Global Major Cities Guide

Overview of scheduled events, arts, and cultural festivals happening in Canberra.

Category: Nature, Arts, and Culture
When: Mid-September to mid-October (Spring)
Where: Commonwealth Park, Canberra
Cost: Free entry (some paid workshops and activities)
Description: Floriade is Australia’s biggest celebration of spring, featuring over a million blooming flowers in stunning displays. The festival also includes live music, cultural performances, art installations, food stalls, and gardening workshops.
Cultural Significance: Floriade celebrates Canberra’s natural beauty and the arrival of spring. It’s a family-friendly event that attracts visitors from across Australia and beyond.
Tips:
- Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Bring a camera for the stunning floral displays.
- Nearby attractions: Lake Burley Griffin (perfect for a walk or bike ride), the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Library of Australia.

Category: Arts, Culture, and Nightlife
When: Late February to early March (Autumn)
Where: Parliamentary Triangle and other locations
Cost: Free entry (some ticketed events)
Description: The Enlighten Festival transforms Canberra’s iconic buildings, such as the National Library and Parliament House, with stunning light projections. The event also features live music, food markets, and cultural performances.
Cultural Significance: This festival highlights Canberra’s role as a cultural and political hub, showcasing its landmarks in a creative and engaging way.
Tips:
- Dress warmly as evenings can be cool in late summer/early autumn.
- Check the schedule for live performances and plan your visit accordingly.
- Nearby attractions: Questacon (National Science and Technology Centre) and the Australian War Memorial.

Category: Cultural and Food Festival
When: February (Summer)
Where: City Centre (Civic)
Cost: Free entry (food and drinks available for purchase)
Description: This vibrant festival celebrates Canberra’s multicultural community with food stalls, cultural performances, and parades representing over 170 nationalities.
Cultural Significance: The festival promotes diversity and inclusion, offering a chance to experience the food, music, and traditions of cultures from around the world.
Tips:
- Bring cash for food stalls, as some may not accept cards.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for the parade.
- Nearby attractions: Canberra Centre (shopping mall) and Glebe Park.

Category: Nature and Adventure
When: March (Autumn)
Where: Lawns of Old Parliament House
Cost: Free to watch (hot air balloon rides are paid and require advance booking)
Description: This event features dozens of colorful hot air balloons taking off at dawn, creating a magical spectacle over Canberra’s skyline.
Cultural Significance: The event is a celebration of Canberra’s clear skies and natural beauty, drawing locals and tourists alike.
Tips:
- Arrive before sunrise for the best views and to watch the balloons inflate.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy breakfast from food vendors on-site.
- Nearby attractions: National Portrait Gallery and the Museum of Australian Democracy.

Category: Music and Performing Arts
When: Late April to early May (Autumn)
Where: Various venues, including the National Gallery and Fitters’ Workshop
Cost: Ticketed (prices vary by performance)
Description: This festival showcases classical, contemporary, and experimental music performed by world-class musicians in unique venues.
Cultural Significance: The festival highlights Canberra’s artistic side and its commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the arts.
Tips:
- Book tickets early, as popular performances can sell out.
- Check the program for free or low-cost community events.
- Nearby attractions: Kingston Foreshore (great for dining) and the Old Bus Depot Markets.

Category: National Celebration
When: January 26 (Summer)
Where: Various locations, including Commonwealth Park and Lake Burley Griffin
Cost: Free
Description: Australia Day in Canberra features citizenship ceremonies, live music, family-friendly activities, and fireworks over Lake Burley Griffin.
Cultural Significance: This day celebrates Australia’s national identity, though it is also a time for reflection on Indigenous history and culture.
Tips:
- Be mindful of the cultural sensitivities surrounding this day and participate respectfully.
- Arrive early for a good spot to view the fireworks.
- Nearby attractions: National Museum of Australia and the Australian National Botanic Gardens.

Category: Literature and Education
When: August (Winter)
Where: Various venues, including the National Library and the Museum of Australian Democracy
Cost: Ticketed (prices vary by session)
Description: This festival brings together authors, journalists, and thinkers for panel discussions, book launches, and workshops.
Cultural Significance: The festival celebrates the power of storytelling and Canberra’s role as a center for intellectual and political discourse.
Tips:
- Check the program for sessions featuring your favorite authors.
- Bring a notebook if you’re attending workshops.
- Nearby attractions: Lake Burley Griffin and the High Court of Australia.

Category: Historical and Commemorative
When: April 25 (Autumn)
Where: Australian War Memorial
Cost: Free
Description: ANZAC Day commemorates Australian and New Zealand soldiers who served in wars and conflicts. The Dawn Service at the Australian War Memorial is a solemn and moving event.
Cultural Significance: This is one of Australia’s most important national days, reflecting on sacrifice, service, and national identity.
Tips:
- Arrive early (before 4:30 AM) to secure a good spot.
- Dress warmly and bring a blanket, as it can be very cold before sunrise.
- Nearby attractions: Mount Ainslie Lookout (for panoramic views of Canberra).

Category: Cultural and Family-Friendly
When: October (Spring)
Where: Nara Peace Park
Cost: Free
Description: This festival celebrates Canberra’s sister-city relationship with Nara, Japan. It features Japanese cultural performances, food, and a beautiful display of candles.
Cultural Significance: The event fosters cultural exchange and friendship between Australia and Japan.
Tips:
- Stay until evening to see the candles lit up.
- Try traditional Japanese food from the stalls.
- Nearby attractions: Lennox Gardens and the National Carillon.

Transportation: Canberra has an efficient public transport system (buses and light rail). Consider using a MyWay card for convenience. Parking can be limited during major events, so plan accordingly.
Weather: Canberra experiences distinct seasons, so dress appropriately for the time of year.
Accommodation: Book early during major festivals, as hotels can fill up quickly.
Local Etiquette: Be respectful of cultural sensitivities, especially during events like ANZAC Day or the National Multicultural Festival.

Canberra’s events and festivals offer something for everyone, from nature lovers to history buffs and art enthusiasts. Enjoy your visit!

Canberra