What's On In Your State This April - Australian Traveller

Here’s where to get your groove on this month.

April is always a welcome time of the year for me – the last of summer’s heat has been sucked up by autumn’s arrival and I can finally retrieve the knitted cardigans and fluffy slippers from the back of my wardrobe. I truly love it when the days start getting a little shorter, the air a little crisper, the coffee a little warmer. But the ability to get out of bed in the morning? That starts getting a LOT harder.

If you can relate, don’t stress. After consulting Australia’s annual events calendar, I’ve collated an incredible line-up of events across the country that will have you jumping out of bed like Grandpa Joe in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Shall we?

Taylah’s top picks of the month:

Best foodie event: TrailGraze, north-west Tasmania (11–13 April)
Best music event: SALT Festival on the Eyre Peninsula, SA (8–27 April)
Best cultural event: Boorloo Heritage Festival in Perth, WA (1–30 April)
Best outdoor event: Bathe in Cinema on the Mornington Peninsula, Vic (3–24 April)
Best arts event: Archibald Regional Tour in Alice Springs, NT (from 24 April)

Upcoming events to keep on your radar:

Tasting Australia in South Australia (2–11 May)
Blues on Broadbeach on the Gold Coast, Qld (15–18 May)
Melbourne Design Week in Melbourne, Vic (15–25 May)
Vivid Sydney in Sydney, NSW (23 May – 14 June)
Dark Mofo in Hobart, Tas (5–21 June)

NSW | Vic | Qld | Tas | WA | SA | NT | ACT

What’s on in NSW in April

ORANGE FOOD WEEK
ORANGE
UNTIL 6 APRIL

Orange Food Week in Orange, NSW — Delight in the seasonal flavours of regional Orange.

Orange Food Week is packed with as much flavour as the regional NSW town can manage in 10 days, with nearly 50 events showcasing the region’s best seasonal produce and cool-climate wines. The theme for 2025 is Elevate Your Plate, brought to life with languid long lunches, hands-on masterclasses, guided tours and exclusive wine tastings. The program’s purpose is to highlight the importance of sustainable farming, all while spotlighting locally sourced produce, too.

NOCTURNAL
BLUE MOUNTAINS
3 APRIL – 11 MAY

Scenic World, Blue Mountains, NSW — Ride the Scenic Railway as the sun sets across the mountains. (Image: Scenic World)

As daylight fades quicker and temperatures begin to drop, Scenic World extends its hours for Nocturnal . On select days across two months, the Scenic Railway, Cableway and Skyway stay open after dark, allowing guests to experience the Blue Mountains like never before. Down on the forest floor, the Scenic Walkway also comes alive with holograms, light installations and ambient soundscapes that will enchant the whole family. Tickets are available to book now, starting at $54.90 for adults and $40.90 for children.

MAYBE COCKTAIL FESTIVAL
SYDNEY
7–13 APRIL

Maybe Cocktail Festival in Sydney, NSW — Sip your way around the world at Sydney’s Maybe Cocktail Festival.

For one week this month, the Maybe Cocktail Festival is bringing some of the world’s finest mixologists to Australian shores. With 20 international bars – seven of which appeared on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list – taking up residency across the city, Sydney’s bar scene is set to explode. London’s Connaught Bar will call Dean & Nancy’s on 22 home, while Seoul’s Zest will be at Prefecture 48 and Cochinchina out of Buenos Aires at Maybe Sammy, plus so much more. We’ll cheers to that!

NEWCASTLE FOOD MONTH
NEWCASTLE
1–30 APRIL

Back for its fifth rendition, Newcastle Food Month will blow your tastebuds out of the water by bringing forth the creative talent of Newcastle’s burgeoning culinary scene. The month-long event boasts a plentiful program inclusive of all foodies, from tastings with local winemakers and dinners at hatted restaurants to expert-guided masterclasses and high teas with all the trimmings. With 70 feature events and 80 participating venues, hungry bellies are sure to be satiated.

