Thousands of people explored Ballarat from 21-24 May as the 2026 Ballarat Heritage Festival delivered a packed program of exhibitions, tours, performances and experiences celebrating the festival's Hidden Histories theme.
Early estimates indicate the festival injected more than $700,000 into the local economy, with visitors flocking to Ballarat to experience the diverse range of events and activities.
A major drawcard of this year's festival was the Ballarat Revealed: Hidden Histories, Shared Together exhibition at the Mining Exchange, which attracted almost 8,000 curious minds through the doors.
The exhibition featured immersive displays and historical collections that shared stories from Ballarat's diverse multicultural communities, including the Wadawurrung, Sikh, Indian Hawker, African American and Chinese communities.
The dramatic recreation of the 1901 Chinese Arch was a standout feature, with the 200-kilogram installation drawing strong interest throughout the festival.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said it was fantastic to see so many people embracing the festival last week.
"The response to this year's festival has been incredibly positive and it was wonderful to see so many people exploring Ballarat and engaging with the stories that have shaped our city," she said.
More than 60 events and activations were held across Ballarat, with some selling out before the festival even began.
This included Lantern Vaults, which took visitors beneath the Ballarat Mechanics Institute for a rare and immersive journey through the lens of twelve-year-old Florence Batten, daughter of the Institute's secretary in the early 1870s.
Hidden Rooms of Craig's Royal Hotel presented by Hidden Lanes Tours, was also a sell-out, inviting people to step inside the iconic building and explore spaces rarely seen by the public.
At Ballarat Town Hall, community groups and organisations shared perspectives on Ballarat's history and highlighted the work they do year-round to preserve the city's heritage.
Around 2,900 visitors explored the Coburn Collection, a rare display of original drawings, sketches and renderings by prominent interwar architect Herbert Leslie Coburn.
The Vintage Car Show over the weekend proved a major attraction, with Saturday featuring the Factory Day steam engine display, including 30 vintage cars, eight Ballarat engines and six motorbikes. Sunday saw close to 80 classic and vintage vehicles on display, spanning from the 1900s through to the 1980s.
Other popular favourites included steam train rides, the Ballarat Antiques Fair, the Beard and Stache competition at Hop Temple celebrating their 10th year and free horse and carriage rides, which saw about 700 people each day touring the Ballarat CBD.
Cr Hargreaves said the festival continues to play an important role in supporting local businesses and showcasing Ballarat as a leading cultural destination.
The City of Ballarat's Event team will now turn their focus to Ballarat Winter Festival, returning from 27 June - 19 July.
