10 Events in Victoria That You Shouldn't Miss

The Golden Plains festival is one of the most organic, non-intrusive festivals in Australia. Located about 90km from Melbourne CBD on a farm in rural Victoria, the festival is a haven for seekers and music lovers where there are very few rules. You can bring your own alcohol, you can take your own couch and you can dress up, or un-dress as little or as much as you want. There is a huge natural amphitheatre where all the musicians perform. A fantastic Pink Flamingo bar specialises in only 2 types of cocktails and an atmosphere of camaraderie, humanity and "chill out vibes" abounds. Tickets can only be bought via a ballot process if you are a subscriber. The festival is held for 3 days during the Labour Day weekend in Victoria.

Rochester runs a mural festival each year at the end of February. Eight artists, over seven days paint a 2x4.8 metre artwork in the Mural Park near the Northern Highway. Prizes are given the artists who have been judged to have painted the best murals. The completed murals, and all past winners of the event are able to be viewed at any time during the year.

After non-stop action and entertainment? Head to Melbourne and get ready for the most thrilling and highly anticipated events of the summer at the Australian Open. Over two adrenaline-charged weeks, see the world’s best tennis players hit the global stage at Melbourne Park to battle it out for the ultimate glory. With more entertainment, food and family friendly options than ever before, there’s something for everyone at the AO. * Watch the biggest sporting stars put it all on the line at Rod Laver Arena * Entertain the kids with a huge range of fun activities at the AO Ballpark * Kick back watching some of the best bands on the Aussie and international circuit at the AO Live Stage * Enjoy world-class dining at the tennis at the various restaurants and food precincts Don’t miss out on the ultimate Summer experience at the Australian Open.

Long before you arrive, the distant sound of engines screaming will entice you into this iconic Australian event. Be prepared for lots of noise, action, and Australian’s being, well, Australian! This weekend in March brings all of the excitement you would expect when you mix Aussies, fast cars, and abundantly flowing beer. Opt for a luxury VIP experience, or hit the grandstands for a truly authentic experience. While you are there, take the energy of the day into the night and hit up one of the after-parties to enjoy the unique flavor that Melbourne has to offer.

There’s no place like Flemington – the beating heart of Australian horse racing and home to the world’s most vibrant racing event, the four day Melbourne Cup Carnival. Glamourous, refined and full of history, the Melbourne Cup Carnival creates a celebratory atmosphere unparalleled by any other Australian major event and combines the very best of what Melbourne has to offer – food, wine, sport, business, celebrity and fashion. It’s a place where records are broken, history is made and offers an experience like no other.

The City of Melbourne puts on a spectacular free NYE for the whole family. The entertainment starts at 6pm at Yarra Park where kids can enjoy entertainment, rides, games and be spellbound by the fireworks display at 9.00 pm. Because the Melbourne skyline is visible from many places around the city, people organise rooftop parties, dinner with friends or simply settle in front of one of the 4 stages that the City of Melbourne sets up with music, facilities and food stalls: King Domain, the Treasury Gardens, the Flagstaff Gardens or the Docklands. Those events are alcohol free.