Athlete races, children’s races, horse races.  

Ballarat has it all on New Year’s Day.

And this Sunday it will be no different with traditional events across region ringing in new year. 

The Central Highlands’ big three New Year’s Day festivals are back today in a big way.

More than 4000 people are expected to flock to the 127^th Burrumbeet Cup race day. 

Burrumbeet Park and Windermere Racing Club committee member Malcolm Draffin said a day of family fun would be had by all. 

“We’ve got more free children’s activities than ever before this year,” Mr Draffin said. 

“We’ll also have the traditional kid’s run, Fashions on the Field for the ladies and it’s a brilliant day for families to come out and enjoy the sunshine.”

The Glenlyon Sports Club’s mixed sports day will also be held.

The fundraiser aims to raise more than $15,000 for the Daylesford and District Hospitals and regional youth groups and charities. 

Last but not least, the Maryborough Highland Gathering will be in full swing.

The annual event features the highland games and $15,000 Maryborough Gift pulling together one of the state’s biggest footraces, Highland strongmen and pipe bands on the one field with show rides dotting the outer.

Each festival is unique to January 1.

The Glenlyon Mixed Sports Day will be held on Sunday the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve, Dysart Street from 10am.

The Maryborough Gift at Princes Park is scheduled for 4.10pm, with the necklace final at 1.43pm.

For more information on the Burrumbeet Cup, including ticket prices visit country. racing.com/burrumbeet