What's On in Ballarat

Get ready,Ballarat – the rodeo is coming back to town! The Ballarat Rodeo rolls into the Ballarat Showgrounds on Friday, January 2nd, delivering a full evening of high-energy entertainment, world-class rodeo action, and country hospitality. Watch Australia’s best cowboys and cowgirls go head-to-head in a jam-packed lineup of bull riding, saddle bronc, bareback, and barrel racing, with thousands of dollars in prize money up for grabs. Whether you're a diehard rodeo fan or just after a great day out, there’s something for everyone - from the thundering hooves and dust of the main arena to delicious food trucks, bars, kids’ activities, and live music once the sun goes down. The Ballarat Rodeo is the fourth event of the national Stampede Series, Australia's largest rodeo circuit, and promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Gates open from 2pm with the rodeo kicking off at 5pm and running into the evening. Don’t miss your chance to experience the excitement, the atmosphere, and the adrenaline of a true country rodeo – right here in the heart of Ballarat. Grab your boots, round up your crew, and we’ll see you at the Ballarat Rodeo!

Join renowned landscape artist Lana Daubermann for a special weekend of creativity at Wombat Park Estate in Daylesford. This retreat offers exclusive access to the private estate, en plein air painting sessions, and a restorative escape into the central highlands. Perfect for oil or acrylic painters seeking to deepen their practice or reignite their creative spark.

Get ready for Glitter Gang's Christmas Chaos at Beavs Bar! Geelong-famous Glitter Gang is taking over for a night to remember, with DJ Rokdog kicking things off. Expect glitter, glam, festive vibes, and non-stop fun. It's the Christmas party you won’t want to miss!

Immerse yourself in cosy tabletop games at Castlemaine Library. Learn something new without technology! Perfect for all ages.

Get ready for the ultimate gaming showdown in our Interlibrary Gaming tournament as our two Library branches go head-to-head. This event welcomes all levels of expertise in a friendly and inclusive environment. Grab your controllers and get ready to rev up the excitement in a battle for supremacy on the virtual racetrack.

Join trek leader Bruce McClean, a 39th Battalion descendant, on this free training walk! Mount Macedon is perfect for training, and Bruce will share tips and local stories. This walk is perfect for those training for an upcoming expedition or those who want to get out into the great outdoors.

Join our FREE sensory playgroup for children 15 months to 25 months. Meet other new mums, build connections and have fun! Experienced educators will use props, textures, and sounds to engage your child's senses and encourage exploration. Enjoy activities like rhyme time to promote physical and cognitive development.

Get into the Christmas spirit by decorating your own gingerbread at Valley Park Community Centre. All materials are provided, just bring your creativity!

Get ready for an afternoon of festive fun and creativity! Join us for a joyful Christmas Crafternoon, perfect for the whole family! Activities include decorating 3D Wooden Reindeers, making Aussie Christmas Mosaic Foam Magnets, and designing your own Christmas Colouring Mug. We can't wait to see you there!

Join us for a cozy afternoon of delicious coffee and cake, perfect for catching up with friends and enjoying some sweet treats!

Join Trevor Marriott, Creative Director of Telekinetic Mind & Motion, for exciting Augmented Reality (AR) workshops. Perfect for beginners and creatives alike! Learn AR basics, design interactives, and build your own AR experience. This event is for Adults & Young People 12 yrs +.