Top Australia Lantern Festival in 2026

Step into the shadows on the Bendigo After Dark Ghost Tour and uncover the city’s eerie secrets. his immersive 90-minute night walk reveals the haunted side of one of the world’s richest gold rush cities. By lantern light, you’ll explore historic streets and step inside iconic buildings including the Shamrock Hotel and the atmospheric Black Swan Hotel. Every chilling tale is grounded in real Bendigo history, drawn from newspapers, coronial inquests and archived records. Hear of tragic fires, mysterious deaths, lost fortunes and restless souls said to linger after dark. Visit the site of Bendigo’s first hidden cemetery, stand near the walls of the old Sandhurst Gaol, and uncover stories most visitors never hear. The tour concludes with a complimentary local beer, wine or soft drink as you debrief the evening’s eerie encounters. Relaxed 2km walk. 8pm (Winter) start from the Bendigo Visitor Centre.