Portarlington

Events in and around Portarlington

Seasonal Fun and Exciting Events in and Around the Town of Portarlington, Victoria, Australia

Portarlington is a charming town located on the Bellarine Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, scenic drives, historic landmarks, and culinary delights. Throughout the year, Portarlington hosts a variety of seasonal events that cater to locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for music, food, wine, sports, or culture, there's always something to do in Portarlington. Here are some of the most popular events to mark on your calendar:

Summer:

Portarlington Mussel Festival - Held annually in January, this festival celebrates the town's famous mussels with live music, cooking demonstrations, tastings, and family-friendly activities. You can try various mussel dishes from local restaurants, sip on local wines and beers, and enjoy the stunning views of Port Phillip Bay. Contact: 0477 006 550.

Portarlington Summer Art Show - This exhibition showcases the works of talented artists from Portarlington and the surrounding areas. You can admire paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other art forms, and even purchase some for your home or office. The show runs from December to February at the Portarlington Neighbourhood House. Contact: (03) 5259 2290.

Autumn:

Portarlington Celtic Festival - This festival celebrates the town's Scottish and Irish roots with traditional music, dance, food, and games. You can witness pipe bands, highland dancing, Gaelic football, tug-of-war, and other cultural activities. The festival takes place in March and attracts thousands of visitors from all over Victoria. Contact: (03) 5259 2290.

Portarlington Mussel & Jazz Festival - If you missed the Mussel Festival in January, you have another chance to indulge in this seafood delicacy in April, along with the soothing sounds of jazz. The festival features local and international jazz artists, as well as food and wine stalls, a cooking competition, and a fireworks display. Contact: 0413 701 476.

Winter:

Portarlington Winter Solstice Festival - This festival marks the shortest day and longest night of the year with a lantern parade, bonfire, fireworks, and other mystical activities. You can make your own lantern and join the light procession through the town, followed by a warming feast of soup, bread, and mulled wine. The festival takes place on June 21st and is a community-led event. Contact: (03) 5259 2764.

Spring:

Portarlington Mussel Weekend - If you're a true mussel lover, you won't want to miss this event in September, which celebrates the start of the mussel season. You can taste fresh mussels cooked in various ways, paired with local wines and ciders, and enjoy live music and kid's activities. The event is hosted by the Portarlington Fishing Stewardship Council and the Portarlington Sea Scouts. Contact: (03) 5259 2290.

Portarlington Spring Fair - This fair is a fundraiser for the local Primary School and offers a range of entertainment, food stalls, homemade crafts, plants, and second-hand goods. You can also participate in raffles, silent auctions, and other fun activities. The fair is held in October and attracts a large crowd of families and community members. Contact: (03) 5259 2582.

In addition to these seasonal events, Portarlington also hosts weekly and monthly markets, such as the Portarlington Pier Market, the Bellarine Community Farmers' Market, and the Portarlington Twilight Market, where you can buy fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. You can also enjoy various sports and recreational activities, such as golf, fishing, boating, hiking, and cycling, as well as visit local attractions, such as the Portarlington Mill, the Bellarine Railway, and the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse.

No matter what time of the year you visit Portarlington, you'll find something exciting and memorable to do. For more information about these events and other local activities, visit the Portarlington Visitor Information Centre at 82 Newcombe St or call (03) 5259 3358.