Victoria's love of live music sends soundwaves far and wide, with local and touring acts appearing across the state in a variety of venues, from pubs and bars to theatres, town halls and trains.
Grab your plus one and hit the town(s) to hear favourites old and new from local legends and newcomers, iconic Melbourne acts, and interstate and international touring bands. Hear indie, rock, folk, country, blues and jazz at amped-up Saturday nights or relaxed acoustic Sunday sessions.
Book ahead for touring acts at indoor and outdoor venues in dedicated venues in towns big and small. Kick on with locals and local acts on Friday and Saturday nights in coastal and country pubs. Watch for gigs at Hanging Rock, and in summer look for Sunday sessions at wineries, breweries, beer gardens and cafe courtyards. In the cosier seasons, enjoy the same by the fireplace.
To find out what's on and where, keep an eye on gig listings in local papers, social media and beat.com.au
Check out some of our favourite regional live-music venues:
Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine
Some of the best biggest names in the Victorian music scene as well as quality local acts take it to the Bridge every week from Thursday to Sunday. Join them.
21–23 Walker Street, Castlemaine
Theatre Royal, Castlemaine
An ice-cream parlour, cinema and live-music venue operating since 1854, this iconic regional theatre gives visitors the royal treatment with touring acts and local bands.
30 Hargraves Street, Castlemaine
Volta, Ballarat
Fast-grown into an iconic live music venue, with regular shows from diverse local and touring Aussie tune makers.
15 Field Street, Ballarat
The Eastern, Ballarat
Historic corner hotel The Eastern's still going strong, with rock 'n' rollers from down the road or over the seas bringing live tunes to the pub stage.
81 Humffray Street, North Ballarat
