Your excuse to get outside this week


Hi there Reader

Spring in Geelong really is something special, isn't it?

That sweet spot between "too cold for the playground" and "too hot to function" where you can actually enjoy being outside without layering up or melting down.

This week is packed with events that are absolutely worth leaving the house for.

We're talking Royal Geelong Show (the big one!), free family rides along the waterfront, community festivals, and enough children's activities to keep even the most energetic little ones happy.

And the best part? Most of it's happening outdoors, so you can soak up this beautiful weather while it lasts.

Here's everything on in Geelong this week that's worth bundling everyone into the car for.

Chat soon,

Joyce xx

P.S. If you hit the Royal Geelong Show, my insider tip is to go Thursday or Friday if you can swing it. Weekends are brilliant but chaotic – weekdays have all the same fun with half the crowds!


Top Picks

  • ROAM Geelong (Saturday 11 Oct) Watch the city's cultural heart transform into a vibrant playground of immersive art, live performance, and wonder as you roam between iconic venues from day into night.
  • Wombat's Walk Fundraiser (Sunday 12 Oct) Walk for a wonderful cause while the kids bounce on jumping castles, play bubble soccer, enjoy face painting, and more at this heartwarming community day supporting families through grief.
  • Y(Our)Fest Geelong (Sunday 12 Oct) This free, kid-designed festival brings together live music, hands-on arts workshops, dance activities, and tasty food in one joyful celebration of creativity and community.
  • Pevan & Sarah Live (Monday 13 Oct) This energetic duo brings their much-loved mix of music, laughter, and learning to the stage for 50 minutes of pure entertainment that'll have everyone singing along.
  • Children's Week Teddy Bears Picnic (Thursday 16 Oct) Bring your teddy and a picnic blanket for snacks, storytelling, and activities celebrating what makes Whittington special—bookings essential, so call ahead!
  • Hendry's SpinOff Family Ride (Friday 17 Oct) Ride the World Championship circuit for free, then stick around Eastern Beach for live music, food trucks, face painting, and world-class cycling action the whole family can enjoy.
  • Royal Geelong Show (Thursday 16 Oct - Sunday 19 Oct) The state's biggest regional show returns with farmyard animals, carnival rides, showbags, live entertainment, and all the classic country show magic your family could want.
  • Patchwork Portraits at MoPA (Daily until Sunday 19 Oct) Let your little ones explore emotions through art by creating quirky, one-of-a-kind portraits featuring everything from grins to giggles at this hands-on MoPA workshop.
  • Making Faces: Beci Orpin (Daily until Monday 9 Feb) Step into this colourful, interactive installation inspired by the Archibald Prize and let your kids get creative with bold, playful portraiture.

New + Noteworthy

Celebrate Children's Week

Children's Week is here! From October 11-26, families across Geelong can connect with local services, celebrate kids' talents and achievements, and dive into free activities and events that put children's rights front and centre.

This year's theme reminds us that everyone should know about children's rights—and there's no better way to learn than through play, creativity, and community connection.

📍 Various locations in + around Geelong
📅 Saturday 11 October - Sunday 26 October

Bold Portraits, Big Conversations

Australia's most famous portrait prize has landed at Geelong Gallery, and it's brilliant for families. The 2025 Archibald features 57 finalist artworks bursting with colour, personality, and stories that'll get your kids talking.

Whether they're drawn to bold brushstrokes or familiar faces, there's always something that sparks curiosity—and it's a wonderful way to introduce little ones to the world of Australian art.

PARTNER CONTENT

Follow the Clues + Find the Flavours

Turn lunch into an adventure with a Mystery Picnic—a self-guided experience that takes your family on a delicious journey through the Bellarine Peninsula's best food and scenery.

Each stop reveals a new treat, and the route unfolds as you go. It's part treasure hunt, part feast, and totally memorable for curious little eaters and grown-ups alike.

Lara Fun Run Returns

Whether your crew is up for a 10km challenge, a casual 5km stroll, or cheering on the littlies in the 1km Kids Dash, the Lara Fun Run has something for everyone.

Set against Serendip Sanctuary's stunning wildlife backdrop, it's an active morning out with medals for all kids, secure parking, drink stations, and plenty of family-friendly vibes. Early bird rego gets you personalised bibs!

📍 Serendip Sanctuary, Lara
📅 Sunday 30 November

NEW Portarlington Greek Fest

The Portarlington Greek Festival brings authentic Greek culture to the Bellarine with a full day of live music, traditional dancing, belly dancers, and mouth-watering Greek food.

With two vibrant markets, drinks flowing, and entry by donation, it's an affordable, flavour-packed day out where kids can soak up the festive atmosphere and everyone leaves with a full belly and happy heart.

📍 Seniors Community Hall, Portarlington
📅 Sunday 2 November


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