Walking Thomastown 2026

• Large-scale, colourful light installations along the walking trail
• Live performances, including cultural dance and local, young musicians
• Projection art from emerging and First Peoples artists
• Neon lighting, including the new Neon Circus Zone
• Food vans and hot drinks to keep you warm
• Fire-twirlers, roving performers, face painters and much more. 

The walking trail is approximately 2km round-trip (an easy 30-minute walk).

View and download the event map(PDF, 366KB)

Who can attend?

Anyone can attend Walking Thomastown. All activities, performances, installations and activations are family-friendly and appropriate for all ages.

How long is the trail?

Approximately 2km round-trip (an easy 30-minute walk). 

How much does it cost? 

It’s free to attend the event. All activities are free. There are some food and hot drink options available for purchase. 

How much time should we allow for this event? 

The event runs from 6pm – 9pm. You are welcome to stay and explore for the entire duration, but we recommend allowing a minimum of one hour to complete the trail and enjoy the art and activations along the way.

What times are the performances?

There are performance spaces and roving acts across the event site. Please refer to the event program for a full list of performances and times.  

How should I dress for the event?

Be prepared for cold and wet weather! Be sure to wear sturdy shoes for walking. The path is paved up until German Lane, where it could get muddy.

What happens if it’s raining?

The event will go ahead as planned, some acts or installations may be modified for wet weather. Please bring some wet-weather clothing.

Do I need to bring anything?

The trail is lit and event staff and security will be present to ensure a smooth and safe evening, however, we recommend bringing some warm, wet-weather clothes and a torch. 

Can I bring my dog? 

Yes. Dogs are welcome (on a leash). 

Lost property

Our information tent is located at the Thomas Street Recreation Reserve Pavilion for lost property. 

Can I get involved?

We always love to engage with our community in the development and delivery of events. If you’d like to be involved in this, or any future events, please contact the Festivals and Events team via events@whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Are the pathways wheelchair accessible? 

The section between Main Street Recreation Reserve and the Lalor Scout Hall features a wide, even path that is accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Plenty of parking is available close to the starting point at Main Street Recreation Reserve. Access to the Westgarthtown Historic Precinct is via an unsealed path and not recommended for wheelchairs. 

Are there restrooms along the trail? 

Yes, restrooms are marked on the map and located at the Thomas Street Recreation Reserve Pavillion, Westgarthtown Historic Precinct and Ziebell’s Farmhouse and Museum. 

Are there white strobe lighting or flashing effects?

There are no strobe lights involved. Some of the lighting installations include moving lights. 

How do I get to Walking Thomastown?

As a walking event, we recommend taking public transport and/or walking. The walk begins at Main Street Reserve Thomastown, via Main Street behind the Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre or at Ziebell’s Farmhouse and Museum. 

Is there parking available? 

Yes, there is limited public parking available at the Main Street Recreational Reserve and the Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre. 

Where is the nearest public transportation?

The event is approximately a 10-minute walk from Thomastown Railway Station. The 357 bus route also stops at the Main Street Recreational Reserve.

What food options are available?

Handheld food is available from the Thomas Street Recreation Reserve Pavilion, Thomas Street Playground and Westgarthtown Historic Precinct.

Stall names

• Twisted Temptations
• Nuggies
• Balkan Bites
• Fresh Roast Mobile Cafe - slushies
• Friends of Westgarthtown Kinderpunsch
• For Fudge Sake
• Bilbo Snaggins.

Photography, media and filming

This event will be captured by our photographers and videographers for use on social media and in City of Whittlesea marketing materials. By attending the event, you are agreeing to have your image used for these purposes. If you would not like your image captured, simply let one of our friendly staff know. 

Can I take pictures?

Yes. We’d love to see your pictures. If you’re posting on Instagram, feel free to tag us @citywhittlesea or use the hashtag #WalkingThomastown to share your discoveries with the community.

Security and site wardens will be stationed across the site wearing orange high visibility jackets. Please speak with them to report any emergency. 

First Aid

First aid services will be moving across the event site. Any emergencies should be reported to security or a site warden. First Aid is also available at the Thomas Street Recreation Reserve Pavilion.