Five things to do if you got up early but the balloons aren’t launching at the Balloon Spectacular
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Imagine setting your alarm, sleeping in your clothes, waking up disoriented, and driving to Patrick White Lawns only to discover that the balloons are unable to launch…disaster, right?
Well, it might have been a slog to get there, but don’t let it ruin your weekend.
While we can’t guarantee the balloons will be released, we can promise you that there will be plenty of other early morning activities to see, do, and taste right here in our capital. You’re already up early so why not make the most of it?
But first, coffee
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Coffee is said to be the best medicine, and we can assure you that today’s good mood will be fuelled by mouth-watering, local coffee. Waste no time, and check out some of the early-morning coffee venues that will be open during the Canberra Balloon Spectacular here.
Take a leisurely walk (or e-scooter) around the lake
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Complete your exercise and site-seeing all at once by walking or e-scootering around the lake. Stroll under canopies of trees and cafe hop; all while getting in your daily exercise. Don’t forget to order coffee mid-walk, by scanning the QR codes located on the walking track!
Have a Parisian brekkie at Margot
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Brekkie just got better. Be transported to Europe (minus the flight) with delicious expresso and European-style pastries. Margot opens from 7 am and is sure to excite your taste buds. Soak up the morning sun while taking in views of the picturesque lake.
Head to the Arboretum to watch the sunrise
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What better way to begin the day than by watching the sun rise over Canberra? The Arboretum is the ideal place to lay out a picnic rug and watch the sunlight illuminate the mountains in warm, pink, and orange tones. You can still grab that Insta-worthy shot (it’ll just be sans balloons).
Go market hopping
Love the markets? We have a few suggestions…
Little Burley Markets
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Heaven for foodies and makers, during the Balloon Spectacular, the markets will open a little earlier. We guarantee that these brunch-worthy treats (combined with retail therapy) will help you forget about the balloons.
Every Saturday, 9 am until 1:30 pm | Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.com
Capital Region Farmers Markets
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Each week, over 100 stallholders bring their freshly crafted, picked, and grown produce to the farmer’s market. Think baked goods, gourmet meats, flowers, and farm fresh eggs. Purchase food for the day or avoid supermarket crowds by stocking up for the week!
Every Saturday, 7 am until 11:30 am | Exhibition Park, Old Well Station Rd, Mitchell | capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au
Old Bus Depot Markets
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If you head out to see the balloons on Sunday, don’t fear, the Old Bus Depot Markets will be open! Canberra’s famous Old Bus Depot Markets are ideal for those with a green thumb, as well as anyone who enjoys vintage clothing, accessories, and fresh produce. Grab some food and make a morning of it.
Every Sunday, 9:30 am until 2:30 pm | 21 Wentworth Ave, Kingston | obdm.com.au
Feature image by Vishal Pandey (@wanderlust73)
