Attention, please. The Victorian Seniors Festival 2026 is upon us. It's a statewide celebration for older Victorians running 1 to 31 October, with thousands of free and low cost events across Melbourne and regional Victoria.
This year's theme is Connect, Create, Celebrate. We couldn't have put it better ourselves, so we won't try. Here's what's worth circling on the calendar, and how to enjoy it all with ease.
What’s on this year?
Fetch your calendars. Here's the crème de la crème of this year's festival, in date order, so you can book, visit and take part without fuss.
Celebration Day at Federation Square: Sat 3 Oct
The festival kicks off with a free party across the whole of Fed Square, running from 11am to 5pm. Expect music, dance and workshops on the Main Square, in the Edge Theatre and in the Atrium, with the talent drawn mainly from older artists. No bookings needed, and the event is accessible.
Big Band Dance at Melbourne Town Hall: Mon 5 Oct
The Daryl McKenzie Swing Band brings classic jazz, swing and Latin dance hits to Melbourne Town Hall from 12pm to 3:30pm, with ballroom DJ Geoffrey Proctor spinning music for sequence dance. Dance the afternoon away or listen from the gallery. It's free, but bookings are essential. There are no dressing rooms, so come dressed to twirl.
ACMI Seniors Film Festival: Mon 5 to Fri 9 Oct
This year ACMI turns the spotlight on Emma Thompson, with 5 free screenings across the week: The Remains of the Day on Monday, Sense and Sensibility on Tuesday, Howards End on Wednesday, Saving Mr Banks on Thursday and Good Luck to You, Leo Grande on Friday. Seating is allocated and bookings are essential. Bring tissues for The Remains of the Day.
Country Concerts: throughout October
Heading out of town? The festival's Country Concerts tour regional Victoria this month in partnership with local councils.
Your local council program: all month
All 79 Victorian councils take part, and the local programs are where the hidden gems live. In Port Phillip, the program runs 1 to 16 October with a ukulele singalong, lawn bowls and a guided 2km history walk through St Kilda's streets. Yarra has more than 26 free and low cost events, from yoga basics to arts and crafts workshops.
Voices of the World: Sat 31 Oct
The festival finale brings together people of all cultures and communities to close out the month in fine voice.
Victorian Senior of the Year Awards
Applaud the older Victorians who give their time to their communities as volunteers at the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards. Nominations have closed for 2026, so the only job left is clapping.
Want more? There are thousands of events statewide. Browse by date, suburb and cost on Seniors Online, or pick up a printed guide from participating Coles stores, libraries and neighbourhood houses.
How will I get there?
Victorian Seniors Card holders, rejoice. You get 9 days of free public transport across Victoria from Saturday 3 October to Sunday 11 October 2026. That covers all metropolitan trains, trams and buses, V/Line trains and coaches, and selected regional buses outside the myki area. Check the details on the free public transport page before you travel.
Heading to the Big Band Dance? Take the Collins Street exit at Town Hall Station and you're practically on the dance floor.
Prefer door to door? We may know a careful driver who'll get you to your afternoon tea, lawn bowls or film matinee on time.
Will Acquaint come with me?
Darling, we thought you'd never ask.
The festival is a starting point. While we specialise in private at home aged care, we're also very good at parties. And punctuality. If you'd like a steady hand with the logistics, we'll help you contact venues, book tickets, plan free or low cost days out and keep your calendar flowing, discreetly and without stress.
We understand you
You've got a list as long as your arm and limited time for chores. If morning tea at the local club sounds far nicer than ironing, we agree. Let us take on the everyday jobs so you can do more of what you love, whether that's an Emma Thompson matinee, a Town Hall foxtrot or a neighbourhood house workshop.
We come to you
Home, retirement residence or aged care setting, we meet you where you are. Our carers help with daily tasks, travel to events, guided outings and even a cuppa and a chat once the festival's done. We also work smoothly with home care package providers, so support fits your life.
We fit you
Consistent faces, thoughtful routines and flexibility as your needs change. That's our promise. We'll match you with the right person, keep things consistent and adjust quietly as needed, so you can stay independent and enjoy October and beyond to the full.
Festivals are fun, but the real gift is what they bring back into a week: time with people, a reason to dress up, a day that's entirely yours. That's worth protecting.
Ready to enjoy the festivities with the right support?
Make the most of the 2026 Victorian Seniors Festival with a little help that fits seamlessly into your world, from home assistance and travel buddies to warm companionship at your next afternoon tea. Call Acquaint on 03 9267 9090 or send us a message to plan your October. We'll line up your pickups, help you book events and keep the focus on the fun.
Last updated: September 2026
