2026 Winter Light Festivals in Melbourne and Regional Victoria
The dark winter nights across Melbourne and regional Victoria are being beautifully illuminated by a growing number of winter light festivals. Pack some warm clothes and head off to these gorgeous winter light festivals and events for an eye catching experience. Click on the link for each event for more information and to book tickets.
This article is being updated regularly as winter light festival organisers release 2026 event dates, ticket details and programs.
Melbourne Area
1. LIT - Lighting Up Wyndham Park (Werribee)
Highlights of the program include the premier of Breeze, a new work by renowned western suburbs artist Bruce Ramus, featuring seven ethereal veils suspended between earth and sky, animated by wind, light and colour. Sydney-based artists H0RSE also make their Victorian debut with two sculptural installations: Macula, a spiralling bamboo tunnel alive with an abstract dance of light, and Silent Observers, a poignant projection work on the enduring nature of trees.
Look out for the whimsical, larger than life Cassowaries by A Blanck Canvas, or sit in awe beneath Pixel Sky’s canopy of light as Studio John Fish returns with their unique blend of art and technology. Local Wyndham artist Rebecca Kable will illuminate this year’s Gobo path with her series of thoughtful images titled Interwoven Tree.
When: Fri Apr 24 to Sun May 3, 2026 from 6pm to 10pm (FINISHED)
Cost: Free, no bookings required
Location: Wyndham Park, Entry via Wedge Street Piazza, Across Werribee Bicentennial Bridge from Comben Dr or via Cottrell St Car Park or Werribee St Nth.
2. Neon Fields (Frankston)
Neon Fields returns to glow up Frankston! When the sun goes down it is time to gather family and friends and venture into Neon Fields. Beauty Park will once again be transformed into a colourful fantasy world where you're invited to interact and play among the lights.
Fan favourites will return, and new neon installations will appear giving everyone a reason to enjoy a magical meander at Beauty Park. Rug up, grab a hot choccie and sweet treat from our onsite vendors, strike a pose or simply stroll amongst the neons as you rediscover this iconic park at night. Neon Fields is part of the South Side Festival.
When: Fri 8 May - Sun 10 May, 2026, 5pm - 10pm (FINISHED)
Cost: Free Event
Location: Beauty Park, Bay Trail entrance via Young Street, Frankston
3. Lightscape (Melbourne)
Lightscape is an extraordinary, after-dark experience at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. This winter, Melbourne's award-winning immersive light experience transforms Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne into spectacular collection of brand-new installations created by leading artists from around the world, including exceptional Australian and First Peoples talent - creating a magical after-dark experience unlike anything else in the city this winter. Wander along glowing pathways, encounter breath-taking large-scale artworks, interactive experiences and lose yourself within a landscape of colour and music as the Gardens are transformed beneath the night sky.
Warm up along the trail with mulled wine, hot chocolate and delicious treats as you soak in one of Melbourne’s most unforgettable winter nights.
When: Fri Jun 12 - Aug 2, 2026 (Wednesday to Sunday + Every day during winter school holidays, 27 June – 12 July and Tuesday 28 July)
Cost: Adult: $36 - $46, Conc: $32.40 - $41.40, Child (4 – 12 yrs): $28 - $36, Flexi: $50 - $60, Super Flexi Tickets: $98. Prices vary by dates selected and day booked. Get Tickets:
Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne
4. Firelight Festival (Docklands, Melbourne)
Be dazzled by giant light installations along the harbour and experience an eclectic mix of pop-up entertainment from fire performers, cultural dancers, dance music plus food trucks dishing up winter favourites.
When: Fri Jul 3 - Sun Jul 5, 2026
Cost: Free
Location: 1-91 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands
5. Puffing Billy Train of Lights (Emerald)
Prepare to be spellbound as this mesmerising winter steam train, adorned with thousands of dazzling lights and stunning visual effects, illuminates the trees, tracks, and passing towns once more, captivating passengers with its magical charm.
Along the way, guests will be treated to a truly immersive experience that showcases the natural beauty of the region in a whole new light, from the interplay of light and shadow casting a beautiful glow on the Wright Forest, to the glimpses of native wildlife projections that leap from the carriages and onto timber trestle bridges and the moving landscape.
After a scenic ride, the train arrives at the charming Gembrook Station, where passengers enjoy a 55-minute stopover. Here, they can warm up by the crackling open fire pits and sip on a comforting hot chocolate, listen to the sounds of a live musician, capture a photo with the beautifully lit-up train or the friendly Puffing Billy Railway volunteers who make the experience all the more special.
