Your ultimate guide to Canberra’s 2026 Holi Festival

Posted on 24 March, 2026

All you need to know ahead of Canberra’s Festival of Colours.

Are you ready for a massive two days when the Holi Festival of Colours takes over Lennox Gardens?

You’ll be able to dance to live music and DJs, enjoy multicultural performances, and indulge in food and drink from around the world. Plus, there will be giveaways, a performance from favourite Holi After Dark and – of course – lots of colour.

Even better? There are very limited free tickets available now! If you want to experience one of Canberra’s most vibrant cultural celebrations, consider this your sign to plan your visit!

Witness the tastes, sounds, and artistry of Indian culture as you join thousands of people for the iconic colour throw. Here’s your ultimate guide to Canberra’s 2026 Holi Festival.

Wait – what is Holi?

Holi is a popular Hindu Festival of Colours celebrated across India and around the world. The festival symbolises the triumph of good over evil, commemorating the defeat of the demoness Holika by the Hindu God Lord Vishnu. It also marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring, making it a joyful celebration of renewal, colour and community.

In Canberra, the Holi Festival’s aim is to celebrate unity and diversity, bringing people from all backgrounds to experience the food, music, culture and traditions of the Indian community in Australia.

When is it?

Canberra’s Holi Festival will take place over two days on Saturday 28 March and Sunday 29 March. The festivities will run from 11 am to 10 pm on both days.

What is happening?

This is a festival all about joy, colour and letting loose! Expect to see clouds of coloured powder everywhere, with festival-goers tossing vibrant hues into the air and over one another. If you’re planning to join in (and you really should), make sure you wear clothes you don’t mind getting stained.

Along with lots and lots of colour, you can look forward to live music and DJs, multicultural dance and stage performances, food and drink stalls featuring a variety of cuisines, market stalls and cultural displays, giveaways, crowd games and the much-beloved Holi After Dark.

When you need a breather, take a wander through the stalls, try samples, grab a bargain or enjoy festival promos before jumping back into the action.

How much does it cost?

General entry is currently free, but only for a limited time.

There are currently a limited number of free-entry tickets available for three-hour time slots, so you’ll need to RSVP online to secure your place!

There are also pre-paid tickets available, including an Express Entry Pass (so you can skip the queues), the VIP Pass (which includes a colour packet, T-shirt, drink voucher and all-day access), and the Maharaja Pass (AKA the premium festival experience).

If you miss out on the free slots, paid all-day tickets are still available, including options that cover Holi After Dark.

More ticket options and RSVP for free tickets here.

How to get there and where to park

The festival is held at Lennox Gardens in Yarralumla, with the main access point via Flynn Drive.

On-street parking is available along Flynn Drive and Kaye Street, while carparks are located on Alexandrina Drive (near Snapper & Co) and Flynn Drive. There is also paid parking available at the Hyatt Hotel.

If you don’t mind a short walk, additional parking can be found at Questacon, National Library, Parliament Circle and the National Gallery.

What else do I need to know?

For early bird and all-day pass holders, you’ll also get a refreshing Thandai welcome drink on arrival. And make sure to stay until the sun sets – the festival will switch to UV lights and glow-in-the-dark colours!

Feature image via holifestivalcanberra.com.au