AS the much-loved Bathurst Winter Festival came to a close on Sunday, Western Advocate readers were already suggesting ideas for next year’s event.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
During the 16-day festival, thousands of people flocked to the central business district from across the region and interstate to enjoy the entertainment and attractions.
Many Western Advocate readers took to Facebook to say they loved the annual council-run event, but there was room for improvement.
- Read more: Winter festival’s accessibility for all
- Read more: Mirror maze was the new attraction
“The light displays were great,” Margaret Hayes posted to Facebook about the nightly illuminations that shone on some of the city’s heritage buildings.
Cassandra Mason was among a number of readers who thought a fake snowfield would be a great addition.
Maybe a tobogganing area and an area where we can play in the snow,” she suggested.
Toni Delahunty agreed and said: “Love that idea. Kids making snowmen and tobogganing down a hill. Awesome just have to fine the right spot”.
Food was on the minds of many readers, with some suggesting more options should be provided throughout the festival.
Kids making snowmen and tobogganing down a hill. Awesome, just have to fine the right spot.
- Western Advocate reader Toni Delahunty
“I’d love to see more food options … it’s always really hard to navigate the Kings Parade area with little kids. We loved last year’s more – seemed to be more food options,” Gem Graham wrote.
Tracy A Clarke suggested that “all day markets and food on the weekends” would be great for future festivals.
She also recommended doubling the size of the ice rink and adding sessions for experienced skaters.
Pedestrian safety around the festival was a concern for Samuel Robert Williamson.
“I’d change people thinking George St is a pedestrian crossing, so many people have been walking out in front of traffic. It’s ridiculous someone will be hit,” he posted.
Other Advocate readers, including Judi Williamson and Michael Byrne, suggested that last year’s much-loved carousel should be brought back for the 2019 festival.