Phillip Island is not just for wildlife and motorsport enthusiasts; it’s also a hotbed of events that showcase its culture, natural beauty and community. Whether you’re here for food festivals, music events or to see the whales, Phillip Island has something for everyone. From San Remo’s maritime charm to the action at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, the island has a stack of festivals throughout the year that celebrate its beaches, attractions and local talent.
Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit: Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix
The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is the jewel in the crown of Australian motorsport. Every October the island hosts the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, an international event that attracts fans from around the world. With racing options and coastal views, it’s an experience like no other for spectators and competitors.
The circuit, famous for its fast turns and long straights, is set against the stunning backdrop of Woolamai Beach and Bass Coast, adding to the heart-pumping action of the racing. Along with world-class racing, the event has family-friendly entertainment, seat racing, interactive exhibits where you can get up close to your favourite riders, and a range of gourmet food, food trucks, and pop-up shops in which to indulge.
What to Expect
- Date: October
- Location: Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
- Highlights: MotoGP racing, interactive exhibits, entertainment zones, gourmet food and adventure activities.
San Remo Channel Challenge
Held in the charming fishing village of San Remo, the San Remo Channel Challenge is one of the island’s favourite events. This swim-run race across the San Remo Channel attracts athletes and spectators to watch competitors take on the Bass Coast waters. It’s a day of competition, local pride and community spirit.
There’s also a festival atmosphere around the race with food stalls, live music and activities for all ages. Plus educational demonstrations on the local marine environment. So it’s fun and educational.
What to Expect
- Date: February
- Location: San Remo
- Highlights: Swim, run, food stalls, live music and local craft.
San Remo TIDAL Seafood Festival
The San Remo TIDAL Seafood Festival is held every March and is a celebration of the region’s fishing village heritage. Just before the bridge to Phillip Island, San Remo has been famous for its fresh seafood for years and the festival is all about that. You can try a huge range of seafood dishes including lobster, prawns and oysters all prepared by top local chefs.
Beyond the food there are cooking demonstrations, seafood markets, live music and activities for kids so it’s a must do for families and foodies. The festival also showcases the region’s history and connection to the sea through exhibits on San Remo’s maritime past and its role in Victoria’s fishing industry.
What’s On
- Date: March
- Location: San Remo Foreshore
- Highlights: Fresh seafood, live cooking demos, live music and family fun.
Winter Whale Festival
The Winter Whale Festival is all about Phillip Island’s winter visitors: the whales. Held in June this family friendly festival is all about marine life, conservation and the island’s status as one of the best places in the world to see whales. The island’s coastline is home to humpback and southern right whales and visitors can get up close and personal with these gentle giants.
In addition to whale watching cruises there are educational talks on marine conservation, guided Phillip Island day tour and art workshops. The festival is for families, nature lovers and anyone who loves the ocean and its creatures.
What’s On
- Date: June
- Location: Various viewing platforms along the coast
- Highlights: Whale watching cruises, conservation talks, art workshops and adventure activities.
Ocean Sounds Festival on Churchill Island
The Ocean Sounds Festival on Churchill Island is a celebration of local music, culture and nature. Every January festival goers head to the island for a day of live music, food and relaxation. The event features top Australian artists and regional performers for a chill out festival with a sea view.
Food and drink trucks and local produce on offer while you enjoy folk, indie and Aussie country music. A chill out festival with a sea view. A must do for music lovers looking for a festival like no other.
What’s On
- Date: January
- Location: Churchill Island
- Highlights: Live music, food, views and night music.
Phillip Island Food & Wine Festival
If you’re a foodie the Phillip Island Food & Wine Festival in February is a must do. This festival showcases the islands best produce, wineries and restaurants, a foodie’s heaven. The event is a paradise for those who love gourmet food, wine pairings and hands on cooking demonstrations by top chefs.
The festival is held at various locations around the island, including the Cowes Jetty Triangle, where you can taste food, attend workshops and live entertainment. Local vendors will be serving up everything from fresh seafood to artisanal chocolate so there’s something for everyone.
What’s On
- February
- Cowes and surrounds
- Food and wine pairings, live cooking demos, gourmet food and family friendly activities.
San Remo Bass Coast Ukulele Festival
For a more laid back and intimate event the San Remo Bass Coast Ukulele Festival is a quirky little festival of ukulele players and enthusiasts. Held in San Remo it features live music, workshops and jam sessions. Beginners and experienced players welcome, so it’s a great event to connect with a wonderful annual community of music lovers.
The relaxed vibe and coastal setting makes it a music party where you can express yourself and share your love of the ukulele. A great day out if you want something a bit different and fun.
What to Expect
- Date: September
- Location: Phillip Island
- Highlights: Running, live music and food.
Phillip Island Running Festival
Runners will love the Phillip Island Running Festival. Held every September it features a marathon, half marathon and shorter fun runs so is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The courses run through some of the island’s most beautiful scenery with views of the coast, Cape Woolamai and Woolamai Beach.
Beyond the races there’s plenty of entertainment for spectators with food stalls, live music and kids activities so whether you’re running or cheering from the sidelines the Phillip Island Running Festival is a great way to experience the island while being active.
What to Expect
- Date: November
- Location: Various spots around Phillip Island
- Highlights: Marathon, half marathon, fun run, scenic views and family friendly activities.
Island Magic at Phillip Island Circuit
Island Magic is another big motorsport event at the Phillip Island Circuit in November. This event features a range of categories from touring cars to open wheelers and is a must see for motorsport fans. The speed and the scenery makes for a great day out.
Plus you can get into the pit areas, meet the drivers and experience the racing action up close. Island Magic is a more relaxed event than the MotoGP but no less exciting for speed enthusiasts.
What to Expect
- Date: November
- Location: Phillip Island Circuit
- Highlights: Touring cars, open wheelers, pit tours and speed.
Conclusion
Whether you’re here for the thrill of the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, the taste of the Phillip Island Food & Wine Festival or the sounds of the Ocean Sounds Festival there’s always something happening on Phillip Island. Our events are for everyone – motorsport fans, foodies, music lovers and nature enthusiasts. Make sure you put these in your diary and get amongst it on Phillip Island.
FAQs
What are the best family events on Phillip Island?
Winter Whale Festival, San Remo TIDAL Seafood Festival, Phillip Island Running Festival
When can I see whales on Phillip Island?
June to August. Winter Whale Festival is in June.
What music festivals?
You can attend music festivals on Phillip Island including the Ocean Sounds Festival in January and the Phillip Island Jazz Festival in November.
Are there food festivals on Phillip Island?
Yes the Phillip Island Food & Wine Festival in February is the highlight for foodies and showcases the best of the region’s gourmet food and wine.
What are the one off events on Phillip Island?
In addition to the big festivals, there’s the San Remo Bass Coast Ukulele Festival and the Island Magic motorsport event – something for everyone.