March Long Weekend: Ballarat Begonia Festival Highlights
Embark on a colourful journey just 90 minutes from Melbourne, where the Ballarat Begonia Festival awaits to enchant you from 9-11 March 2024. Nestled beside Lake Wendouree and amidst the iconic Ballarat Botanical Gardens, this free three-day event is a spectacle of floral beauty and vibrant celebrations.
Capture the Moment
For those who love to capture memories, the festival is a photographer’s dream. At the heart of the festival, the Robert Clark Conservatory transforms into a floral paradise, showcasing an exquisite collection of begonias. These blooms, ranging from the classic to the rare, create a tapestry of colour. And don’t worry if you miss the main event; these displays remain for the following four weeks, ensuring everyone gets a chance to witness the begonia brilliance.
A Weekend of Family Fun
The Ballarat Begonia Festival is an experience that goes beyond the blooms. Immerse yourself in the energy of SWAY’s world premiere show, where performers dance on towering poles against the sky. The gardens will come alive with roving entertainment, including giant bees and ladybugs on stilts, a live butterfly tent and bug exploration space, celebrity presenters, live music and market stalls. From face painting to crafts, mazes to obstacle courses, there’s an adventure waiting at every turn. Plus, food trucks will be located in two large food court areas within the festival site, open 10am – 5pm daily.
More Floral Photo Ops
To add to your floral fun, the sunflower fields near Ballarat are also in bloom this March. While you’re in town for the begonias, stop by Dunnstown’s Pick Your Own Sunflowers, just a 10-minute drive from Ballarat. This is a popular experience, so bookings are essential ahead of your visit.
Beyond the autumn blooms, Ballarat offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for families – panning for gold, tram rides by the lake, close-up encounters with koalas and kangaroos, even medieval knights on horseback!
Whether you’re a floral aficionado, an adventure seeker, or just in need of a family escape with nature at your fingertips, the March Long Weekend is an unforgettable weekend to visit this charming regional city.
So, mark your calendars and make your way to Ballarat. Let’s celebrate the beauty of nature, the joy of togetherness, and the unforgettable memories waiting to be made. See you there!
Plan your trip at visitballarat.com.au
