Get ready to celebrate the beauty of begonias, sustainability and community spirit at the much-anticipated Ballarat Begonia Festival. The Ballarat Botanical Gardens will transform into a vibrant oasis from Saturday, March 8 to Monday, March 10 (Labour Day long weekend), offering a diverse range of free activities, entertainment and educational experiences for all ages.
FESTIVAL HEADLINER
- The Last Numbat: Witness the magic of Spare Parts Puppet Theatre's interactive performance installation, ‘The Last Numbat’. This large-scale marionette, controlled by up to 14 participants at a time, will enchant audiences with its message of connection, community and environmental awareness. This will be the first time The Last Numbat will be seen on Australia’s east coast.
MAIN STAGE HIGHLIGHTS
- Costa Georgiadis: This beloved environmental educator, landscape architect and TV personality returns with his infectious enthusiasm, presenting talks on sustainable gardening and connecting with nature.
- Millie Ross: an environmental educator, Millie will share her unconventional approach to gardening, inspiring creativity and resourcefulness. ?
- Mindy Woods: proud Bundjalung woman and MasterChef Australia alumna, Mindy will showcase indigenous ingredients and dishes, sharing her passion for food, country and culture. ?
- Liam Downes: one of Ballarat's most lauded Chefs, Liam will demonstrate his paddock-to-plate philosophy, highlighting the region's culinary delights.
- Chloe Thomson: the passionate gardener and award-winning presenter will be the Main Stage’s Master of Ceremonies across the weekend.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES
- Begonia Display: immerse yourself in the romantic ambience of the begonia display at the Robert Clark Conservatory, featuring thousands of beautiful begonias including more than 500 rare and unique varieties, complemented by fragrant lavender and lush greenery. This year, the free display will be open longer for flower lovers to really get their begonia fix!
- Garden of Giggles: enjoy a series of free puppet and comedy shows, roving entertainment and interactive workshops designed to delight families.
- Gardeners Market: discover a treasure trove of plants, flowers and garden gifts from a large line-up of market stall holders including begonia plant sales.
- Family Fun: explore a range of free activities including Integra Tiny Town, horticultural workshops, rock climbing, a sports zone, giant garden games and Trash Puppet workshops.
- Snail Trail: embark on a scavenger hunt through the gardens to find 10 unique snail sculptures crafted by Victorian artist, Tim Read.
- Food and Drink: indulge in local wines, beers and spirits at The Begonia Bar and savour culinary delights from a variety of food trucks.
- PowerFM Ballarat Begonia Parade: the grand finale on Monday, March 10 will feature a vibrant procession of community groups, schools and businesses celebrating the spirit of the festival. ?
