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2026 Dates of Significance in Victoria (VIC): A Guide to Public Holidays, School Holidays and Key Community Events
Melody Jaimon • January 15, 2026
From long weekends and school breaks to major cultural celebrations, the calendar is filled with important dates that shape how we plan our year.
This guide outlines key public holidays, school holiday periods and notable community events to help you plan smarter throughout the year. Whether you’re coordinating business schedules, booking travel, planning events or simply organising family life, this resource gives you a clear snapshot of what’s coming up.
Below are some important 2026 dates in Victoria worth saving to your calendar.
School Terms - VIC 2026
Term 1
Tuesday 27 January – Thursday 2 April 2026
(Students start Wednesday 28 January in most government schools)
Term 2
Monday, 20 April - Friday, 26 June
Term 3
Monday, 13 July - Friday, 18 September
Term 4
Monday, 5 October - Friday, 18 December
Public Holidays - VIC 2026
Public holidays can affect business operations, staffing, and service availability across Victoria.
Key public holidays typically observed include:
1 January
New Year’s Day
Celebrates the beginning of the new calendar year.
26 January
Australia Day
Marks the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788 and recognises Australian identity and culture.
9 March
Labour Day
Recognises the achievements of workers, including the push for fair working conditions and hours.
3 April
Good Friday
A Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
4 April
Easter Saturday
Part of the Easter weekend, observed as a public holiday for rest and reflection.
5 April
Easter Sunday
A Christian celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
6 April
Easter Monday
The day after Easter Sunday, extending the Easter long weekend.
25 April
ANZAC Day
Honours Australians who served and sacrificed in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions.
8 June
King’s Birthday
Celebrates the birthday of the reigning monarch of Australia.
(Subject to AFL schedule)
The AFL Grand Final
Australia’s biggest AFL match, deciding the season’s premiership winner.
3 November
Melbourne Cup
Australia’s iconic horse race and major national sporting event.
25 December
Christmas Day
Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is widely observed as a day of family and giving.
26 December
28 December (Observed/Substitute Day)
Boxing Day
Traditionally a day for spending time with family, shopping sales, and sporting events.
Cultural and Community Observances - 2026
Cultural and community observances highlight the rich mix of backgrounds, beliefs and traditions within society. These occasions mark meaningful cultural milestones and faith-based celebrations that connect people and strengthen communities across the year.
JANUARY
4 January
Raises awareness of Braille as a vital communication tool for people who are blind or vision impaired.
18 January
Promotes understanding, respect, and unity between different religions around the world.
24 January
International Day of Education
Highlights the importance of education in creating opportunities and supporting global development.
26 January
International Day of Clean Energy
Encourages the shift to clean energy solutions to support a healthier planet and reduce emissions.
FEBRUARY
1-7 February
World Interfaith Harmony Week
Encourages peace, understanding, and cooperation between people of all faiths and beliefs.
10 February
Promotes safer, more respectful, and responsible use of the internet for everyone.
11 February
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Recognises the contributions of women in STEM and supports equal opportunities in science and technology.
13 February
Anniversary of the Apology to members of the Stolen Generations
Marks the National Apology delivered to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by forced child removals.
14 February
St Valentine’s Day
A day celebrating love, romance, and friendship.
17 February
Lunar New Year – Year of the Horse
Celebrates the start of the Lunar New Year with cultural traditions, family gatherings, and festivities.
18 February
Ramadan (date may vary by moon sighting)
The beginning of the Islamic holy month of fasting, reflection, prayer, and community.
18 February
Lent - Christian (until 2 April)
A Christian period of preparation, reflection, and sacrifice leading up to Easter.
28 Feb - 8 March
Raises awareness about ocean conservation and the importance of protecting marine environments.
MARCH
1 March
Clean Up Australia Day
A national day of action encouraging communities to clean up local environments and reduce waste to protect Australia’s natural spaces.
1 March
A global day promoting equality, inclusion, and the right of everyone to live with dignity, free from discrimination and prejudice.
8 March
International Women’s Day
A worldwide celebration recognising the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, while advocating for gender equality.
16 - 20 March
Neurodiversity Celebration Week
A week dedicated to recognising and celebrating neurodiversity, promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of neurodivergent individuals.
16 - 22 March
Harmony Week: Everyone belongs
A celebration of Australia’s cultural diversity, focusing on inclusiveness, respect, and a sense of belonging for all.
17 March
A cultural and religious celebration honouring Irish heritage, traditions, and the patron saint of Ireland, St Patrick.
17 March
World Social Work Day
A day recognising the important role social workers play in supporting individuals, families, and communities, and promoting social justice.
19 March*
Eid-al-Fitr (subject to moon sighting)
A significant Islamic celebration marking the end of Ramadan, observed with prayers, generosity, and time with loved ones.
19 March
National Close the Gap Day
A national day of action focused on achieving health equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
19 March
International Day of Happiness
Recognising the importance of happiness and wellbeing as fundamental goals for people and communities worldwide.
