Out & About magazine | The summer edition will have you eager to don your exploring shoes and blast off!

Due to a record wet spring our water storages are plump and healthy and we're all looking forward to a record summer. Water equals visitors in our part of the world.

Whether you like to swim, go fishing, like a ski, or fancy a calm sail on open water, our region has it all.

Summer is the season to be jolly and relax with family and friends too. So a day out shopping with friends, especially those enterprises showcased in Out & About, promises some of the coolest spots to shop, explore and to meet for a coffee and cake. Spoil yourself!

This is also the perfect time of year to visit our many parks, so prepare the provisions, stretch out on a blanket and make a day of it in the shade.

With the many food, wine, shopping and tourist destinations on offer, this edition presents summer in Bendigo to suit your many fancies.

For a comprehensive guide to what's on, open and happening, click on the link to the Out & About e-mag here

Djaara Lights ~ artwork for the people

Djaara Lights highlights Dja Dja Wurrung culture in the Bendigo region and includes light-based contemporary artworks, a 9.6-metre large-scale illuminated artwork and an augmented reality experience, co-created by 20 local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

Located in Bendigo's booming arts and culture scene, Djaara Lights will provide a night attraction for locals and visitors to the region.

Sign on to be an apprentice elf

Do your kids want to learn how to become a Santa's little helpers, and join Santa's famous team?

Through different craft activities, games and challenges children will graduate with all the skills required and become a qualified Elf.

Recruits learn how to care for reindeer and other farm animals in Santa's Stables, paint a plaster ornament worthy of hanging on any tree, create their own wrapping paper, prepare reindeer food, practice stacking presents as high as the clouds, and most importantly, prepare Santa for his around the world trip.

With so many new skills, recruits will gain their Certificate IV in Elf Training.

Cheekiness, laughter, carols, baubles, and candy canes are all part of the magic day, and it wouldn't be complete without a visit from Mr Claus himself!

Book early to avoid disappointment!

Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival

Bendigo comes alive with four tune-filled days of music performances and workshops, and with 120 acts and 40 venues, you're sure to make this event an annual 'must do'.

Just one of the iconic venues, the Blues & Roots tram, combines two of Bendigo's best attractions - its historic trams and sublime music talent.

Fans can enjoy a relaxed drink on the tram, while leisurely rolling through the streets of the city as some of the Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival's finest talent performs, up close and personal.

After taking a couple of short pit stops at the Tram Depot and the Joss House, the tram then turns back towards home.

There is no BYO and it is strictly an over 18 event as the Blues Tram is a licensed Venue.

Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival |February 10 - 13, 2022| @ Central Deborah, 76 Violet Street, Bendigo.

Anh Do - The Happiest Refugee

Anh Do's bestselling book The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh and cry, and was described by Russell Crowe as "the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years."

If you adore live shows, Anh's stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.

When one of Australia's most talented comedians delves deep into his own life's joys and sorrows, the result is an unforgettable night at the theatre that leaves an audience uplifted and quite simply experiencing... happiness.

Anh Do - The Happiest Refugee Live! | 8pm on Friday February 11, 2022 | @ Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo.

For a quick round up of some of the best events and attractions in our region click on the link here