Ballaratians are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. You’ll find a strong and vibrant cafe culture just like in the big smoke. Farm-gate to plate doesn’t come any fresher than direct from the heartland of regional Victoria. Gourmet menus matched with boutique local wines can be savoured in intimate restaurants, or sample hand-crafted beer and hearty pub fare in rejuvenated historic venues. Ballarat is a foodie’s delight.
Cubby Haus Brewing
A traditional Spanish tapas bar and restaurant, at Meigas it’s all about sharing and enjoying a different cultural experience, while sampling a variety of traditional dishes from all over Spain. Open Tue – Thu 5pm – late, Fri – Sat 12pm – late. 33 Armstrong St Nth 5331 9444
We're a hand built brewery making great beer! Enjoy our beers on tap in our bar + local wines, cider & spirits. Kitchen always open. Our bar is cosy, relaxed & inclusive. Drop in for a meal or just drinks. See website for details.
884 Humffray St Sth Mt Pleasant 4343 1777 cubbyhausbrewing.com.au
Pic: ChipShots Photography
Saigon Allée
Take yourself back to the balmy nights of Vietnam with the warm environment and infused flavors of Saigon Allee, with a hint of France thrown in to add that extra little flair. Fully Licensed. Check online for our current opening hours.
30 Armstrong St Nth 4373 1583
6 Pancho
A standout Latin Bar and Eatery focusing on dishing up some of the best Central and South American eats coupled with a lively atmosphere and drinks to match. Open Wed 5pm – late, Thu– Sun 11:30am – late.
213 Mair St 5309 3070
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Follow the umbrellas down Hop Lane on Armstrong Street North to discover a place to eat, drink, socialise and explore 200+ craft beers.
Southern American style eats, including in house smoked meats.
Open Wednesday to Sunday
Rear of 24-28 Armstrong Street North Bookings at www.hoptemple.com.au
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Copper stills humming. Glasses clinking. Plates landing on tables. And the easy buzz of great company filling the room. Itinerant Spirits is breathing new life into The Goods Shed next to the Ballarat Train Station with a bar you’ll want to stay awhile in, and spaces made for stories and events worth sharing. Drop in for a night out, book a private celebration, or get hands-on with a cocktail making class or a distillery tour and tasting. info@itinerantspirits.com | 0497 552 280
RETAIL THERAPY
The shopping hubs of Sturt St and Bridge Mall cater for almost anything you could need, but delve a little further and you’ll find some hidden gems. Ballarat’s shopkeepers bring colour to our streets in the form of beautifully curated spaces. Pay them a visit and find out why residents of our city love to #buylocalballarat.
Rocket & Belle
The Crafty Squirrel
A must visit when in Ballarat. The Crafty Squirrel stocks unique one-of-a-kind craft kits, vintage goodies, gorgeous haberdashery and treasures from around the world.
Open Thu – Fri 10 – 5, Sat 10 – 4. (Closed April 2 - 11, May 7 - 23).
A truly niche fragrance perfumery housing a large collection of the finest perfumes from around world. We love to share our knowledge of fragrance, together with our beautiful ranges of botanical skincare for face & body. Open Thu – Sat 11am – 3pm.
L1, 27 Sturt St (via Go Vita) 5332 9297
sweetfern.com.au
Hattie and the Wolf
Hattie and the Wolf is Ballarat’s go-to destination for handmade, local, ethical and artisanal gifts, fashion and accessories. A ‘must visit’ creative hub for the social and eco conscious shopper. Open Tue – Fri 10 – 5, Sat 10 – 4, Sun 10 – 3. 202 South St 0478 088 055 hattieandthewolf.com.au
Rocket and Belle
Rocket and Belle sells an eclectic array of antiques, decorative vintage, farm and industrial pieces for your home and garden. Interesting new stock arrives weekly. Open Thu 11 – 2, Fri 11 – 3, Sat 11 – 4.
The Shed on Mair 37 Mair St 0402 032 088 rocketandbelle.com.au
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At the historic Adam Lindsay Gordon Cottage the Crafts Council of Ballarat sells a wide variety of quality handcrafted items made by artisans in the Ballarat area. Open Thu –Mon from Sep to Jun, weekends in Jul & Aug.
Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Lake Wendouree
5334 2005
craftscouncilballarat.com.au
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Ross Creek Gallery showcases pottery by Ruby Pilven alongside monthly exhibitions spotlighting diverse contemporary 2D and 3D artists. Open Sat & Sun 11am – 4pm or by appointment. Only 15 mins from Ballarat.