ROYAL EASTER SHOW
SYDNEY
11–22 APRIL

Sydney Royal Easter Show in Sydney — The Royal Easter Show is the perfect family day out. (Image: Destination NSW)

Held annually at Sydney Olympic Park, the Royal Easter Show is a highlight on the calendars of Sydneysiders. Beginning in 1823, it’s a true celebration of Australian culture, from rural traditions to modern-day fun. With a specific focus on agricultural programs, competitions, education and youth, The Easter Show is the perfect family day out. Step right up for hands-on animal experiences, entertainment, food stalls, rides, showbags and more.

HANDA OPERA FESTIVAL
MILLTHORPE
18–20 APRIL

The inaugural Handa Opera at Millthorpe is bringing the titular world-class music genre to the Central West this Easter long weekend. The three-day festival will feature a mix of open rehearsals, concerts and recitals, as well as in conversations with some of opera’s finest singers and musicians. Fill in the gaps with a visit to nearby Orange – with plenty of fun things to see and do, it’s the perfect place to pass the time between events.

GRIFFITH EASTER PARTY
GRIFFITH
17–20 APRIL

Griffith Easter Party in Griffith, NSW — Cheers to the long weekend at the Griffith Easter Party.

Another regional community celebrating Easter this month is Griffith, which paints the streets pastel for its annual Easter Party . Across four days, locals and visitors alike are invited to enjoy everything from local markets and live music to family-friendly picnics and Easter egg hunts. It also aligns with the end of the region’s grape vintage, so be sure to pop by the surrounding cellar doors to get a taste.

What’s on in Victoria in April

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL
MELBOURNE
UNTIL 20 APRIL

Melbourne International Comedy Festival in Victoria — Join the laughs at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

The lights of the Victorian capital shine a little bit brighter when the Melbourne International Comedy Festival takes over the city each year. Regarded as one of Melbourne’s most-loved events, everyone gets a good dose of laughter as comedians hit stages across the CBD and further afield. Celebrate the joyful, the inspiring and the silly with a line-up of acts that veer from the visceral to the satirical, including Joel Creasey, Elaine Crombie, Tommy Little, Luke McGregor, Urzila Carlson and more.

MACEDON RANGES AUTUMN FESTIVAL
MACEDON
1–30 APRIL

Macedon in Victoria — Watch the trees change colour in Macedon.

There’s more to autumn in Macedon than its famous oak-lined Honour Ave and heritage gardens of Mt Macedon, and it can be found at the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival . Explore the cosy program as changing colours wash the landscape marmalade, from farmers’ markets that celebrate the season’s bounty to guided walking tours through the town’s historic streets. With so much to see and do, it’s got to be up there with some of the best autumn festivals around Australia.

BALLARAT MARATHON
BALLARAT
26–27 APRIL

Ballarat Marathon in Victoria — Run through the historic CBD of Ballarat.

Break your PB at the Ballarat Marathon this April as it returns to the historic town for a second year running. This two-day event is designed to celebrate Ballarat’s rich sporting and cultural history, as well as encourage the community to come together and #RunTheRat. There are plenty of races to choose from, ranging in length and difficulty. From five kilometres through the CBD to a full marathon that soaks up the sights of the region, there’s something for all abilities!

MAKERS & SHAKERS MARKET
MELBOURNE
5–6 APRIL

Makers & Shakers Market in Melbourne, Vic — Meet over 175 independent makers and shakers leading market stalls.

The biggest Makers & Shakers Market to date arrives in Melbourne this month, with a record-breaking 175 independent crafters and designers setting up shop in Carlton’s Royal Exhibition Building. Browse stalls touting 100 per cent Australian-made products, including everything from fashion and food to homewares and artwork. There will also be creative workshops to participate in, vinyl DJ-sets to listen to and a live mural painting to watch.

