CUPCAKES have proven a sweet addition to new-look Begonia festivities in the busy lake precinct.
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A design-your-own topping stall was a "delicious" find for youngster Noah Jeffey, who made sure to trial a range of toppings on his colourful treat, including edible silver leafing.
Working the piping bag with multi-coloured soft icing twirls was Noah's favourite part - aside from biting into his creation.
"It's absolutely incredible," Noah said.
The stall was part of Pipers by the Lake offerings for the long weekend, with the venue packed across the three days and drawing long queues to the outdoor kiosk in the warmer weather.
Ballarat Begonia Festival featured floral installations across the city including activities in Buninyong, a floating floral carpet on display in Civic Hall plus street performers and illuminated installation peppered along Sturt Street.
But Ballarat Botanical Gardens still proved the key destination for Ballarat residents and tourists on Monday - even without the usual parade and carnival-like set-up this year.
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Festival celebrations will instead sprawl across three weeks this month due to ongoing pandemic restrictions. Begonia was the city's last major event - featuring Bluey and Bingo to headline the parade - before the pandemic hit Ballarat and lockdowns were introduced.
City of Ballarat mayor Daniel Moloney has flagged the seeming early success of multiple sites could be a consideration for future Begonia festivals as a way to really activate the whole city. The festival runs until March 28.