One of Victoria’s most beloved winter events is set to sparkle once again as Sovereign Hill’s spectacular Winter Wonderlights returns from July 4 to 27, promising an even more magical experience with breathtaking new projections and enchanting installations.
This year’s event will transform the historic goldfields site into a luminous wonderland, featuring wrapping paper projections that dramatically “unwrap” buildings following a countdown clock, alongside sophisticated new displays of corsets, cocktails, and intricate Victorian printmaking.
The Wadawurrung Cultural Precinct will glow with the return of Richard Thomas’s striking Fire Towers – sculptural works crafted from reclaimed mine machinery that provide a dramatic backdrop to roaring fire pits and warming food stalls.
“Each winter, we look forward to welcoming families and visitors to experience the magic as Sovereign Hill’s familiar streets and settings are transformed into a breathtaking spectacle of light and colour,” says Sovereign Hill CEO Sara Quon.
“With exciting new projections and captivating sculptures, we’re committed to continually enhancing the wonder for our returning guests and first-time visitors alike.”
Now in its 11th year, the event has become a cornerstone of Victoria’s winter calendar, attracting over 90,000 visitors in 2024. This year’s program includes:
- Daily faux snowfall across 20km of twinkling fairy-lit streets
- Visits with St Nicholas in his winter hut
- A two-course Winter Wonderlights Dinner at the Charlie Napier Hotel
- The Diggings After Dark experience with soundscapes of goldrush nights
- The high-tech Aura Sound and Light show (separate ticket required)
- Arts and crafts activities including a pop-up toy-making studio
- Live entertainment from comedy shows to brass bands and choir performances
Since its 2014 debut, Winter Wonderlights has dazzled more than 860,000 visitors with more than 440 hours of projections. Tickets (from $35.50 for children) include full daytime access to Sovereign Hill plus the evening light displays. Special night-only tickets are also available.
Book now at winterwonderlights.com.au for this unforgettable winter celebration where history meets magic after dark.