183 Post Office Rd Smythes Creek 0430 886 428 rubypilven.com
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of times past.
ATTRACTIONS & TOURS
One of Australia’s best preserved heritage cities, Ballarat will have you intrigued with her grand historic buildings, beautiful gardens and cobbled laneways. Ballarat’s many museums and tours bring history to life, revealing secrets and stories of times past. With so much on offer in Ballarat you may just want to extend your stay!
Ballarat Heritage Festival
Escapade is a live-action escape experience that will test your mental strength in a fun, exhilarating environment. Pick your team of 2-6 people to escape one of 3 experiences within 60 minutes. Open 7 days - book online. 10% OFF CODE: BESTOFBALLARAT
LEARN ABOUT THE AUSSIE SCIENTIST WHO INVENTED VEGEMITE
See trams between 100 and 135 years old that ran in Ballarat, Melbourne and Geelong, plus other pieces of tramway equipment and memorabilia. High Tea experience on Cuthberts Vintage Tram. Open Tue 10am3pm, weekends & public hols. 11am - 4pm.
Wendouree Parade
5334 1580 btm.org.au
Ballarat Tramway Museum
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HAVE A WILD TIME
Take a relaxing walk around our picturesque park where you can learn and interact with our extensive collection of Australian native animals and reptiles as well as global and endangered species. Hand feed over 100 free roaming kangaroos, cuddle a koala, see Crunch the Super-Croc, Victoria's largest Komodo Dragon, Tassie devils, snakes, penguins, our Siberian/Sumatran tigers and much more...
OPEN 7 DAYS 9am - 5pm
EUREKA CENTRE BALLARAT
21-24 May 2026
VINTAGE STEAM TRAINS | VINTAGE CAR SHOW BALLARAT ANTIQUE FAIR | GAOL & TOWN HALL TOURS BEARD & STACHE | Exhibitions revealing hidden stories including Heritage Hero, Heritage Features, Heritage Fringe and more...
Be Active Walk 6km around scenic Lake Wendouree and stroll through the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Swim or Gym at Ballarat Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre. Tackle Black Hill Reserve Mountain Bike Park & Walking Tracks. For the kids there are fun adventure playgrounds at Lake Wendouree and Victoria Park. Explore the historic Old Cemetery with early gold rush graves, Eureka Stockade monuments & Chinese graves.
Vintage fur bag by Myleah Bailey
WHAT'S ON
Our mission is to make sure you never miss an event, and we love seeing visitors share these experiences with the locals. What better way to get under the skin of a city? With festivals, live music, theatre, exhibitions, markets and so much more, Ballarat has it all. Get amongst it!
EXHIBITIONS EXHIBITIONS
UNTIL 22 MAR RECLAMATION
Four artists who each explore the theme of reclaiming the physical, psychological, or spiritual. Through a variety of mediumsranging from furniture restoration & upholstery to painting, lino cutting & tufting - the exhibition highlights the power of reclaiming what has been lost, overlooked, or undervalued.
Art Space Ballarat
UNTIL 30 MAR
ASTRID MULDER: TALKING LEGS
The video Talking Legs visual language of advertising, but its unusual composition also delves into the surreal. Mulder explores the body’s ability to challenge perceptions and reveal new ways of engaging with the world, using gestures and poses to convey complex emotions and narratives.
Art Screen - Art Gallery of Ballarat
Alfred Deakin Place (at rear of the Gallery)
UNTIL 5 APR
NEXT GEN 2026
Discover the issues, ideas and causes that are inspiring our next generation of young artists. This annual showcase of VCE artworks gives Gallery visitors insights into the world of young people today by showing extraordinary works which reveal their vision, ideas and skills.
Backspace Gallery 43 Mair St
UNTIL 5 APR
MICHELLE
IMREI: NURTURANT
Nurturant – an exhibition of artwork by Michelle Imrei – infuses the details and connections of a nature inspired journey from over the past 20 years.
Kilderkin Distillery 14A Hill St, Mt Pleasant
UNTIL 10 APR
SCOPE26:
VISUAL ARTS LECTURERS
SCOPE showcases highly skilled work created by Federation University Arts Academy Visual Art lecturers based at Ballarat campus, who
FREE ENTRY
ART FOR SALE
FORTY THIRD
ROBERT CLARK CENTRE
Ballarat Botanical Gardens
3 – 6 APRIL 10am - 4pm Official Opening Fri 3 April 2pm
sustain an ongoing rigorous artistic practice across a broad range of disciplines, whilst maintaining their important contribution and professional commitment to art education.
