Things to Do in Ballarat This Week | Events, Gigs & Activities

Welcome to Ballarat Life’s events calendar! Your weekly guide to what’s happening around Ballarat.

Below are the events happening across Ballarat from Thursday to Wednesday, from live music and markets to family-friendly events and community get-togethers.

You can find the latest local deals here, or catch up on the newsletter from earlier this week.

Cheers, Luciano

Within Sight: Photographs by Paul Lambeth | All week, ongoing | 10:00am - 5:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Eureka Centre Ballarat
Description: An ongoing series by Paul Lambeth emerging from a practice of slow, attentive walking, observing the quiet details of the landscape.

Fragments of Healing: Tas Wansbrough | All week, ongoing | 10:00am - 5:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Backspace Gallery, Art Gallery of Ballarat
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 | All week, ongoing | 24 Hours (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 | All week, ongoing | 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, 8 Jan - Sun, 11 Jan | 11:00am - 4:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Art Space Ballarat
Description: The first solo exhibition by multidisciplinary artist ReVerse Butcher (rVb). The work spans performance poetry, collage, and immersive digital art to investigate how language constructs reality. 

Avatar: Fire and Ash / Song Sung Blue | Thu, 8 Jan - Wed, 14 Jan | (Ticketed)
Venue: Regent Cinemas
Description: Catch the latest summer blockbusters in Ballarat's historic heritage cinema, with premium seating options available. Perfect for escaping the January heat. 

New Year Open Mic | Sun, 11 Jan | 6:00pm - 8:30pm | (Free/Donation)
Venue: The Crypt Ballarat
Description: Welcome in the New Year with words and the warmth of community. All poets, storytellers, singers, and word artists are welcome to share or listen.

A Moment in Time Exhibition | Sun, 11 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. 

BMI Building Tours | Tue, 13 Jan | 2:00pm - 3:00pm | (Free/Donation)
Venue: Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute
Description: Explore the colourful history of the Institute, from J.B. Humffray to the Grand Minerva Hall, and view the Max Harris Photography collection.

Ballarat Organs & Fine Music Festival | Fri, 9 Jan - Tue, 13 Jan | ($10 - $45)
Description: An annual festival of classical music celebrating historic organs and heritage venues.

Ballarat Farmers Market | Sat, 10 Jan | 9:00am - 1:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Zoo Drive, Lake Wendouree
Description: Purchase fresh produce, coffee, and hot food directly from local farmers and producers. A great way to support the local region.

Clunes Farmers and Makers Market | Sun, 11 Jan | 9:00am - 1:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Fraser Street, Clunes
Description: A much-loved monthly market featuring artisanal food producers, seasonal growers, and local artists in the gorgeous Gold Rush-era township.

Ballarat Race Night Dining Experience | Thu, 8 Jan | 6:00pm | (From $37.00)
Venue: Ballarat & District Trotting Club, Redan
Description: Enjoy a night at the trots in the Terrace Restaurant. Includes a two-course meal, racebook, and harness racing entertainment. Bookings essential.

PYRENEES CELLAR DOOR | Fri, 9 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 wines from Quartz Hill, offering a perfect introduction to their local varieties. 

January Board Game Night | Sat, 10 Jan | 5:00pm - 9:00pm | (Free/Food Purchase)
Venue: Pancake Kitchen
Description: A monthly meet-up for board game enthusiasts. Bring your own games or play the ones provided. Newbies welcome!

Indoor Walk for Diverse Abilities | Tue, 13 Jan | 10:00am - 11:00am | ($2 Donation)
Venue: Ballarat Badminton Stadium, Wendouree
Description: A 45-minute trip-hazard-free indoor walking opportunity suitable for all abilities. Enjoy a cuppa afterwards.

Aunty Jacks 'Old School Trivia' | Wed, 14 Jan | 6:30pm - 9:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Aunty Jacks
Description: Old school trivia with old school prices. Hosted by Spud, this pen-and-paper trivia night is a local favourite. 

Forage and Feast: A Taste of Summer | Mon, 12 Jan - Wed, 14 Jan | (Various)
Venue: Various Locations (Central Highlands)
Description: A festival nurturing the hidden gems of the region with local food, drink, and fresh produce. Check the program for masterclasses and tastings.

Macrame Workshop and Cocktails | Sat, 10 Jan | 12:30pm | (Ticketed)
Venue: Freight Bar
Description: A beginner-friendly workshop where you can make your own macrame plant hanger while enjoying a complimentary cocktail. Bookings essential.

