Get ready to celebrate Christmas in Ballarat (with a bang)

December is here and Ballarat’s festive cheer is about to be taken to a whole new level.

The City of Ballarat officially launched its ‘Christmas in Ballarat’ program on Monday, outlining a bumper month of festivities set to go bigger and better than ever before.

All the favourites that you have come to know and love will be back once again, including the dazzling decorations, the Christmas in Ballarat Art Trail, the Albert Street Christmas activation, free Christmas workshops, live street music, entertainment and a range of sensational shopping events.

This year, however, there are even more reasons to venture into Ballarat and spend time in the CBD over the Christmas/New Year period.

Bridge Mall traders will also keep the spirit of Christmas vibrant with an exciting range of festive events, promotions, a Christmas market, entertainment, activities and Santa magic in the lead up to Christmas.

Another event not to be missed is the New Year’s Eve fireworks.

The fireworks display, once again being produced by local pyrotechnician Matthew Batty from Northern Fireworks, are scheduled to take place over Lake Wendouree at 9.30pm on Tuesday 31 December, subject to weather conditions.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the Christmas in Ballarat program, with increased Bridge Mall activations and New Year’s Eve fireworks, would make for a vibrant festive period in the city.

“Every year Ballarat comes alive for Christmas, but this year there is even more reason to enjoy the Christmas cheer,” she said.

“I encourage all Ballarat locals to take some time and explore everything we have on this year – there’s just so much to see and do.” 

Head to christmasinballarat.com.au to view the full program 

Christmas in Ballarat highlights

Christmas in Ballarat Art Trail

Explore the Ballarat CBD and complete the ‘Where’s Holly’ Christmas Art Trail.

Presented by Justine McAllister, in collaboration with the City of Ballarat, everyone is invited to search for Holly the Christmas Swan across five vibrant locations this festive period.

Be sure to invite family and friends as you search for Holly across the city. Don’t forget to stop in at some of the local retail businesses along the way.

Ballarat’s Magical Christmas Emporium

Designed by Ballarat artist Zlatko Balazic, Ballarat’s Magical Christmas Emporium is a must see this Christmas.

Located on Albert Street (next to Parent Place), this year’s container display features interactive singing Christmas trees, an engaging historic facade and a number of automated surprises.

Enter this year’s weekly colouring in competition to go into the draw to win one of five weekly prizes valued at $200.

The Bridge Mall – The 12 Days of Christmas

The Bridge Mall will come alive with holiday cheer through a 12 Days of Christmas celebration, featuring themed activities and performances.  

Designed to be perfect for families and attract local shoppers, this event series will run from December 9 to December 24, with daily mid-week activities.

Featuring a different performance every day associated to the traditional carol The 12 Days of Christmas, plus visits from Santa and other activities on the weekend, the Bridge Mall is certain to be a hive of activity in 2024.

Santa’s Telephone Box

Located in the Ballarat Visitor Information Centre, step into Santa’s Red Telephone Booth this Christmas and leave a personalised voice message for Santa!

This interactive telephone booth invites children to share their wish lists, hopes and dreams with Santa, adding a touch of holiday excitement to Ballarat this festive season.

Don’t miss the chance for your little ones to connect directly with the North Pole this Christmas.

New Year’s Eve fireworks

Following a Council resolution earlier in 2024, the annual fireworks display has been shifted to New Year’s Eve.

The event will mark the end of the Christmas season with a dramatic bang, with about 10,000 people expected to flock to the shore of Lake Wendouree.

The event will be held at a family-friendly time of 9.30pm on Tuesday 31 December, subject to weather conditions.