The most wonderful time of the year for events

WHILE Christmas is now behind us, many could argue that the most wonderful time of the year is just about to begin.

As we shake off the festive food coma, we have only a few days of rest before we head into a new year filled with major events.

January brings with it a calendar full of activities to entertain the whole family this school holidays.

On New Year’s Eve, thousands will descend on Steampacket Gardens to welcome 2026 with colourful fireworks displays at 9.30pm and midnight.

It’s the beginning of a busy month for our beloved waterfront, with the Festival of Sails making its return to Corio Bay from January 24 to January 26.

The festival is the largest keelboat regatta in the Southern Hemisphere and attracts more than 100,000 people to Geelong’s waterfront for a weekend of world-class sailing, live music, gourmet food and unforgettable entertainment.

Just days later, the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race will take over the waterfront with hundreds of professional cyclists flocking to the region to take part in the competition.

Held annually, the race week features UCI WorldTour races for elite men and women, attracting more than 140,000 spectators from January 28 to February 1. It’s going to be a massive couple of weeks for our hospitality and tourism providers!

If the Festival of Sails inspires you to get out on the water, there’s ample opportunity to set sail in Geelong.

The iconic Tall Ship Enterprize will make its return to Geelong this summer and you can jump aboard January 31 and February 1.

And if your child wants to hone their sailing skills, the Royal Geelong Yacht Club is hosting a Learn to Sail program on January 12.

This course aims to provide children aged 7 to 12 with a fun, safe and affordable way to get into sailing.

Teens won’t miss out either, with a program aimed for future captains aged 12 to 17 years-old embarking on January 15.

So, if you have an avid sailor on your hands, say “aye aye” and sign them up today!

For young cricket fans, the Melbourne Renegades are hosting a School Holiday Camp on January 14 and January 21. If you know a young person who would be bowled over at the chance to learn from the very best, be sure to lock in this fantastic opportunity.

Off the pitch and on the green, the Vic Open will take over 13th Beach Golf Links from January 15 to January 18.

The event includes tournament play as well as a family friendly village with food, activities and plenty of live entertainment.

This free event is the perfect opportunity to take in the beautiful green at 13th Beach and witness some of the best golfers our country has to offer.

The Vic Open was the first professional golf tournament of its kind where men and women play on the same courses, at the same time, for equal prize money.

Whether you’re keen on spectating or getting involved in sport, Geelong has a huge program to make the most of the warm weather and our beautiful outdoors this summer.

To learn more about all the events coming up, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/events

Cr Stretch Kontelj

Mayor, City of Greater Geelong