UNEARTHED FESTIVAL
THE PYRENEES
5 APRIL

Pyrenees Unearthed Festival in Victoria — Sample a variety of wines from across the Pyrenees.

Discover one of Victoria’s hidden wine regions at the Pyrenees Unearthed Festival , where talent winemakers come together to showcase their award-winning tipples along the scenic Avoca River Flat. Guests can also indulge in top-notch regional produce across more than 35 market stalls, as well as live music and even a wine auction. Whether you’re a fan of rich sparkling, bold reds or crisp whites – all oenophiles are catered for.

GABS FESTIVAL
MELBOURNE
4–5 APRIL

GABS Festival in Melbourne, Vic — Sample beers from over 100 local and international breweries.

The Great Australian Beer SpecTAPular (GABS) is a hophead’s dream – a two-day festival showcasing the best beers from across the country. Over 100 breweries and distilleries are bringing 120 exclusive brews to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, from peanut butter stouts to sour gummy bear IPAs. There will also be live music, circus acts, gourmet food trucks, competitions, masterclasses and more to keep you entertained between sips.

BATHE IN CINEMA
MORNINGTON PENINSULA
3–24 APRIL

Bathe In Cinema at Peninsula Hot Springs, Vic — Catch one of Wes Anderson’s classic films this month.

Welcome the cooler weather the right way at one of Australia’s best natural spa baths. Peninsula Hot Springs is hosting its Bathe In Cinema , where guests can relax in its geothermal waters while catching a feature flick. This year’s program centres around eccentric American filmmaker Wes Anderson, with movies like The Grand Budapest Hotel, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Isle of the Dogs and Moonrise Kingdom all screening over the month of April.

What’s on in Queensland in April

WEDGWOOD EXHIBITION
TOWNSVILLE
FROM 6 APRIL

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery in Townsville, Qld — See Wedgwood at the Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. (Image: Townsville City Council)

In an Australian first, a carefully curated collection of Wedgwood ceramics will feature at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery in Townsville, North Queensland’s capital of culture. On loan from London’s Victoria & Albert Museum, Wedgwood: Artists and Industry is an exclusive exhibition featuring over 100 objects. It details more than 200 years of history and creativity behind the fine china, porcelain and luxury accessories manufacturer from the UK.

TOUR DE BRISBANE
BRISBANE
13 APRIL

Biking in Brisbane, QLD — See the best of Brissy by bike. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

To close out the Brisbane Cycling Festival, the Tour de Brisbane is your last opportunity to grab a helmet and hit the pedals. For one day only, over 110 kilometres of roadways are closed across the city, with all levels of ability welcome to join. There are a variety of different courses to participate in, from competitive courses for keen cyclists to relaxed Sunday rides for teams. With so many K’s to cover, this epic ride is one of the coolest ways to experience Brisbane.

OUTBACK RIVER LIGHTS FESTIVAL
CUNNAMULLA
11–13 APRIL

Outback River Lights Festival in Cunnamulla, Queensland — Don’t miss the amazing annual lantern parade.

Yes – you can even welcome autumn’s arrival in Outback Queensland – the Outback River Lights Festival just puts its own spin on it. This annual three-day event in Cunnamulla celebrates the spirit of community and local outback life with everything from workshops and competitions to live performances and cultural experiences. Whether you dine under the stars at a long-table dinner, join a bush tucker cooking class, take a fire-twirling workshop or simply admire fireworks over the Warrego River – you’re in for an autumnal treat.

ROCKYNATS 05
ROCKHAMPTON
4–6 APRIL

The aptly named Rockynats car festival is returning to Rockhampton this year, and it’s shaping up to be the best yet. Known as Queensland’s largest car and bike festival, it’s the perfect place for rev heads to get together and burn some rubber. This year’s red-hot program offers plenty of high-octane thrills, from burnout comps and street drags to big truck displays and live music shows.

COOLY CLASSIC
GOLD COAST
12–13 APRIL

Cooly Classic on the Gold Coast, Qld — Dive into the Cooly Classic on the Gold Coast.

