See & do

28 Dec 24

3 highlights of the Ballarat Heritage Festival

The Ballarat Heritage Festival is back in 2025 to celebrate the city’s rich history, iconic landmarks and vibrant creative community.

Running from 16-25 May, expect thought-provoking art, interactive encounters, captivating heritage moments as well as delectable food and drink experiences..

Craft Lab

Craft Lab 25

Returning to the Ballarat Mining Exchange over two weekends (17-18 May and 26-27 May), Craft Lab 25 will again celebrate traditional artisanal skills matched with contemporary treatment.

Chat with 18 demonstrating artisans covering everything from textiles, ceramics, sculptures to furniture and millinery.

And take part in experiences, learn the secrets of craft practice and join in numerous events and activities.

Steam train rides at the Ballarat Heritage Festival

Steam train rides

Join Steamrail Victoria for a ride on a heritage steam locomotive as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival.

Return shuttles will run from the Ballarat Train Station to Lal Lal.

Each 18km round trip will take approximately 60 minutes.

Ballarat Tweed Ride

Ballarat Tweed Ride and Fair

Dress in vintage attire and pedal around Ballarat’s autumn streets at the annual Ballarat Tweed Ride and Fair.

The 3km ride will begin with a presentation of rosettes for the best-dressed riders.

For the full festival program, visit ballaratheritagefestival.com

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Visitor Information Centres

Ballarat Town Hall
225 Sturt Street
Ballarat VIC 3350

Ballarat Botanical Gardens
401-405 Wendouree Parade
Lake Wendouree VIC 3350

Acknowledgement of Country

Across Victoria’s Midwest, we acknowledge that we travel across the ancient landscapes of many First Peoples communities. These lands have been nurtured and cared for over tens of thousands of years and we respect the work of Traditional Custodians for their ongoing care and protection.

We recognise the past injustices against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in this country. As our knowledge grows, we hope that we can learn from their resilience and creativity that has guided them for over 60,000 years. As we invite people to visit and explore Victoria’s Midwest, we ask that alongside us, you also grow to respect the stories, living culture and connection to Country of the Ancestors and Elders of our First Peoples.


©️ 2025 Visit Ballarat. This initiative is funded by the City of Ballarat and Tourism Midwest Victoria.