Canberra, we’ve got plans: over 100 ways to spend the first week of November

Posted on 2 November, 2026

From a city-wide celebration of creativity at the Craft + Design Canberra Festival to the colourful chaos of La Fiesta, a weekend of sustainable fashion and a dance party celebrating the queens of Latin music, Canberra has plenty to keep you busy this week.

Add live music, theatre, markets and opportunities to get hands-on, and your calendar is looking pretty full. Here are the events worth making time for from Monday 2 to Monday 9 November.

With so many events to make your way through, here are some jump links to take you straight to the section you’re interested in:

• Special Events + Festivals
• Food + Drink 
• Markets & Expos 
• Stage
• Screen
• Sport + Wellness
• Music
• Talks, Tours and Workshops
• Exhibitions

Don’t miss…

2026 Craft + Design Canberra Festival

Celebrate Canberra as a thriving creative capital during the 2026 Craft + Design Canberra Festival, showcasing the work of over 500 creatives across the community. Centred around the powerful theme of Dissent, this 10-day festival advocates for creativity as a tool to question and reshape societal norms while exploring sustainability, environmental impact, accessibility, and the enduring value of the handmade. Across 10 days and more than 120 activations, the program features symposiums, talks, open studios, design markets, and innovative performances in fashion, dance, and theatre, complemented by exhibitions across the city’s public spaces.

Thursday 5 to Sunday 15 November | Craft + Design Canberra, 1 London Circuit, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

Clothing the Loop

Discover a joyful rebellion against fast fashion during a vibrant weekend festival connecting sustainability, performance, and circular design. Presented by Australian Dance Party, Kelli Donovan, and Canberra Institute of Technology, the event opens with a glamorous evening showcase of sustainable design brought to life through electric live dance. Daytime activities feature hands-on workshops, clothing swaps, installations, and panel discussions designed to inspire meaningful action toward sustainable textile practices.

Friday 6 and Saturday 7 November | CIT Woden Campus, 36 Bradley Street, Phillip | australiandance.party

Craft + Design Canberra Festival Launch

Kick off 10 days of creative celebration as the 2026 Craft + Design Canberra Festival officially opens its doors. Join local artists, designers, and community members in the gallery and Civic Square for an inspiring evening featuring official speeches and the unveiling of four major exhibitions. Explore thought-provoking works responding to this year’s powerful theme of dissent, which champions creativity as a tool for shaping society. With over five hundred creatives involved across the capital, it is a brilliant opportunity to support local makers and immerse yourself in Canberra’s vibrant design culture.

Thursday 5 November, 6 pm–9 pm | Craft + Design Canberra, 1 London Circuit, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

La Fiesta

The sights, sounds, and flavours of Latin America take over Canberra’s city centre for La Fiesta, a vibrant, free community celebration. Visitors can wander through Latin American Plaza to enjoy live music performances, colourful dance showcases, interactive cultural workshops, and delicious street food vendors. Designed for all ages, the festival transforms the urban precinct into a lively street party celebrating rich Latin heritage, dance rhythms, and community connection in the heart of the city.

Saturday 7 November, 1 pm–10 pm | Latin American Plaza, 38 Childers Street, City | inthecity.com.au

2026 Craft + Design Canberra Festival Open Studios + Organisations Open Day Weekend

Go behind the scenes of Canberra’s thriving creative community during the Open Studios weekend, presented as part of the Craft + Design Canberra Festival. Local artists, sculptors, jewellers, and design organisations open their working studios to the public across two days. Supported by home.by.holly, this event offers visitors a rare opportunity to meet local makers, observe traditional and contemporary craft techniques, and purchase one-of-a-kind artworks directly from the creators.

Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November, 10 am–4 pm | Various locations, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

Ritmo Collective’s Dance Fitness Fiesta: Latin Queens

Ritmo Collective presents Latin Queens, the first event in its new Ritmo Fiesta series of dance fitness parties. Each Fiesta runs for 90 minutes, longer than a regular class, and brings the whole Ritmo Collective instructor team together on one dance floor.

Latin Queens celebrates women in Latin music, with a playlist featuring Shakira, Karol G, Jennifer Lopez, Anitta, Becky G, Selena and Celia Cruz, among others. Everyone is welcome.

Sunday 8 November, 9.30–11 am | Dance Central Studios, Phillip | ritmocollectiveau.square.site 

Canberra Open Homes | Australian Institute of Architects

Explore award-winning local architecture as the Australian Institute of Architects (ACT Chapter) opens landmark civic buildings and sustainable residential homes to the public. Presented in partnership with the Craft + Design Canberra Festival, the open home tours highlight how local and national architects challenge conventional design to shape Canberra’s built environment. Discover innovative spatial concepts, sustainable building materials, and creative residential retrofits across multiple suburban sites.

