The annual Ballarat Begonia Festival is back in the picturesque Ballarat Botanical Gardens, with its unique celebration of community, creativity, and family fun. 

This year the festival is all set to charm visitors of all ages over the Labour Day long weekend from Saturday 9 March to Monday 11 March 2024.

What’s New at Ballarat Begonia Festival 2024

Begonia ‘George Longley’: A Floral Tribute

Remember the Begonia ‘Peter Marquand’ from 2023? This year’s debut begonia flower is just as spectacular, if not more!

The Ballarat Begonia Festival 2024 is named Begonia ‘George Longley’. This tribute to the gardens’ inaugural curator adds a unique touch to the already vibrant display.

 Curious about its colour? It’s a secret to be revealed at the festival! 

‘These Things’ by SWAY: A World Premiere

Get ready for the world premiere of ‘These Things’ by the renowned Melbourne-based performing arts group, SWAY. 

Artists performing gravity-defying acts on poles adorned with begonias is a sight you won’t want to miss!

This show blends music, dance, and circus acts to create a mesmerising experience for all the family. 

Ballarat Begonia Festival: A Day Packed with Activities

Start your visit to the Ballarat flower festival at the ‘Begonia’ letters, designed by artist Billy O’Toole. Each letter represents a unique aspect of Wadawurrung Country.

Fern Fever: A Tribute to the Past

The 2024 theme, ‘Fern Fever’, pays homage to the historic Ballarat Fernery. 

Dating back to the 1880s and recently restored, the Fernery is worth exploring for its over 800 ferns and exotic plants.

The Begonia Display

At this year’s festival, the Robert Clark Conservatory will showcase over 500 begonia plants. 

This spectacle of rare and diverse begonias is a testament to Ballarat’s rich botanical heritage. 

Don’t forget your camera – this display is a photographer’s dream!

Then to shop for a living souvenir check out the Ballarat Begonia Festival Market, the place to find unique plants and garden gifts. 

Workshops and Demonstrations

From cooking demos by famous chefs like Paul West and Courtney Roulston to sustainability workshops by Hannah Moloney, there’s a wealth of knowledge to gain. 

And for the begonia enthusiasts, Jerry Coleby-Williams shares his expertise on growing these beautiful flowers.

Check out the workshops program as they require booking ahead. 

Entertainment & Music

As you stroll through the gardens, watch for the enchanting stilt-walking bees, bugs, and butterflies. 

Their vibrant costumes and graceful movements add a fairy-tale quality to the festival!

The festival also features a program of well-known and emerging local artists to keep your feet tapping and spirits high.

Activities for Kids

Let the kids play, learn and explore the festival!

Check out activities like Integra Tiny Town, face painting, and the Begonia Maze, the Western Bulldogs’ footy clinic and test your skills at the Perfit Obstacle Course. 

Culinary Treats: Food and Drinks Galore

Food Trucks will be located in two large food court areas within the festival site, open 10am – 5pm daily. With a plethora of food and beverage vendors, your taste buds are in for a treat!

And don’t forget to visit the Begonia Bar for locally crafted beverages.

The Grand Finale: Begonia Parade

The Power FM Begonia Parade on Monday 11 March is the festival’s highlight, featuring community groups and vibrant processions. It’s a celebration of community spirit and creativity, perfect for wrapping up an unforgettable weekend in Ballarat!

Ballarat Begonia Festival FAQs

What child-friendly activities are available at the Ballarat Begonia Festival?

The festival features Integra Tiny Town, a delightful area with mini cubbies for kids to explore. 

The Begonia Maze offers a fun and interactive adventure, and there are also face painting and art and crafts activities.

Young ones will be thrilled by the ‘Marvellous Minibeasts’ and ‘These Things by SWAY’ performances. 

What type of food options are available for kids at the festival?

The festival offers a diverse range of food and beverage options, including kid-friendly meals and snacks. There are over 20 food and beverage vendors to choose from.

Is the festival accessible for strollers and young children?

The Ballarat Begonia Festival is held at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, which are generally stroller-friendly and accessible for families with young children.

Can we bring our own food and picnic at the festival?

• Yes, families are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in the beautiful surroundings of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens.

How do we get to the festival?

By train: Plan your trip to Ballarat on the Vline. A free shuttle bus will run to and from the Ballarat Train Station (Lydiard Street) to the Ballarat Begonia Festival. 

By car: If you drive to the Festival, there is a Festival Car Park is located in the North Gardens, entry off Wendouree Parade into Zoo Drive. There is also ample parking around the Botanical Gardens, both along Wendouree Parade and Gillies Street. There will be no parking available on Wendouree Parade between Nursery Drive and St Aidans Drive from 6.30am to 1pm (inclusive) on the day of the parade – Monday 11th March.

By tram: Vintage tram rides will be available all weekend for your convenience and enjoyment. Travel the 1.3 km of the original track beside the Botanical Gardens on the west side of Lake Wendouree.

What else is there is to do in Ballarat with kids?

We’ve got you covered with our article of the best things to do in Ballarat with kids, including where to play, eat and stay.

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Visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park with kids
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