Events showcase our region

ONE of the things I love most about Geelong is the way our city comes alive when major events roll into town.

These events bring people together, fill our streets with energy, and remind us why we’re such a vibrant and creative community.

Through the Geelong Major Events Strategy 2024–29, Council has set a clear vision to continue growing our reputation as Australia’s leading regional events destination.

In 2023-24, 12 major events delivered more than $51 million in economic benefit and supported 452 full-time jobs.

Importantly, more than 80 per cent of these events offered some free public access, ensuring everyone could be part of the action.

This spring, Geelong is again proving why we’re a city that thrives on creativity, culture and community spirit.

Four standout events this season showcase everything our region has to offer.

First up is one of the nation’s most prestigious art prizes. The Archibald Prize is currently on display at Geelong Gallery until November 9.

Geelong has a special connection to the Archibald. Its founder, JF Archibald, was born in Geelong West in 1856.The renowned exhibition is anticipated to attract more than 70,000 visitors and deliver around $8 million in economic benefits.

Hosting the prize feels like welcoming it home, and the chance to see portraits of figures such as Neale Daniher, Jackie O and Costa Georgiadis in our own city is something we can all take pride in.

Next up is the Geelong Wonder Children’s Festival, returning September 12 to September 25 with its biggest program yet.

Founded and produced by Geelong Arts Centre, the festival will light up Little Malop Street and the cultural precinct with performances, roving entertainers, workshops and exhibitions.

This year introduces the Big Wonder Weekend and Wonder Walk on September 20 to September 21, a free family celebration expected to attract more than 12,000 people.

With its mix of ticketed shows, immersive art and school holiday fun, the festival is fast becoming one of the largest children’s events in regional Victoria.

Then, Victoria’s newest arts event, ROAM Geelong, will transform the city on Saturday, October 11.

For one unforgettable evening, this event will bring hundreds of artists to the streets, creating a multi-sensory journey through art, performance, music and storytelling.

ROAM Geelong is presented by the City of Greater Geelong and supported by Visit Victoria and the Regional Events Fund.

Finally, on Sunday, November 9, Run4Geelong returns, with the City proud to step in as the new naming rights partner.

This event is about more than just personal bests with every registration fee going directly to supporting Barwon Health’s vital services.

With options ranging from a 10km run to a 1km kids’ course, there’s a course to suit everyone.

Last year’s event sold out, and this year promises to be even bigger as we come together to celebrate and support our healthcare workforce and courageous patients.

From arts to sport, children’s creativity to world-class portraiture, the coming months are a wonderful reminder that major events are more than great days out.

They strengthen our economy, create jobs, attract visitors, and most importantly, they bring us together as a community.

For more information on all of these events, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/events