When:TICKETS SOLD OUT
Cost:
Location: Lakeside Station, Emerald
6. Diamond Valley Miniature Railway Winter Light Spectacular (Eltham)
Rug up and enjoy a magical winter evening on board Diamond Valley Railway. You'll journey through the bushland of Eltham Lower Park, lit by the light shows, passing signals and locomotive headlights. Our steam engines' steam will hang majestically in the winter air and cling to the roofs of the tunnels, a unique and spectacular sight which only occurs in winter.
When: Sat Jul 4, 2026, 6pm - 9pm (weather dependent).
Cost: Tickets sold at the railway on the night. $5 per ride, children under 2 free.
Location: Eltham Lower Park in Eltham
7. Belgrave Lantern Festival (Belgrave)
The Parade is a yearly event that celebrates the winter solstice and local community through a display of hundreds of beautiful candle-powered lanterns. Explore a medley of entertainment, music, circus, art and craft stalls, DJ's, workshops, fire pits and more.
When: Saturday, Jun 20, 2026 5pm - 8pm
Cost: Free
Location: Burwood Highway, Belgrave
8. Hume Winter Lights Festival (Broadmeadows)
Dance off the winter chill to free performances from while being immersed in stunning art installations and light projections - all in the heart of Broadmeadows. There will be 20+ mouth-watering food trucks, spectacular sway pole performances & roving entertainers plus a fireworks finale.
When: 2026 dates yet to be announced (typically held in June)
Cost: Free
Location: Town Hall Broadmeadows precinct.
9. Walking Thomastown (Thomastown)
As the sun goes down, step into a glowing world of light, music, and fun! Walk from Main Street Recreation Reserve along Edgars Creek, through the historic Ziebell's Farm and Westgarthtown, and discover amazing light displays, live music, and cultural performances along the way. It's a bright and magical night for everyone to enjoy.
When: Sat 29 Aug 2026, 6pm-9pm
Cost: Free
Location: From Main Street Recreation Reserve along Edgars Creek, through the historic Ziebell's Farm and Westgarthtown.
Regional Victoria
10. ILLUMIN8 (Bendigo)
ILLUMIN8 celebrates peace and harmony inspired by Buddha's life. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha according to the Tibetan festival of Saga Dawa. It is a family friendly event with light installations, cultural performances, food stalls and family entertainment.
Immerse yourself in all the experiences the festival has to offer. Wander the Peace Park and interact with different light sculptures, be amazed by the performers, take a selfie with the Stupa, enjoy delicious vegetarian and vegan food, join in on Buddhist ceremonies and purge your negative emotions in Burning the Bad.
When: Sat 2 May 2026, 4-8pm (FINISHED)
Cost: Adults (17 and above): $35, child (3-16 years): $20, child (below 3): free, family (2 adults - 3 child): $90, Senior / concession: $30. Buy tickets
Location: The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, 25 Sandhurst Town Road, Myers Flat
11. Winter Glow (Geelong)
Geelong Adventure Park is transformed into a winter wonderland of snow, lights, fire and ice. Build a snowman in the snow play zone, roast marshmallows over a roaring open fire, get your face painted, ride the Balloons and Tea Cups rides (8 rides are open), play mini-golf, stand in the snow flurries, see live ice-sculpting and fire-twirling displays and marvel at the 3.3 million dazzling lights and hundreds of glittering installations all over the park.
When: Every day during school holidays (Jun 27 - Jul 12) and these Sundays (Jun 20, Jul 18, Jul 25, Aug 1, Aug 8, Aug 15, Aug 22, Aug 29).
Cost: Over 90cm: $42-48, under 90cm: free. Book Tickets
Location: Adventure Park Geelong, 1249 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington
12. Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill (Ballarat)
Visit the normal attractions of Sovereign Hill during the day and when the sun goes down enjoy the magic as the buildings come alive under a kaleidoscope of colour and music as vibrant projections light up the streetscape. There are dustings of snow, decorations, tasty food, performances and hands-on activities to enhance the experience. This year the Industrial Revolution will be brought to life. Watch for the sparks, flames and steam of this unique show.
While you are in Ballarat check out other wintry attractions at the Ballarat Winter Festival (Sat 27 Jun - 19 July). The festival will feature winter attractions across Ballarat including pop-up ice skating, winter food and hot chocolate experiences, light and sound installations, live entertainment and special family events.
