Moyneyana Festival
When: December 24 – 20 January
Location: Port Fairy
The Moyneyana Festival guarantees there’s never a dull moment, offering daily activities and music for all ages. On New Year’s Eve, the streets come alive as locals and visitors gather for the vibrant and creative old-fashioned float parade, followed by live music and fireworks lighting up the night. Each day brings unique events, including movie nights, arts and crafts days, and giant slides, ensuring something for everyone.

Commonwealth Sheepdog Trials
When: February
Location: Port Fairy Gardens Oval
Experience the remarkable skills of some of the best sheepdogs and handlers from across the Commonwealth at the Port Fairy Gardens Oval. This prestigious event spans an entire week and includes Novice, Open, and Improver trials, showcasing competitors of all levels. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking precision and teamwork as dogs expertly guide sheep through complex courses, demonstrating agility, intelligence, and instinct. It’s an unmissable event for animal lovers, families, and those interested in this fascinating rural tradition.

Koroit Irish Festival
When: April
Location: Koroit
Nestled in a charming corner of southwest Victoria, the Koroit Irish Festival is a vibrant celebration of Irish heritage, culture, and community spirit. Held over three action-packed days during the last weekend of April, this beloved event transforms the picturesque town of Koroit into a lively hub of Celtic traditions.
The festival features an incredible lineup of live Irish music that will have you tapping your feet, along with mesmerizing performances of traditional and contemporary Irish dancing. A highlight of the weekend is the Australian Danny Boy Championship, a stirring competition that showcases heartfelt renditions of the iconic Irish ballad.

Port Fairy Literary Weekend
When: September
Location: Port Fairy
The Port Fairy Literary Weekend is a celebration of storytelling and ideas, bringing together acclaimed authors, poets, and literary enthusiasts from across Australia and New Zealand. Held in the scenic coastal town of Port Fairy, this enriching event offers a unique opportunity to connect with literature in an intimate and inspiring setting.
Over the course of the weekend, attendees can enjoy a diverse lineup of events, including thought-provoking panel discussions, author talks, workshops, and book signings. The program covers a wide range of genres and topics, from fiction and memoirs to poetry, politics, and contemporary issues, ensuring there’s something to captivate every reader.

Port Fairy Annual Show
When: November
Location: Port Fairy Showgrounds
The Port Fairy Annual Show is a quintessential country tradition that celebrates the heart and spirit of rural life. Held every November at the Port Fairy Showgrounds, this beloved community event offers a day of fun, excitement, and connection for visitors of all ages.
The show features an impressive array of competitions, showcasing the best of local talent and produce. Admire beautifully crafted cakes, vibrant flower arrangements, impressive vegetables, and intricate handmade crafts, all vying for top honors. For animal lovers, there’s plenty to see, with captivating horse events, prize-winning poultry, and a lively pet section that’s always a hit with families.

Mortlake Cup Race Day
When: 1st Saturday in November
Location: Mortlake
Immerse yourself in the thrill and elegance of country racing at the Mortlake Cup. Held on the first Saturday in November, this iconic event is a highlight of the spring racing calendar, blending vibrant atmosphere, high-stakes competition, and timeless tradition.
Get an up-close look at the talented horses and skilled jockeys in the mounting yard, where you can admire their preparation and form before the races begin. The excitement continues trackside, where punters gather in the lively bookie ring to place their bets and cheer on their favorites.