Ballarat Begonia Festival
Did you know that Ballarat is home to thousands of begonias, including more than 500 unique varieties? In fact, the impressive collection is the rarest in the Southern Hemisphere. They're all housed in the city's historic botanical gardens, and to celebrate this floral feat, the city has hosted the Ballarat Begonia Festival annually since 1953.
When is the Begonia Festival happening in Ballarat?
If you're keen to see the colourful (and highly 'grammable) flower fest in full bloom, make your way to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens on the Labour Day long weekend from March 8-10.
How long is the Begonia Festival on for?
The floral festivities run across three jam-packed days, so you'll have ample opportunity to explore the vibrant floral displays that fill the historic botanic gardens.
What's on at the 2025 Ballarat Begonia Festival?
Alongside the colourful blooms, there will be a line-up of demonstrations, live entertainment, market stalls and food trucks. This year's headline act is 'The Last Numbat' – a large-scale, interactive performance installation that uses puppetry to explore connection, community and collaboration. Created by Spare Parts Puppet Theatre, it's the first time magical creation has been seen on Australia's East Coast.
A roster of celebrity presenters and industry experts – including Costa Georgiadis, Liam Downes, Mindy Woods and Millie Ross – will host talks on the main stage, and there will be plenty of activities to keep the kids busy. Plus, there...