Create Your Own Turkish Mosaic Lamp | Sat, 10 Jan | 1:00pm - 4:00pm | ($59 - $129)
Venue: Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute
Description: Bring colour and light together in this hands-on workshop. Design and build your own mosaic lamp using pre-cut glass.

G&Tea at Grainery Lane | Sun, 11 Jan | Check link for times | ($79)
Venue: Grainery Lane
Description: A twist on the classic High Tea, pairing delicious bites with Grainery Lane's signature gin and tonics.

Summer Sundays at Ballarat Botanical Gardens | Sun, 11 Jan | 3:00pm - 7:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Description: Week Two brings a fantastic lineup: Ella Thompson (Soul/Pop), Andy Golledge (Alt-Country), Blue Ren (Indie-Folk), and The Black Sea Country Club. Enjoy food trucks like The Dumpling Man and The Paella Guy. 

Friction Bouldering - FREE Youth Activity | Thu, 8 Jan | 4:00pm - 6:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Friction Bouldering
Description: A free come-and-try rock climbing session for young people. All equipment provided. Ages 12-25.

Holiday Sessions: Baking & Craft | Fri, 9 Jan | 10:00am - 12:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Ballarat Library (Co-Lab)
Description: Drop in for chocolate brownie baking, origami, board games, and general chill-out time with Youth Services. Ages 12-25.

Astrokids: Our Beautiful Blue Marble | Sat, 10 Jan & Tue, 13 Jan | 3:30pm - 7:00pm | (Ticketed)
Venue: Ballarat Municipal Observatory, Mt Pleasant
Description: Families with children aged 5-10 can learn why Earth is so special and see what our planet looks like from space.

Puppet Making Workshop | Mon, 12 Jan | 10:30am - 12:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Vickers Street Community Hub, Sebastopol
Description: Design and craft your own stick, sock, and paper bag puppets, then put on a mini show! Bookings essential. Ages 5-8.

Billie the Blue Banded Bee Storytime | Mon, 12 Jan | 10:30am - 11:30am | (Free)
Venue: Sebastopol Library
Description: A special storytime with authors May Fu and John Ravesi reading their new book about the environment. Primary School Age.

Air Toobz STEM Fun | Mon, 12 Jan | 2:00pm - 3:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Wendouree Library
Description: Launch into summer with Air Toobz. Arrange tubes and connectors, switch on the fan, and let the fun begin! Ages 8-13.

Paper Bead Making | Mon, 12 Jan | 2:00pm - 3:30pm | (Free)
Venue: Djila-tjarriu Community Hub, Alfredton
Description: Learn how to make vibrant beads using paper and turn them into unique jewelry. Ages 5-12.

All Day D&D | Tue, 13 Jan | 10:00am - 3:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Ballarat Library
Description: An extended session of Dungeons and Dragons. Defeat monsters and complete the quest in a single day. Ages 12-18.

Summer Collage Workshop | Tue, 13 Jan | 2:00pm - 3:00pm; 3:30pm - 4:30pm| (Free)
Venue: Ballarat Library
Description: Put your ideas and memories into a collage using various art materials to share your summer stories. Ages 4-8.

Lego Challenge | Wed, 14 Jan | 10:30am - 12:00pm | (Free)
Venue: Lucas Community Hub
Description: From tall towers to amazing mazes, tackle a range of Lego challenges or just free-build. Ages 5-12.

Underwater Diorama | Wed, 14 Jan | 10:30am - 11:30am | (Free)
Venue: Wendouree Library
Description: Create your own box diorama to tell an underwater story using craft supplies and recycled materials. Ages 4-8.

Summer School Holidays: Back to School | Thu, 8 Jan - Wed, 14 Jan | 10:00am - 5:00pm | (Info)
Venue: Sovereign Hill
Description: A hands-on holiday program where visitors experience 1850s education and crafts, including leatherwork workshops and pantomimes. 

School Holiday Animal Farm Experience | All week, ongoing | (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 | All week, ongoing | 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 | All week, ongoing | 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. 

Summer Camp at Cave Hill Creek | All week, ongoing | 11:00am | (Info)
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. 

Junior Keeper Program | Thu, 8 Jan & Tue, 13 Jan | 9:30am - 12:30pm | (Booking)
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.

Enchanting Kirtan: Sacred World Music | Fri, 9 Jan | 6:30pm - 9:00pm | (Free/Donation)
Venue: Brown Hill Community Hall
Description: A night of connection and joy blending soulful live music, guided mantra singing, and meditation.

