Every year, Ballarat comes alive for the Ballarat Heritage Festival. A celebration of the city’s history, community and architecture, the 21-24 May festival is renowned for bringing the past to life in unexpected ways. Don’t miss it!
Explore the festival’s newest exhibition
Prepare to step back in time with Ballarat Revealed: Hidden Histories, Shared Together. This exciting new exhibition will transform the Ballarat Mining Exchange into a space dedicated to the city’s layered past.
The showstopper? A huge replica of Ballarat’s 1901 Chinese Arch, celebrating the pivotal role of Chinese communities during the gold rush. Plus, a dedicated First Nations space will share the vibrant culture and stories of the Wadawurrung people, the Traditional Owners of our land.
Enter the Beard and Stache Competition
Time to show off that well-groomed ‘stache or beard! The annual Ballarat Beard and Stache Competition returns for 2026 at Hop Temple on Saturday 23 May. If you’ve been tending to your whiskers for months (or years), this is your chance to snag the crown of the best dressed face in town!
Plus pampered pooches will display their chops at the dog beard and 'stache competition on Sunday 24 May.
Take a stream train ride
Hop aboard the Steamrail Victoria vintage train for a scenic ride between Ballarat and Yendon and return. This charming trip through the countryside is a delightful blast from the past. Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for adventure or just someone who loves a good train ride, this nostalgic journey is one you won’t want to miss.
Experience a feast of local flavours at Sovereign Hill
Sovereign Hill’s Heritage Harvest Weekend is a feast for the senses! Stroll through the Harvest Village packed with local produce, gourmet treats and homemade goodies. Kids can get crafty with hands-on sessions, while live demos from famous foodies, including headliner Alice Zaslavsky, will showcase old-timey skills. It’s food, fun and history – all in one.
Enjoy returning festival favourites
Some old friends are back! The ever-popular Ballarat Old Gaol tours, vintage car show and Ballarat Antiques Fair are returning to keep the heritage vibes rolling. These festival classics never fail to entertain, so be sure to catch them while you’re in town!