Get ready to be entertained! The Ballarat Heritage Festival is back, promising 10 days of captivating experiences that blend the city's rich history with the joy of entertainment. From Friday, May 16 to Sunday, May 25, Ballarat will come alive with a vibrant program designed to delight and engage audiences of all ages.
Under the theme ‘Heritage Unfolds, Entertainment Awaits...’ - the 2025 festival will explore the many ways entertainment has shaped Ballarat's story.
A taste of what’s to come:
•Entertainment of the Air: take to the skies at Ballarat Airport for a spectacular celebration of aviation, the pioneering spirit of flight and its role in entertainment history. This free event will feature a range of attractions designed to thrill aviation enthusiasts and families alike:
Joy rides: step back in time and experience the thrill of vintage air travel with joy rides across the weekend (May 17-18). Feel the nostalgia as you soar through the skies in a vintage aircraft.
Museums and exhibitions: explore fascinating displays showcasing the history of aviation, from its earliest pioneers to its technological advancements.
Live entertainment: Enjoy live performances by The Pacific Belles (Australia’s hottest retro-style singing trio).
Vintage photographs: Capture a memorable moment alongside an iconic DC-3 aircraft.
•‘Legends of the Air’ musical (ticketed event): Immerse yourself in a theatrical celebration of aviation legends. Performances will be held on Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18. Tickets on sale soon at ballaratheritagefestival.com.au.
•Heritage Conversations: A life in photos - John Gollings: an Open House Melbourne event at Ballarat Mechanics' Institute, featuring a conversation with renowned architectural photographer John Gollings. As one of Australia’s most influential architectural photographers, John Gollings has changed the way we see the built environment to reveal stories about its character and personality.
Tickets available at openhousemelbourne.org/event/heritage-conversations-a-life-in-photos-john-gollings.
Festival favourites return:
•Ballarat Beard and Stache Competition: show off your facial hair prowess at the Ballarat Beard and Stache Competition on Saturday, May 24. This free event will be held at Hop Temple and is a great way to see out the festivities. To register, visit beardcomp.com.au.
•Vintage Car Show: step back in time and admire a stunning array of classic automobiles. Located along Lydiard Street, this free event will showcase meticulously restored vehicles from bygone eras, offering a glimpse into the history of automotive design and engineering.
•Ballarat Antique Fair: discover hidden treasures and unique finds at the Ballarat Civic Hall. Immerse yourself in a world of collectibles, vintage wares and antique furniture. With a diverse range of vendors, this fair is a haven for collectors, decorators and anyone seeking a special piece of history.
The 2025 Ballarat Heritage Festival offers a mix of legacy activations and new experiences. The full program will be revealed later this month.
