10 reasons to visit Ballarat this weekend
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10 reasons to visit Ballarat this weekend

Here at Forte, we love our regional towns. And there is just as much (if not more) going on in these areas than Melbourne to come and check out. Below is a list of things to do, see and enjoy while hitting the ‘Rat.

1. Ballarat SongWays Festival hosts its inaugural event.

Running across the three days, the Ballarat SongWays Festival is a massive celebration of music for the region. With performers like  showcasing a range of different musical styles and abilities. Visit the site for more info.

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2. Live music in general is thriving in town.

With venues like Karova Lounge and Suttons House of Music booking bands all-year round, there’s gauranteed to be great live acts no matter when you pay a visit to Ballarat. This weekend sees Sons of the East (Friday, October 14) and Kuchi Kopi (Saturday, October 15) head to Karova.

3. The cafe scene is growing at a rapid rate. 

It’s hard to pick favourites when it comes to visiting Ballarat, because there are so many different cafes on offer. Though if we were to select a few we’d say Yellow Espresso, FIKA Coffee Brewers and knife fork spoon as good spots to get your coffee from for your visit.

4. Laugh your arse off to Chopper

Aside from the monthly Ballaratcat Comedy events that happen, several comedians often tour the region and Chopper’s Republic of Anzakistan is the next to make the list. Happening at Regent Cinemas on Friday, October 14, it’s set to be a gauranteed laugh to start of your weekend. Visit the site for more info.

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5. Get a gin masterclass by one of the best. 

When the warmer weather hits, it calls for a Gin & Tonic. And if you’re going to make one it’s time you understood a little bit more about the alcohol. It runs on Saturday, October 15 at Mitchell Harris Wines in partnership with Four Pillars Gin. Visit the site for more info.

6. The orchids are in bloom at the Ballarat Orchid Show.

Happening all weekend at the Primary Industry Training Centre, you’ll be able to see some of the prettiest orchids for an easy $3 entry. Too bad we don’t have a collection this good in our backyard to admire each weekend.

7. Dress fancy at the Avoca Cup.

If there’s anybody that knows races best, it’s regional Victoria. Why waste a Saturday at home,when you can pretty much guarantee it’ll 10 times better at the races. The Avoca Cup is held on Saturday, October 15. Visit the site for more info.

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8. The town plays host to one of the greatest Thai restaurants in regional Vic.

Ballarat’s Catfish Thai is said to be one of Australia’s best Thai offerings, after receiving yet another hat as part of the Age Good Food Awards 2017. Run by chef Damien Jones and his partner Danielle Jones, the restaurant is a must try. Find out details here.

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9. Some of the greatest portraits are on exhibit at the Archibald Prize. 

Arguably one of Australia’s favourite and most prestigious awards, the Archibald Prize has been running since it was first awarded in 1921. The exhibition itself features some of the country’s most prominent artists capturing Australia’s key celebrities, fashion designers, sports stars and more. It opens tonight (Friday, October 14) and runs until November 27 at the Art Gallery of Ballarat. Visit the site for more info.

10. Lal Lal falls are purely magical all-year round. 

Just outside Ballarat there’s a natural wonder that escapes from many people’s visits to town. The spot is Lal Lal Falls and it stands up against many of the greatest waterfalls in regional Victoria. You can find out more about the falls here.