When: Fri 26 Jun - Sun Jul 19, 2026
Cost: Wonderlights is included in the standard day ticket (10am-7pm). $77.50 for adults, $62 for concession, $40 for kids (5-15), free for kids under 5 years and $199 for a family of 4. You can also buy tickets just for the Winter Wonderlights (only available for a few specific days, either 5-7pm or 8-10pm). These prices are $45 for adults, $35 for concession, $25 for kids (5-15), free for kids under 5 years and $110 for a family of 4. Buy Tickets
Location: Sovereign Hill, Bradshaw Street, Golden Point (Ballarat)
13. Enlighten (Bendigo)
Enlighten His Holiness the Dalai Lamas Birthday - Join us for a special evening of joy, culture, and community as we celebrate the 91st birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama - a milestone moment honouring one of the world’s most respected spiritual leaders.
This year’s Enlighten event will be a vibrant and meaningful experience, featuring traditional Tibetan performances, delicious food, and activities for the whole family. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the Dalai Lama’s message of peace and compassion while enjoying a night of celebration.
When: Sat 11 Jul, 2026 6pm to 9pm
Cost: $20 adult (16+), $10 child (3-16), $60 family (2 adults + 3 children), $16 concession, $0 (children under 3). Buy tickets.
Location: The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, 25 Sandhurst Town Road, Myers Flat (Bendigo)
14. East Gippsland Winter Festival (Multiple locations in East Gippsland)
Embrace the chill of the season with an abundant celebration of art, wine, craft beer, local produce and live music. Be welcomed by friendly locals and creative communities for a series of collaborative events across a month to discover the treasures of East Gippsland. The festival salutes winter's long nights with over 100 different events, right across East Gippsland.
Expect beautiful hand-made lanterns, projection art that augments reality, live music in unexpected places, engaging pop-up events, long lunches and winter feasts in spectacular locations, creative hands-on workshops, wellness experiences overlooking lakes, on-foot adventures and much more.
When: Fri Jun 19 - Sun Jul 19, 2026
Cost: Dependent on event
Location: Multiple locations across East Gippsland
15. Mansfield Lantern Festival (Mansfield)
The Mansfield Lantern Festival celebrates the winter solstice - the longest night of the year. It is a family friendly outing for all ages and brings fire, light, food and more and includes the incredibly popular lantern parade which is open to everyone carrying a lantern (battery operated lights only, no open flames).
When: Fri Jun 19 - Sun Jun 21, 2026
Cost: Free
Location: On Erril Street, just off High Street in central Mansfield
16. Electric Wonderland (Bendigo)
Electric Wonderland will once again transform Rosalind Park into a dazzling immersive experience. With its enchanting installations and family-friendly atmosphere, the event has become a cherished seasonal tradition for locals and visitors alike.
Brand-new innovative light installations include a giant, magical snow-globe, projection portals that will pull you into their web, an immersive radiant reef of underwater creatures and a hypnotic disco ball alley full of dazzling laser beams.
When: Fri Jun 26 - Sun Jul 12, 2026
Cost: Off-peak (Sun-Thu): Adults (16+) $24, Child 3-16 years $16, Concession $21, Family (2 adults + 2 children) $68. Peak (Fri & Sat): Adults (16+) $26, Child 3-16 years $18, Concession $23, Family (2 adults + 2 children) $74
Location: Rosalind Park, Bendigo
17. Trail of Lights (Mildura)
Trail of Lights is a collaborative endeavour between internationally renowned artist Bruce Munro and the scenic landscape of Mildura. It provides a transformative experience that merges art with the natural environment. It has five unique walking paths, 12,500 whimsical 'fireflies' gently floating in the breeze on optical fibres and 22 'Gone Fishing' sculptures that capture the meditative nature of fishing.
When: Opening Fri Apr 4, 2025 for a minimum of two years. Operating days and times will vary depending on season and demand. Activation Space is open all year round from 5:30pm. Last admission to the Island is from 9.15pm to 9:45pm depending on the season.
Cost: General Admission includes access to activation space at Rio Vista Park where visitors can enjoy food, drinks, and amenities, including restrooms and seating. As night falls, admission extends to Lock Island, to experience the Trail of lights. Adult $35, Child (3-16 years) $15, Concession $22, Family (2 adults + 2 children) $85, Infant (0-3 years) free. Buy Tickets
Location: Lock Island, Mildura
18. Pioneer Settlement Laser Light Spectaculars (Swan Hill)
'Legends of the Mallee' is an immersive journey through the region's history. This captivating laser light show intertwines the Mallee's past, present, and future, creating an unmissable, enchanting spectacle.
'Heartbeat of the Murray' is a breathtaking 360-degree multimedia extravaganza. Seamlessly integrating water, light, lasers, sound, and captivating effects, this production weaves the tale of the Murray River. Prepare to journey back an astonishing 30 million years, then travel through time to witness the evolution of the modern-day Murray River.
