This July, Ballarat will once again embrace the magic of winter, transforming into a captivating wonderland for the Ballarat Winter Festival, running from Saturday 5 to Sunday 27 July. Renowned as Victoria’s ultimate ‘coolcation’ destination, Ballarat offers a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary winter experiences, making it a must-visit for travellers seeking a distinctive seasonal getaway.
This year’s festival is designed to celebrate the magic of winter with a range of experiences that highlight Ballarat’s charming character. Visitors can expect a curated program of events and activities including the return of the popular ice rink, dazzling performances and opportunities to indulge in the region’s culinary delights.
Festival Highlights
Ice Skating Rink (5-27 July): Glide into the heart of winter at the festival’s ice rink, featuring disco themed nights on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the festival.
Ballarat’s Hot Choc Showdown (5-27 July): Indulge your senses with Ballarat’s most deliciously sweet adventure. Over 25 local venues have stirred up their most decadent and comforting hot chocolates for you to discover. Follow your tastebuds and sip your way across the city, then cast your vote in the People’s Choice Award to help crown Ballarat’s best hot chocolate and go into the draw to win a wintery prize. Some highlights on the trail include:
- Wildlife Hot Choc Collection at Ballarat Wildlife Park: A range of deluxe hot chocolates inspired by iconic animals including Croc-Mint, Devilishly Dark and Chocolate Tiger flavours (small: $6 | large: $7).
- Meigas’ Spanish Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety dark chocolate with a mini homemade churro ($10).
- Pancho’s Mexican Spiced Hot Choc: A traditional, spiced hot chocolate made with panela, cinnamon, star anise and cloves, served with a warm buñuelo ($11).
- Marshmallow Espresso Martini at Grainery Lane: A whimsical take on a classic with marshmallow-infused vodka, toasted marshmallow syrup and fresh toasted marshmallows ($22).
- Near East Kitchen’s Turkish Twist Hot Chocolate: A rich cocoa blend infused with salep, a traditional Turkish ingredient for subtle floral sweetness and creaminess ($6).
- The Crypt’s Tromba Cafeto Hot Chocolate: A moody masterpiece blending dark chocolate with coffee tequila and Mexican chili powder for a bold, spicy and smooth experience ($18).
- The North Star Toddy: A boozy hot chocolate blending vodka, Baileys and chocolate liqueur, topped with alcoholic whipped cream and a toasted marshmallow ($15).
Winter Wonderlights (4-27 July): Witness Sovereign Hill transform into a glittering wonderland as Winter Wonderlights returns. Enjoy classic daytime experiences, then as night falls, the streets come alive with stunning light projections, music and a magical winter glow.
Ukiyo Spiegeltent – ‘The Floating World’ of Entertainment (5-20 July): Experience and appreciate the transient, fleeting beauty of life in our own floating world: the lavish Ukiyo Spiegeltent. Taking its name from the Japanese word meaning “The Floating World”— an inspiration for much of Japan’s greatest art, referring to the pleasure-seeking quarters of urban Edo life — this vibrant hub will host a variety of family-friendly performances across the Winter Festival including comedy, circus and more, promising a lively atmosphere day and night. Prepare to be amazed by:
- Dr Hubble’s Bubbles: An enchanting and funny journey into the world of bubbles, featuring giant, square and even ‘explodabubbles’ (where one lucky child gets inside a huge bubble).
- All You Need Is Love: A captivating romantic comedy blending acrobatics, hula hoops and clowning.
- The Great Dave: A master juggler who defies gravity, ending his show juggling on a two-metre unicycle while making tea!
Kryal Castle ~ Knights of Fire (5-20 July): Experience the thrill of medieval winter at Kryal Castle with fiery feats, wizards, knights and snow queens. Craft magical potions and learn the art of sword fighting.
The Design Exchange Winter Market (5-6 July): Discover unique creations from independent designers, artists and creators in the historic Ballarat Mining Exchange. It’s the perfect opportunity to find something special for yourself and unique gifts for others while supporting local talent this winter season.