21 March
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Dedicated to raising awareness of racial discrimination and encouraging action to promote equality and respect.
21-27 March
Week of Solidarity with the Peoples Struggling against Racism and Racial Discrimination
A week highlighting global solidarity with communities affected by racism and supporting efforts to eliminate racial discrimination.
21-29 March
A celebration that promotes understanding, respect, and appreciation of diverse cultures and backgrounds.
24 March
World Tuberculosis Day
A global awareness day aimed at increasing understanding of tuberculosis and strengthening efforts to end the disease.
29 March-5 April
Holy Week - Christian
A sacred period in the Christian calendar commemorating the final week of Jesus Christ’s life, leading up to Easter.
APRIL
7 April
World Health Day
Raises awareness of important health issues and promote wellbeing for all.
22 April
International Mother Earth Day
Highlighting the importance of protecting the planet and promoting environmental sustainability and climate action.
28 April
World Day for Safety and Health at Work
A global awareness day focused on preventing workplace injuries and illnesses, and promoting safe, healthy working environments.
MAY
10 May
Mother’s Day
Celebrates mothers and mother figures for their care, support, and contributions to families and communities.
11 - 17 May
National Careers Week
A week focused on career development, encouraging people to explore pathways, build skills, and plan for future opportunities.
12 May
Honouring the vital role nurses play in healthcare and recognising their dedication to patient care and community health.
15 May
International Day of Families
A day highlighting the importance of families in society and promoting awareness of social, economic, and demographic issues affecting families.
17 May
IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism & Transphobia)
A day promoting inclusion and human rights by raising awareness of discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ communities worldwide.
18-24 May
A national celebration recognising the valuable contributions of volunteers and the positive impact they have on communities.
21 May
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
A global day encouraging cultural understanding, respect, and dialogue as foundations for peace and sustainable development.
24 May
World Schizophrenia Awareness Day
Aimed at increasing understanding of schizophrenia, reducing stigma, and promoting mental health awareness and support.
26 May
National Sorry Day
A day of reflection recognising the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and honouring the Stolen Generations.
27-30 May*
Eid Al Adha (date may vary by moon sighting)
An important Islamic festival commemorating compassion, generosity, and faith, observed through prayer, charity, and community gatherings.
27 May-3 June
National Reconciliation Week
A week promoting understanding, respect, and meaningful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider Australian community.
31 May
World No Tobacco Day
A global awareness day highlighting the health risks of tobacco use and encouraging actions to reduce smoking and tobacco-related harm.
JUNE
5 June
World Environment Day
Encouraging action to protect the environment and promote sustainability and climate responsibility.
10 June
A day recognising the courage and dedication of first responders who protect and support communities during emergencies.
12 June
World Day Against Child Labour
A global awareness day focused on ending child labour and protecting children’s rights to education and safety.
8-14 June
Men’s Health Week
A week dedicated to raising awareness of men’s physical and mental health, encouraging early support and healthy lifestyles.
14-20 June
Celebrating the contributions of refugees and raising awareness of their experiences and the importance of inclusion.
15 June
Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Highlighting the need to prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older people and promote their rights and wellbeing.
20 June
World Refugee Day
A global day recognising the strength and resilience of refugees and promoting compassion, support, and inclusion.
26 June
International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
Raising awareness of the harms of drug abuse and the importance of prevention, treatment, and cooperation.
26 June
International Day in Support of Victims of Torture
Promoting support for survivors of torture and reinforcing the commitment to human rights and dignity.
JULY
1 July
A day celebrating Scottish heritage and the cultural contributions of Scottish Australians.
5-12 July
A national week celebrating the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
25 July
World Drowning Prevention Day
Awareness day focused on preventing drowning through education, safety measures, and community action.
30 July
International Day of Friendship
Highlighting the importance of friendship in promoting peace, understanding, and connection between people and cultures.
AUGUST
3-9 August
Loneliness Awareness Week
A week focused on raising awareness of loneliness, reducing stigma, and encouraging meaningful social connection.
4 August
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day
A day celebrating the strengths, culture, and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
4-10 August
Homelessness Week
Highlighting the causes and impacts of homelessness and promoting solutions and community support.
12 August
International Youth Day
Recognising the contributions of young people and raising awareness of issues affecting youth worldwide.
17 – 21 August
Promoting safe, respectful learning environments and encouraging action to prevent bullying.
19 August
World Humanitarian Day
A global day recognising humanitarian workers and honouring those who support people affected by crises.
28 August
A day supporting LGBTQIA+ young people by promoting inclusion, acceptance, and safe spaces.
30 Aug – 5 Sept
Legacy Week
Supports Australian veterans’ families and honouring the legacy of service.
SEPTEMBER
3 September
Australia National Flag Day
Recognising the Australian National Flag and its role as a symbol of unity, history, and national identity.
6 September
Father’s Day
Celebrates fathers and father figures, recognising their role and contributions to families and communities.