Dive into the Cooly Classic this April, where aquanauts from across Australia take to the waves at some of the Gold Coast’s best beaches to compete. Everyone is welcome to choose from four different distances that cater to all abilities – one, two, three and five kilometres. It’s a great opportunity for one last swim before autumn well and truly arrives, with plenty of prizes to be won.

What’s on in Tasmania in April

TRAILGAZE
NORTH-WEST TASMANIA
11–13 APRIL

TrailGraze in Tasmania - Meander Valley Vineyard event — Taste the best of Tassie with TrailGraze. (Image: Jasper Da Seymour)

Many food festivals pale in comparison to TrailGraze . Following along Tassie’s iconic Tasting Trail in its stunning north-west region, the three-day feast is a celebration of the state’s unique food bowl. It offers locals and tourists alike the opportunity to truly taste Tasmania, from wine and cheese to seafood and confectionery. The program also includes behind-the-scenes tours, exclusive events, family-friendly activities and a one-night-only dinner with some very special guests.

ECOFEST
ULVERSTONE
5–6 APRIL

Known as Tasmania’s biggest festival of sustainability, Ecofest is returning to Camp Clayton in Ulverstone this year to celebrate all things green. Established by the North West Environment Centre, the festival is now in its ninth year. And in 2025, it will run across two days for the first time ever, with market stalls, food trucks, workshops and more. This year’s theme is Random Acts of gREen, which encourages attendees to REthink REsources and inspire REmarkable changes.

NUTOPIA
LILYDALE
1 APRIL

Nutopia in Lilydale, South Australia — The harvest festival is held on a stunning organic hazelnut farm.

Named after John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s imaginary country from the ’70s, Nutopia is a local harvest festival at an organic hazelnut orchard and dreamy farm stay. The cultural celebration invites you to savour the past and taste the future across the weekend; harvest hazelnuts, go foraging, dress up, play games, do yoga, eat good food and enjoy live performances. You can even make a night of it and camp out under the stars.

LITFEST
HOBART
3–12 APRIL

Litfest in Hobart, Tasmania — Bookworms will love Hobart’s Litfest.

To celebrate Hobart‘s designation as a UNESCO City of Literature, Litfest is spotlighting Tasmania’s finest writers this month at the Salamanca Arts Centre. Bookworms will be dog-earing the program left, right and centre, with engaging panels, book launches, interactive workshops and intimate readings all promised. Don’t miss local authors and publishers at the Independent Book Fair, where you may just find your next favourite read.

What’s on in Western Australia in April

SHORE LEAVE FESTIVAL
GERALDTON
23–27 APRIL

Abrolhos Long Table Lunch on East Wallabi Island, WA — Don’t miss the iconic Abrolhos Long Table Lunch. (Image: West Beach Studio)

All roads lead to Geraldton this April for the Shore Leave Festival , known across Western Australia as the ultimate celebration of seafood. The location of the festival in the state’s midwest is just as important as the produce, with everything from the crayfish to the cocktails produced in the region. This year’s program is jam-packed with events. Think farm tours, cook-offs, seafood markets and the iconic Abrolhos Long Table Lunch , a rare dining experience on East Wallabi Island.

BOORLOO HERITAGE FESTIVAL
PERTH
1–30 APRIL

the building exterior of WA Museum Boola Bardip — Gain insight into WA’s rich history at Boola Bardip. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@aeroture_au)

To pay respect to its past, the Boorloo Heritage Festival is back for another year of history-fuelled fun across the city. Throughout the month, a variety of events will celebrate the built, natural and cultural heritage of the WA capital, from exhibitions, talks and performances to workshops, walks and tours. Each event will unfold at one of Perth’s iconic landmarks, including Kings Park, the State Library of WA and WA Museum Boola Bardip.

JAMBA NYINAYI FESTIVAL
NINGALOO
18–20 APRIL

Jamba Nyinayi Festival near Ningaloo, WA — Experience the magic of Ningaloo at Jamba Nyinayi Festival.

