Central Goldfields

Central Goldfields is a historical and culturally rich region in Victoria, Australia, that is known for its vibrant annual events. The region is home to various globally recognized annual events that attract visitors from around Australia and the world. These festivals and celebrations showcase the personality and heritage of Central Goldfields and are an excellent opportunity for locals and visitors from all walks of life to come together and enjoy the region's offerings. Here are some of the significant annual events that people might observe in and around Central Goldfields.

Maryborough Highland Gathering

The Maryborough Highland Gathering is an annual event that takes place every New Year's Day, usually in the beautiful Princes Park. It is a celebration of traditional Scottish culture and is one of the largest New Year's Day gatherings in Australia, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The highlight of the event is the Scottish heavy events competitions, including caber tossing and hammer throwing. Visitors can also enjoy pipe band championships, Scottish dancing, and other musical performances, as well as stalls selling traditional Scottish food and drink.

Dunolly Easter Fair

The Dunolly Easter Fair is an annual, three-day event that takes place over the Easter long weekend in Dunolly, just east of Maryborough. The event is known as 'Australia's oldest and most authentic Easter Fair' and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country. The fair includes a Friday night street parade, live music, markets, carnival rides, street performers, food vendors, and more.

Nuggety Fireworks Festival

The Nuggety Fireworks Festival is an annual event in the town of Beaufort, located in the southern part of Central Goldfields. It is a family-friendly event that includes several fireworks displays, all set to music. Visitors can enjoy live music, food and drink stalls, children's activities, and a range of other entertainment.

Talbot Farmers Market

The Talbot Farmers Market is a weekly event that takes place every Sunday in Talbot, located between Maryborough and Ballarat. The market specializes in locally sourced produce and artisanal products, including fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, bread, wine, and cheese. Visitors can purchase a wide range of products and meet the local vendors who produce them.

Avoca Riverside Market

The Avoca Riverside Market is another weekly event that takes place on Sundays in the town of Avoca, located east of Maryborough. It is one of the region's most vibrant and popular markets, offering visitors a mix of locally made products, live music, food, and drink. The market features a range of locally-made handicrafts, fresh food, plants, and more.

Maryborough Vintage Machinery Rally

The Maryborough Vintage Machinery Rally is an annual event that takes place over the Easter long weekend. It is a celebration of Australia's industrial heritage, featuring vintage machinery, tractors, engines, cars, and motorcycles. Visitors can enjoy live demonstrations, music, food, and drink, as well as activities for children.

Central Goldfields Art Gallery: Art Activities and Exhibitions

Central Goldfields Art Gallery is a place to relax and enjoy art, view exhibitions and partake in our creative art activities for adults and children. A range of high quality exhibitions are programmed throughout the year, showcasing nationally significant artists including indigenous artists as well as local and emerging artists. Our popular art activities engage with adults with a variety of hands-on activities including drawing, painting and print making. Children are engaged in exciting and interactive art making with exhibitions.

Central Goldfields Performing Arts Festival

The Central Goldfields Performing Arts Festival is a biennial event that takes place in various locations throughout the region. It celebrates the performing arts, featuring dance, theatre, music, comedy, and more. The festival attracts local and national performers, and offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy a diverse range of entertainment.

Central Goldfields is a historic and culturally rich region that is home to numerous annual events that showcase the personality and heritage of the region. These events attract visitors from all over Australia and the world, bringing people together to celebrate art, culture, and community. Whether you are interested in Scottish culture, vintage machinery, farmers markets, or performing arts, there is something for everyone in Central Goldfields.