Winter Wonderlights returns to brighten the coldest nights

THERE are few signs that winter has arrived in Ballarat quite like the return of Sovereign Hill’s Winter Wonderlights.

Sure, the frosty mornings and extra blankets are a giveaway, but nothing says winter quite like rugging up and seeing the iconic museum sparkle after dark.

From 26 June to 19 July, Sovereign Hill once again transforms into a glittering wonderland of light, music and festive cheer.

Think you’ve seen it all before? Think again. While the much-loved favourites return, from faux snow to colourful projections and a visit from St Nick himself, this year’s program includes new additions to delight first-timers and seasoned Wonderlights fans alike.

The adventure begins long before darkness falls. A Day Ticket (10am-7pm) offers plenty of time to explore more than 20 activities.

Pan for gold, head underground on a self-guided mine tour, catch a theatre performance and wander the historic streets before settling in for the main event.

After the sun goes down, the streets come alive with light, music and faux snow. This year, the evening begins with a brand-new projection inspired by the Industrial Revolution, bringing the gears, rollers and rhythm of 19th-century printing presses to life in a tribute to the ingenuity, industry and innovation that helped shape the modern world.

Beyond Main Street, a new experience awaits at the Sovereign Hill dam. Reflections of Winter transforms the dam and surrounding landscape into a mesmerising canvas of light, projections and music. Beginning in a tranquil, frozen state before gradually awakening into a celebration of warmth, colour and Christmas spirit.

Let’s face it if you’re heading out on a Ballarat winter’s night, you’ll want to dress for the occasion. This year, rug up in style with the brand-new Winter Wonderlights sweater, beanie and scarf, created in partnership with Ballarat’s InterKnit and inspired by Sovereign Hill’s historic streetscape and costumes. It won’t stop winter doing its thing, but it will make heading out the door a little easier.

And for locals, Winter Wonderlights might just be the perfect excuse to finally grab that Sovereign Hill Locals Pass. With unlimited entry for a full year, including Winter Wonderlights, it’s the sort of pass that quickly pays for itself, whether you’re planning a school holiday outing, a spontaneous weekend adventure or simply one more visit before the lights switch off for another year.

With more than 20 kilometres of sparkling fairy lights, festive entertainment, warm treats and new experiences to discover, Winter Wonderlights makes a strong case for swapping the couch and Netflix for one of Ballarat’s most-loved winter traditions.

//SPONSORED CONTENT