In the Baiyungu language of Nyinggulu Country, jamba nyinayi means ‘sit for a while’, and that’s exactly what you’re invited to do at the eponymous festival on WA’s colourful coast. Connect with others at fire-side sessions by the sea. Camp out under the stars. Participate in myriad meaningful cultural experiences. All at the Baiyungu Aboriginal Corporation’s Cardabia Station, where the magic of Ningaloo is never far from sight.

What’s on in South Australia in April

SALT FESTIVAL
EYRE PENINSULA
18–27 APRIL

SALT Festival on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia — Experience intimate shows from local artists. (Image: Mikaela Frick Photography)

On South Australia’s stunning Eyre Peninsula, ideas, innovation and art are all celebrated annually at SALT Festival . Since its inauguration in 2017, it has become a platform for artists and creators to come together, share opinions and make connections. The 2025 program is as exciting as ever, with so much to get your creativity and imagination fired up. From art exhibitions and workshops to live music and light installations, there’s something for everyone at SALT.

GATHER ROUND
ADELAIDE
18–21 APRIL

Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, SA — Experience an AFL game at Adelaide Oval. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Footy fans love Gather Round , one of the biggest events on Adelaide‘s annual sporting calendar. Held across the Easter long weekend, nine games of AFL between 18 teams unfold across the capital, including at the iconic Adelaide Oval. Guests can also check out the Maccas Footy Festival – a hub of food, entertainment and free activities. Whether you’re a St Kilda supporter or Essendon enthusiast, you’re in for a crackin’ good time.

SA AUTUMN GARDEN FESTIVAL
CLARE
6 APRIL

Costa Georgiadis at the SA Autumn Garden Festival — Attendees can look forward to seeing Aussie favourite Costa Georgiadis.

One of the best things about autumn is watching our natural landscape transform – which is why the SA Autumn Garden Festival is such a hit every year. Known as South Australia’s first-ever gardening festival, it welcomes green thumbs of all abilities to learn about garden care in the cooler months. This year, master the art of growing irises, join a backyard bee-keeping demo, take part in a fermentation workshop, and even hear from Gardening Australia’s Costa Georgiadis!

What’s on in the Northern Territory in April

PARRTJIMA – FESTIVAL OF LIGHT
ALICE SPRINGS
4–13 APRIL

Crowds enjoying Grounded at Parrtjima — Parrtjima is the only festival of its kind in Australia. (Image: Parrtjima)

The only Aboriginal festival of its kind, Parrtjima – A Festival in Light is celebrating its 10th anniversary in Arrente Country this year. A must on Alice Springs/Mparntwe‘s autumnal calendar, the free 10-night festival is set to blow its guests out of the water with nightly projections against the 300-million-year-old MacDonnell Ranges. A few 2025 program highlights include the Buy Blak Market, a meandering six-metre-high puppet and the first open-air performance by the Darwin Symphony Orchestra.

THAILAND GRAND FESTIVAL
DARWIN
26 APRIL

Experience authentic Thai culture in the heart of the NT this April at the Thailand Grand Festival . This free festival is all about sharing traditional Thai knowledge through crafting, weaving and traditional dress. Attendees can look forward to a variety of family-friendly activities, including games, food, boxing tournaments, a chilli-eating challenge, a street parade and a Som Tam show.

ARCHIBALD REGIONAL TOUR
ALICE SPRINGS
FROM 24 APRIL

The 2024 Archibald Prize exhibition at AGNSW — It will be the first time the exhibition visits the NT. (Image: AGNSW/Penny Clay)

Art enthusiasts should beeline for The Araluen Arts Centre in Alice Springs to catch the touring exhibition for 2024’s Archibald Prize . It’s a history-making moment for the Northern Territory, marking the first time the collection of acclaimed artworks has visited the state. Territorians will have the opportunity to see all of the finalist pieces from 2024, including the winner, a portrait of author and conservationist Tim Winton by Laura Jones.

