Waterfront Festival
The Festival of Sails Waterfront Festival provides free family fun and entertainment across the Geelong Waterfront. Attracting over 100,000 people to central Geelong, the event showcases free music across three stages, waterskiing, market and food stalls, displays from the RAAF Roulettes, and the Australia Day fireworks.
There is also a Come and Try zone on Eastern Beach where families can try the sport of sailing, stand up paddle boarding and ocean rowing free of charge.
Sailing Exhibitor Marketplace
In 2022, we plan to enhance our Regatta Village experience for sailors with an expanded exhibitor display of marine related products, with focus on the latest sailing related technology and products. We invite exhibitors to complete an EOI and request an exhibition space.
Live Entertainment
To ensure the event is operating strictly under all mandated COVID-19 conditions, the Festival of Sails Organising Committee has made the difficult decision to revise the format of the traditional Waterfront Festival, with no live music, market stalls or activations taking place on Steampacket Gardens and Eastern Beach.
Visitors to the waterfront will still be able to view the on-water sailing from across the Waterfront, and there will be free come and try activities for the family. The traditional Steampacket Gardens entertainment will be replaced with free live music and entertainment program in hospitality venues across Geelong’s CBD – named ‘Gigs by Festival of Sails’.
Gigs by Festival of Sails will see the event sponsoring some of our key live music venues in Geelong and encouraging people to come into the city over the long weekend and celebrate by supporting local artists and local venues. A full artist line-up and program will be published shortly, so stay tuned.
Market Stalls
The Festival of Sails Waterfront festival brings a variety of market stalls and food vendors to the Geelong Waterfront. With over 50+ site holders activating the entire Geelong waterfront, there is something for the whole family to enjoy.
Invitation to Trade
The Festival of Sails 2022 Invitation to Trade will launch in September 2021.
If you are interested in vending at the 2022 event, please ensure you are registered HERE to receive updates. Spaces are strictly limited.
Come & Try Activities
The Festival of Sails Come & Try activities are always popular with families. Historically Eastern Beach (directly next to RGYC, under the Ferris Wheel) has been activated with a variety of FREE family activities, including Discover Sailing, Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Ocean Rowing.
Discover Sailing
Free sailing! RGYC’s learn to sail team will be providing short sailing sessions for ages 4 and onwards. A great opportunity for kids and adults alike to come and try the sport of sailing in a fun and safe environment.
All sailing and safety equipment is provided, just come with suitable clothing to ensure you can enjoy the on-water experience.