Sunday 8 until Sunday 15 November | Various locations, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

Canberra SpringOUT Pride Festival

Celebrate the vibrant diversity, creativity, and spirit of the region during Canberra’s premier month-long pride festival. Throughout November, the annual SpringOUT program transforms Canberra with a dynamic lineup of inclusive events, ranging from the popular Fair Day at Glebe Park to the eagerly anticipated Pink Tennis Bush Dance. Explore exciting sports matches, arts exhibitions, theatrical performances, and community gatherings designed to champion equality and connection. With plenty of free and low-cost activities scattered across the city, it is a wonderful opportunity to experience Canberra’s welcoming community spirit.

Until Monday 30 November | Various locations | springout.com.au

Special Events + Festivals

Rose Gardens Guided Tours at Old Parliament House

Step back in time and wander through a living horticultural masterpiece with guided tours of the Old Parliament House Rose Gardens. Established in 1927 as a tranquil retreat for politicians and their families, the stunning grounds now feature over five hundred varieties across four thousand rose bushes, including rare blooms sourced from Persia and China. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating tales of the gardens’ history, design evolution, and botanical significance. It is a peaceful, beautiful seasonal escape that celebrates Canberra’s rich heritage in full floral bloom.

Until Sunday 29 November (Check venue for daily tour times) | Statue of Dame Dorothy Tangney and Enid Lyons, Old Parliament House Rose Gardens, King George Terrace, Parkes | eventbrite.com.au

Innovation Showcase

Bring your curiosity and join Canberra’s thriving entrepreneurial community for an inspiring afternoon at UNSW Canberra City. The annual Innovation Showcase unites local and national minds, offering a welcoming space to hear real stories from trailblazing entrepreneurs and industry leaders. Whether you are launching a startup, seeking fresh inspiration, or simply looking to connect with people who move the region forward, this free-flowing event is designed for everyone. Step into an engaging setting where ideas spark and future collaborations begin over great conversations.

Wednesday 4 November, 2 pm–6.30 pm | UNSW Canberra City, 37 Constitution Avenue, Reid | showcase.cbrin.com.au

Creative play

Creative Play is a weekly session at Q Gallery for children aged 18 months to 6 years who are not yet at school. Led by educator Charlotte, who holds a Diploma in Visual Arts and has taught with ArtKids Australia, the sessions give children hands-on activities to explore colours, textures and imaginative play. Parents and carers can take a short break while children craft and create.

Thursdays weekly, 9.30–11.30 am | Q Gallery Art Hub, Ainslie | eventbrite.com.au

Lyneham High School P&C Trivia Night

Everyone is welcome – parents, locals, and friends alike – to join the Lyneham High School P&C’s major annual fundraiser. Embrace the ‘Revival’ theme and support public education by helping raise funds for seating, shading, and landscaping for the school’s internal courtyards.

Friday 6 November, doors open 6 pm, first question 6:30 pm | Lyneham High School Hall, 61 Goodwin Street, Lyneham | trybooking.com

Providore Foodie Market Day at Merchant Campbell

Merchant Campbell’s Providore Foodie Market Day returns to Yass for its third year, filling the shop’s car park with regional producers. Expect honey from Boorowa Bees, Hillman Bros gin, wine from Intrepidus, Vineyard 1207, and Rosnay Organic Wines, Crafty Cider from Batlow, Murrumbateman Chocolate Co, and smallgoods from Bungendore Country Butchery, taking Christmas ham orders.

There’ll also be Seed Food With Love with Jane’s handmade seasonal jams, chutneys, sauces and cordials, plus free range fresh-as-a-daisy local eggs and the Dandelion Lady with her apothecary of fabulous lotions and potions made from locally harvested plants, including dandelions!

Two makers work on the day: Jim Hutton of Made From Fallen Wood carving spoons, and Helen of Good Hope Pottery hand-coiling vases. There’s a solar-powered coffee cart and treats for dogs.

Free entry. Rain, hail or shine, an hour from Canberra.

Saturday 7 November, 10 am–2 pm | Merchant Campbell, 287 Comur Street, Yass | merchantcampbell.com.au

Fuego Pre-Fiesta at Highball

Set the tone for a massive weekend of celebration as Highball hosts the official Fuego Pre-Fiesta party for Canberra’s La Fiesta Fringe Program. Delivering an electrifying soundtrack of reggaeton and Latin hits courtesy of local DJ Nat, the venue brings the vibrant energy of Latin nightlife straight to the city. Gather with friends for a late-night celebration filled with dancing, rhythms, and community spirit to start your festival weekend in style.