Post Office Gallery Cnr Sturt & Lydiard St Nth
27 FEB - 15 MAR
SHAC ARTWALK 2026
A variety of Soldiers Hill businesses, schools and artist studios will showcase SHAC artworks. Follow the trail of yellow squares and discover the diverse talents of the members of the Soldiers Hill Artist Collective.
Katie Chancellor, Margaret Delahunty, Tomas Lineker, Alex Davison, Steve Sedgwick & Jenna Oldaker. Working across a range of approaches and processes, each artist offers a distinct visual language, reflecting the richness of ideas, techniques and perspectives shaping Ballarat’s painting culture. Opening Sun 1 Mar, 2pm.
Ross Creek Gallery 183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
7 - 9 MAR
STITCHING FANTASY
The Embroiderers Guild, Victoria Ballarat Branch showcases their members' embroidery skills. Featuring "A Touch of Sparkle" member challenge and textile art for sale. Ballarat North Sports Club 725 Creswick Rd, Wendouree
7 - 29 MAR
CAROLE CALLIL: WHERE COLOUR
FINDS ITS SHAPE
Carole is a local artist who discovered a love of painting later in life. Through simple forms, clean lines, repeating patterns and a vibrant colour palette, viewers are immersed in the distinct emotional world of each painting - from calm and meditative to dynamic and joyful.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
7 MAR - 4 APR
ORACLE
Seven Central Victorian artists respond to mystery and transformation. Positioned at the threshold between worlds, the oracle is a place where questions rise and answers return in unexpected patterns and forms. Each artist’s work evokes a metaphor or allegory and acts as a channel for meaning. Opening Sat 7 Mar, 2pm. Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
7 MAR - 8 JUN
ROBERT ASHTON: PHANTASM
An in-depth look at the technical prowess of esteemed photographer Robert Ashton’s 2023 series Phantasm. Using contemporary and historic photographic techniques, we travel into the landscape of the Great Ocean Road with Ashton’s hand built large format camera. ArtHouse at RACV Goldfields Resort
1500 Midland Hwy, Creswick
7 MAR - 8 JUN
SALVATORE ZOFREA: LATE SUMMER
The abundant shocks of colour of the Australian bush, a celebration of this time of year, through nine woodblock prints from Salvatore Zofrea’s 2008 seminal series Days of Summer.
Goldfields Gallery at RACV Goldfields Resort 1500 Midland Hwy, Creswick
MID MAR - MID JUN
ARTIST
IN
RESIDENCE: DANIELLE FRANCIS
Danielle will transform Art Hub into her own dressmaker’s workshop where visitors can see the practice of sewing, as well as participate in discussions, theory and practical workshops.
Art Hub 10 Lydiard St Nth
31 MAR - 28 MAY
ROBERTA
JOY RICH: M/OTHER
LAND
Roberta Joy Rich draws upon her experiences as a Southern African Cape woman. She returns to her ‘mother land’, raising her fist & returning her gaze, standing defiantly in front of heritage sites of political and personal significance. M/other Land seeks to redirect the gaze to one of Afro origins that explores concepts of identity, migration and self-determination.
Art Screen - Art Gallery of Ballarat
Alfred Deakin Place (at rear of the Gallery)
2 APR - 10 MAY
CREATIVE CONNECTIONS
Craft Council Ballarat showcases the creative practices of their members who work in the
Pet Portrait Artist
Local artist Maggie Dannatt can create a lasting portrait of your beloved pet
CREATIVE CONNECTIONS
A curated collection of works from members of the CRAFTS
COUNCIL OF BALLARAT
2 APRIL - 10 MAY Wed - Sun 10am - 4pm
ART SPACE GALLERY
14 Lydiard Street, Ballarat
mediums of woodwork, jewellery, textiles, arts and crafts, printing, literature and photography.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
3 - 6 APR
43RD ANNUAL EASTER ART SHOW
The annual exhibition of the Ballarat Society of Artists Inc. showcasing local artists. All artworks for sale. 10am - 4pm, free entry. Official opening Fri 3 Apr, 2pm.
Robert Clark Centre Ballarat Botanical Gardens
4 - 26 APR
CATHY BROWN: MOVING IN STILLNESS
Capturing quiet moments of solitude & calm in landscapes & streetscapes around Ballarat and other places, Cathy’s paintings are beautifully atmospheric, delving deep into simple everyday scenes which may have otherwise been a forgotten fleeting moment of the ordinary.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
4 - 26 APR
FRAGILE
WONDER
A group exhibition bringing together five local artists – Glynis Bryden, Lisa G. Hunter, Anne
Langdon, Catriona Sexton and Kate Wise –whose focus is on appreciating the beauty and fragility that surrounds us and is within us.
