The Victorian Seniors Festival returns this October with thousands of free and low-cost events for older people across the state. The festival runs from 1 to 31 of October every year.
The festival’s theme is Connect, Create, Celebrate. Inviting older people to:
- Connect or re-connect with your interests, skills and hobbies. Join in events and meet new people in-person and online.
- Create your own path and remain curious as you age. Join in events to build practical skills, make friendships and new social connections.
- Celebrate positive ageing. The festival delivers events and activities that celebrate the diversity of all older people by supporting accessibility and inclusion.
Festival events
The festival is supported by local councils, community groups and organisations across the state.
Some major festival events include:
- Celebration Day at Federation Square on Saturday 3 October, 11 am to 5 pm. This event will launch the festival with hours of free entertainment and activities for older people, their friends and families.
- Big Band Dance at Melbourne Town Hall on Monday 5 October, 12 pm to 3:30 pm. An icon of the festival, this event is for everyone who loves to dance.
- ACMI Seniors Film Festival at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image from 5 to 11 October. Enjoy a week-long series of free screenings featuring Emma Thompson, one of the world’s most talented and moving actors.
- Voices of the World at St Kilda Town Hall on Saturday 31 October, 1 pm to 3 pm. Enjoy an afternoon of singing and entertainment. Join us as the audience becomes the choir, bringing together voices from across the state.
- The Country Concert series returns to bring live entertainment to regional Victoria.
Older people can take part in events and activities close to home and right across the state. To find a Victorian Seniors Festival event near you:
- Visit Seniors Online to view the online event calendar.
- Check Seniors Online for which Coles, public library and neighbourhood house you can collect a festival guide from.
Throughout the festival, local councils also host a wide range of activities and events. Contact your local council to find events nearby, contact information is available on Seniors Online.
Some councils also deliver the festival’s Aged Care Tour, which will bring the magic, music and fun of the festival to aged care residents across the state.
Free travel
Victorian Seniors Card holders can enjoy 9 days of free public transport across Victoria from 3 to 11 October 2026. This includes all metropolitan public transport services, V/Line train and coach services, and selected regional bus services outside the myki area.
More information
For the latest festival news and events, visit the Seniors Online website. Victorian Seniors Card holders can also subscribe to the Victorian Seniors Card e-News.