5 ways to make the most of the Ballarat Winter Festival

Rug up and embrace the cold as the Ballarat Winter Festival returns across the school holidays. There's plenty of winter-themed events, activities and entertainment to warm hearts, souls and bellies.

Held over three weeks (24 June – 16 July) there will be something for everyone to enjoy – from ice skating to disco anthems and fire jousting; to getting cosy with kangaroos and your favourite Christmas in July event.

Here are some of our top picks from this year’s Ballarat Winter Festival program.

BALLARAT ICE SKATING RINK

Get your skates on as the ever-popular Ballarat Winter Festival pop-up ice rink returns to the heart of the city, offering child-friendly, sensory and disco-themed skating sessions across the Festival period. Each session goes for one hour and tickets are on sale now.

WINTER WONDERLIGHTS AT SOVEREIGN HILL

Sovereign Hill’s iconic Christmas in July-themed spectacle returns with a new shimmering light and projection show; falling snow; warm mulled wine; delicious gingerbread treats; pantomimes and theatre shows; hands-on Christmas-themed arts and crafts; and visits from St. Nick. As the sun goes down, share in the wonder as Sovereign Hill ignites for Winter Wonderlights. Tickets are on sale now.

Be sure to check out Late Night Wonderlights – the 18 plus event with all the snow, lights and winery delights of Sovereign Hill’s iconic winter event but with some twists.

THE DESIGN EXCHANGE

Each winter, The Design Exchange market brings together a curated line-up of amazing independent designers, artists and creators. Discover artisan foods, talented musicians and celebrate small businesses in one of Ballarat’s beautiful heritage buildings, the Mining Exchange.

KNIGHTS OF FIRE AT KRYAL CASTLE

Every winter famed Kryal Castle celebrates ‘Knights of Fire;’ telling the fighting story of Snow Queen Neva’s battle to save the kingdom. Watch a spectacular fire joust; be spellbound by flaming swords; create magical potions; learn to sword fight and axe throw; partake in Knight School; and enjoy live performances that tell the story of Snow Queen Neva’s survival.

BEYOND DARK

Returning for 2023, Beyond Dark celebrates the season and embraces the moody darkness. Warm your bones by the open fire and shake off the cold on the dance floor. Expect an eruption of art, music, performance and more.