There are few people in Canberra who have not heard of the Summernats Festival. The first festival was held in 1988 and is now one of, if not the best-known car festival in Australia. The Summernats delivers four days of high octane extreme auto action including Australia’s top street machine judging competition, the world’s biggest and best burnout battle, two nights of massive concerts, horsepower heroics, and more.
The Stromlo Running Festival has attracted tens of thousands of runners (and walkers) from across Canberra and interstate since 2009. Runners will face steep climbs, technical trails, and rewarding descents, all while being surrounded by Canberra’s stunning natural landscape. This race is a true test of a runner’s endurance, resilience, and trail running ability, making it a must-do for those seeking to conquer one of Australia’s most challenging courses.
The festival is an iconic 3-day event that brings together more than 170 multicultural communities to share their culture, history and heritage through food, art, song and dance. The free event includes shows, food stalls, dancing and celebrations over three days right in the heart of Canberra.
Enlighten Festival will light up some of the capital’s iconic buildings in a stunning display of light, sound, and movement. Included are some of Canberra’s more recognisable buildings, including Australian Parliament House; National Library of Australia; National Gallery of Australia; Questacon; National Portrait Gallery; and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Feast on tasty treats from local food and beverage vendors, while you enjoy live music at the Festival Hub.
Since the first Skyfire 1989, the event has been Canberra’s favourite, free 1-day event. Over the following 30-years the show has grown from a smallish fireworks show set to a soundtrack played on then FM 104.7 in front of 10,000 people, to a day-long spectacular. Skyfire now offers a live entertainment stage at Regatta Point, aerial displays and food truck offerings set around the centrepiece of Canberra, Lake Burley Griffin and is viewed by at least one third of the ACT population.
Skyfire will feature an entertainment stage on the north side of Lake Burley Griffin, with musical acts and hosts from both radio stations. Followed by the main event – a 20-minute pyrotechnic display launched from barges on the lake, accompanied by a soundtrack played simultaneously on Hit 104.7 and Mix 106.3.
We guarantee this is not your standard symphony experience. Framed by the tree lined landscape of the iconic Commonwealth Park, sit back and relax as the Canberra Symphony Orchestra fills the air with music. The natural amphitheatre provides the perfect backdrop for what is guaranteed to be a magical experience for all the family. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a bite to eat from the traders as you watch the sun set.
The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is an annual event where balloonists from across Australia (and around the world) gather to fly over our beautiful city. Each morning, weather dependant, balloons launch from the Parliamentary triangle – a truly spectacular site. It’s a fabulous community event where thousands of spectators can get close to the balloons on the launch fields or get fabulous views and photographs from around the lake and Arboretum. The event is free for spectators. Of course, the best view is from a balloon.
The Canberra Times Marathon Festival is a highly anticipated annual event that brings together running enthusiasts from near and far to test their limits and experience the beauty of Australia’s capital city. With a range of race distances to cater to all abilities, from the full marathon to shorter options like the half marathon, 10K, and 5K races, there is something for everyone.
Participants are treated to a scenic and well-organised course that showcases the iconic landmarks of Canberra, including Lake Burley Griffin, Parliament House, and the stunning Australian War Memorial.
Experience real snow in Canberra’s Glebe Park at Winter in the City. Ride down a thrilling tobogganing slide, enjoy ice skaking and build snow sculptures. Warm up with hot chocolate and delicious food at The Village, filled with market stalls and cosy fire pits. Perfect for families, this enchanting winter wonderland offers unforgettable fun.
Floriade Canberra is one of Australia’s most highly anticipated annual events, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The festival features extensive displays and over one million blooms of a range of flowers. A highlight each year is NightFest, as the sun sets over Commonwealth Park, garden beds become illuminated with cutting-edge light installations. Live music, comedians, and DJs provide plenty of fun for the whole family. This ticketed evening event really draws in the crowds, so it’s worth booking in advance to secure your spot at the nighttime flower and entertainment festival.