What’s on in the ACT in April

ETHEL CARRICK | ANNE DANGAR
CANBERRA
UNTIL 27 APRIL

Ethel Carrick, installation view, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, 2024

As part of a global movement aimed at increasing women’s representation in art, the National Gallery of Australia’s Know My Name project spotlights Australian female artists and their contributions to the country’s cultural fabric. Under the initiative, Ethel Carrick | Anne Dangar presents 140 individually distinct yet simultaneously remarkable works of art by both women, casting new light on their lives and legacies. See the remarkable exhibition before it ends this month.

NATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL
CANBERRA
17–21 APRIL

The Folk Festival in Canberra — Music, culture and good times all combine across five days. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Music, culture and good times all combine at the National Folk Festival in Canberra. The five-day concert brings together members of the community and beyond to celebrate folk culture while supporting local musicians and businesses. This year’s lineup spans music, spoken word, dance and circus, as well as workshops, talks and family-friendly activities.

ANZAC DAY SERVICE
CANBERRA
25 APRIL

ANZAC Day at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, ACT — Pay your respects at an ANZAC Day Service with the Australian War Memorial.

The heart of Anzac Day commemorations is at the Australian War Memorial, where visitors can take a moment to reflect and honour the service of current and former Australian Defence Force members who have served in all wars, conflicts and operations. Attend the solemn Dawn Service to mark the anniversary of the Gallipoli Landings. Then gather in support of the servicemen and women at the National Commemorative Service, including the RSL ACT Veterans’ March.

Makers, bakers, artists, chefs, crafters – Ballarat and its surrounds are overflowing with creative spirits. All dedicated to keeping traditional skills alive for a city that is humming with artful energy.

Modern makers: a new generation of artists and artisans

“Keeping craft alive is a noble cause,” says Jess Cameron-Wootten, a charming and passionate master leathercrafter and cordwainer, who handmakes traditional leather boots and shoes in Ballarat’s old Gun Cotton Goods Store.

Ballarat was recognised in 2019 as a UNESCO Creative City of Craft and Folk Art, and today it’s a place where craft traditions converge with contemporary needs. Nothing quite captures this convergence as a visit to Wootten , the workshop and store of Jess Cameron-Wootten and his partner Krystina Menegazzo.

heritage buildings in Ballarat — Ballarat’s streets are lined with heritage buildings. (Image: Matt Dunne)

Jess’s father was an artisan bootmaker, or cordwainer. Now Jess and Krys and their small team of artisans continue the tradition, but with a modern spin. The company’s boots and shoes, made completely from scratch, are renowned for their quality and longevity. Wootten also craft shoes, bags, belts, leather aprons, wallets and more.

Cosy beanies, gloves, alpaca socks, “unbreakable” shoelaces and various other goods – many from local craftspeople and small-scale makers – fill the shop’s shelves. “We’re always happy to support a mate,” says Jess. “People love to see the workshop and where things are made. Our clients care about quality and sustainability,” Krys comments. The company slogan ‘Made for generations’ says it all.

Ruby Pilven’s ceramics at Ross Creek Gallery. (Image: Tara Moore)

For Ruby Pilven, craft is also in the DNA – both her parents were potters and with her latest porcelain ceramics, Ruby’s young daughter has been helping add colour to the glazes. “I grew up watching my parents in the workshop – I’ve always been doing ceramics,” she says, although her Visual Arts degree was in printmaking. That printmaking training comes through particularly in the rich layering of pattern. Her audacious colour, unexpected shapes and sudden pops of 12-carat gold are contemporary, quirky – and joyful.

You can see Ruby’s handcrafted ceramics, and work by other local and regional artists, at Ross Creek Gallery , a light-filled space surrounded by serene bushland, across from the mudbrick house her parents built in the 1980s. A 10-minute drive from Ballarat, it’s a tangible link to the region’s well-established craft traditions.

