A Local’s Guide to the 2025 Ballarat Winter Festival
There’s something about winter in Ballarat. The chill in the air, the smell of woodfires and mulled wine, the kind of crisp sky that begs for a good coat and a night out. And when July rolls around, the city really turns it on.
The Ballarat Winter Festival is back for 2025, running from 5 to 27 July, and it’s shaping up to be one of the best yet. From Sovereign Hill to the CBD, the whole town comes alive with light shows, food, theatre, markets, and music. It’s one of the reasons Ballarat draws people from all over Victoria this time of year. And if you’re lucky enough to live nearby, or are planning to soon, it’s all just minutes from your front door.
Sovereign Hill’s Winter Wonderlights
Every year, Sovereign Hill transforms into a glowing winter streetscape after dark, and this year’s Winter Wonderlights is set to be even more spectacular.
The gold rush buildings are lit up with large-scale light projections, the streets are filled with performers in full costume, and kids can explore hands-on activities during the day. Once evening hits, faux snow drifts through the air while music, food, and sweet treats add to the atmosphere. It’s an all-ages experience, but it hits especially well with kids, and anyone still young at heart.
If you’re building a life at Floriana, events like this are what make the decision feel right. There’s so much to do just down the road, from spontaneous weeknight outings to big family weekends, it all becomes part of your new rhythm.
Ice Skating, Storytelling and Winter Warmers in the CBD
In the city centre, the pop-up ice rink is back. Open daily through the festival, it’s a great excuse to rug up and embrace the season. Whether you’re skating with the kids or watching from the sidelines with a takeaway hot choc in hand, it’s wholesome and invigorating. Plus, if you dine at participating venues, you can score 15% off your skating tickets, a great excuse for dinner out.
Across from the rink you’ll find the Ukiyo Spiegeltent, a new addition to the festival and one of its most exciting. This immersive tent experience brings together circus, comedy, and live storytelling, with six high-energy shows every day until 20 July. It’s playful, theatrical, and something you won’t find anywhere else.
And speaking of hot drinks, the Hot Chocolate Showdown is back too. More than 25 local venues are going head-to-head to create Ballarat’s best winter warmer. Grab a trail map and make your way through town, trying as many as you can and voting for your favourite. It’s a delicious way to discover new cafes, and a fun winter activity for families, couples, and anyone with a sweet tooth.
Why Floriana Puts You Close to It All
Floriana is only minutes from everything on offer at the Ballarat Winter Festival. Once you move in, that means less time commuting and more time soaking it all in. In future years you’ll be able to head into town for the afternoon, catch a show, skate, or just wander through the lantern-lit streets, and still be home in time for dinner.
That’s part of what makes Floriana a smarter choice. It’s tucked away just enough to feel peaceful, but close enough that you’re always connected to what’s happening in town. For young families, it’s a lifestyle that gives you flexibility. For investors, it’s a sign that this area’s only getting stronger, with events like this drawing crowds and building culture.
Your Key Festival Dates
Here’s a quick look at what’s on and when at the Ballarat Winter Festival –
Winter Wonderlights
- 5 – 27 July 2025
- Sovereign Hill
Pop-Up Ice Rink
- 5 – 27 July 2025
- Armstrong St South
Ukiyo Spiegeltent
- 5 – 20 July 2025
- Opp. ice rink, Ballarat CBD
Hot Chocolate Showdown
- 5 – 27 July 2025
- Citywide
Knights of Fire at Kryal Castle
- Weekends only
- Kryal Castle
To view the full program or plan your visit, head to ballaratwinterfestival.com.au