Mark your calendars – Great Ocean Road Festival is coming!

🔥 Did you know that the Great Ocean Road Festival attracts over 50,000 visitors each year, celebrating one of Australia’s most stunning coastal drives? This year’s festival is shaping up to be the ripper yet!

📅 Event Details

The Great Ocean Road Festival is happening from March 15-17, 2026, spanning across multiple locations along the iconic Great Ocean Road. This year’s theme is ‘Coastal Connections’ focusing on sustainable tourism and preserving the natural beauty of the region. The festival kicks off with a traditional Welcome to Country ceremony at Torquay, followed by three days of festivities stretching all the way to Port Campbell.

⭐ What’s New for 2026

This year’s festival has some exciting additions! First off, they’ve introduced the ‘Eco Warrior Challenge’ where participants can complete sustainable activities throughout the festival. There’s also a new Indigenous Cultural Trail featuring Aboriginal artists and storytellers sharing traditional knowledge. The food scene has expanded with the ‘Taste of the Coast’ precinct featuring local seafood and produce from the region. Plus, they’ve added more family-friendly activities including guided nature walks suitable for all ages.

📍 Location & Times

The main hub will be at Torquay Foreshore (3228) on March 15, shifting to Lorne (3232) on March 16, and finishing at Port Campbell (3289) on March 17. Each location will have activities from 10am to 8pm daily. Getting around is easy with free shuttle services connecting major festival sites, or you can always hire a bike for a more scenic option. If you’re driving, parking is available at each venue for $10 per day.

💡 What to Expect

You’ll find heaps of outdoor activities including guided coastal walks, surfing demonstrations, and photography workshops. The festival features live music from Aussie legends and emerging artists across multiple stages. There are also art installations, market stalls showcasing local crafts, and plenty of food options ranging from gourmet burgers to fresh seafood. Don’t miss the evening beach bonfires where you can enjoy stargazing away from city lights – it’s bloody magical!

💡 Tips & Warnings

✅ Book your accommodation well in advance – festival weekend sees prices spike
❌ Try to drive between venues during peak times – use the shuttle service instead
⚠️ Weather can change quickly – pack layers and a waterproof jacket even if it looks sunny
✅ Download the festival app for real-time updates and activity schedules

🚀 Will you be there? 🚀 Don’t miss out on this ripper celebration of Australia’s coastline!

#GreatOceanRoadFestival #CoastalConnections #NatureWalk #AustralianAdventure #EcoTourism #TorquayEvents #LorneFestival #PortCampbell #VictorianCoast #SustainableTravel

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The Roo Move Editorial Team is dedicated to helping Australians discover outdoor adventures across the country. Our team researches and creates comprehensive guides, gear reviews, and trip reports based on extensive research, official sources, and community insights. We cover everything from hiking and camping to surfing, mountain biking, and fitness activities. Our mission is to make Australian outdoor activities accessible to everyone – from first-time adventurers to experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Contact us: [email protected]