Opening Sun 12 Apr, 2pm.
Ross Creek Gallery 183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
11 APR - 3 MAY
TEXTILE PALETTE EXHIBITION
STUFF: Purpose, profit and peril explores humanity’s complex relationship with material things. It considers how objects, ranging from everyday items and luxury goods to waste and heirlooms, reflect our values, drive economic systems, and impact the environment.
The Warehouse Clunes 36 Fraser St, Clunes
11 APR - 9 MAY
SILENCE///ROAR
Presenting installations, photographs, paintings, sculptures and prints, this exhibition considers the powerful role of silence and noise in exploring our everyday surroundings. The five artists, seeking clarity beyond the tangible, offer different perspectives on sound, more than noise. Opening Sat 11 Apr, 2pm.
Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
ART on ALBERT GALLERY
A not-for-profit Gallery in Creswick, run by volunteers, to provide varied spaces for local and regional artists to exhibit and sell their work.
86 ALBERT ST CRESWICK Thur – Mon 10am to 4pm
Contact & expressions of interest artonalbert86@gmail.com
Follow us on Facebook Art on Albert
11 APR - 24 MAY
PETE WALKER: INSIDE OUTSIDE UPSIDE DOWN
Walker's sculptural materials are comprised of small scraps, broken fragments & detritus from the streets of Ballarat. These items are chosen for their ‘embodied histories,’ as symbols of a ‘calm after the storm.’ By reusing the objects in sculptures, Walker returns their value by accepting and elevating them ‘as they are.’ Backspace Gallery 43 Mair St
17 APR - 28 MAY
KATIE CHANCELLOR: CREATURES: HEART & HOME
Discover the native creatures the artist Katie Chancellor encounters in her home surrounds. Artworks have been created in her unique, joyful style of brightly painted wood cut outs. Unicorn Lane off 133 Sturt St (viewing 24/7)
17 APR - 17 JUL
THINKING OF PLACE IV: FLEET
A collaboration between 11 printmaking groups in a cross-cultural dialogue with the aim of creating 11 vessels. Linking together via the
common motif of a ship or boat, the works are imagined, emblematic or referencing an actual vessel as a powerful symbol of journey, transience, crossing boundaries, traversing spaces and fostering cultural connections.
Post Office Gallery Cnr Sturt & Lydiard St Nth
1 - 10 MAY
BALLARAT CRAFT & DESIGN WEEK
The theme for 2026 is Bound, celebrating collaboration between craft and design practitioners, communities and cultural industries, with an emphasis on textile, memory and restorative practices. A curated exhibition and public program featuring workshops, talks, retail opportunities and immersive experiences. Mining Exchange 12 Lydiard St Nth
1 - 30 MAY
CTRL + V: A COLLAGE EXHIBITION
In a world saturated with images, we borrow, steal, splice & remix to make sense of the noise. Ctrl + V brings together a group of artists who revel in the cut-and-paste ethos, where scissors are scalpels, glue is intention, and nothing is ever just one thing. Opening Sat 9 May, 2pm.
TBH Studio 57 Bridge Mall
2 - 24 MAY
CHARMAINE CHANNELLS: THE GRAND OLD DAMES OF BALLARAT
A collection of portraits that pay homage to iconic Ballarat buildings and present realistic interpretations of imagined personas. Decorative architectural elements, derived from human vision and the mastery of human hands, have brought beauty to our built environment. Each 'Dame' embodies the essence of their formation: what they are and 'who' they are.
Old Butchers Shop Gallery 112 Seymour St
2
- 31 MAY
BALLARAT PRINTMAKERS 2026
This inaugural exhibition brings together six Ballarat-based artists both emerging and established to showcase the diversity, skill and vitality of contemporary printmaking in the region. The first exhibition will host Jimmy Pasakos, Deborah Klein, Jessica Schroeter, Peter Laqua, Emma Stoneman and Kathy Douglas. Opening Sun 3 May, 2pm.
