Victorian Seniors Festival 2026 – What’s On in Regional Victoria
Held across Melbourne and regional Victoria, the Victorian Seniors Festival takes place throughout October 2026 and celebrates the lives of Victorians aged 60 and over.
While we’re not involved in running the Festival, we’re here to help you make the most of it. October is one of the best times of year to head regional too — the weather’s turning, the countryside is green, and towns across the state are gearing up with their own Seniors Festival programs. This guide highlights some of the best events happening in regional Victoria — a wonderful excuse to get out, explore, and enjoy this special month.
We’re finalising this year’s Festival line-up now — the full 2026 program is announced in September.
Don’t forget to see what your local council has planned for Seniors Month—you might discover surprising activities and experiences right in your own community.
This article lists our top pick of Seniors Festival events across regional Victoria. Find highlight events happening across metropolitan Melbourne here. And find the best deals on offer during Seniors Month here.
When is the Victorian Seniors Festival 2026?
From 1 October to 31 October 2026.
When is Victorian Seniors Week 2026?
As a Victorian Seniors Card holder, from 3 to 11 October, you can explore Victoria with free public transport during the Victorian Seniors Festival.
Why Regional Victoria is Worth the Trip for Seniors Festival
Spring is in full swing by October, making it a lovely month to venture beyond the city and discover what’s on in Victoria’s regional towns. From coastal escapes to wine country to the goldfields, there’s no shortage of destinations worth the drive or train trip.
Councils run their own Seniors Festival programs each year, often smaller and more personal than the city events, but just as worthwhile. Think free morning teas at the local hall, guided walks through a regional botanic garden, or a museum opening its doors for the day. Many are free or low-cost, and most are run by local council ageing-well or community teams who know their area well. If you’re planning a day trip, it’s worth checking your destination council’s website directly to make the most of what’s on offer.
Getting there is easier on the wallet too. Seniors myki holders already travel free every weekend, anywhere in Victoria. Right now, midweek fares are even better than usual — public transport is half price for everyone until 1 January 2027, bringing the Seniors myki daily cap down to just $2.85 midweek, for travel anywhere in the state. That covers train, tram, bus and regional coach travel on one simple daily cap, whether you’re heading to Ballarat for the day or catching the V/Line to Bendigo.
Read our full guide to using your Seniors myki
Regional Seniors Festival FAQs
Q: When is the 2026 Regional Victoria Seniors Festival program announced?
A: Regional councils typically confirm their programs through September, ahead of the Festival’s October start. We’ll update this page as listings come in.
Q: Are regional Seniors Festival events free?
A: Many are free or low-cost, though some ticketed performances and tours may have a small fee. Details are usually listed on the individual council’s website.
Q: Can I attend events outside my own council area?
A: Yes — most events welcome visitors from other municipalities, making regional day trips a great way to explore during the Festival.
Q: How do I find out what’s on in my region?
A: Check your local council’s website, or come back here — we curate our pick of the best regional events once the 2026 program is confirmed.
What’s on in Regional Victoria for the Seniors Festival 2026
Northern Regions Victorian Seniors Festival Events
We’re finalising this year’s line-up now — the 2026 program is announced in September.
Eastern Regions Victorian Seniors Festival Events
Western Regions Victorian Seniors Festival Events
We’re finalising this year’s line-up now — the 2026 program is announced in September.
More Regional Victoria Inspiration
Looking for more ideas beyond the Festival program? Here are a few of our favourite regional guides to help you plan your next getaway:
- Ballarat Botanical Gardens – A relaxing, easy-paced stroll through one of regional Victoria’s finest gardens.
- The Pink Lake at the End of the Line: Chasing the Elusive Sky Mirror – A striking natural wonder in the Wimmera Mallee, worth the journey.
- Bellarine Peninsula: A Two-Day Escape from Melbourne – Coastal towns, wineries and relaxed seaside charm.
- WAMA in Halls Gap – Where art, gardens and the Grampians meet.
- Top Wineries in the Grampians – A guide to the region’s best cellar doors.
- Visiting Chiltern – A tranquil weekend recipe in one of Victoria’s best-kept secrets.
For even more inspiration, browse our full collection of Regional Victoria guides and reviews.
Free Public Transport for Seniors Week
As well as great events and activities happening across regional Victoria and Melbourne, Victorian Seniors Card holders receive a full week of completely free public transport across the state! This is happening from Saturday 3 to Sunday 11 October 2026.
Related reading: Guide to Free Public Transport for Seniors Week
What’s on in Metro Melbourne for Seniors Festival 2026
- Find our top pick of events happening across metropolitan Melbourne for Seniors Month here.
- Find the best deals on offer during Seniors Month here.
Heading off on your own Melbourne adventures? Join our Facebook Group and share your stories, ask questions and connect with others for further inspiration.
Disclaimer: Some businesses in this article have paid for a little extra spotlight – you’ll spot them with an asterisk (*). We only say yes to partners we think you’ll love, so if it’s here, it’s because we’d happily recommend it to our own friends (and probably have).
Disclaimer: Seniors in Melbourne is an independent platform and is not affiliated with the Victorian Seniors Festival, the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH), or the Victorian Government. All content is created and published independently.
These events or promotions are listed by the event owner on their own independent website and confirmation of any details should be reviewed on their site, as these are subject to change.
Contact the Victorian Seniors Festival organisers via seniorsfestival@dffh.vic.gov.au or 03 8850 6164
This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on a link and make a purchase.
One Comment