6 – 12 September
National Child Protection Week
Focused on raising awareness of child safety and promoting the wellbeing and protection of children.
8 September
International Literacy Day
Highlights the importance of literacy as a foundation for learning, empowerment, and opportunity.
10 September
Encourages meaningful conversations and checking in on the mental wellbeing of others.
10 September
World Suicide Prevention Day
Focused on suicide prevention, reducing stigma, and promoting mental health support.
17 September
Australian Citizenship Day
Celebrates Australian citizenship and the shared values of inclusion, respect, and belonging.
20 September
World Cleanup Day
A global day of action encouraging communities to clean up waste and protect the environment.
29 September
National Police Remembrance Day
Honouring police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
30 September
International Translation Day
Recognises the work of translators and interpreters in promoting communication, understanding, and cultural connection.
OCTOBER
1 October
Mental Health Month (entire month)
Raises awareness of mental health, reducing stigma, and encouraging conversations about wellbeing.
1 October
International Day of Older Persons
Recognises the contributions of older people and promotes their rights, dignity, and wellbeing.
1 October
National Safe Work Month (entire month)
Promotes workplace health and safety and encourages safer work practices across all industries.
1 - 7 October
BPD Awareness Week
Increases understanding of borderline personality disorder and promotes compassion, awareness, and support.
2 October
International Day of Non-Violence
Promotes peace, tolerance, and non-violent approaches to conflict.
5 October
World Teachers Day
A day recognising the important role teachers play in education, learning, and shaping future generations.
10 October
World Mental Health Day
A global awareness day highlighting the importance of mental health and advocating for better support and access to care.
11 - 17 October
A national week recognising and celebrating the contributions of carers and raising awareness of the support they provide.
11 - 17 October
Anti-Poverty Week
Raises awareness of poverty and inequality, and encourages action to support people experiencing financial hardship.
16 October
World Food Day
A global day highlighting food security, sustainable agriculture, and the need for access to nutritious food for all.
17 October
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
Focuses on ending poverty and protecting the rights and dignity of all people.
24 October
United Nations Day
Marks the founding of the UN and promotes global cooperation and peace.
25 October
Grandparents Day
Recognises the role grandparents play in family life and community connection.
31 October
Halloween
A popular cultural event celebrated with costumes, decorations, and community activities.
NOVEMBER
1 November
All Saints’ Day
A Christian observance honouring saints and people recognised for their faith.
2 November
All Souls’ Day
A day of remembrance for those who have died, marked by reflection and prayer.
8 November
Diwali* (Hindu)
A major Hindu festival celebrating light, hope, and new beginnings.
9 November
World Freedom Day
Marks the fall of the Berlin Wall and reflects on freedom and human rights.
9 – 15 November
National Recycling Week
Promotes recycling and reducing waste to protect the environment.
11 November
Remembrance Day
Honours those who served and died in wars and armed conflicts.
13 November
Kindness Day
Encourages small acts of kindness and positive behaviour towards others.
16 November
International Day for Tolerance
Promotes respect, acceptance, and understanding across cultures and beliefs.
19 November
International Men’s Day
Highlights men’s health, wellbeing, and positive male role models.
20 November
World Children’s Day
Focuses on children’s rights, wellbeing, and development worldwide.
25 November
International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
Raises awareness of violence against women and the need for prevention and change.
DECEMBER
2 December
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
Focuses on ending modern slavery, human trafficking, and exploitation.
3 December
International Day of People with Disability
Promotes inclusion, access, and the rights of people with disability.
5 December
International Volunteer Day
Recognises the impact volunteers make in communities worldwide.
10 December
Human Rights Day
Marks the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
18 December
International Migrants Day
Acknowledges the contributions and experiences of migrants globally.
20 December
International Human Solidarity Day
Encourages unity and collective action to address global challenges.
Local Events -
VIC 2026
Victoria is home to some of Australia’s most iconic festivals and large-scale events, drawing visitors from across the country and around the world.
Below is a selection of community events happening across Victoria in 2026, offering plenty of opportunities to get involved, support local communities, and enjoy everything the state has to offer.
7 March
Dan Brown’s Wild Symphony
13-15 March
Langford Bike Fest
14-21 March
Pacific Rim Whale Festival (Uculet/Tofino)
17 April - 9 May
18 April
8-10 May
Esquimalt Buccaneer Days
19-21 June
19-28 June
24 June
4 July-5 September
Butchart Gardens Summer Fireworks
Late July - Early August
Symphony in the Summer Festival
Early August
8 August
26 August-6 September
5-7 September
Saanich Fair
3 October
Victoria Tea Festival
Late November-Early January 2027*
Festival of Trees Victoria
Event dates and programs may vary, so it’s always best to check official event websites closer to the time.
Staying informed about key dates can make year-round planning far more manageable. Save this page as a handy reference and revisit it whenever you need clear, reliable dates to plan ahead with confidence.
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