Ross Creek Gallery 183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
LIVE MUSIC LIVE MUSIC
KANK WOLVERANG RECORDS
30 Main Rd, Bakery Hill
SUN 1 MAR 2pm Food For Dogs
SUN 5 APR 2pm Vendetta
SAT 18 APR from 10:30am Live music - World Record Store Day
SUN 3 MAY 2pm Concerning Crows & Ravens
PIANO BAR BALLARAT
31 Sturt St • 0466 191 919 pianobarballarat.com.au
FRI & SAT NIGHTS 7pm Piano Bar by Request
THU NIGHTS 7pm Drag Bingo
SUN 1 MAR 2pm Farnham Forever
WED 4 MAR 7pm Grace Knight & Wendy Matthews: Songs of Paul Simon
SUN 17 MAY 2pm Nikki Nicholls: Carol King & James Taylor tribute
SUN 31 MAY 2pm The Goddess of Pop: Cher
16 MAY - 13 JUN
BAA + CASTLEMAINE ARTISTS
Ballarat Arts Alive hosts a group show of works by their members alongside a selection of Castlemaine artists. Opening Sat 16 May, 2pm. Kank Wolverang Records 30 Main Rd
16 MAY - 14 JUN
MICHAEL CREANEY: FINGERPRINTS OF MAN
Ceramic artist Michael Creaney has created a series of works exploring the dynamic interplay between volume and space, emphasizing how negative space can redefine perception.
Art Space Ballarat 14 Lydiard St Nth
21 MAY - 28 JUN
CARLY HITCHCOCK
Carly Hitchcock's Japanese-inspired artwork combines contemporary illustration with traditional Eastern aesthetics, rendered primarily in shades of blue. Delicate line work, balanced composition and subtle references to nature create a calm, contemplative mood. Kilderkin Distillery 14A Hill St, Mt Pleasant
The Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel
A captivating acoustic performance…. Performed by ‘Shelley & O’Regan’…
SATURDAY MARCH 28 - 7.30PM
WENDOUREE
www.wcpa.com.au or 03 5338 0980
CRESFEST
Creswick • cresfest.com.au
10 - 12 APR Fiona Boyes, Uncle Frank Yamma, Makepisi, Queen of Hearts, The Bushwackers, Tony McManus [Scotland], Natalie & Brittany Haas [USA] + much more!
HOP TEMPLE
Rear of 24-28 Armstrong St Nth 6155 2216 • hoptemple.com.au
SUN 1 MAR 1:30pm Daryl Roberts
SAT 7 MAR 9pm Hayden Blaby
SUN 8 MAR 1:30pm Aaron Pollock
SUN 15 MAR 1:30pm Shane Gilbert
SAT 21 MAR 9pm Untapped
SUN 22 MAR 1:30pm Anna Scionti
SAT 28 MAR 9pm Bec & Marty
SUN 29 MAR 1:30pm Rhyley McGrath
SAT 4 APR 9pm Untapped
SUN 5 APR 1:30pm Tommy McEwan
SAT 11 APR 9pm Bec & Marty
SAT 18 APR 9pm Slick & Shush
SUN 19 APR 1:30pm Midnight Drive
SAT 25 APR 9pm Brodie Glen
SUN 26 APR 1:30pm Shane Gilbert
SAT 2 MAY 9pm Matty Chaps
SUN 3 MAY 1:30pm Anna Scionti
SAT 9 MAY 9pm Bec & Marty
SAT 16 MAY 9pm Slick & Shush
SAT 23 MAY 9pm Hayden Blaby
VOLTA
15 Field St • voltaballarat.com.au
FRI 6 MAR 7pm Nu-Metal Revolution: Follow the Leader, Dirty Rotten Bizkit, Around the Fur
SAT 7 MAR 7pm The Bennies
FRI 13 MAR 7pm Subcentre Space Edition: Asylum, Benji, DJ Start Up, D-Techt, Hyasynth, Quality Time, Silverhair, Telemikus
FRI 20 MAR 8pm Hammers
FRI 3 APR 7pm Witchskull
SAT 18 APR 7pm Gordi
FRI 1 MAY 7pm Clash of the Titans Pulverised: Ænima, Zombie Eaters, Alice Unchained
SAT 2 MAY 8pm Mi-Sex
FRI 8 MAY 7:30pm Ashes to Ashes: David Bowie Experience
SAT 30 MAY 7pm Complete
CHISHOLM ST.