When: Held throughout the year. 'Legends of the Mallee' is on Mon, Wed, Fri and Sun. 'Heartbeat of the Murray' is on Tue, Thu and Sat. Showtime is currently 6.30pm.
Cost: Adult: $30, Concession: $27, Child: $21, Children under 5 years free, Family (2 adults and 4 children aged 5 to 16): $91.50. Bookings essential.
Location: Pioneer Settlement, 125 Monash Drive, Swan Hill
19. Winterfest (Mirboo North)
A vibrant community celebration of fire & ice, light & art, food & drink held in the heart of South Gippsland during the depths of winter. The festival features illuminated lantern parades, fire performances, live music, workshops, artisan markets, food stalls and glowing winter installations.
When: Sat Aug 1, 2026, 4pm - 8:30pm and Sun Aug 2, 2026, 9am - 2pm
Cost: Free
Location: Baromi Park, Ridgway, Mirboo North
Light Festivals Taking a Break in 2026
20. Banyule Lantern Festival (Heidelberg West)
Wander between large scale roving puppets and over 50 suspended and ground lanterns - gum nuts, snakes, echidna, wombat, emu, frog, goanna, turtle, platypus, butterflies, turtle, moths and caterpillars to name a few - will be there to experience by legendary artist The Lanternist! Activities include fire breathers, roving entertainers, neon face painting, lantern making workshops and neon mini golf.
When: The Banyule Lantern Festival will not be held in 2026 or 2027. It is a bi-annual event, but it will be paused as a new event will be delivered in its place.
Cost: Free, no bookings required
Location: Malahang Reserve, Southern Road and Oriel Road, Heidelberg West
21. Glow Winter Arts Festival (Malvern East)
Featuring stunning light displays, immersive art installations and interactive activities with wide appeal to all ages.
When: Glow will not be returning in 2026 but it is hoped that it will be able to return in the near future.
Cost: Free activities
Location: Central Park Gardens, Malvern East
22. Radiant Arts Festival (Rowville)
A brand-new winter event, Radiant, is a free pop-up arts experience set to light up Stamford Park Homestead. Radiant will feature light-based artworks by local and national artists, including Chalk River Labs, Wendy Yu, Yandell Walton and the indirect Object.
Set in the beautiful gardens of the Homestead, the event promises a warm and creative experience, perfect for a winter night out. Food and drink will also be available for purchase.
When: Radiant will not be running in 2026. However the biennial arts event Immerse will be returning. Immerse is a month-long arts event which features installations, galleries and pop up activations across the City of Knox. In 2026 it will run between 26 June to 26 July.
Cost: Free
Location: Stamford Park Homestead, 8 Emmeline Row, Rowville
23. Botanic by Night (Berwick)
A laser spectacular light show showcasing Wilson Botanic Park. Immerse yourself as you walk around anniversary lake as it lights up in a colourful display.
When: Not running in 2026.
Cost: TBC
Location: Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick
24. Korumburra Southern Lights Festival (Korumburra)
Be enchanted by the light displays and laser cut light drums bouncing off the historic Coal Creek buildings. Enjoy the warmth from our fire drums and bonfire, tap your feet or get up and dance to our live music and DJ performing on one of our 2 stages, watch in awe as the fire twirlers dazzle you with their performances, fill your bellies with delicious food and drink as you wander through the market stalls, play lawn games, have your face painted and enjoy the free activities. All wrapped up with a spectacular festival fireworks finale.
When: Korumburra Southern Lights Festival will not be running in 2026.
Cost:
Location: Coal Creek Community Park & Museum, 12 Silkstone Rd, Korumburra (South Gippsland)
25. River Lights (Swan Hill)
River Lights is 10 nights of all-new lights, art, culture, and magic under the stars at Swan Hill's Pioneer Settlement. From intriguing interactive displays to amazing light installations, family-friendly entertainment, and delicious food trucks - it's a perfect night out for the whole family.
When: River Lights will not be held during 2026 season, however the organisers hope to be able to bring it back in 2027.
Cost:
Location: Pioneer Settlement, 125 Monash Drive, Swan Hill
Many of these festivals and events are outdoors, held at night time and in the middle of winter. Make sure you dress for the weather. Warm winter clothing is essential! We recommend beanies, gloves and scarves. If you are not moving around a display, bring a blanket if you want to rug up. Weatherproof cushions and foldable seats are also a good option to bring if you want to sit and stay for a while.
