It might be a little chilly right now but things are heating up in Ballarat this winter just in time for school holidays. Here’s your guide to our top must-do activities in Ballarat this winter.
Let’s start local with some fun experiences close to Aberdeen…
Indulge your creative spirit at Essential Candle Co Workshop at Delacombe Town Centre! Handpick your preferred jar from the selection and choose from a range of captivating scents available that day. Immerse yourself in the art of candle crafting, discovering the step-by-step process of bringing your custom candle to life.
You can choose an unstuffed bear with an easy zip opening, stuff your bear and use the mobile stuffing machine to fill your bear with warm fluff – make it as huggable as you want! Then you will receive an official birth certificate and give your bear a name to remember! Held just up the road at Delacombe Town Centre.
Smythesdale Country Market
Just a short drive from Winter Valley, the Smythesdale Country Market coming up on July 19 – and every third Saturday of the month. The market offers a delightful mix of local produce, crafts, and entertainment all set to the pretty backdrop of Smythesdale. Held at the Woady Yaloak Recreation Facility, it’s a perfect outing for families looking to enjoy the community spirit. Here is a full list of Ballarat Markets
For a unique dining experience, visit the Market Hotel Garden Igloos. Their Wonderful Winter Garden Igloos provide a warm, intimate setting with fairy lights and full table service. Ideal for groups of 6–8, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal and mulled wine. For a twist on the traditional, one igloo is set up for a relaxed game of poker, ideal for those looking to mix a little fun into their winter catch-up.
Fun for kids
If the days are wet and you don’t want to venture too far Showbiz Cinema at DTC is serving up the goods with some great current movies on offer and Xtreme Bounce is always a hit with the kids.
The Sebastopol Library
The Sebastopol Library has a full events guide filled to the brim with activities and events for everyone. Craft and Cinema Saturdays, Beyond the Book – Book Club, Rainbow Coffee Portraits and Bastille Day Film and Fashion Event are all events held locally at the Sebas branch. You can download the full program here Libraries What’s On
Lace up your skates and glide into the season at the Pop-Up Ice Rink in Ballarat’s Central Business District. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a first-timer, it’s the perfect spot for family fun and frosty thrills.
If you are obsessed with thrifting this one is for you, The BIG Thrift Market is a vibrant second-hand and recycled market offering a treasure trove of pre-loved clothes, shoes, and jewellery, homewares and more! With a diverse range of unique finds and vintage gems, it’s the perfect destination to refresh your wardrobe this winter.
Prepare to be amazed as the heart of Ballarat’s CBD is transformed into the wonderland of circus, comedy and family-friendly fun in the Ukiyo-Tent. Boasting an exciting program of six high-energy 40-minute shows per day, there are shows for all ages.
If you want to keep it classic Experience the magic of Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill. By day, enjoy classic gold rush activities; by night, the streets come alive with faux snow, wintry treats, and fun light projections. Always a winner.
If you are a sweet tooth warm up this Winter with Ballarat’s inaugural Hot Choc Showdown. Bringing together over 25 local cafes in a friendly competition to crown Ballarat Winter Festival’s favourite hot chocolate. Visit the website for a full list of participating venues, open hours and prices.
Hop aboard the Vintage Night Tram for a magical evening ride through the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. Glowing with color and charm, it’s a unique way to experience the city’s winter beauty. Plus each paid ride includes a complimentary hot chocolate to keep you warm.
Ballarat Ninjas
Have you tried Ballarat Ninjas? Designed to inspire and challenge fitness enthusiasts from young children to adults, Ballarat Ninjas offers an exhilarating Ninja Warrior course experience. Right next door is the much loved Creative Play Art Centre Ballarat where a world of imagination sensory-rich environments and engaging activities promote exploration and self-guided discovery.
Step into the enchanting world of Smurfette’s Garden at Stockland, Running from the 15 – 19 July activities include: Smurfette’s garden terracotta pot activity – Smurfette-inspired flower crowns using paper flowers, elastic headbands, and fabric leaves. SMURF friendship bracelets and more.
Free Family Fun at Central Square From July 5–20, Central Square offers free face painting and our good friends the Furals Winter Art Trail.
Harry Potter Treasure Hunt
The annual Harry Potter Treasure Hunt in on, with clues to follow and prizes to be won. Visitors can expect challenging clues, magical prizes and wizarding fun. There will be something for everyone (muggles and wizards alike). Enjoy being immersed in the magic of the Wizarding World with fellow fans.
High Tea on Cuthbert’s 939
Spend an afternoon aboard Cuthbert’s 939 – Ballarat’s beautifully restored vintage tram – for a moving High Tea experience like no other! Indulge in a classic high tea service featuring sweet and savoury delights, served with fine teas as you glide alongside Lake Wendouree in timeless style. This is a truly unique collaboration between Cuthbert’s Tram Café and the Ballarat Tram Museum and we are all about it!
Cyril Callister Museum
The Cyril Callister Museum educates locals and visitors about the life, work and legacy of Cyril Callister the man who invented Vegemite. See memorabilia, collectables art inspired by Vegemite. Try painting with Vegemite or leave that to the kids while you taste Vegemite inspired sweets and baked treats. Find the Museum at servo@23, an old petrol station in Beaufort.
So, bundle up, grab your beanie, and dive into the winter magic of Ballarat. With so many events and activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this school holiday season!
Make sure to use the links above to check out all the details for each activity!