Black Hill, Ballarat • chisholmst.com
20 & 21 MAR Inscape Trio
1 & 2 MAY Chris McNulty Trio
BALLAARAT
MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE
117 Sturt St • 5331 3042 • ballaratmi.org.au
SUN 12 APR 3pm Brian Chapman & FriendsTrio of Piano Quartets
SAT 9 MAY 10am Teeny Tiny Stevies
WENDOUREE CENTRE
FOR PERFORMING ARTS
1220 Howitt St • 5338 0980 • wcpa.com.au
SAT 7 MAR 7:30pm Best of the Bee Gees
SAT 14 MAR 7:30pm Queen Forever
SUN 15 MAR 3pm Elyane Laussade
FRI 20 MAR 7pm A Salute to Roy Orbison
SAT 28 MAR 7:30pm The Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel
THU 2 APR 7:30pm Peter Allen & Judy Garland tribute
THU 16 APR 7:30pm The Big Chillout - Motown
SUN 3 MAY 2pm Elvis & Buddy
SAT 9 MAY 8pm The Great Pretenders: Diamond, Dolly & Tina tribute
SAT 30 MAY 7:30pm Björn Again
CIVIC HALL
300 Mair St • 5333 5888 • hermaj.com
SAT 9 MAY 8pm Tania Kernaghan & Jason Owen
HER MAJESTY'S THEATRE
17 Lydiard St Sth • 5333 5888 • hermaj.com
SAT 21 MAR 8pm Human Nature
SAT 11 APR 7:30pm Aled Jones
KILDERKIN DISTILLERY
14A Hill St, Mt Pleasant • 0424 791 790 kilderkindistillery.com.au
SUN 1 MAR 1:30pm The Drongo & The Crow
FRI 13 MAR 7:30pm Enda Kenny
SUN 22 MAR 1:30pm Izzy Skinner
FRI 17 APR 7:30pm Fred Smith
SUN 26 APR 1:30pm Lizzi May
SUN 24 MAY 1:30pm Blue Windows
ODESSA AT LEAVER'S HOTEL
80 Albert Street, Creswick • 0428 694 258 facebook.com/OdessaAtLeaversHotel
FRI 13 MAR 6pm Hayley Mary
SAT 14 MAR 6pm Paul Grabowsky & Michelle Nicolle
SAT 28 MAR 7pm Emily Lubitz
SUN 12 APR Felicity Urquhart, Josh Cunningham
SUN 19 APR 1:30pm & 5:30pm Ben Lee
SUN 3 MAY 1pm Major Zulu
WED 6 MAY Martha Spencer
SUN 10 MAY 6pm Geoff Achison
STAGE STAGE
26 FEB - 8 MAR & JULIET
Presented by Ballarat Lyric Theatre & Juliet flips the script on the world’s most famous love story. What if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo, and instead, chose her own ending? Set to a playlist of pop anthems as iconic as Juliet herself, this hilarious & heartwarming new musical dares to imagine a life after Romeo, full of possibility, empowerment & pop bangers. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SAT 14 MAR 2pm
ORPHEUS & EURYDICE
Lyster Opera celebrates its 10th anniversary
emotionally charged opera tells the enduring fable of Orpheus, who descends into the underworld to reclaim his beloved Eurydice. With a dazzling cast & Gluck’s classic, stirring score, this production promises to be visually and musically captivating. Tix: trybooking.com Creswick Town Hall 70 Albert St, Creswick
SAT 14 MAR 7:30pm
LIGHTING THE DARK
A bold new work by Chris Dyke, a Kaurna (Adelaide) based dancer and choreographer living with Down syndrome. With the mesmerising Dancenorth Ensemble by his side, Chris leads the way, transforming the stage into a portal where love and light illuminate the darkness. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
THU 19 MAR 7:30pm
SWAN LAKE
Featuring a cast of internationally acclaimed artists, Swan Lake brings the brilliance of Marius Petipa’s original choreography to life, beautifully re-staged by Victorian State Ballet’s director, Michelle Sierra. Tix: hermaj.com
FRI 20 MAR 6:30pm
THE BALLARAT POETESS
Award-winning spoken word artist Megan J Riedl makes her full-length debut in this thought-provoking solo performance featuring performance poetry, video and soundscape. Upon discovering her predecessor Ellen F Young in the pages of a little-known handwritten poetry collection from the 1800s, Megan J Riedl embarks on a transformative journey to discover what it means to be the voice of a city.
Tix: sovereignhill.com.au
Sovereign Hill - Victoria Theatre Bradshaw St
SAT 28 MAR 2pm & 7:30pm
NED KELLY: THE MUSICAL
His name is etched into national folklore. The outlaw bushranger, his gang and that iconic suit of armour — who was Ned Kelly? Victorian Opera breathes fresh life into a neglected work of Australian theatre with Reg Livermore’s Ned Kelly: The Musical. Originally produced in the late 1970s, the musical charts the life and times of Australia’s most notorious bandit.
Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SATURDAY 28 MARCH
HER MAJESTY’S THEATRE, BALLARAT
8 - 9 APR
THE LITTLE MERMAID
A magical ballet production inspired by the beloved story by Hans Christian Andersen. This enchanting tale brings to life an underwater world filled with vibrant sea creatures and colourful characters. Audiences will be captivated by the stunning costumes, rich in colour and detail, and the exceptional artistry of the Victorian State Ballet dancers.
Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
10 - 19 APR
THE DOG LOGS
Presented by Ballarat National Theatre
From a tough Rottweiler with neighbour problems, to a prima donna toy poodle who wants attention, this collection of hilarious and heart-breaking monologues examines the lives of dogs from every breed, age and situation. Telling stories of friendship, romance and revenge, The Dog Logs is a refreshing take on canine life that is touching & surprisingly human. Tix: bnt.org.au
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 117 Sturt St
WED 15 APR 10:30am
PLAY DATE
In this colourful musical adventure through stories of identity, body positivity and the power of imagination, Turtle and Sugar Rush from PLAY DATE lead the ultimate dance party for children and their ‘chosen’ families. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
FRI 24 APR 11:30am & 7:30pm TROPHY BOYS
Performed by a female and non-binary cast, Trophy Boys uses drag, satire and camp to playfully and powerfully interrogate the welldocumented toxic masculinity, misogyny and homophobia of our elite private boys' schools, and their prevalence in the highest offices of power in the country. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
26 APR & 2 - 3 MAY
TWELVE MINUTE PLAY FESTIVAL
Each of the twelve selected plays will be performed on all three performance dates. Audiences can vote for their favourite play, and the selected play will be announced on Sunday, 3rd May. Tix: creswicktheatre.com.au
Creswick Courthouse Theatre 2 Raglan St, Creswick
FRI 1 MAY 11am & 1pm
WHERE IS THE GREEN SHEEP?
An immersive visual theatre experience based on the beloved children’s book by Mem Fox and Judy Horacek. Blending puppetry and animation, this beautiful production invites young audiences to join our three farmers on their quest to find the elusive green sheep. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
SAT 9 MAY 7:30pm
AUTO-TUNE
Michael, a teenage Silverchair fan, discovers he has a strange superpower. The same way autotune technology perfects pitch, Michael finds he can time-travel, auto-tuning his life to rid it of dumb statements, awkward pauses and cringe jokes. But when this music-mad weirdo makes the biggest mistake of his life, will his auto-tune superpower save him? Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
15 - 31 MAY BALLARAT CABARET FESTIVAL
Ballarat Cabaret Festival returns with a delicious array of treats and surprises. Keep your eyes peeled for our fabulous Gala, featuring new and exciting acts and some returning favourites. Also featuring a Cabaret Ball where you can don your finest glamour & glitz and dance with us at a fabulous new location, and the Living Portrait Theatre where you can be immortalised as a living work of art. All this and so much more! Info & tix: ballaratcabaretfestival.com
21 - 31 MAY
DISNEY'S FROZEN
Presented by BLOC Music Theatre
Join Anna, Elsa, Olaf and all your favourite characters as they embark on an epic journey of love, courage, and the power of sisterhood. With breathtaking music including the Oscar and Grammy Award winning Let It Go, dazzling costumes and spectacular staging, this production will melt even the iciest of hearts. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty’s Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
MORE TO DO MORE TO DO
SHOW
ONGOING
AURA
The story of gold in a 90 minute high impact, graphic presentation which explores the creation, discovery and impact of the precious metal, then and now. Tix: sovereignhill.com.au
Sovereign Hill Bradshaw St, Golden Point
FRI 6 MAR 8pm
COMEDY
BALLARATCAT COMEDY
With Lehmo + Firdi Billimoria, Freddie Arthur and Urvi Majumdar. Tix: bpacballarat.org
BPAC 501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill
7 - 9 MAR
BALLARAT BEGONIA FESTIVAL
An incredible line up of family friendly activities, garden displays,
MEDITATION & BUDDHISM
Weekly Classes
• Wed | 7-8pm | $12
• No booking required
Wine + Food Festival
Along the banks of the Avoca River
• pyrenees + GRAMPIANS wineries
• Wine Auction
• Live MusiC
• local food
• artisan producers
• GIN, BEER + CIDER
• Children's Activities
Buses from Ballarat, Maryborough, Stawell, Ararat, St Arnaud & Moonambel.
11 APR 2026
11AM - 5PM
Tickets on sale now.