Friday 6 November, 10 pm–11.59 pm | Highball, 77 London Circuit, Level 1, City | highball.bar

Back to 2016 at Mooseheads

Dust off your chokers, lace up your Adidas Superstars, and charge your phone for a gloriously nostalgic throwback party at Mooseheads. Dedicated to the chaotic aesthetic and viral hits that raised a generation, this 18+ event features an all-night anthem lineup ranging from Drake and Justin Bieber to The Chainsmokers and Ariana Grande. Embrace the ultimate Tumblr soft-grunge energy, break out your best festival fits, and relive the soundtrack of an unforgettable era.

Friday 6 November, 9 pm–11.59 pm | Mooseheads, 105 London Circuit, Mooseheads Pub, City | mooseheads.com.au

Canberra Kinetic Sculpture Race

Witness an extraordinary spectacle of human-powered ingenuity at the National Carillon during the Canberra Kinetic Sculpture Race. Part vehicle and part moving art, these imaginative kinetic sculptures navigate a challenging tri-terrain course spanning land, sand, and water. Visitors can watch the machines splash into Lake Burley Griffin, explore the designs up close, and chat with the artists behind the inventions. Blending pageantry, engineering, and humor, this free community event celebrates the capital’s creative design spirit.

Saturday 7 November, 11 am–4 pm | National Carillon, Lake Burley Griffin, Queen Elizabeth II Island, Parkes | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

St Joseph’s Primary School Fete

Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family at the St Joseph’s Primary School Fete in O’Connor. Visitors can indulge in a wide selection of food and drinks, including woodfired pizza, a sausage sizzle, doughnuts, milkshakes, coffee, fairy floss, and home-baked treats at the cake stall. Entertainment and activities include a colourful Colour Run, pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, sideshow alley games, a photo booth, lucky dip, wine tombola, and a raffle. A Cozy Corner craft and colouring area is also available. Conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the Macarthur Avenue light rail stop.

Saturday, 7 November, 1–5 pm | St Joseph’s Primary School, 62 Boronia Drive, O’Connor |  facebook.com

ScaleACT

The ACT Scale Modellers’ Society presents ScaleACT 2026, a comprehensive scale modelling convention and public display hosted at Thoroughbred Park. Featuring one of Australia’s largest scale model competitions, the two-day event showcases intricate displays, swap-and-sell stalls, modelling supplies, and expert workshops led by renowned international modellers. With hands-on building activities for kids and on-site catering, it provides a fantastic, family-friendly weekend outing for hobbyists and curious visitors alike.

Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November | Thoroughbred Park, 1 Randwick Road, Lyneham | actsms.asn.au

BITCH!

Join hosts Loren and Amy from the homegrown podcast We Prescribe Alanis for BITCH!, an empowering and candid perimenopause support group with a twist. Set within The Bordella, this interactive session offers a welcoming space to vent, laugh, swap practical wellbeing tips, and navigate the hormonal rollercoaster of perimenopause alongside supportive women. Complete with music, light refreshments, and plenty of humor, attendees leave feeling connected, informed, and reassured that they are not alone.

Sunday 8 November, 3 pm–5 pm | The Bordella, Fyshwick | eventbrite.com

Singing for their future

Music Theatre Projects presents a fundraising concert, Singing for their future, to help engage professional local artists for its 2027 production. The charity launched its PATH program (Performing After Training Hard) in 2025 to create clearer industry pathways for young performers in the region. The 2027 show will focus on golden age Hollywood musicals, with live music from local professionals.

Sunday 8 November, 3 pm | The Street Theatre, Canberra | thestreet.org.au

Food + Drink

Casper’s Coming Home to Lazy Su

MasterChef top five contestant Casper Kenworthy returns to where his hospitality career began for SOUR GRAPES, a one-night-only collab with Lazy Su. Inspired by an infamous MasterChef challenge, the evening features a grape-focused seven-course menu, including dessert.

Monday 2 November | Lazy Su, Braddon | lazy-su.com.au

Rising Stars Dinner

Indulge in an extraordinary four-course dining experience celebrating the capital’s emerging culinary talent at the Yacht Club Canberra. This special evening highlights up-and-coming chefs who showcase exceptional creativity, technical skill, and flavour across a carefully curated menu. Each course is thoughtfully paired with premium wines from the Canberra region, creating a sophisticated event that champions both local winemakers and the next generation of kitchen leaders. Secure your seat early for a memorable night of fine food and wine.

