Dandenong Ranges National Events
As one of the most picturesque regions in Victoria, the Dandenong Ranges is home to a vibrant and diverse range of annual events. From festivals celebrating local produce to action-packed sporting events, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are just a few examples of nationally or globally recognised events that people might observe in and around the Dandenong Ranges:
1. Tesselaar Tulip Festival: Held annually from mid-September to mid-October, the Tesselaar Tulip Festival is the largest tulip festival in the country and attracts visitors from all over the world. Visitors can wander the stunning tulip fields, take part in workshops, and enjoy live music and food stalls.
2. Belgrave Lantern Parade: Held each June, the Belgrave Lantern Parade is a family-friendly event that celebrates the winter solstice. Participants make their own lanterns and join a parade through the streets of Belgrave, culminating in a bonfire and live music.
3. Puffing Billy Great Train Race: This unique event, held annually in May, sees participants race the historic Puffing Billy steam train through the Dandenong Ranges. The race covers 13.5 km, starting from Belgrave and finishing at Emerald Lake Park.
4. Jazz in the Hills: Taking place each November, Jazz in the Hills is a celebration of all things jazz. Visitors can enjoy live music from local and international performers, as well as great food and drink.
5. Harvest Fest: This event, held in March each year, is a celebration of the local produce of the Dandenong Ranges. Visitors can taste and purchase a range of local wines, beers, ciders, and food products, as well as take part in cooking demonstrations and workshops.
6. Dandenong Ranges Open Studios: This annual event, held each May, gives visitors the chance to meet and engage with local artists in their studios. Visitors can see artists at work, purchase their creations, and take part in workshops and demonstrations.
7. Emerald Agricultural Show: Taking place each November, the Emerald Agricultural Show is a traditional country fair that celebrates local agriculture and community spirit. Visitors can enjoy livestock shows, agricultural displays, rides, food stalls, and more.
8. Olinda Street Festival: This annual event, held in April, is a celebration of the quirky town of Olinda. Visitors can enjoy street performances, live music, food stalls, and browse the unique shops and galleries that line the streets.
9. Sherbrooke Forest Wreath-laying Ceremony: This moving ceremony, held each April, is a tribute to the American servicemen who died in a plane crash in Sherbrooke Forest during World War II. Visitors can pay their respects to the fallen soldiers and listen to speeches and readings.
10. Sassafras Village Fair: This family-friendly event, held in November, is a celebration of the village of Sassafras. Visitors can enjoy music, food, markets, and community activities, as well as take part in the famous Great Sassafras Cake Walk.
These are just a few examples of the many nationally or globally recognised annual events that take place in and around the Dandenong Ranges. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something to see and do in this beautiful region.