Each spring, Hastings, Victoria, awakens with a pulse of cultural energy brought to life by the Hastings Festival. This vibrant event draws locals and visitors to the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, offering an engaging blend of music, markets, food stalls, and artisan crafts against the backdrop of coastal charm. Beyond the festival grounds, Hastings invites you to explore its bayside trails and rich heritage, where the salt air and native bush challenge and refresh in equal measure.

The festival itself sprawls through central Hastings, where streets pulse with live performances and families encounter interactive workshops. Expect to cover around 2 to 3 kilometres on foot as you weave between stages, vendor tents, and community spaces. The terrain is largely flat and accessible, making it ideal for all ages and fitness levels, but sturdy walking shoes or sandals are advised due to mixed surfaces, including paved and natural paths.

The salty breeze from Western Port Bay dares you to pause and breathe it in; the festive atmosphere charges the air with a tangible sense of togetherness. Local bands, artisans, and food vendors fiercely defend their craft and produce, offering a hands-on experience that invites you to appreciate Hastings' coastal community without pretense.

Festival timing is practical: held over a weekend in late October or early November, the weather typically skirts warm days with cool evenings. Hydration is key—water stations are scattered throughout the event, but bringing a refillable bottle will keep you moving comfortably. Arrive early to secure parking; alternative travel options include cycling or catching the local bus for a stress-free entry.

For those keen to extend their adventure, the nearby Mornington Peninsula’s scenic coastal walking trails, including the Coolart Wetlands and the Hastings Foreshore Reserve, offer trails ranging from 3 to 10 kilometres. These paths rise and fall gently through coastal bushland and past quiet inlets, exposing you to rich birdlife and panoramic water views. Bring layered clothing to adapt to quick weather shifts and insect repellent to respect this thriving ecological zone.

The Hastings Festival is more than an event. It’s an invitation to engage with a community shaped by its maritime roots and natural surrounds. Whether your thrill lies in discovering handcrafted treasures or wandering where the bay’s breeze pushes forward with invigorating persistence, the festival serves as a gateway to a distinctly authentic corner of Victoria.

In brief, the Hastings Festival provides a balance of festive exploration and practical planning—a cultural catch for curious travelers and practical adventurers alike.