Sunspot Viewing | Sat, 10 Jan | 4:00pm - 4:25pm | (Ticketed)
Venue: Ballarat Municipal Observatory, Mt Pleasant
Description: View sunspots safely using the solar projection method with a local astronomer. Minimum numbers apply.

Kids Kayaking Camp | Mon, 12 Jan - Wed, 14 Jan | 9:00am - 3:00pm | ($279)
Venue: Windmill Drive, Lake Wendouree
Description: A 3-day kayaking adventure building confidence and water safety skills. Includes games, canoe polo, and expeditions led by experienced instructors.

Drawing Program for Young Artists | Thu, 8 Jan | 4:30pm | ($190/Program)
Venue: Sturt Street Gallery & Classes, Alfredton
Description: A 6-week program for 7-16 year olds exploring graphite and charcoal. Learn design, perspective, and shading techniques.

How To Win RAW Comedy: Tips Session | Wed, 14 Jan | 7:00pm - 8:00pm | ($10.00)
Venue: Ballarat Performing Arts Centre, Soldiers Hill
Description: A stand-up comedy education session hosted by Luke Morris. Learn tips on structuring a routine and stage presence ahead of the RAW Comedy heats.

Royal Mail Hotel (Sebastopol) | Brodie Glen (Blues Brother) | 7:30pm | (Free)
Irish Murphy's | Red Rock - The Ultimate Aussie Rock Experience | 9:00pm | (Free)

Trades Hall | Crime & the City Solution | 7:00pm | (Ticketed)

Robin Hood Hotel | Kaze Karaoke | 7:00pm | (Free)

If you’re searching for things to do in Ballarat, you’re in the right place. This is your local guide to what’s actually happening around town. From weekend events and live music to markets, festivals, and community happenings, Ballarat Life brings it all together in one easy spot.

Ballarat isn’t short on things to do. The challenge is knowing what’s on, where, and whether it’s worth leaving the house for. That’s where this page comes in.

Ballarat is more than a historic city. It’s a living, breathing community with something on nearly every week. Our curated list of Ballarat events helps locals and visitors discover:

Instead of trawling Facebook groups or juggling multiple websites, you’ll find the best things to do in Ballarat right here.

Looking for things to do in Ballarat this week or planning your weekend? We highlight what locals actually care about, whether it’s a low-key community event or something worth building your weekend around.

You’ll regularly find:

Perfect for last-minute plans or locking something in ahead of time.

Ballarat does family events well. From school-holiday activities to park events and community programs, there’s always something on for kids and parents alike.

Our events page helps you find:

If you’re searching for things to do with kids in Ballarat, start here and save yourself the scrolling.

Not sure what to do this weekend? We feature the most popular weekend events in Ballarat so you can plan ahead or find something on the fly.

From Saturday morning markets to Sunday afternoon gigs, the goal is simple: help you make the most of your weekends without leaving town.

Great for:

Ballarat Life focuses on local events that support small businesses, creatives, schools, and community groups. Turning up matters. These events are what keep the city feeling connected.

If you’re hosting an event in Ballarat and want locals to know about it, this is where people come looking.

What are the best things to do in Ballarat this weekend?
Popular options include markets, live music, community festivals, family-friendly events, outdoor activities, and seasonal celebrations. Our events calendar is updated regularly to highlight what’s happening this week and weekend.

Are there free things to do in Ballarat?
Yes. Ballarat has plenty of free events, including markets, community days, outdoor concerts, park activities, and local festivals. We highlight both free and ticketed events so you can choose what suits.

Are there family-friendly events in Ballarat?
Absolutely. Ballarat offers a steady stream of family-focused events including kids activities, workshops, school-holiday programs, and community events designed for all ages.

How can I find upcoming Ballarat events?
The easiest way is to check this page regularly. We update it often with upcoming Ballarat events so you know what’s on now and what’s coming up.

How often is the events calendar updated?
New events are added frequently. Checking in weekly is the best way to stay across what’s happening around Ballarat.

Can I submit an event to be listed?
Yes. If you’re running an event in Ballarat, you can submit it to be featured. It’s a simple way to reach locals actively looking for things to do.

What types of events are featured?
We feature community events, live music, markets, festivals, fitness and wellness activities, pop-ups, family events, and seasonal celebrations. If it’s local and worth knowing about, it belongs here.