Evan, 3, and Tobias Powell, 1, were keen to get a closer look yesterday at the beautiful blooms on show as part of this weekend's Begonia Festival.
BALLARAT’S gardens will spill onto the streets this long weekend.
The 61st Ballarat Begonia Festival will bring the garden theme to the forefront for the next three days, culminating with Monday’s Begonia Parade along Wendouree Parade. Destination and Economy councillor Samantha McIntosh said there was something for everyone, from garden produce to magnificent floral displays and family activities.
“It’s about extending that garden theme, through the gardens, through the community and through the main street,” she said.
“We’re proud to be known as the garden city.”
Cr McIntosh said the begonias were the centrepiece of the weekend’s celebrations, with about 600 varieties on display in the Conservatory.
More than 30,000 people are expected to participate in the festival, with talks by celebrity gardeners, musical entertainment, and markets among the many activities on offer.
Cr McIntosh said The Courier Begonia Parade had about 45 different floats, bringing the fairytale theme to life.
“The parade will be very exciting, with the return of the Begonia Princess on a float.”