👨‍👩‍👧 10 ways to survive the school holidays (4 are free!)

Happy New Year, Ballarat! Hope you had a cracker of a night ringing in 2025. If the kids are already climbing the walls, the fridge is suspiciously empty again, and you find yourself Googling “things to do near me” before 10am, you’re not alone.

I’ve pulled together 10 local activities to keep everyone entertained without emptying your wallet. Add the Ballarat Rodeo landing at the Showgrounds tomorrow, Summer Sundays kicking off this weekend, and a few other good bits around town, and you’ve got the week sorted.

- Luciano Devoto
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Here’re 10 activities in and around Ballarat that'll keep you and the family entertained without breaking the bank. From treasure hunts to lavender fields, here's your guide to making these holidays memorable.

I always forget how big a crowd the Ballarat Rodeo pulls until it’s suddenly back on the calendar. It lands at the Showgrounds tomorrow Friday 2 January, with bull riding, barrel racing and plenty of hold-your-breath moments throughout the night.

There’ll be food trucks, bars, kids’ activities and live music circling the arena, which makes it an easy one for families or a mates’ night out. Loud, dusty and very fun.

I already love Hop Temple Ballarat for the craft beers, buzzing atmosphere and food that requires a serious amount of napkins. But this is even better. Back in November, they hosted their annual Hopathon, raising $4,300 for the Grampians Health Ballarat Christmas Appeal.

The funds will help turn children’s therapy rooms into brighter, more welcoming spaces that support play based therapy and neurodiverse needs. Over seven years, Hopathon has raised more than $27,000 locally. That’s a solid effort.

Ballarat’s post office setup is getting an update early next year with Australia Post moving its Bakery Hill outlet into the Bridge Mall. The new Ballarat Central Post Office is slated to open in February, bringing a modern layout and services right into the heart of town. All current services, including PO boxes, will carry over and there’ll be free 24-hour parcel lockers to make dropping off and picking up online orders easier for locals.

I’m planning to head down to Summer Sundays this Sunday as the series kicks off at the Botanical Gardens. Music runs from 3pm with food trucks, the Garden Bar and plenty of space to spread out under the trees. It’s free, relaxed and one of those events that works whether you stay for an hour or the whole afternoon.

Week one’s line up brings a good mix. Quarter Street brings high energy salsa inspired by 70s New York, Daisy Kilbourne blends folk, rock and soul, Nasal Spray leans into loud rock ’n’ roll, and Madi Colville-Walker, a proud Yorta Yorta artist, rounds things out with powerful, story-driven songs.

🛏 3 🛁 1 🚗 2 | 💰 $425,000 - $465,000

I’ve got a soft spot for homes that keep their character but don’t feel stuck in the past, and this one ticks that box nicely. 511 Creswick Road blends stained glass charm with modern updates that actually make day to day life easier. With open plan living, a proper farmhouse sink, timber benchtops, and a double garage, this is a solid option if you want location and livability without the premium price tag.

A few hot days is all the excuse I need to chase down a cold, creamy ice cream. With only a handful of gelaterias around town, this one feels manageable. While I work my way through them all in the name of “research”, I want to know where you go for your go-to cold fix. Cast your vote and help settle Ballarat’s best ice cream.

Handpicked activities for all ages

Turn Back Time 70s, 80s, 90s: The Legends Show | Sat, 3 Jan | 7:30pm - 10:30pm | (Ticketed)
Venue: The Goods Shed
Description: A high-energy tribute show featuring the biggest hits of the '70s, '80s, and '90s. Prepare for dazzling costumes and powerhouse performances ranging from disco to grunge. 

Burning Red: The Australian Taylor Swift Tribute Show | Sun, 4 Jan | 1:00pm - 4:00pm | (Ticketed)
Venue: The Goods Shed
Description: An all-ages celebration of Taylor Swift featuring a full live band, dancers, and dazzling visuals. Sing along to iconic anthems from Reputation to Midnights. 

Burrumbeet Cup | Thu, 1 Jan | 11:00am - 6:00pm | ($20+)
Venue: Burrumbeet Racecourse
Description: The premier social institution of the Western District's summer. A New Year's Day tradition featuring country racing, Fashions on the Field, and family entertainment on the lawns. 

Ballarat Rodeo | Fri, 2 Jan | 3:00pm - 11:30pm | (Ticketed)
Venue: Ballarat Showgrounds
Description: Part of the national Stampede Series, featuring high-adrenaline bull riding, saddle bronc, and barrel racing. Includes a live music after-party (No BYO alcohol). 

The Bridge Market | Sat, 3 Jan | 9:00am - 1:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Bridge Mall
Description: A monthly farmers and makers market revitalizing the CBD. Browse fresh produce, hot food, and local artisan design stalls like Fergy's Artisan Breads and Tim’s Toasties.

Meet the Maker: Sparkling Wine Tasting | Fri, 2 Jan | See link for times | (Info)
Venue: The George Hotel
Description: The Pyrenees wineries bring their cellar door experience to the heart of Ballarat. This session features a Sparkling Wine Tasting, offering a perfect introduction to local varieties.

Ballarat Local Produce Swap | Sat, 3 Jan | 9:30am - 11:00am | (Free/Donation)
Venue: Ballarat Community Garden
Description: Bring your excess produce, herbs, seeds, or flowers to swap with locals. A gold coin donation is appreciated for morning tea, and left-over produce goes to the Food is Free table. 

