Densely planted colourful flower beds in a garden
Family FestivalBallarat, VIC

Ballarat Begonia Festival

The Ballarat Begonia Festival has run since 1953, making it one of Victoria's longest-standing festivals. Held across the March long weekend in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens beside Lake Wendouree, it centres on the city's famous begonia collection, displayed in massed colour in the Robert Clark Conservatory.

Get there by bus →Labour Day long weekend, March (3 days)Free entry

What to expect

The festival is free, drawing around 100,000 people for the flowers, food trucks, music and a strong family program through the gardens. It is an easy day out: the gardens sit on the lake's western shore with the begonia display a short stroll from the main lawns. March in Ballarat is usually settled and mild.

  • Family Festival
  • Regional Tourism

Getting there by bus

Tell us where you're starting from and we'll find coach options to Ballarat.

One-way trip

Fares and timetables are confirmed on the operator's site before you book.