How Ballarat is preserving the past

artisans making crafts at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, Ballarat — The Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades holds workshops to preserve crafts and skills.

While tradition is ongoing, there’s a danger that many of these specific type of skills and knowledge are fading as an older generation passes on. Step forward the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades .

The seven purpose-built studios occupy a fabulous modern building adjacent to Sovereign Hill, with state-of-the-art facilities, enormous windows and landscape views across to Warrenheip and Wadawurrung Country.

artisanal works at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, Ballarat — Check out artisanal works at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades.

Practising artisans run hands-on workshops. Fancy making your own medieval armour? Or trying your hand at blacksmithing, spinning wool, plaiting leather, weaving cane or craft a knife? Book a class and learn how. “It’s about creating awareness and also sharing knowledge and skills before they are lost,” explains Deborah Klein, the centre manager.

A city steeped in food and flavours

Chef José Fernandez preparing American streetfood at Pancho — Chef José Fernandez creates vibrant South American street food at Pancho. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

One skill that hasn’t been lost is that of cooking. Ballarat’s burgeoning gastronomy scene runs the gamut from an artisan bakery (the atmospheric 1816 Bakehouse) to cool coffee shops, speakeasy cocktail bars and distilleries to fine-dining venues. But I’m still surprised to find Pancho , José Fernandez’s South American street food restaurant, serving fried cheese tequeños, fiery fish tacos, Argentinian grilled chicken.

The room is as lively as the food – a whirl of colour filled with gifted and thrifted paintings, photos, tchotchkes (trinkets), plants. There’s a Mexican abuela aesthetic going on here. Even before the music and mezcal kick in, it’s fun. Heads up on the drinks menu – an authentic selection of mezcal, tequila, South American wines and Mexican cerveza.

a cocktail at Itinerant Spirits, Ballarat — Enjoy a cocktail at Itinerant Spirits. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

The spirit is willing, so after lunch we head towards the gold rush-era Ballarat train station and across the line to the old 1860s Goods Shed for Itinerant Spirits . At one end, a massive German copper still looms behind a wall of glass. The fit-out embraces deep olive-green tones, original bluestone walls, steamer trunks as coffee tables, heritage timber floors, oversized lamp shades and cognac-hued modernist leather seating.

the Itinerant Spirits Distillery & Cocktail Bar, Ballarat — The distillery operates from an old goods shed. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

Gallivanter Gin, Vansetter Vodka and Wayfarer Whiskey – the key spirits distilled – star at the bar. The spirits are crafted using grains from the Wimmera Mallee region, and native botanicals foraged in the Grampians. Seasonal cocktails are inspired by local people and places (I loved The Headland, inspired by Sovereign Hill and flavoured with old-fashioned raspberry drops). Sample the spirits, and join a cocktail masterclass or a distillery tour. It’s a seductive setting – you’ll likely find yourself ordering a charcuterie platter or pizza as the evening progresses.

The Ballarat stay combining history and luxury

one of the rooms at Hotel Vera, Ballarat — The rooms at Hotel Vera have a contemporary style. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

New lives for old buildings keeps history alive. Vera, Ballarat’s boutique five-star hotel, has taken it to the next level: it’s a palimpsest, a subtle layering of early 1900s and 1930s Art Deco architecture with a sleek new wing. There are seven spacious suites, each a dramatically different colour, with designer chairs, blissful bathrooms. High-end pottery and hand-picked artworks imbue the spaces with personality.

Vera’s intimate, award-winning restaurant, Babae, is subtly theatrical with sheer drapes and gallery lighting, its bespoke timber furniture and brass-edged marble bench setting the stage for food with a sharp regional focus. “We have goat’s cheese from a local supplier, handmade granola from local Vegas & Rose, truffles from nearby Black Cat Truffles, fresh food from our garden, and regional wines,” says joint owner David Cook-Doulton.

