Spring has officially sprung which means it's time to come out of hibernation and get out and about to explore our great state!

This season is set to be a ripper, with great events for families, foodies, art lovers and sport stars. Want to learn more about some of the fantastic events happening across Melbourne, Bayside, Geelong and Ballarat? Peep our list below.

White Night Ballarat (pictured left, above) – September 21^st – 22^nd

White Night takes on Ballarat. See the city transform into a world of light, art and sound. 

Royal Melbourne Show – September 21^st – October 1^st
Rides, showbags, competitions, food and a great time – Need we say more?

Royal Geelong Show – October 17^th – 20^th
The region’s largest 4-day show jam packed full of competitions, live entertainment, machinery displays, showbags and rides for the thrill-seekers.

Melbourne Cup Carnival (pictured left, below) – November 2^nd – 9^th
AAMI Victoria Derby Day, Lexus Melbourne Cup Day, Kennedy Oaks Day, Seppelt Wines Stakes Day – All the events that scream Melbourne in the springtime! Have your fascinators, suits, and bets ready for this fantastic line up of events.

Bayside Pet Expo – November 17^th Melbourne show
Free family event for all the animal lovers out there! Featuring market stalls, food trucks, activities for dogs, kids’ activities and more!

Bentleigh Festival – November 24^th
Bentleigh and bayside locals: Come down and enjoy a day of food, entertainment, rides and fun with your local community.

Springfest Ballarat – November 24^th
This annual event is back again! Market stalls spanning 6kms around the Lake Wendouree foreshore, gorgeous spring fresh air and activities for all ages – Sound like a great time to us! 

Melbourne Marathon Festival (pictured) – October 13^th
It’s Melbourne’s biggest marathon! There are so many events you can get involved in, so lace up those sneakers, and get running! Find out more on their website: melbournemarathon.com.au/ 

Around The Bay – October 6^th
Join one of Australia’s biggest bike rides to raise money for The Smith Family. You can choose from 20km, 50km, 100km, 135km, or for the more advanced riders, 210km or 250km loop of Port Phillip Bay. 

Food Truck Fridays in Central Geelong – September 6^th, October 4^th and November 1^st
The first Friday of every month in spring, be ready to have your tastebuds tantalised! Each month a new line-up of gourmet food trucks will keep your belly full, along with live entertainment and several dining options. 

Heathcote Wine & Food Festival – October 5^th – 6^th
Enjoy the region’s food and wine in this annual festival loved by thousands. I mean, food AND wine, how can you say no?

Oktoberfest in the Gardens (pictured) – October 19^th
Beer, cider, wine in a massive beer hall = Oktoberfest! Plus, German food stalls, live performers and silent discos will make this event one to remember.

Melbourne International Dumpling Festival – November 4^th
Dumpling lovers, unite! If there was ever a time to enjoy dumplings, this is definitely it! 

Melbourne Fringe Festival – September 12^th – 29^th
See the city transform into artforms of every kind imaginable. Intrigued? We suggest you check out their extensive list of events here.  

NGV Friday Nights – May 31^st – October 11^th
Gain after-hours access to the exhibition and discover China’s ancient terracotta warriors alongside contemporary artist Cai Guo-Qiang whist dining at the Hutong Dumpling Bar. 

Town Hall Gallery After Dark – October 4^th
Enjoy a feast for the senses where art, live music and immersive activities can be enjoyed after-hours.