With the arrival of spring in the southern hemisphere, Canberra, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), is gearing up for a season of festivals, exhibitions, and sporting events. From the vibrant Floriade festival to art exhibitions honoring female trailblazers, there is plenty to see and do in Canberra this season.
One of the standout events of the season is Floriade, Australia’s largest celebration of spring. Taking place from 16th September to 15th October in Commonwealth Park, this festival showcases extensive displays of flowering bulbs against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Burley Griffin. Visitors can explore the gardens and enjoy a range of activities including browsing gourmet food stalls, shopping for arts and crafts, attending a perfume workshop, and discovering a wide range of garden products. The festival also features integrated sculptures and live entertainment scattered throughout the gardens. This year’s theme is “Floral Wonderland,” inviting visitors to enter their own wonderland as they explore over one million blooms.
For those looking for a different experience, Floriade NightFest offers after-dark entertainment and horticultural illuminations. From 28th September to 1st October, the garden beds of Commonwealth Park come alive with colorful light installations. The festival also features live music, DJs, roving performers, comedians, face painting, and a variety of food and market stalls. It’s a unique opportunity to see Floriade in a different light and enjoy the festival’s vibrant atmosphere after dark.
Art enthusiasts will find plenty to admire at the National Gallery of Australia. The exhibition “Know My Name: Making It Modern,” running from 5th August to 8th October, pays tribute to trailblazing female artists who have revolutionized contemporary art in Australia. This exhibition is part of the National Gallery’s broader Know My Name initiative, which aims to honor the contributions of women artists and deepen the understanding of their impact on Australia’s cultural landscape. “Making It Modern” showcases the individual artistic methodologies of artists such as Margaret Preston, Olive Cotton, Grace Cossington Smith, and Clarice Beckett, highlighting their roles as modern women within their respective eras.
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At the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, visitors can explore the “Australians and Hollywood” exhibition, which celebrates iconic moments in contemporary Australian film. On display until 31st December 2023, this exhibition offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into beloved cinema moments, rare footage, dazzling costumes, and props from Australian films. Highlights include costumes from Elvis, Moulin Rouge!, and The Sapphires, props from The Power of the Dog, customised steering wheels from Mad Max: Fury Road, and concept books from Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin’s Romeo + Juliet. It’s a must-visit for film enthusiasts and those interested in Australian cinema history.
Foodies will delight in The Little Burley Food Market, held every Saturday morning by the waterside. This gourmet food and artisan market offers stunning views of Lake Burley Griffin and a wide variety of culinary delights. Visitors can browse locally handmade stalls, indulge in multicultural cuisines, enjoy chef-created desserts, and savor fresh-out-of-the-oven pastries. The market also features live local talent, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a day out by the lake.
Sports enthusiasts can catch an AFLW game at Manuka Oval. On 10th September, the Canberra Giants will face off against the Melbourne Demons, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the thrilling atmosphere of Australian Football League Women’s Competition. The Giants Fan Zone provides entertainment for kids, including giveaways, face painting, inflatables, and a post-game kick-to-kick experience. Additionally, on 23rd September, the Giants will take on the Adelaide Crows at Manuka Oval, ensuring ongoing excitement throughout the season.
Overall, Canberra is buzzing with a range of events and activities this spring. Whether you’re interested in vibrant festivals, art exhibitions, delicious food markets, or thrilling sports matches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Australian Capital Territory. Plan your visit to Canberra this season and immerse yourself in the exciting atmosphere of the nation’s capital.
