Live music Sundays to return

SUMMER in Ballarat is set to be filled with free music as the Summer Sundays four-week concert series returns to the Botanical Gardens.

The festival will kick off on Sunday 7 January from 4pm until 8pm and run each week until Sunday 28 January.

The line up includes local, First Nations and culturally diverse performers with the festival seeking to provide a platform for talent to perform in front of a large crowd.

Local artist Rhiannon Simpson has participated in Summer Sundays for a number of years and said she always looks forward to the event.

“It’s one of my favourite shows to play and I’m from Ballarat so I come when I’m not playing as well,” she said.

“It’s just such a relaxed vibe and a family atmosphere and it’s a great way to play to a diverse group of people that you really don’t get a lot in other shows.”

Following the Sunday 14 January performance there will be a fireworks display over Lake Wendouree.

Local food and beverage vendors will also be on site each week as well as a pop-up garden bar and bean bag lounge.

Deputy-mayor Cr Peter Eddy said summer in Ballarat is shaping up to be a busy and exciting time.

“Summer Sundays is part of a whole package with the RoadNats, the City awards and Picnic in the Park,” he said.

“I think over the whole month there is a lot of fun in Ballarat, particularly for families who are finding it a bit hard to afford to travel.

“It’s going to mean that if they do stay home with their families there is a great opportunity to enjoy Ballarat.”

For the full festival line up visit summersundaysballarat.com.au.