Second Release
GA Adult: $60
Unearthed
VIP Pass: $150
U18 Entry: Free pyreneesunearthed.com.au
workshops, entertainment & more. Info: ballaratbegoniafestival.com
Ballarat Botanical Gardens Wendouree Pde, Lake Wendouree
12 - 14 MAR 9:30am – 4pm CRAFTALIVE BALLARAT
World class teachers & retailers with the latest craft supplies, kits and displays. Tix: craftalive.com.au
Ballarat Showgrounds 6 Rose Hill Rd, Mt Rowan
17 - 18 MAR 7pm & 9:30pm
JIMMY CARR
A household name in the UK and one of the biggest selling comedians in the world. Tix: hermaj.com Civic Hall 300 Mair St
21 - 22 MAR
CLUNES BOOKTOWN
FESTIVAL
• Ballarat Mechanics Institute, 117 Sturt St meditate in ballarat .org
Clunes comes alive with over 130 book traders, author talks, workshops, live music, kids activities, and a night sky dreaming event.
Info: clunesbooktown.org.au
THU 2 APR 8pm
BALLARATCAT COMEDY
With Kirsty Webeck + Nicky Barry, Ben Richardson and Sam Zito.
Tix: bpacballarat.org
BPAC 501 – 503 Neill St, Soldiers Hill
10 - 12 APR CRESFEST
Folk & Roots festival with live music in intimate heritage venues, with international, national & local artists. Info: cresfest.com.au
SAT 11 APR 11am – 5pm
FRIDAY MAY 16 | 4pm - 8pm SATURDAY MAY 17 | 10am - 5pm
MAY 18 | 10am - 4pm
FRIDAY MAY 16 | 4pm - 8pm SATURDAY MAY 17 | 10 am - 5 SUNDAY MAY 18 | 10 am - 4pm
SAT 2 MAY 8pm
MARTY SHEARGOLD
Marty’s taking aim at everything from modern madness to middle-age misfires. Tix: hermaj.com
Her Majesty's Theatre 17 Lydiard St Sth
2 - 3 MAY
127TH LAKE GOLDSMITH
STEAM & VINTAGE RALLY
Over 65 display sheds with steam and oil engines, saw mills, motorcycles, trucks, tractors and more.
Info: lakegoldsmithsteamrally.org.au
Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally 1234 Carngham-Lake Goldsmith Rd, Lake Goldsmith
9 - 10 MAY 10am – 4pm
ANDERSON’S MILL
HERITAGE WEEKEND
Showcases historic Anderson's Mill and the arts, crafts and old trades of an earlier era.
Anderson's Mill
Elizabeth St, Smeaton
21 - 24 MAY
BALLARAT HERITAGE FESTIVAL
The annual festival highlights the city’s golden past & evolving future. Vintage steam trains, car show, antique fair, tours, exhibitions, entertainment & more.
Info: ballaratheritagefestival.com.au
22 - 23 MAY
BUNINYONG FILM FESTIVAL
Join us for a fantastic global selection of award winning films! Full program and tickets available online at: buninyongfilmfestival.com.au
Buninyong Town Hall
309 Learmonth St, Buninyong
22 - 24 MAY
BALLARAT ANTIQUE FAIR
28 quality antique dealers showcasing and selling unique furniture, jewellery, ceramics, artworks, sterling silver and so much more. Tix: trybooking.com/ DHTSZ or at the door.
Civic Hall 300 Mair St
DAYTIME
• Close to Ballarat CBD, Sovereign Hill & Wildlife Park
• Public Transport at our front door
• 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Villas
• Powered & Ensuite Sites
• FREE WiFi & Foxtel • Games Room
• Camp Kitchen
• Playground & FREE Mini-Golf
• FREE Eureka Pool Next Door (Nov-Apr)
Member Discounts for G'Day Park Members Dogs welcome (contact us for details)
MARKETS
THE BRIDGE MARKET
1ST SAT OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Bakery Hill, Ballarat
BALLARAT FARMERS MARKET
2ND & 4TH SAT OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Zoo Drive, Lake Wendouree (off Wendouree Pde)
BUNINYONG VILLAGE MARKET
5TH SAT OF THE MONTH 1 – 5pm
Buninyong Town Hall Precinct (10km from Ballarat)
CRESWICK MARKET
3RD SAT OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Victoria St, Creswick (18km from Ballarat)
SMYTHESDALE COUNTRY MARKET
3RD SAT OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm
Brooke St, Smythesdale (19km from Ballarat)
CLUNES FARMERS MARKET
2ND SUN OF THE MONTH 9am – 1pm Fraser St, Clunes (35km from Ballarat)
