Illustration of Santa waving from a log cabin porch in a snowy forest with a lantern path leading families to him (Ballarat Carols by Candlelight)
Other Christmas Activities

Ballarat Carols by Candlelight

Attendees can browse around one hundred urban market stalls, enjoy offerings from local food vans, and explore interactive community emergency service displays. Children can participate in sporting games on the lawn and craft activities inside the pavilion. The main stage hosts a live carols concert featuring local performers, the Ballarat Memorial Concert Band, and a guest appearance by Santa.

Sat, Dec 19, 2026 All ages

Website / Tickets

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Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Ticket-free; no need to book or register.

Food & Drink

Food vans will be on site, and visitors may bring picnics and other drinks; alcohol, glass, metal cutlery and knives are not permitted.

Parking

Visitors can park at Selkirk Stadium and take the shuttle directly to the Showgrounds; it is presented as an alternative to parking onsite. The shuttle runs continuously from 3pm until 8.45pm.

Accessibility

Travellers Aid provides on-site mobility support including wheelchairs and carts, alongside accessible parking, accessible toilets, and a dedicated Auslan viewing area.

Pets

Pets are allowed on a lead; owners must pick up after them.

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Ballarat Showgrounds · 6 Rosehill Road, Mt Rowan Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive, communal, family-focused

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • If you're arriving later in the afternoon, park at Selkirk Stadium and take the free shuttle, because parking at the Showgrounds is limited.
  • Pack your picnic with plastic cutlery, because glass, metal cutlery and knives of any kind, even cheese knives, aren't allowed in.
  • Bring fold-out chairs, picnic rugs, a hat, sunglasses and a rain jacket or poncho, because you'll be on grass in the Carols Arena.
  • Buy your candle near the East pedestrian entry gate (Gate 7) before the concert, because candle sales support Rotary.
  • Bring a refillable water bottle to cut down on single-use plastic, and leave alcohol at home because the event is alcohol-free.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Santa makes a special guest appearance.
  • Auslan interpreters sign the main concert, with a viewing area to the right of the stage.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is there for kids before the concert?

Kelly Sports runs sporting activities for kids on the Show Lawn. There are Christmas colouring activities for little ones in the Pavilion, and Santa makes a special guest appearance.

Can we bring our own food?

Yes. Picnics are welcome in suitable containers, with plastic cutlery only, and no knives or glass. There are also plenty of food vans along Main Drive. Bring a refillable water bottle and leave the alcohol at home.

Where do I buy a candle?

Candles are sold near the East pedestrian entry gate (Gate 7) before the concert. The money raised supports Rotary.

What should we bring?

Bring fold-out chairs, picnic rugs, cushions and umbrellas. Dress for the weather, with hats and sunglasses for sun and rain jackets or ponchos for rain. Prams and strollers are fine.

What isn't allowed?

You can't bring alcohol, knives of any kind, metal cutlery or drones. Items to sell, illicit substances, firecrackers, flares and flammable liquids are also banned. Staff may inspect bags.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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