Friday 6 November, 6.30 pm–9 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club Yacht Club, Mariner Place, Yarralumla | cscc.com.au

Terra Open Fire

Experience an incredible feast of authentic Latin American flavours cooked over an open fire as part of the vibrant La Fiesta Latin American Festival. Peruvian chef Julio from Bar Outro joins forces with Terra to serve up mouth-watering culinary treats in the heart of the city. Set against the lively festival atmosphere, it is a wonderful opportunity to indulge in exceptional smoky barbecue creations, celebrate rich cultural traditions, and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon and evening of great food and community spirit.

Saturday 7 November, 1 pm–10 pm | La Fiesta, 38 Childers Street, City | terracanberra.com.au

Brahms, Bach and High Tea at Lanyon Homestead

Enjoy an intimate morning of classical music and culinary indulgence inside the historic 1860s drawing room at Lanyon Homestead. Featuring Canberra Symphony Orchestra Kingsland Fellows Jojo Yuen on piano, Chloe Law on cello, and Jacob Aziz on violin, the uplifting program showcases Brahms’ Piano Trio No. 1 alongside works by Saint-Saëns and Bach. Following the performance, guests retreat to the marquee for a handcrafted high tea featuring savoury treats, finger sandwiches, house-made sweets, and sparkling wine.

Saturday 7 November, 11 am–12.45 pm | Lanyon Homestead, Tharwa Drive, Tharwa | historicplaces.com.au

Beer Day Out at the Fyshwick Markets

Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets and Plonk are hosting Beer Day Out, with brewery stalls set up throughout the Markets. Breweries from Canberra and across Australia are taking part, including Bentspoke Brewing, Capital Brewing, Cypher Brewing, Jindabyne Brewing, Powder Monkey and Bridge Road Brewing. Entry is free, as are samples for those aged 18 and over. Beers can be purchased at Plonk.

Sunday 8 November, 12–3 pm | Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets, 36 Mildura Street, Fyshwick | eventbrite.com

Spring High Tea at Australian Parliament House

Soak up sweeping views of our bush capital in bloom with a seasonal high tea at Queen’s Terrace Café. Perfectly timed for your Floriade outing, this high tea experience showcases exceptional Australian produce across a delicious array of sweet and savoury treats. Guests can sip on artisan teas, barista-made coffee, or upgrade to a glass of sparkling wine for a true spring celebration. Make the most of your visit by pairing your afternoon tea with a wander through Parliament House’s courtyards, architecture, and world-class exhibitions. It is an unforgettable way to experience Canberra’s most iconic landmark this season.

Until Sunday 29 November | Australian Parliament House, 1 Parliament Drive, Canberra | aph.gov.au

Weekend Buffet at the Yacht Club

Looking for a relaxed, generous feast to kick off your weekend? The Yacht Club in Yarralumla is putting on a mouth-watering buffet spread every Saturday and Sunday. Diners can tuck into freshly carved roast meats, cold seafood straight off the ice, hot pasta, hearty seasonal soup, and a whole table of indulgent desserts. It is the ultimate dining experience for families and friends gathering along the water’s edge. Plus, kids receive complimentary chicken nuggets and chips with the purchase of an adult buffet, making it a stress-free weekend treat that caters to every appetite.

Until Sunday 29 November | Canberra Southern Cross Club Yacht Club, Mariner Place, Yarralumla | cscc.com.au

The Spritz Club

Escape to the sunny deck at Capitol Bar & Grill for The Spritz Club, a relaxed aperitivo experience featuring ice-cold infusions of Aperol or Hugo Spritz paired with crisp chicken tenders and mozzarella sticks. Designed as an effortless Riviera-inspired ritual, guests can unwind with oversized sunglasses and zero urgency, enjoying bittersweet prosecco cocktails in a stylish inner-city setting.

Until Saturday 30 January| Capitol Bar & Grill, 6 Marcus Clarke Street, City | qthotels.com

Markets + Expos

The Little Burley Fashion Fest

Slow fashion takes centre stage by the lakeside as The Little Burley Fashion Fest returns to Queen Elizabeth Terrace. This exciting community celebration showcases incredible local talent, featuring a diverse array of stalls dedicated to sustainable apparel, custom accessories, handmade jewellery, designer wear, and even adorable puppy couture. Visitors can explore ethical style innovations while enjoying delicious gourmet foods and beverages from local producers. It is a fantastic morning out supporting creative change and emerging designers in the capital.

