Swashbucklers, Vikings and Centurions unite this weekend at Ballarat’s family-friendly Timeline Festival. The annual celebration of bygone eras opens to the public on October 19th and 20th at Kryal Castle. So join in the fun, and catapult back in time for a thrilling, magical family day out. Of course, kids (and grown ups) are encouraged to dress for the part!
Get into the spirit of the past at Kryal Castle Credit: Kryal Castle
The re-enactment festival showcases eras of human history from Ancient Greece to World War II. More than 300 re-enactors and merchants will gather on the festival grounds in period costume.
At the Main Castle arena, watch axe competitions, archery displays, jousting, historical medieval battles and a tournament of a traditional Viking ball sport. The event schedule runs from 10am to 4pm every day.
Ooh and aah with the crowd as you watch medieval entertainment Credit: Kryal Castle
Head to the Living History Village, stretching 300 metres along the terraces outside the castle. Immerse in life as it was for Vikings, Victorians and beyond. Watch people weaving, storytelling, cooking and working at the blacksmith’s. Buy foods and crafts from merchants and traders, or pop in for a snack at a 14th century tavern.
Kryal Castle makes for an atmospheric festival location. It is located at Leigh Creek, which is about 1 hour’s drive west from Melbourne and 15 minutes east of Ballarat.
Kryal Castle has many a story to tell Credit: Kryal Castle
You can purchase tickets to the Timeline Festival online in advance. A Family Pass for 2 adults and up to 4 children is $99, and a Single Parent family with up to 3 kids is $79. Buy general adult tickets for $35, children for $22 and concessions for $28.
For an additional cost, you can book in to Timeline Festival Medieval Feast. This 3-course medieval feast unfolds on the Saturday evening at Abbey Tavern. It will be accompanied by medieval entertainment from the Kryal players. Kids are welcome.
Thrills and spills abound in the main arena Credit: Kryal Castle
Sophie is a die-hard pasta lover, beach-goer and theatre fanatic hit hard with the travel bug. When exploring new places, Sophie loves straying from the beaten path and chatting with locals about the best places to grab a bite to eat.