Christmas Carols. Castlemaine’s much loved Rotary Carols in the Park are happening at Victory Park in the centre of town from 6.30 pm on Friday, December 20. Enjoy an outstanding line-up of musicians and local choirs, a traditional barbecue and possibly a visit from Santa. BYO picnic rug and chairs!

Carols in Bendigo. Rotary Community Carols will be held in Rosalind Park on December 22 from 6.30 pm and promises to be another memorable evening for the whole family.

Castlemaine Twilight Artists’ Market, December 13. This popular event will be held on Friday December 13, from 3pm to 7pm at the Castlemaine Western Reserve. More than 60 stalls will showcase the best local and regional design talent - you'll find handcrafted jewelry, leather goods, designer clothing, ceramics, timber homewares, garden art and more (hint: it's the perfect place for gift shopping!). There will also be great coffee and food, live music, and plenty of fun for the kids. A perfect start to the holiday season.

Elf Academy. The Elf Academy is happening again at Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo, December 19 to 23. Give the kids some beautiful Christmas memories while they learn all the skills needed to be a certified Santa elf, including stacking gifts, creating Christmas tree decorations and helping Santa get ready for his around-the-world trip. There are four two-hour sessions daily and bookings are essential. Note: this one is super special and sells out fast!

Mechanics Lane Summer Program. Keep an eye on happenings at Mechanics Lane in Castlemaine. Free music and dance events will be happening throughout the summer including a street party on December 14 ands a summer Salsa celebration on January 18.   

Campbells Creek Collectables Fair, January 18-19 2025. People come from far and wide for this annual fair at Camp bells Creek, on the outskirts of Castlemaine. Browse (and buy!) antiques, vintage, collectables and retro at more than 100 indoor and outdoor stalls - there's something for every collector. Tickets are sold at the gate but can be pre-booked online.

Newstead Live. January 24-27. Running for over 20 years, this folk and acoustic festival is held at venues across the picturesque village of Newstead just 15 minutes from Castlemaine. It features outstanding international and national artists, with music for all ages, spoken word performances, open mic sessions and some great workshops.  

Boorp Boorp Boondyil Exhibition (a permanent cultural exhibition). This award-winning fascinating and informative exhibition at the Market Building in the heart of Castlemaine is a must-do. Embark on a journey of interactive learning about Jaara culture, stories and teaching,. Experience a virtual Welcome to Country ceremony and learn about bush foods, medicine, waterways and weavings.

Wesley Hill Community Market. Castlemaine’s popular Saturday morning community market (Victoria's oldest continuously-running market!) has been happening since 1975! It will be held every Saturday during the summer months, from 9 am to 1 pm. Stallholders vary, but locals show up in droves for great coffee, bread, fresh produce, preserves, plants and bric-a-brac and much more. Stop in for a chat and pick up some food and snacks for your lunch back at BIG4 Castlemaine.

And on a hot day. Remember, Castlemaine’s main public swimming pool is located next to our entrance, offering a convenient refreshing dip after sightseeing. There are also pools at nearby Chewton, Newstead and Harcourt and beautiful bush swimming holes at the Res on Golden Point Road and at Vaughn Springs, 10 minutes from Castlemaine. For some cool indoor fun, you can also visit the Summer Art Exhibition at the Market Building in town and the fascinating historical display and art collection at the Castlemaine Art Museum.

Live Music happens most weekends at venues across the region (although some take a break between Christmas and early January). To catch a great gig in Castlemaine, keep an eye on the events schedules at the Bridge Hotel and Shedshaker Brewery just across the road from us or at the iconic Theatre Royal in the heart of town.