Looking for something to do in Ballarat and surrounds this weekend? Look no further. From books to beats, potatoes to parties, there's something for everyone.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Friday
Tijuana Cartel
What: This quirky group hailing from the Gold Coast are in Ballarat to promote their new vinyl release Bhairavis Garden. Mixing flamenco guitar with club beats, and Middle Eastern percussion with catchy trumpet riffs, no doubt Karova will be bopping all night long to the sweet tunes of Tijuana Cartel.
When: Doors open 8.30pm
Where: Karova Lounge, Field Street
Details: $23.50, more details at karovalounge.com/show/tijuana-cartel
The French Saloon & Wine Challenge
What: With Plate Up Ballarat kicking off this week, award-winning chef Ian Curley is transporting his hatted Melbourne restaurant The French Saloon to Ballarat. Each course will be paired with a curated selection of French and local regional wines, which are going head to head to be crowned your favourite tipple. Local produce from Great Ocean Road Duck, Tuki Trout Farm and Dog Rock Wines.
When: 7pm
Where: Craig's Royal Hotel, Lydiard Street
Details: $150.00, more details at www.stickytickets.com.au/83147
Saturday
Clunes Booktown
What: The famous festival of books hosts more than 15,000 visitors throughout the town of Clunes across two days. This year, authors and commentators taking the stage include Jano Caro, George Megalogenis, Kon Karapanagiotidis and Alice Pung. Panel discussions, a kid's village and thousands of books to buy make this annual event a stand-out of the region.
When: 8am to 5pm Saturday and 9pm to 5pm Sunday
Where: Along Fraser Street, Clunes
Details: Panel talks are ticketed, more at clunesbooktown.com.au
Made of Ballarat Marketplace
What: Under the high roof of the Ballarat Mining Exchange, some of the region's best producers, foodies and artisans will hawk their wares and share their stories. Check out the best of Ballarat including The Mushroom Connection, Sally's Paddock, 1816 Bakery and Millbrook Free Range, in conjuction with Eat Drink West. Workshops during the day can be booked with Salt Kitchen Charcutie, Peter ford Catering, Backyard Beekeeping Ballarat and Tuki Trout Farm.
When: 10am to 4pm
Where: Ballarat Mining Exchange, Lydiard Street
Details: Entry is a gold coin donation, to support Ballarat Foundation's Feed Ballarat initiative. More details at the Plate Up Ballarat website
The Great Trentham Spudfest
What: Now into its 12th year, Spudfest celebrations are only getting bigger, with live music and entertainment across three stages, market stalls, a tractor pull on the old railway line and potato farmers selling fresh produce.The humble potato will, unsurprisingly, be elevated to god status with plenty toasty potato treats for punters to eat. Special events include a spud car derby, where kids will be able to convert a potato to a car, with the public voting on its favourite.
When: 10am to 4pm
Where: Events take place in the centre of Trentham, including the Quarry St Reserve
Details: Entry free, more details at trenthamspudfest.org.au
The Eastern's First Birthday Celebrations
What: After one year of showcasing some of the best and most beguiling bands in Ballarat, The Eastern is celebrating. While there's plenty of excitement planned across the entire weekend, the enviable line-up on Saturday includes Freya Hollick, Skivvy Duo, A Minor and Honey Hunter.
When: Doors open at 2pm
Where: The Eastern, Humffray Street North
Details: $20, more details at The Eastern's facebook page
Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally
What: The Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally is rolling back into Beaufort on Saturday and Sunday, with steam and oil engines the stars of the show. Displays include earthmovers, tractors and and trucks, with more than 65 sheds full of interesting mechanical history. After 113 years in the region, the Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally is a sure fire winner for kids big and small.
When: 10am
Where: Carngham-Lake Goldsmith Road, Lake Goldsmith
Details: $15 for adults, information at www.lakegoldsmithsteamrally.org.au
Sunday
Mermaid Makers Market
What: The popular bayside market will again pop-up in Ballarat for a special Mother's Day edition. The free entry event will include food trucks on site, as well as fashion, design and jewelry offerings. The Mermaid Makers Market also has a big focus on wellness and vegan offerings, so head along for yourself or to snatch a special gift ahead of Mother's Day next weekend.
When: 9am to 2pm
Where: Wendouree Sports and Event Centre, Dowling Street
Details: Full details at www.mermaidsorority.com.au/
Long Autumn Lunch at Lola
What: Looking for a delicious late and long lunch option this weekend? Look no further! Lola, the restaurant at the revitalised Provincial Hotel, is hosting a tranquil late lunch with autumnal flavours. The first sitting with food created by head chef Shaun Thomson sold out, so get into this four course seating quickly!
When: 5.30pm
Where: The Provincial Hotel, Lydiard Street
Details: $99, check out the Plate Up Ballarat website