Top Winter Festivals and Events in Victoria’s Snow Season

As winter settles in over Victoria and snow blankets the state in crisp white and alpine magic, the state becomes a wonderland of icy adventures, vibrant festivals and unique mountain events. Whether you’re a thrill-seeking skier, a family looking for snow play or a festival lover chasing live entertainment in a snowy setting, Victoria’s snow season has plenty of reasons to get to the hills.

If you’re planning a winter escape in Victoria make sure to time your trip with some of these top snow festivals and winter events.

Snow Season Magic

When winter hits Victoria the Alpine region becomes a winter wonderland—where snow covered trails, hot chocolate by the fire and a packed festival calendar welcome locals and visitors.
From Falls Creek Alpine Resort and Mount Buller to Dinner Plain and Lake Mountain these alpine destinations have a wide range of experiences—from family friendly mountain resort activities to high energy snow sports and cultural events. Let’s look at the top winter festivals and events across Victoria’s resorts, national parks and regional towns.

Peak Festival – Falls Creek

In Falls Creek, Australia’s top cross-country ski resort, the Peak Festival kicks off winter with live music, DJs, night skiing and fireworks. Held in early July, this fun event combines alpine sport with après-ski at Falls Creek Resort. Surrounded by snow gums and panoramic views, this alpine ski resort has downhill skiing and snowshoeing trails for all levels.
After carving up the slopes, enjoy a hot chocolate or explore Cresta Valley, take in the views at Alpine View Apartments, or discover the intimate and nature-based experiences unique to Falls Creek.

Mt Buller Pride – LGBTQIA+ Snow Festival

Mount Buller, one of Victoria’s biggest ski resorts, goes big in August with its LGBTQIA+ snow festival. The event includes skiing and snowboarding, themed après-ski parties, drag shows and alpine nightlife. With black diamond terrain for advanced riders and terrain mobility aids for inclusivity, Mount Buller is an exciting and welcoming destination. Stay in the alpine village, visit artist studios or catch a show at galleries of artists in this beautiful and chill alpine village.

Dinner Plain Winter Festival

Just outside Mount Hotham, the lovely Club Wyndham Dinner Plain hosts its annual Winter Festival in July. This family-friendly alpine event has sled dog experiences, snow play zones, snowball fights and even snow shoes for the littlest snow bunnies. The festival’s magic is in the balance of action and relaxation, with everything from hot spring soaks at Metung Hot Springs to award-winning luxury at Wyndham Dinner Plain.
Expect market stalls, live music and intimate cultural experiences among snowy trails and an alpine village atmosphere.

Ski and Boarder-Cross Competitions – Mount Hotham

Mount Hotham is known for its tough terrain and vibrant winter sports scene and hosts Ski and border-cross competitions. Athletes from all over Australia come to race on groomed ski runs in front of cheering crowds. Whether you’re a competitor or just in town for a snow trip, you can soak in the nearby thermal mineral springs or catch a lift to Jack Frost Mount Hotham for views.
Accommodation is plentiful, with Hotham Sports Dinner Plain and Alpine View Apartments catering for thousands throughout the busy calendar of events.

Snowfest – Ballarat

Ballarat Snowfest brings the snow to the city in a weekend of snow fun for all ages. With man-made snow, street performers, food trucks, and market stalls, this family-friendly winter event lights up regional Victoria. While in Ballarat don’t miss the regional gallery or enjoy an evening of stargazing with wildlife spotting nearby.
Snowfest is perfect for those who want a winter weekend without heading to a Victorian ski resort.

Night Skiing & Fireworks – Multiple Resorts

Ski under the stars with night skiing and fireworks at Mount Buller, Falls Creek and Mount Hotham. These events are usually during the peak winter calendar, especially during school holidays and major festival weekends. Finish off a day of skiing with a glass of wine or a starlit evening snowshoe adventure.

Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill

A true winter highlight, Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill is a 16 day winter festival in Ballarat featuring immersive light shows, snowfall effects and historic themed performances. The light festivals and snowy scenery is perfect for couples, families and history buffs. It’s the perfect activity for winter getaways—especially with a visit to Kryal Castle for even more snowy, medieval magic.

Plan Your Winter Getaway

Whether you’re heading to Mount Stirling, Mount Buffalo, Mount Donna Buang, or Lake Mountain Snowfields, planning your winter escape around Victoria’s packed festival calendar is the key to an epic trip. Stay near Mount Beauty, take a scenic drive through Mount Buffalo National Park, enjoy hot springs, or indulge in geothermal waters near the wine regions. For art lovers Melbourne Winter Masterpieces and regional gallery visits offer indoor warmth and culture. Don’t forget your Snow Chains, and plan for both sunny afternoons on the slopes and cosy evenings by the fire.