Celebrating the local makers, bakers, growers and producers, and the master chefs who work their magic is all part of the rich tapestry that links Ballarat’s history to its vibrant present.

A traveller’s checklist

Getting there

It’s 90 minutes from Melbourne, either on the Western Freeway, or hop on a V/Line train from Southern Cross Station.

Staying there

Hotel Vera is a centrally located Art Deco boutique hotel. Consider Hotel Provincial , which feels like a sleek country house, but with its own restaurant, Lola.

a contemporary room at Hotel Provincial, Ballarat — Hotel Provincial has country house vibes.

Eating there

dining at Mr Jones, Ballarat — The table is set at Mr Jones. (Image: Tony Evans/ Visit Victoria)

Culinary whiz Damien Jones helms Chef’s Hat winner Mr Jones Dining with quiet assurance. His modern Asian food is deceptively simple with deep, intense flavours. Low-key, laid-back ambience, lovely staff, thoughtful wine list.

Cocktails are definitely a thing in Ballarat. Reynard (fox in French) is foxy indeed, a clubby space with top-notch cocktails and small bites. Grainery Lane is extravagantly OTT with its massive 1880s bar, myriad chandeliers, brass gin still, Asian-inspired food and lavish cocktails.

dining at Grainery Lane, Ballarat — Dining at Grainery Lane.

Playing there

a laneway filled with artworks in Ballarat — An artful laneway in the city. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

Check out local design legend Travis Price’s wall murals in Hop Lane with its colourful canopy of brollies, or in Main Street. The Art Gallery of Ballarat’s off-site Backspace Gallery showcases early-career artists in a stylish, contemporary space. First Nations-owned and run Perridak Arts connects people to place, bringing together art and crafts in this gallery/shop.

a woman admiring artworks at Perridak Arts Gallery — Perridak Arts is a First Nations-run gallery. (Image: Tony Evans)

The wineries of the Pyrenees are close at hand with their welcoming cellar doors and robust reds. Join a behind-the-scenes tour at the Centre for Gold Rush Collections .

Don’t forget the giant bluestone Kryal Castle , ‘the land of adventure’, for a little medieval magic, and not just for the kids: get ready for Highland-style feasting, jousting, even overnight stays.

Here’s where to get your groove on this month.

Taylah’s top picks of the month:

Upcoming events to keep on your radar:

What’s on in NSW in April

ORANGE FOOD WEEK ORANGE UNTIL 6 APRIL

NOCTURNAL BLUE MOUNTAINS 3 APRIL – 11 MAY

MAYBE COCKTAIL FESTIVAL SYDNEY 7–13 APRIL

NEWCASTLE FOOD MONTH NEWCASTLE 1–30 APRIL

ROYAL EASTER SHOW SYDNEY 11–22 APRIL

HANDA OPERA FESTIVAL MILLTHORPE 18–20 APRIL

GRIFFITH EASTER PARTY GRIFFITH 17–20 APRIL

What’s on in Victoria in April

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL MELBOURNE UNTIL 20 APRIL

MACEDON RANGES AUTUMN FESTIVAL MACEDON 1–30 APRIL

BALLARAT MARATHON BALLARAT 26–27 APRIL

MAKERS & SHAKERS MARKET MELBOURNE 5–6 APRIL

UNEARTHED FESTIVAL THE PYRENEES 5 APRIL

GABS FESTIVAL MELBOURNE 4–5 APRIL

BATHE IN CINEMA MORNINGTON PENINSULA 3–24 APRIL

What’s on in Queensland in April

WEDGWOOD EXHIBITION TOWNSVILLE FROM 6 APRIL

TOUR DE BRISBANE BRISBANE 13 APRIL

OUTBACK RIVER LIGHTS FESTIVAL CUNNAMULLA 11–13 APRIL

ROCKYNATS 05 ROCKHAMPTON 4–6 APRIL

COOLY CLASSIC GOLD COAST 12–13 APRIL