HOT: Festival of Sails, Geelong

The Festival of Sails in Geelong is held every year on Australia Day and it is the largest annual keel boat regatta in the Southern Hemisphere and one of Australia’s oldest oldest sporting events.

Even if you have no interest or knowledge of boat racing the free community Shoreside Festival is a great family day out.

Festival of Sails, Geelong Waterfront, Geelong

The festival is held all along the Geelong Waterfront from the historic carousel right to Eastern Beach and features live entertainment, art and craft stalls, food and wine vendors and lots of rides.

Festival of Sails, Geelong Waterfront, Geelong

We are only able to spend a short time at the Festival of Sails so decide to take the mini train journey to get a glimpse of everything. It’s a 20 minute round trip along the waterfront and costs $6 per person.

Festival of Sails, Geelong Waterfront, Geelong

It just happens that the water-skiing demonstration are happening and Lady AB really enjoys watching the performances, only lured away by the temptation of a Billy Van Creamy ice cream.

Festival of Sails, Geelong Waterfront, Geelong

The Festival of Sails is great family-friendly event and makes a perfect day trip from Melbourne. Geelong's stunning waterfront is only 1 hour’s drive away and parking is paid but relatively easy to find.

For the full festival schedule click here.

More things to do in Geelong with kids

HOT Tips for Festival of Sails:

Parking is available along Ritchie Blvd and the surrounding streets of the Geelong Waterfront;
Note Eastern Beach Road is closed from Yarra Street to Bellarine Street;
Go early in the morning (10am) before crowds start. Note rides start at 12 midday;
Kids rides are mainly located at Transvaal Square though the tall Wipe Out Slide is at Eastern Beach and the bungee and miniature train tour is at Steampacket Gardens; and
Combine your visit to the Festival of Sails with other Geelong family-friendly attractions such as:
- Eastern Beach;
- the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre;
- Poppykettle playground at Western Beach;
- the historical carousel;
- Geelong Play Space; and
- child-friendly cafes in the CBD – Freckleduck and Bear and Bean.

Activities & Events, Melbourne Day Trips, Special Events, Summer School Holidays, Travel, What's On

Joyce Watts

Joyce Watts is a former intellectual property, IT and media lawyer turned serial entrepreneur.

As well as being the founder of TOT: HOT OR NOT she helps businesses with their SEO, email marketing & social media as BrightSmart.com.au; she owns an online bike store CycleStyle.com.au and develops and produces creative experiences for families via WheelieGoodFun.com. She used to publish another popular lifestyle and food blog called MEL: HOT OR NOT The decisive guide to Melbourne.

She lives in inner-city Melbourne with her husband, two children and seven bikes.