The Victorian State Ballet will bring its production of the much-loved story of Aladdin to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, 25 July next year.

Adored by children and adults of all ages, Aladdin and his adventures will come to life in a brilliant ballet production complete with lush costumes, breathtaking music and beautiful choreography.

This production depicts Aladdin, the son of a deceased Chinese tailor, in ancient Arabia, beautifully incorporating elements inspired by the Arab world and segments from the classic ballet, La Bayadere.

It's a wonderful story of intense love, burning passion, and bold expression full of fantasy and tragedy.

Aladdin reminds us of the importance of being who we are and the peace that comes from living our lives with truth and honesty to the fullest.

Created by Michelle Cassar de Sierra and Martin Sierra for the Victorian State Ballet, this production promises to become a favourite with Australian audiences.

Heavily inspired by the Carl Davis score and their love of Scheherazade's story, the Sierras produced this unique ballet which introduces additional magic when the Genie of the Lamp appears from a cave of dancing jewels.

In a marvellous display of classical ballet technique and stunning music and lighting, the Genie and his dancing jewels will make seeing this cave an unforgettable experience.

It's a show for the whole family, and tickets are available now by visiting www.wpacc.com.au.

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What's on in brief

Wangaratta Farmers Market on Saturday

Shop for local produce and meet local growers and makers when the Wangaratta Farmers Market holds its Christmas market on Saturday from 8am to 12pm in the grounds of the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Docker Street.

There will be a range of stalls to browse featuring seasonal fruit and vegetables as well as baked goods, eggs, meats, cheeses, oil, preserves, wine and much more.

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Resident artists' exhibition at Art Gallery on Ovens

See a wide variety of artwork on display by all the resident artists in the exhibition Thirteen, which has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street.

There are oil and acrylic paintings, drawings, pastels and mixed media works, along with sculpture, timber pieces and pottery, plus artist made calendars, cards, bookmarks and more.

Thirteen is open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am to 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm until 22 December.

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Glenrowan Christmas in the Lions Park

Glenrowan/Warby Ranges Lions Club will hold its annual Community Christmas in the Lions Park on Friday, December 12 starting at 5.30pm.

This year the Wangaratta Concert Band will be playing carols from 6pm to 8pm with all welcome.

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Wangaratta Kennel club dog walk

The Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club conducts a monthly Happy Dogs Walk to promote and encourage dogs to be involved with social and group interaction with furry friends in public places.

The club invites all dog owners to join others for a leisurely 3-4km walk through parklands, beside creeks and river, along gentle pathways and footpaths, for no more than one hour duration.

The next walk will be held on Sunday, 14 December leaving at 9.30am from the Murdoch Road Store (Clydes) with social coffee to follow as available, and more information is available by calling Ron on 0417 644 877 or Kevin on 0418 221 260.

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Milawa Carols in the Park

The Milawa Hall and Park Committee will present its annual Carols in the Park event at Milawa Community Park on Sunday, 21 December from 7pm to 9.30pm.

There will be a huge lineup or artists performing on the night including Jade Gibson, Sing Australia, the Galen Catholic College school choir and Pulsate Dance Force, plus many more.

Santa will be in his house from 6.30pm and there will be range of delicious food available from 6pm, with a Christmas raffle and lots of prizes to be won.

All are welcome to come along (byo chairs and rugs).

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Music and fireworks on New Year's Eve

The Rural City of Wangaratta will celebrate the arrival of 2026 with music, fun and fireworks at the Wangaratta Showgrounds on Wednesday, 31 December.

Performers include Indigenous Outreach Projects, Fanny Lumsden, RIFF and Melbourne Ska Orchestra featuring Nicky Bomba.

Alongside the music, there will be free family activities throughout the evening, plenty of food and drink options, and two fireworks displays – one at 9pm and another at midnight.

The event is smoke, vape and drug-free, with no BYO alcohol, and festivities will begin from 5pm, with no ticket or booking required.

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