Five things to do at the Ballarat Heritage Festival

EVERY year Ballarat comes alive for the Ballarat Heritage Festival.

A celebration of the city’s history, community and architecture, the 21-24 May festival is renowned for bringing the past to life.

Don’t miss it!

1.Explore the Festival’s Newest Exhibition

Prepare to step back in time with Ballarat revealed: Hidden Histories, Shared Together. This exciting new exhibition transforms the Ballarat Mining Exchange into a treasure trove of the city’s rich past. The showstopper? A huge replica of Ballarat’s 1901 Chinese Arch, celebrating the pivotal role of Chinese communities during the gold rush. Plus, a dedicated First Nations space will share the vibrant culture and stories of the Wadawurrung people, the Traditional Owners of the land.

2.Enter the Beard and Stache Competition

Time to show off that well-groomed ‘stache or beard! The annual Beard and Stache competition returns for 2026 at Hop Temple on Saturday, May 23. So if you’ve been tending to your whiskers for months (or years), this is your chance to snag the crown of the best dressed face in town.

3.Take a Steam Train Ride

Hop aboard the Steamrail Victoria steam train for a scenic ride between Ballarat and Yendon. This charming trip through the countryside is a delightful blast from the past. Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for adventure, or just someone who loves a good train ride, this nostalgic journey is one you won’t want to miss.

4.Experience a Feast of Local Flavours at Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill’s Heritage Harvest Weekend is a feast for the senses! Stroll through the Harvest Village, packed with local produce, gourmet treats, and homemade goodies. Kids can get crafty with hands-on sessions, while live demos from famous foodies, including headliner Alice Zaslavsky, showcase old-timey skills. It’s food, fun and history – all in one!

5.Enjoy Returning Festival Favourites

Some old friends are back! The ever-popular Old Gaol tours, vintage car show, and Ballarat Antiques Fair are returning to keep the heritage vibes rolling. These festival classics never fail to entertain, so be sure to catch them while you’re in town!

For the full program visit ballaratheritagefestival.com.au.

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