Geelong's Eventful Week: A Celebration of Culture, Music, and Community
Geelong is set for an exciting week packed with diverse events, from the beloved multicultural street festival Pako Festa to star-studded concerts and community fundraisers. The city's calendar is brimming with activities that cater to all interests, making it a perfect time to explore and engage with the local scene.
Pako Festa 2026: A Multicultural Extravaganza
On February 28, Pakington Street in Geelong West transforms into a vibrant hub for Pako Festa 2026, Victoria's premier multicultural festival. With the theme "Many Cultures, One Street: Celebrating Identity with Pride," this free event runs from 9 am to 5 pm, offering a rich tapestry of cultural food, folk dancing, and workshops. The highlight is the famous Pako Parade at 11 am, alongside entertainment on six world music stages along a 1 km stretch. This festival, organized by Cultura, celebrates Geelong's diversity and is a must-attend for families and visitors alike.
Star-Studded Musical Performances
Music lovers have plenty to look forward to, starting with the Ovation concert at Geelong Arts Centre on February 28. Featuring Australian musical theatre and opera stars Marina Prior, David Hobson, Silvie Paladino, and Michael Cormick, this show presents classics from hits like The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables. Tickets range from $99 to $125 for a 2-4:30 pm performance.
Other notable acts include Neil Anthony's tribute to Meat Loaf on February 27 at Geelong Arts Centre, with tickets at $50-$60, and the 1927 Anyone Everyone Tour at Bellarine Estate on the same day, priced at $52.26. For blues enthusiasts, Blues on the Bellarine returns on February 28 at Bellarine Estate, featuring acts like Achison Waters Band for $44.95.
Community and Family-Friendly Activities
The Paws for GAWS fundraising walk on March 1 supports the Geelong Animal Welfare Society with a 4 km stroll starting at Eastern Park BBQ Area. From 9 am to noon, participants can enjoy music, food stalls, and a pooch parade, with registration fees from $15 to $35. This event highlights community spirit and animal welfare.
For families, the Squishmallow Art Workshop on February 28 at Kids Art Room Geelong offers a creative session for children aged six and over, costing $65 and including a new Squishmallow to take home. Additionally, Clean Up Australia Day on March 1 at Clifton Springs Harbour invites volunteers to help protect the coastline from 10 am to 1 pm, free of charge.
Art and Cultural Exhibitions
Art enthusiasts can explore Jon Campbell's free exhibition at Geelong Gallery from February 28 to May 24, showcasing works that capture suburban vernacular through various media. The Crossings in Colour workshop on February 28 at Platform Arts offers a free, family-friendly painting activity inspired by Holi festival themes.
Hoop Gallery's Gala by the Sea in Torquay on February 28 features art, music, and auctions to support creative programs, with tickets available online. These events underscore Geelong's thriving arts scene.
Sports and Special Events
Sports fans can participate in Chase the Ace at Queens Park Golf Course on February 27, a $5 event with prizes like meat trays. The Blue Oval Show 'n' Shine on March 1 at Beckley Park showcases Ford vehicles to raise funds for Camp Quality, with entry fees from $1 to $15 per car.
Special occasions include the Noble Street Uniting Church service of closure on March 1, marking over 150 years of worship, and the Belmont Uniting Church 100th celebration on the same day. International Women's Day events feature Jacinta Parsons on March 4 in Torquay and a Women in Manufacturing Network lunch on March 5 in Geelong.
Additional Highlights
Other events include Ben Lee's On Tour Always concert on February 28 at Bellarine Arts Centre for $55, Bob Sedergreen's jazz performance at Geelong Botanic Gardens on February 28 for $18-$22, and an evening with Gillian Welch and David Rawlings on March 1 at Costa Hall for $115.54-$176.65. The Geelong Folk Music Club concert on March 4 features Martyn Wyndham-Read for $25-$35.
With such a wide array of activities, Geelong promises an engaging week for residents and visitors, fostering community connections and cultural appreciation.
