It’s channelling the colour, chaos and charisma of Rio de Janeiro.
You don’t need a passport to experience the wild, wonderful energy of Brazil’s most iconic seaside city; you just need to head to the banks of the Yarra.
This September, Afloat Melbourne returns with a brand-new theme, taking its design, drinks and dancefloor cues straight from the streets of Rio de Janeiro. Expect sun-kissed beach club vibes, tropical cocktails, chargrilled snacks and enough samba-infused entertainment to keep the party going all season long.
The 2025 theme captures the soul of Rio de Janeiro. (Image: Griffin Sim)
Each year, Afloat transforms into a vibrant homage to an exotic destination, and Season 10 might be its boldest incarnation yet. The 2025 theme captures the soul of Rio de Janeiro, or, as locals call it, the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvellous City), through an immersive fit-out and energy that’s impossible to ignore.
From rainforest-green umbrellas and ocean-blue awnings to sunset-hued furnishings and rattan bars, the new design radiates the laidback luxe of Copacabana meets Ipanema. Think handcrafted murals, palms galore and the heady contrast of colours inspired by Rio’s iconic beachscapes.
Caipirinhas and Carnival classics
Dine on Brazilian beach snacks like crispy prawns.
The cocktail list is just as lively, with HQ Group’s drinks team (and local legends Straight Up Cocktails) designing a fruit-forward menu that oozes Brazilian flavour. Sip on mango batidas, guava Caipirinhas, açai daiquiris and passionfruit-spiked pisco sours, or head straight for the frozen cocktail section and pretend you’re dancing at Carnival.
The food? It’s a multicultural melting pot that echoes Rio’s own. Brazilian beach snacks like fried cheese, pastels and crispy prawns meet South American chargrilled meats, empanadas and arepas. It’s bold, bright and unapologetically flavour-packed.
Samba your way through spring
The new design radiates the laidback luxe of Copacabana meets Ipanema. (Image: Jake Roden)
And it wouldn’t be Rio without the rhythm. This season’s events calendar promises an all-out celebration of Brazilian culture: weekday salsa classes, all-night venue takeovers and DJ-led parties channelling the spirit of Carnival.
With panoramic views over the city and the buzz of the Yarra beneath your feet, Afloat’s latest transformation is one you won’t want to miss.
Afloat opens its 10th season on 29 August, with bookings now open for dining, daybeds and special events.
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.
No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.
This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.
The events
Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.
Ballarat International Foto Biennale
Discover powerful stories through the lens at Ballarat International Foto Biennale. (Image: Astrid Mulder)
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.
This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.
Sunnyside
Explore 17 days of bold art at Sunnyside. (Image: Nice To Meet You Again, Morag Myerscough 2023. Photographer: Gareth Gardner)
Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.
Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.
While you’re there
Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.
Where to eat
Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)
For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.
At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .
In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).
Where to drink
Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)
No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.
Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, includingGrainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.
You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.
What to see
Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)
If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.
Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.
Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.
Where to stay
Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)
If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.
For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.
If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.
Getting there
Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)
One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.
