When winter sets in across Victoria, it brings with it a whole new range of adventures to enjoy. If you or your family are living with disabilities, it’s important to know which events, festivals, and activities are accessible and inclusive. That’s why, with one month of Winter still to go, we’ve created this seasonal guide, shining a spotlight on our top Winter events and activities for accessible and inclusive Winter adventuring.
From cultural celebrations to snowy mountain escapes, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the cold season. Plus, we’ll share a few highlights from TDAC’s own winter programs in July 2025, where we created unforgettable experiences for our participants, with more still to come before the end of the chilly season.
Our Top 5 Inclusive Adventures Across Victoria This Winter
1. Riviera Winter Festival
If you’re craving a coastal winter escape, the Riviera Winter Festival is a must! Running throughout July each year, the foreshore transforms into a magical winter village, complete with an accessible ice rink, light displays, and food stalls showcasing local produce.
Accessibility is at the heart of the festival, with wheelchair-friendly pathways, accessible amenities, and support services available on-site. Families and support workers can enjoy a relaxed day by the water, with plenty of seating and warm spaces to take a break.
2. Mount Baw Baw – Snow Day Trips
Winter in Victoria wouldn’t be complete without snow! Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort has been working to expand its inclusive offerings, from adaptive equipment hire to snow-play zones designed for all ages and abilities.
With accessible facilities, clear signage, and support available on-site, it’s a very disability-friendly alpine destination. Whether you’re there for tobogganing, a scenic chairlift ride, or simply to soak in the winter scenery, Mount Baw Baw is a fantastic day trip option, and one of our favourites!
3. White Night Bendigo – August 2025
White Night is a spectacular show of art, light installations, and live music across Melbourne’s CBD. Throughout August, you can wander the streets and watch the city glow with interactive projections and performances.
Accessibility measures include wheelchair access to viewing areas, Auslan-interpreted performances, and detailed accessibility maps to help you plan your night. White Night’s focus on inclusivity means people of all abilities can experience the wonder of the event.
4. Winter Night Market – Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne
Melbourne’s iconic Winter Night Market is back for 2025, running on Wednesday evenings through July and August. The night market shines some light on the otherwise dark evenings of Winter. Visitors can enjoy street food from around the world, live music, and performers that roam the crowd.
The market has worked hard to make the event inclusive: wide aisles for mobility access, accessible bathrooms, and sensory-friendly spaces for those who need a quieter moment. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with warm mulled drinks and comfort food, makes it a great winter night out for everyone!
5. National Gallery of Victoria – Winter Exhibitions
For those looking to stay warm indoors, the NGV’s winter program is a cultural highlight. This season, expect major international exhibitions alongside community-focused programs.
The NGV is committed to accessibility, offering wheelchair hire, accessible toilets, ramps, lifts, and hearing loops. They also run relaxed sessions and audio-described tours, ensuring art is truly for everyone.
TDAC’s Winter Adventures – July 2025
At TDAC, creating inclusive adventures is what we do best! This winter, our participants enjoyed a range of unforgettable adventures designed to embrace the season while keeping accessibility front and centre.
Riviera Winter Wonderland
We took an adventurous trip to try ice skating at Riviera’s Winter Wonderland, complete with lights, food, and an inclusive ice-skating experience. We had a great time on the rink all together under the disco lights, ensuring our participants of all abilities could glide (or shuffle!) across the rink with the help of adaptive equipment and our dedicated staff.
Mount Baw Baw Day Trip
A highlight of the season! Participants experienced skiing and snowboarding first-hand, with plenty of opportunities for tobogganing, snow play, and enjoying hot chocolate in the alpine village. It’s an unmissable trip every year!
These programs not only created unforgettable memories but also built confidence and connections as we had a blast and forged friendships to last a lifetime.
Interested in joining our August adventures? Get in touch via our online form and we’ll get right back to you!
Our Tips for Enjoying Accessible Winter Events
Since we’re adventure experts, it wouldn’t be fair if we didn’t share all our knowledge! So here are our top tips for Winter adventuring:
- Plan Ahead — Check the event website for accessibility details, including parking, bathroom facilities, and maps.
- Dress for Comfort — Victoria’s winters can be unpredictable, so warm, waterproof clothing and layered outfits are essential.
- Look for Support Services — Many events now offer accessibility services such as sensory-friendly times, Auslan interpreters, or companion card acceptance.
- Check All Travel Options — Metro trains, trams, and V/Line services across Victoria are increasingly accessible, but it’s worth planning your journey in advance.
These are crucial to consider if you’re planning your trip alone. However, if you choose to navigate your Winter adventure with TDAC, we will handle all the above, so you don’t have to worry about a thing!
Final Thoughts
Despite the chill, Winter in Victoria is filled with exciting opportunities to connect and explore. From bustling city markets to snowy mountain escapes, there’s something for everyone – and importantly, more events are prioritising inclusion and accessibility every year.
At TDAC, we’re proud to contribute to this movement with our own programs, ensuring people with disability can embrace all the magic that winter brings. Whether it’s skating under fairy lights, sipping hot chocolate by the fire, or marvelling at light shows, this season proves that adventure is truly for all!
So rug up, plan ahead, and get in touch if you want the TDAC team to make the most of your adventures - Winter in VIC has never looked better!
