There’s lots of exciting festivals around Victoria for us to look forward to this winter, such as the Sorrento Solstice Festival, the Noojee Truffle Festival and the East Gippsland Winter Festival. And, if you’d like to soak in the winter fun, without straying too far from Melbourne, you’re in luck. The Ballarat Winter Festival is returning this year, and there’s a myriad of experiences and activities for you to try. Pop some petrol in your car or hop on a V/Line, rug up and have fun in this winter playground that’s just 90 minutes away from Melbourne. The Ballarat Winter Festival starts on Saturday, June 27 and ends on Sunday, July 19. Here’s what you can look forward to.
Ballarat Winter Festival highlights for 2026
Ballarat’s Hot Choc Showdown
Stay nice and cosy this winter by sipping your way along the hot chocolate trail. There’s over 30 creations for you to try, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Go for a traditional Paris-style hot chocolate, a spiced orange hot chocolate served with madeleines, a Dutch hot chocolate ‘affogato’ served over ice cream, a dark chocolate infused with Thai aromatic and more. Warm up with a comforting drink from one of the participating cafes, bars and bakeries, then vote for your favourite for the chance to win a prize.
Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill
Sovereign Hill is bringing back their enchanting Winter Wonderlights experience from June 26 to July 19. See the streets transform with a spectacular light show and falling snow. Then, have fun with theatre performances, wintry treats and more.
Knights of Fire at Kryal Castle
Feel transported to another world at Kryal Castle. Watch fiery jousts and noble knights, see wizards and snow queens, create potions, sip on mulled wine and take part in winter-inspired activities.
On July 18, the venue will also host the Fire and Ice: Fantasy Ball. Designed for adults only, you can expect roaming performers, themed cocktails and glowing lights. Learn more here.
The Pop-Up Ice Rink
Head to the city centre and glide around the popular Ballarat Winter Festival pop-up ice rink. Sessions run for 45 minutes, and during the festival there will also be themed nights and skating lessons.
The Design Exchange Winter Market
Head to the Ballarat Mining Exchange and check out a curated line-up of independent designers, artists and creators at The Design Exchange Winter Market. Find cool gifts, try artisan food and listen to talented musicians inside the heritage building on June 27 and 28.
To explore the full program and find out more about the festival, click here.