10 Must-See Canberra Festivals: A Guide to the City’s Best Celebrations

When it comes to unforgettable experiences, Canberra festivals truly steal the show—bringing together vibrant cultural celebrations, artistic displays, and mouth-watering food that turns the city into a buzzing hub of activity. As Australia’s capital, Canberra blends stunning national attractions with community-driven events, making it a go-to spot for anyone chasing excitement, creativity, and connection. 

If you’re thinking about calling Canberra home to soak up these year-round events, the experienced team at Home Loan Broker Canberra can help you find the right home loan fit—saving you time, money, and stress. Working with a broker means expert guidance and access to a wide range of lenders, giving you more options for your home-buying journey. 

Now, let’s dive into the top Canberra events that promise unforgettable experiences!

1. Enlighten Festival – Lights, Art, and Food

February-March |  Parliament House, National Gallery, Commonwealth Avenue, and more

Canberra’s Enlighten Festival is one of the capital’s most iconic events, turning cultural institutions into glowing masterpieces. Massive 3D projections light up Parliament House, the National Library, and other landmarks, creating a truly immersive experience. 

The Food Park along Commonwealth Avenue is perfect for a culinary adventure while enjoying artistic displays.

Why it’s a must-see:

• Iconic Parliament House projections
• Delicious cuisines from food trucks
• Sculptures on display and cultural performances
• Spectacular 20-minute fireworks display

2. Canberra Balloon Spectacular – Colourful Skies and Views

March | Old Parliament House Lawns, Commonwealth Park

One of the most beautiful sights in Canberra’s event calendar, the Balloon Spectacular paints the sky with dozens of hot air balloons each morning. Kicking off at sunrise—weather permitting—this event is best enjoyed with a hot breakfast while watching balloons drift over Lake Burley Griffin and Parliament House. 

Commonwealth Park offers incredible spots for viewing, while the nearby lawns turn into picnic zones.

Why it’s a must-see:

• Hot air balloons over national attractions
• Beautiful scenery and sunrise moments
• Perfect for family-friendly activities
• Hot breakfast and picnic-friendly vibe

3. Floriade – Spring Blooms and Colour

September–October | Commonwealth Park

Floriade is Australia’s biggest celebration of spring and a feast for the senses with over a million flowers blooming across Commonwealth Park. It transforms the city into a sea of colour, complete with garden workshops, artistic displays, and food stalls. The festival also features NightFest—a special evening celebration with live music, gourmet food, and silent disco.

Why it’s a must-see:

• Spectacular garden displays and sculptures
• Food trucks serving gourmet food
• NightFest with evening entertainment
• Family-friendly activities celebrating the arrival of spring

4. National Multicultural Festival – Culture, Dance, and Flavours

February |  City Centre, Alinga Street, City Walk

The National Multicultural Festival is a celebration of unity and cultural diversity, drawing thousands to Canberra’s City Centre. Multicultural communities share their traditions through live performances, captivating dance, and delicious international cuisine. 

Streets fill with vibrant parades and numerous food stalls offering global flavours—a true culinary adventure. It’s a special event that reflects Canberra’s rich multicultural fabric.

Why it’s a must-see:

• Delicious cuisines from around the world
• Cultural performances and lively folk dances
• Food Park and gourmet experiences
• Celebration of unity and diversity

5. Canberra Comedy Festival – Laughs Across the City

March | Canberra Southern Cross Club, Glebe Park, and venues city-wide

Laughter fills the air as top comedians from Australia and beyond take over stages across Canberra. The Canberra Comedy Festival offers a weekend of fun with big-name acts and rising stars performing stand-up, sketches, and musical comedy. 

Venues like Glebe Park and the Canberra Southern Cross Club become buzzing hubs of excitement and culinary delights.

