Families and visitors are invited to embrace the magic of winter in Greater Bendigo with an exciting line-up of school holiday events, including the stunning Electric Wonderland in Rosalind Park and enchanting Snowflake-themed activations in Hargreaves Mall.
Acting Director of Strategy and Growth, Anthony Petherbridge, said the program provided a fantastic mix of events and experiences for all ages.
“Rug up and enjoy a starry winter evening exploring the world of sound, light and colour at Electric Wonderland in Rosalind Park,” Mr Petherbridge said.
“From July 4 to July 20, Electric Wonderland will light up the park Friday and Saturday from 6pm to 10pm, and Sunday to Thursday from 6pm to 9pm. The after dark program features new installations and immersive experiences like a cascading garden blooming from the treetops, giant interactive pinboards, and a dazzling mirror ball laser alley. Returning favourites include the stunning almost 40 metre tunnel adorned in fairy lights, inspired by Bendigo’s Sacred Heart Cathedral, and the mesmerising Pixelmatrix light cube. There will also be dance walls, creative zones, and plenty more surprises for the whole family to explore.
“Hargreaves Mall will host free entertainment and activations. A Snowflake-themed program will bring a whimsical touch to the city centre, featuring three heated, see-through igloos, used for arts and crafts during the day and illuminated at night. Families can enjoy watching artist in residence, Manda Lane, create a 3D paper cut installation live from July 8 to 12.
“The artist will also host free Snowflake Papercraft Workshops for children aged 8+, running July 9 to 12, 11am–12pm in an igloo. Children can take their creations home or contribute to Manda’s collaborative display. All materials are provided, but booking is essential.
“The Mall will also host Winter Wonderland with Little Moments Children’s Entertainment with Ice Queen bringing stories to life with ribbons, bubbles, dancing, games, and a magical snow forest backdrop - perfect for fun selfies and winter memories.
“On the big screen SnowFlakes and SunRays, a new digital artwork by visionary local artist Paul Fletcher, will take you on a journey of calm reflection and energising warmth.”
Winter school holiday events
- SnowFlakes and SunRays a digital artwork by Paul Fletcher screened hourly from July 4 to August 8
- Warm up with Cuban traditional rhythms with music eight-piece Latin ensemble Son Quba Son on July 5, 12pm to 2pm
- Snowflakes - Manda Lane, papercraft artist in residence, will be creating an installation from July 8 to July 12 each day in one of the igloos
- Snowflakes Papercraft Workshops with Manda Lane: Wednesday July 9, 11am to 12pm, Thursday July 10, 11am to 12pm, Friday July 11, 11am to 12pm and Saturday 12 July, 11am to 12pm. This is a free workshop series, but numbers are strictly limited so please register. Suitable for ages 8+
- Warm up with Cuban traditional rhythms with music eight-piece Latin ensemble Son Quba Son on July 5, 12pm to 2pm
- Australian Sheep & Wool Show children’s activation on July 7 and chance to meet some four-legged stars from the upcoming Australian Sheep and Wool Show
- Nature in the Mall returns on July 17 from 11am to 2pm with interactive displays about frogs, birds, reptiles, bats and nocturnal creatures. There will be plenty of information to take home and activities for children, including a scavenger hunt
- Connected Circus will present free face painting on July 17 from 11am to 2pm
- Winter Wonderland with Little Moments on July 18, 11am to 1pm. Join the Ice Queen and enjoy easy-to-follow games, sing-alongs, dancing and bubble play. A snow forest backdrop makes a perfect selfie
- Winter Moonlight Market on July 19, 3pm to 8pm - enjoy live music and art, specialty food trucks, street performers, a huge range of stalls featuring the work of artists, crafty creators, vintage finds, talented food producers and local businesses
- Music in the Mall – Lunchtime Jams on July 24 & 31, 11am to 2pm
- School Bands Showcase on July 25, 4.30pm to 6pm
Bendigo Art Gallery Workshops (July 8–16) Celebrate Frida Kahlo
In Her Own Image with creative workshops for kids and teens, including headpiece making, foil embossing, and all-abilities art. Bookings required.
Live performances
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra presents a joyful program featuring Mozart and the Mendelssohns on July 5. On July 9, Circus Oz brings their high-energy show Non Stop, filled with acrobatics and Aussie flair. Music lovers can see Kate Ceberano on July 12 as she performs iconic Australian songs from her 40-year career. Families will delight in Emma Memma’s Dance Island Party on July 15, a colourful and interactive show for children. Fans of the hit show Escape to the Chateau can spend an evening with Dick and Angel Strawbridge, sharing stories and insights on July 18.
Fiesta Bendigo continues until July 13
Enjoy themed menus like the Taco Trail and vibrant displays across the city, including Chancery Lane, the tram café, and the Visitor Centre.
NAIDOC Week (July 6–13)
Dhelk Djakitj at Djaa Djuwima in Bendigo Visitor Centre: Art making inspired by bush tucker and Knuldoorong at Dudley House: First Nations artworks (July 4–13, 11am–4pm)
National U16 Basketball Championships
Red Energy Arena, July 5–13. See top young talent from across Australia.
Discovery Science & Technology Centre
Spy Lab shows daily (July 5–20), STEM Workshops: July 10-17.
Bendigo Pottery
Hands-on pottery decorating and wheel throwing workshops all holidays.
The Great Stupa
Enlighten Festival July 5. Immersive light show in the Peace Park.
Australian Sheep & Wool Show
July 18–20 at Bendigo Showgrounds. The world’s largest event of its kind.