Hidden treasures at Heritage Festival

TODAY marks the start of Ballarat Heritage Festival which explores the region’s hidden treasures and untold stories.

The festival runs until Sunday 29 May and there is everything from tours to talks, exhibitions, entertainment, food and drink, and workshops on offer.

For those who enjoy theatre, head to the Ballarat Town Hall on Thursday 23 May to see the Mystery of the Ballarat Ghost: A Call of Cthulhu live play event.

The play is based on Hammersmith Haunting by Kat Clay and transports audiences back to Ballarat in 1890 when the community is gripped by ghost fever.

At the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute on Saturday 25 May, community members are invited to put their dancing shoes on with a retro dinner dance to be hosted by Alfredton Rotary.

Delicious nostalgic food options will be presented in a four-course meal and a retro cocktail will be offered on arrival.

Vintage Vibes will be high on the final weekend of the festival at St Patrick’s Cathedral with stalls, vintage cars, and a performance from Jake and the Cadillacs.

“Jack and the Cadillacs are very entertaining young fellas,” said Tracey Spencer, event organiser.

The Victorian Pinup Pageant and Miss Vintage Australasia Pageant 2024 will also be on.

“The Victorian Pinup Pageant is a performance-based routine that a competitor does for three minutes, and it pays homage to the 1950s and 60s,” said Ms Spencer.

“It’s very entertaining and its in a more modern pageant in that we are reflecting on the past but progressing into the future.”

There is expected to be about 14 acts in a range of different categories.

Ms Spencer said she hopes attendees feel a sense of escapism.

“Everyone is dressed up, it’s amazing actually, and it’s a happy feeling watching it all and being entertained,” she said.

“It’s like going to the theatre.”

To see the full festival program, visit the Ballarat Heritage Festival website.