Ballarat Book Sale | Sat, 3 Jan | 9:00am - 1:00pm | (Free Entry)
Venue: Ballarat Airport
Description: Operated by the Rotary Club of Ballarat East, this sale features over 30,000 books with prices starting at $1. Profits support local charities and the Fiona Elsie Cancer Research Institute. 

BKFA Christmas & New Year Celebration | Sat, 3 Jan | 6:00pm - 11:59pm | (Free/Register)
Venue: St Patrick's Hall
Description: A vibrant cultural celebration for the Kerala community featuring traditional cuisine, dance performances, and New Year festivities. 

Mr Perfect Free Community BBQ | Sun, 4 Jan | 10:30am - 12:30pm | (Free)
Venue: Eureka Stockade
Description: A relaxed community BBQ connecting men across Australia. It’s more than just a sausage sizzle; it’s a chance to chat about life, get outside, and meet new mates in a supportive environment. 

Fishcare: Volunteer Open Day | Tue, 6 Jan | 9:00am - 2:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Victoria Park
Description: A fun-filled day of fishing, games, and good company to meet the Fishcare team. Great for families and anyone interested in sustainable fishing practices or volunteering.

School Holiday Animal Farm Experience | Thu, 1 Jan - Wed, 7 Jan | Check link for times | (Info)
Venue: Creswick Woollen Mills
Description: A guided farm experience where you can meet Merino and Valais sheep, miniature goats, and alpacas. Learn fun facts about the animals and Australia's wool heritage. 

Summer Holidays at Maze House | Thu, 1 Jan - Wed, 7 Jan | 10:00am - 4:30pm | ($14.00)
Venue: Maze House, Newlyn North
Description: Get lost in a 30-year-old traditional hedge maze and play old-time carnival games like Return Bowling and the Amazing Buzz Test. Bookings are essential. 

Jester’s Jubilee | Fri, 2 Jan - Wed, 7 Jan | 10:00am - 4:00pm | (From $31.50)
Venue: Kryal Castle
Description: A school holiday program packed with juggling jesters, circus school, potion making, and live jousting. Note: Closed on New Year's Day.

Summer Fun Day | Mon, 5 Jan | 2:30pm | (Free)
Venue: Ballarat Greyhounds, Redan
Description: A family fun day packed full of free activities for the kids to enjoy during the school holidays. 

Junior Keeper Program | Tue, 6 Jan | 9:30am - 12:30pm | (Bookings)
Venue: Ballarat Wildlife Park
Description: An incredible three-hour experience for children aged 6-15 years. Junior Keepers will prepare food, clean enclosures, and learn fascinating facts about various species.

Summer Camp at Cave Hill Creek | From Wed, 7 Jan | 11:00am | (Bookings)
Venue: Cave Hill Creek, Raglan
Description: An adventure camp for kids aged 8-14 featuring canoeing, low ropes, archery, and sleeping under the stars. A "Summer Camp-Out" is also available for 14-15 year olds.

Fragments of Healing: Tas Wansbrough | Ongoing | 10:00am - 5:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Backspace Gallery
Description: Local artist Tas Wansbrough explores the ancient tradition of votive offerings through sculpture. Each piece is created through repeated gestures of cutting and carving, acting as a tool for resilience and healing. 

Mid Century Mayhem by Von Hep | Ongoing | All day (Window Display) | (Free)
Venue: Unicorn Lane
Description: Emerging artist Von Hep showcases work rooted in the aesthetics of 1950s and 1960s commercial art. Expect vibrant colours, bold designs, and influences from classic sci-fi and horror movies. 

Step into Africa, Art Exhibition | Thu, 1 Jan - Wed, 7 Jan | 6:30am - 2:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Maggie and Kate, Buninyong
Description: A series of works depicting animals found within the region of Africa, created over 18 months. Enjoy a glimpse of the natural world and quirky animal personalities while sipping your coffee. 

Torn Textures and Hybrid Glyphs | Thu, 1 Jan - Wed, 7 Jan | 11:00am - 4:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Art Space Ballarat
Description: The first solo exhibition by multidisciplinary artist ReVerse Butcher (rVb), exploring visual-poetic language. The work spans performance poetry, collage, and immersive digital art to investigate how language constructs reality. 

A Moment in Time Exhibition | Sun, 4 Jan | 10:00am - 3:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Lake Wendouree Museum
Description: A summer exhibition by the Ballarat Society of Artists Inc. featuring an eclectic mix of mediums including oils, acrylics, and photography from around 20 current artists.

Please note: Always double-check with venues for any last-minute changes or ticketing requirements.)

​Thu, 1 Jan The Park Hotel | Troy Elliot Live | 6:00pm | (Free)

Sat, 3 Jan Hop Temple | Live Music at Hop | 9:00pm | (Free)

Sun, 4 Jan Ballarat Botanical Gardens | Quarter Street | 3:00pm | (Free)
Sun, 4 Jan Ballarat Botanical Gardens | Daisy Kilbourne | 4:00pm | (Free)
Sun, 4 Jan Ballarat Botanical Gardens | Nasal Spray | 5:00pm | (Free)
Sun, 4 Jan Ballarat Botanical Gardens | Madi Colville-Walker | 6:00pm | (Free)

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Until next Thursday!