Why it’s a must-see:

• Hilarious shows from international comedians
• Dazzling dance and comedy crossover acts
• Food trucks and entertainment hubs
• Ideal weekend escape for comedy lovers

6. Summernats – Cars, Burnouts, and Music

January | Exhibition Park

Summernats is Australia’s biggest car festival and an unforgettable experience for car enthusiasts and families alike. Exhibition Park transforms into a playground for muscle cars, street machines, burnouts, and thrilling parades. 

With live music, family zones, and food trucks offering delicious buffet breakfasts, this festival is a high-octane event worth adding to your calendar of events.

Why it’s a must-see:

• Cars on display and thrilling burnouts
• Family-friendly activities and live music
• Delicious food stalls and hot breakfasts
• Iconic event drawing motor lovers from everywhere

7. Canberra International Music Festival – Sounds in Scenic Spots

April-May | Fitters’ Workshop, Parliament House, various venues

Experience the power of music with classical, jazz, and experimental performances at Canberra’s most beautiful venues. The Canberra International Music Festival combines talent from around the world with stunning locations like the Fitters’ Workshop and Parliament House. 

This is a dream holiday destination for music lovers looking for a mix of incredible art exhibitions and culinary delights.

Why it’s a must-see:

• Extraordinary exhibition of musical talent
• Iconic Canberra landmarks as backdrops
• Beautiful scenery paired with gourmet food
• Boundless adventure in music and culture

8. Canberra Spirits Festival – Tastings, Stories, and Spirits

TBA | City Centre

Perfect for foodies and spirit lovers, the Canberra Spirits Festival showcases the region’s best gin, whisky, rum, and craft spirits. Enjoy tastings, distiller masterclasses, and numerous food stalls offering delicious bites to complement your drinks. Set in the heart of the City Centre, it’s a culinary adventure with a touch of sophistication.

Why it’s a must-see:

• Masterclasses with distillers
• Delicious gourmet food and hot meals
• Romantic dining experience in the city
• Lively atmosphere perfect for adults

9. Stomp Festival – Wine, Food, and Tunes

April | Canberra District Wine Regions

Held in Canberra’s scenic wine country, the Stomp Festival is all about celebrating local wines, gourmet food, and live music. Visitors can wander vineyards, sample culinary delights, and enjoy a relaxing weekend of fun and entertainment. 

With lively folk dances and artistic displays, it’s a true celebration of Canberra’s culinary and cultural scene.

Why it’s a must-see:

• Culinary delights from Canberra’s wine region
• Beautiful scenery and outdoor activities
• Captivating dance performances and music transport
• Ideal weekend escape filled with food and fun

10. Braddon Busking Festival – Streets Alive with Talent

March | Braddon Precinct, London Circuit, City Centre

Braddon’s lively streets transform into entertainment hubs as local and visiting buskers perform everything from music to magic. The Braddon Busking Festival offers incredible spots to catch unique acts, enjoy numerous food stalls, and soak up a family-friendly vibe. City Walk and Commonwealth Park nearby make it perfect for a full day of exploring.

Why it’s a must-see:

• Live performances from talented artists
• Fantastic viewing spots around the City Centre
• Family-friendly events with great food options
• Memorable experience celebrating local creativity

Bonus Mentions – More Canberra Events Worth Checking Out

While the top 10 festivals offer incredible moments, Canberra’s event calendar is packed with even more special events that showcase the city’s cultural diversity, national pride, and family-friendly activities. Here are two bonus events that deserve a spot on your adventure with destinations list:

Australia Day in Canberra – National Pride and Celebration

26 January | Commonwealth Park, City Centre, GIO Stadium

Australia Day in Canberra is a grandest celebration packed with family-friendly activities, cultural performances, and spectacular fireworks displays. The day kicks off with the national anthem, official flag-raising ceremonies, and a hot breakfast served at various community hubs. 

Commonwealth Park becomes a lively space for multicultural communities to gather, enjoy live music, and take part in fun outdoor activities.

