Ballarat Winter Festival returns: A spectacular celebration of the regional city's signature season

 Candlelight Concert

The popular Ballarat Winter Festival is set to return for another exciting three-week season – Saturday 29 June to Sunday 21 July – offering a delightful array of winter-themed activities and entertainment around Ballarat.

The annual event promises an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages, with a diverse program that includes an ice-skating rink; captivating light displays; immersive theatrical experiences; a showcase of local designers and artists; and a new dark beer festival to toast to the spirit of winter.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Ballarat Ice Skating Rink

Brace yourself for a magical experience at the always popular Ballarat Winter Festival ice-rink, located in the heart of the city next to the Town Hall. The rink will offer child-friendly, sensory and disco skating sessions, providing fun for the whole family.When: 29 June – 21 July
Times: Sunday – Thursday 9:00am to 8:30pm; Friday and Saturday 9:00am to 10:00pm
Where: Ballarat CBD (next to the Ballarat Town Hall)
Tickets: $9-$18 | Book at ballaratwinterfestival.com.au

Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill

Prepare to be dazzled and mesmerised as Winter Wonderlights celebrates 10 years. Featuring a spectacular blend of sound, lights and wintry delights, this immersive experience includes a shimmering light show; a full theatre program; delectable treats; falling snow; hands-on kids' activities; and much more, delivering a unique Christmas in July experience unlike anywhere else.When: 28 June – 21 July
Time: 10:00am to 7:00pm
Where: Sovereign Hill – Bradshaw Street, Golden Point (Ballarat)
Tickets: $36-$68 | Book at winterwonderlights.com.au

Frozen Kingdom at Kryal Castle

Embark on an enchanting journey into the heart of the Frozen Kingdom at Kryal Castle where guests will become part of an immersive story, set in a world of magic and mystery. Participants will aid Princess Neva in her quest to reunite with her companions and choose the champion who will vanquish the darkness.When: 29 June – 14 July
Time: 10:00am to 4:00pm
Where: Kryal Castle – 121 Forbes Road, Leigh Creek (Ballarat)
Tickets: $26.50 - $39.50 | Book at kryalcastle.com.au

Obsidian Dark Beer Festival

Raise a glass at the inaugural Obsidian Dark Beer Festival, featuring a rich assortment of stout, porter and dark ale selections from local and regional breweries, accompanied by live music and comforting food. Taste more than 28 dark beers from 14 independent breweries including Aunty Jacks, Cubby Haus, Red Duck, Holgate, Shedshaker and Bells Beach.When: 29 June
Times: Two sessions; 11:00am – 3:00pm and 4:00pm – 8:00pm
Where: Ballarat Mining Exchange – 16 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat Central
Tickets: $72 - $85 | Book here

The Design Exchange

Discover the talents of Ballarat's independent designers, artists, and creators at the Design Exchange, a showcase event celebrating artistry and craftsmanship.When: 6-7 July
Times: Saturday 3:00pm to 9:00pm; Sunday 10:00am to 3:00pm
Where: Ballarat Mining Exchange – 16 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat Central
Tickets: $5 per person with kids under 13 free

Candlelight Concerts

Candlelight Concerts will bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Ballarat. Audiences will be enchanted by performances of ‘Best of Hans Zimmer’ and ‘Tribute to Queen’ in an intimate candlelit setting.When: 13 July
Times: 6:00pm - ‘Best of Hans Zimmer and more’; 8:00pm – ‘Tribute to Queen’
Where: Ballarat Mining Exchange – 16 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat Central
Tickets: $26 - $66 | Book at ballaratwinterfestival.com.au

View the full program at ballaratwinterfestival.com.au.

FAST FACTS

Dates: 29 June – 21 July
Locations: Various locations across the Ballarat region
Program, tickets and more info: Available at ballaratwinterfestival.com.au