This winter, Ballarat is coming alive with a host of wonderful events and activities perfect for a family getaway. From Sovereign Hill’s Winter Wonderlights to Kryal Castle’s Knights of Fire spectacular, there’s plenty to see and do in Ballarat this winter.
So rug up, embrace the chill and make Ballarat your destination of choice this winter school holidays (Saturday 29 June – Sunday 21 July 2024).
This magnificent regional city is just 75 minutes west of Melbourne, making it the perfect destination for a mini-break.
When are the Victorian Winter School Holidays 2024?
The Winter school holidays 2024 in Victoria are from Saturday 29 June to Sunday 14 July 2024.
BALLARAT WINTER FESTIVAL
Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill
Sovereign Hill’s Christmas in July celebration is back! Throughout the day, visitors can wander the streets as ‘snow’ falls and enjoy pantomimes and theatre shows, Christmas-themed arts and crafts, the chance to share a photo with St Nick, and wonderful wintry treats like mulled wine and gingerbread.
As the sun goes down, ever-changing projections will bring Sovereign Hill’s streetscape to life as a spectacular light show illuminates the much-loved living museum.
Book your tickets to Sovereign Hill Winter Wonderlights.
When: Friday 28 June until Sunday 21 July 2024
Where: Bradshaw Street, Ballarat
Ballarat Winter Festival Ice Rink
Experience the thrill of gliding across the ice rink to great tunes and disco lights in the all-weather marquee this winter!
Ballarat Winter Festival Ice Rink’s pop-up ice skating rink will be on from Saturday 24 June – Saturday 15 July, with Child-friendly sessions, sensory sessions, Bollywood on Ice sessions, Latin Fiesta on Ice sessions and disco sessions also available.
Book your Ballarat ice skating tickets now.
When: Friday 28 June until Sunday 21 July 2024
Where: Armstrong Street South, Ballarat (between the Town Hall and Myer)
Frozen Kingdom at Kryal Castle
Ignite your imagination with Knights of Fire at Kryal Castle during these winter school holidays.
Watch the spectacular ‘fire’ joust, be dazzled by flaming swords and fiery tricks in a festival of flames, knights, queens, princesses and wizards in a battle between good and evil
Pre-book your tickets to Kryal Castle.
When: 10 am – 4 pm Saturday 22 June – Sunday 21 July 2024
Where: 121 Forbes Road, Leigh Creek
MORE TO EXPLORE in Ballarat these winter school holidays
Candlelight Concerts
For the 2024 Ballarat Winter Festival, Ballarat Mining Exchange brings you Candlelight: Best of Hans and more.
Let the gentle glow of candlelight enhance your auditory experience as you are transported by the melodies of Zimmer’s iconic compositions. Book your tickets now for an evening soul-stirring music in a captivating setting.
Pre-book your tickets to The Sound of Music
When: Friday 28 June – Sunday 14 July 2024
Where: Ballarat Mining Exchange, Ballarat, Ballarat Central
Design Exchange Market
Step into a world of innovation and craftsmanship at The Design Exchange Market, part of the enchanting Ballarat Winter Festival.
Discover a treasure trove of creative talents, from designers to musicians, all gathered under one roof at the historic Mining Exchange building. Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with handmade goods and artisanal delights.
When: 6 – 7 July 2024
Where: Ballarat Mining Exchange, Ballarat, Ballarat Central
Ballarat FAMILY-FRIENDLY DINING
From playgrounds and colouring-ins to crowd-pleasing kids’ meals, dining out in Ballarat with kids is easy.
From cafes and burger grills to hearty pizza and pasta, browse these fun family dining options.
Plan Your Ballarat Trip Now
Rug up and embrace the cold as Ballarat transforms into a winter playground with a myriad of experiences to warm your heart, soul and belly.
For further information on events and activities these winter school holidays and beyond, check out visitballarat.com.au
This post was published in collaboration with City of Ballarat