Why it’s worth a visit:

• Spectacular 20-minute pyrotechnic display at night
• Family-friendly events and wildlife encounter zones
• Numerous food stalls and food trucks for a hot breakfast
• Cultural celebrations showcasing the power of community and unity in diversity

Viva Italia in Canberra Festival – Flavours, Dance, and Culture

March |  City Centre, Reed Street, Griffith | Book

Celebrate Italian heritage, food, and lively folk dances at Viva Italia, one of Canberra’s most exciting cultural experiences. The streets come alive with mouth-watering pasta, pizzas, and sweet treats from numerous food stalls and pop-up restaurants.

Captivating dance performances, sculptures on display, and live music transport visitors straight to Italy—right in the heart of Canberra.

Why it’s worth a visit:

• Delicious Italian cuisine and gourmet food trucks
• Dazzling dance and captivating music transport
• Memorable experiences for families and food lovers
• A celebration of cultural diversity and artistic displays

Ready to Make Canberra Home?

With so many festivals, cultural celebrations, and family-friendly activities lighting up the capital city, living in Canberra means having incredible experiences right on your doorstep.

Thinking of calling Canberra home? A mortgage broker can handle the legwork, compare lenders, and help you lock in a great deal—saving you time and hassle in financing your dream home. Don’t miss the chance to turn Canberra’s vibrant lifestyle into your everyday reality!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is 13 March called Canberra Day?

Canberra Day is celebrated on 13 March to mark the official naming of the capital city in 1913—a public holiday filled with exciting events across town. It’s a must-see event showcasing cultural attractions, live performances, and a true celebration of Canberra’s heritage and community spirit.

Is there anything fun to do in Canberra?

Absolutely! Canberra’s festival adventure calendar is packed with thrilling adventures, foodie experiences, and a range of activities from hot air balloon rides to exploring cultural attractions like the National Gallery and Parliament House.

Plus, the city’s growing foodie scene offers everything from street eats to gourmet dining right in the city centre ready for visitors.

Is 3 days enough in Canberra?

Three days is perfect to explore the capital city’s top spots, enjoy a few exciting events, and visit iconic sites like Commonwealth Park and Lake Burley Griffin. With good public transport, you can easily squeeze in museums, foodie scene hotspots, and even a scenic winery tour for a weekend of memorable moments.

Where is the Tulip festival in Canberra?

The Tulip festival, better known as Floriade, takes place in Commonwealth Park, just a short walk from the city centre ready and accessible by public transport. It’s a must-see event celebrating spring with colourful blooms, cultural attractions, and a buzzing foodie scene featuring local delights.

What is the nicest suburb in Canberra?

Many consider Griffith and Yarralumla among Canberra’s nicest suburbs—offering leafy streets, proximity to cultural attractions, and a short drive to the city centre ready. These areas balance lifestyle, access to exciting events, and a vibrant foodie scene, making them ideal for families and professionals alike.

What are the available home loans for first-time homebuyers in Canberra?

First-time homebuyers in Canberra can access various options including variable, fixed, and split home loans—plus government support like the First Home Owner Grant. Mortgage brokers help buyers navigate lenders to find competitive rates, making the festival adventure of buying in the capital city less overwhelming.

How easy is it to get around Canberra during festivals?

Getting around is easy thanks to reliable public transport with routes connecting major festival spots, the city centre ready, and outer suburbs. It’s the best way to soak up the range of activities, catch must-see events, and dive into the thrilling adventure of Canberra’s diverse cultural attractions.

Wrapping It Up

With so many incredible Canberra festivals lined up for 2025, it’s easy to see why the capital city is the perfect mix of culture, food, and community. 

If you’re dreaming of living closer to these must-see events and soaking up Canberra’s lifestyle all year round, the team at Home Loan Broker Canberra is here to help. They’ll compare lenders, find great rates, and guide you through the process—plus, you can book a free consultation anytime. Just call 02 6173 6397 or visit Home Loan Broker Canberra to get started.