The best events in western Victoria this May
Autumn’s in full swing and West Vic’s calendar is stacked.
Darcie Humphreys
April 30, 2026
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