
This critically-acclaimed West End production is bringing the shenanigans of Sybil, Basil and Manuel to the West Vic coast this June. About three quarters of the show is improvised, so get ready for a barrel of belly laughs. Bonus: The show comes alongside a three-course dinner.
When: June 6
Where: Mantra Lorne, Mountjoy Parade, Lorne
Cost: $85 - $99
Luke Kidgell - Good Intentions Tour
Viral comedian Luke Kidgell is hitting the Grampians to unleash some of his famous crowd-work and signature comedy. He’s returning from a world tour that saw him perform in Europe, North America and New Zealand.
When: June 6
Where: Hamilton Performing Arts Centre
Cost: $55
Warrnambool Yoga Festival
If you want to dedicate a winter weekend to meditation and a small dose of inner peace, this is the perfect event. Set in an idyllic tourist town, this festival will celebrate all things yoga and good for the soul.
When: June 13 - 14
Where: Emmanuel Centre, 140 Botanic Rd, Warrnambool
Cost: $58 - $120
Reading this in May? Keep scrolling for our recommendations!
May is a busy month in the community, with festivals, a comedy roadshow, and racing events for both the revheads and the marathon lovers.
Image: Koroit Irish Festival
Koroit Irish Festival
A three-day festival celebrating the town's Irish heritage with music, dance, and community events. Highlights include the Australian “Danny Boy” singing Championship, a street procession, and the "Rock The Boat" dance.
Where: Across town
When: May 1-3
Cost: Kids free, Adults $30
Image: Visit Victoria
Crash ‘N’ Bash State Title
A night of speedway action headlined by the Crash ‘n’ Bash State Title, known for unpredictable, full-contact racing. The program also includes 360-LS Sprintcars and vintage vehicles, alongside food vendors and family-friendly viewing areas.
Where: Hamilton Speedway
When: May 2
Cost: Adult: $30; Concession: $25; Child: $15
Image: Warrnambool Racing Club
May Racing Carnival
One of Warrnambool’s biggest annual events returns, bringing three days of jumps racing, fashion and food.
The carnival attracts visitors from across the state, with feature races, hospitality packages and a packed social calendar on and off the course.
Where: Warrnambool Racecourse
When: May 5-7
Cost: General admission is $30-$50, prices for packages range between $175 and $920.
More info
Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow
Comedians Dane Simpson, Grace Jarvis, Oliver Coleman, Rowan Thambar and Ting Lim are travelling the region during May - stopping at venues across Ararat, Ballarat, Colac, Warrnambool and Portland.
Where: Ararat Town Hall, Ballarat Performing Arts Centre, Colac Otway Performing Arts and Cultural Centre, Portland Arts Centre and Lighthouse Theatre Warrnambool
When: Various dates through May
Cost: Ticket prices vary each venue
Image: Visit Victoria
Coleraine Mother's Day Trash and Treasure Market
A community market filled with pre-loved goods, vintage finds and handmade items. Enjoy a barbecue breakfast, live music and plenty of stalls to browse, with everything from homewares to plants and books on offer.
Where: 27 Pilleau Street
When: May 10, 9am-12pm
Cost: Free entry
More info
Warrnibald Festival of Arts
A six-day art event across Warrnambool, a standout is the Warrnibald Portrait Prize, recognising local volunteers and philanthropists, with funds raised supporting Warrnambool and District Community Hospice.
Where: Various locations across Warrnambool
When: May 15-20
Cost: Opening night tickets are $25, other events in the schedule cost $60
More info
Great Ocean Road Running Festival
One of Australia’s most scenic running events, with distances ranging from short family-friendly runs to full marathons along the Great Ocean Road. The course winds past coastal cliffs and ocean views, attracting runners of all levels.
Where: Lorne and Apollo Bay
When: May 16-17
Cost: Entry fees vary by distance
More info
Image: Ballarat Heritage Festival
Ballarat Heritage Festival
A four-day program of exhibitions, tours, performances and talks celebrating Ballarat’s history. Expect vintage displays, storytelling and behind-the-scenes experiences that bring the city’s past to life.
Where: Various locations across Ballarat
When: May 21-24
Cost: Free and ticketed events
More info