Design meets vintage – a Winter Festival weekend at the Mining Exchange

AS Ballarat embraces the chill of winter, the city is also warming up with creativity, community spirit and a bold celebration of talent from all over Victoria.

This year, a standout event is set to light up the Winter Festival calendar – an exciting new collaboration between The Design Exchange and Big Thrift Market, taking over the historic Mining Exchange in the heart of town.

This unique collab brings together two vibrant events and over 80 stalls under one roof.

The Design Exchange, renowned for showcasing independent makers, artists and designers, is joining forces with Big Thrift, the region’s newest sustainable shopping experience. The result? A bustling, beautifully curated market that blends handmade goods with the thrill of vintage finds, vinyl, and second-hand fashion.

From handcrafted ceramics and homewares to bold retro clothing and rare vinyl records, this event is a paradise for shoppers who love to support designers and shop sustainably.

The event has been thoughtfully curated – whether you’re after a one-of-a-kind vintage jacket, a pair of handmade earrings, or an original piece of artwork, you’re sure to find something special.

Throughout the weekend, the Mining Exchange will be brought to life with live music from local and Surf Coast musicians, filling the space with warm, acoustic energy. Kids can enjoy face painting while food lovers will be treated to fresh coffee, pastries, and warm whisky.

And of course, there’s one more reason to linger – heated floors! While it’s brisk outside, the warmth indoors makes for a cosy, vibrant atmosphere perfect for a winter weekend outing.

So come and experience the best of Ballarat as the CBD comes alive – with the festival-favourite Ice Rink and the exciting new Spiegeltent just around the corner.

The Design Exchange X The Big Thrift is open 10am to 3pm, Saturday and Sunday, 5 and 6 July. Entry is just $5 for adults, and under-18s are free.

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