Celebrating Connection, Stories, and Song: Ararat Announces 2025 Seniors Festival

Ararat Rural City Council is delighted to announce the 2025 Victorian Seniors Festival, with a full month of opportunities for learning, discovering and celebrating together in Ararat this October.

The festival offers a wide array of free and affordable events for Victorian Seniors Card holders, from guided tours of JWard and Narrapumelap Homestead, to vibrant musical tributes at Ararat Town Hall, and community favourites like the “Remember When” fashion event at Langi Morgala Museum.

Among the highlights are the chance to discover the stories behind Ararat’s Old Gaol and Lunatic Asylum, explore the fascinating Chinese heritage at Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, enjoy toe-tapping performances by Melissa Langton, Wendy Stapleton, and Rodney Vincent, and experience the harmonious sounds of Small Town Romance and powerful blues from Geoff Achison & the Souldiggers and Motor City Sounds.

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.

Those interested can secure their spot online at seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/festival or ararattownhall.com.au, or contact the Ararat & Grampians Visitor Information Centre for assistance at 1800 657 158 or 82 Vincent Street, Ararat.

Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Cr Jo Armstrong, said, “The Seniors Festival is a special time for our community. It’s an invitation for everyone to come together, share stories old and new, and celebrate the many contributions seniors make to Ararat. There are so many ways to get involved, and I hope you find something that makes your October memorable. I look forward to joining residents and visitors at these wonderful events.”

The Seniors Festival is delivered in partnership with the Victorian Seniors Festival and Ararat Rural City Council, offering a month packed with opportunities for social connection, discovery, and enjoyment in Ararat.