Ararat Rural City Council Announces 2026 Victorian Seniors Festival Program

Ararat Rural City Council is pleased to share a range of exciting events in celebration of Victorian Seniors Festival, offering an event program packed with opportunities to learn, explore, and connect this October. 

This year’s program offers a wide range of free and affordable events for Victorian Seniors Card holders. Uncover Ararat’s rich past with guided visits to J-Ward, one of Australia's most historic mental health sites, and the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, where you can explore the vital role Chinese gold miners played in shaping the region.

Visitors can also enjoy a self-guided tour through Langi Morgala Museum. Housed in a former wool and grain store, this unique museum offers a fascinating look into the daily lives of early settlers through a rare collection of local artifacts, memorabilia, and district curiosities. 

As part of the month-long festivities, Ararat Town Hall will showcase a daytime performance from internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter Dannielle De Andrea, as she takes the stage for a special daytime performance, taking audiences on a musical journey through jazz standards, American classics, country, and soul. 

"We’re really pleased to see such a fantastic lineup of events from our local tourism partners for this year’s Seniors Festival. It’s all about giving our seniors great opportunities to get out, try something new, and connect with one another,“ said Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Cr Bob Sanders.

“We’ve kept things accessible with plenty of free and low-cost activities for Victorian Seniors Card holders. It’s going to be a wonderful month, and I really encourage everyone to grab a program, get your tickets booked early, and come join in the fun."

The full program of events is available to view on our website at ararat.vic.gov.au/events, or you can pick up a copy from our municipal offices. Booking is essential for most events, with free admission to select performances and discounted tickets available for concession card holders.

Reserve your spot online at seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/festival or ararattownhall.com.au. For booking support, call the Ararat & Grampians Visitor Information Centre at 1800 657 158 or visit the team in person at 82 Vincent Street, Ararat.