Saturday 7 November, 9 am–2 pm | The Little Burley Market, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.com.au

For Purpose Markets

Support local social enterprises and community initiative businesses on the first Saturday of each month in Dickson. The For Purpose Markets showcase Canberra’s purpose-driven vendors, ensuring every purchase generates positive community impact. From empowering refugees and migrants to supporting environmental conservation, mental health services, and LGBTQI+ programs, this vibrant market lets you shop mindfully while discovering unique handcrafted goods, foods, and artisan products.

Saturday 7 November, 10 am–2 pm | DKB Community Hall, 8 Hawdon Place, Dickson | forpurposemarkets.com.au

Fashion Thrift Society Canberra

Experience a massive festival of style, music, and community as Fashion Thrift Society takes over the Coorong Building at EPIC. Bringing together handpicked vintage garments, pre-loved fashion, and local independent designers, the event offers a vibrant thrift marketplace. Beyond sustainable fashion browsing, visitors can enjoy live DJ sets, food trucks, photo booths, piercing and tattoo stations, henna, and custom jewellery crafting in an inclusive, electric atmosphere open to all ages.

Saturday 7 November, 10 am–3 pm | EPIC – Coorong Building, Lyneham | fashionthriftsociety.com.au

The Little Burley Fashion Fest

Slow fashion takes centre stage along Lake Burley Griffin as The Little Burley Fashion Fest returns to the shoreline. Highlighting sustainable style and regional talent, the market features a curated selection of stalls offering locally designed clothing, handcrafted jewellery, children’s fashion, original art, and unique puppy couture. Visitors can browse sustainable garments, sample gourmet local food and beverages, and connect with creative designers working to make a positive impact within the fashion industry.

Saturday 7 November, 9 am–2 pm | The Little Burley Market, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.com.au

Capital Region Farmers Market

This farmers’ market is iconic for a reason.

Go along to sample the region’s freshest produce from over 100 stallholders who bring freshly picked, grown and hand-crafted goods to Canberra and speak directly with growers and learn cooking tips while supporting the Rotary Club of Hall’s community projects.

It will make you appreciate your Saturday morning shopping trip in a whole new way.

Saturdays, 7 am-11:30 am | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Mitchell | capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au

Old Bus Depot Markets

Lovers of fine hand-crafted wares, clothing collectors, food fanatics and jewellery junkies are just a few of the people who head to Canberra’s award-winning Old Bus Depot Markets every Sunday. In a fabulous old industrial building, you’ll experience the endless colour, tastes, sounds and atmosphere that is “Canberra’s Sunday Best”.

Not your average market, each week you’ll find over 200 stalls of exceptional quality, featuring items all hand-crafted by local and regional creatives. The sheer variety means you’ll discover something unexpected every visit, whether that’s a piece of pottery that speaks to you, a stunning necklace, or the perfect vintage find. There’s simply no better way to spend your Sunday in Canberra.

Sundays, 9.30 am – 2.30 pm | 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | obdm.com.au

Southside Farmers Markets

This village market is located at Canberra College, making it the perfect place to duck in to grab what you need (and maybe a few things you don’t). Order an egg and bacon roll to start the morning as you explore the best of fresh seasonal veggies, handmade pasta, pet treats and more.

Sundays, 7 am -11.30 am | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip | facebook.com/SouthsideFarmersMarketCanberra

Haig Park Village Markets

Another local favourite, spend your Sunday morning browsing delicious cuisines, fresh produce, artisan products and locally handmade crafts while enjoying live music, an artists’ table and family-friendly activities.

It’s the kind of market where you can linger over breakfast, discover a new artist, and stock up on fresh produce all in one lovely morning, making it the perfect Sunday outing in leafy Braddon.

Sundays, 8 am – 2 pm | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.com.au

Stage

Creative Juices

Embrace a cheeky, adult-centric twist on the chaotic art shows of the 1990s during an interactive comedy experience at the Tuggeranong Arts Centre. Created by Timothy Christopher Ryan, this judgment-free evening encourages audiences to ditch perfectionism and dive into playful, messy art-making. From noodle-inspired self-portraits to irreverent life drawing and UV body painting, the show celebrates spontaneity, silliness, and self-expression. It guarantees plenty of laughter, genuine connection, and delightfully ridiculous artworks to take home.

Thursday 6 November, 7 pm–9 pm | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street North, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com

ALTER at Belco Arts

Experience a groundbreaking double bill of contemporary dance exploring the intersection of body, identity, and virtual innovation at Belco Arts. Created by renowned Canberra choreographer Liz Lea in collaboration with leading ASEAN artists from Kuala Lumpur, ALTER utilises metaverse design tools to project real-time visual environments driven by human movement. Drawing inspiration from Canberra’s brutalist architecture and natural topography, this thought-provoking performance bridges physical and virtual realms.

Friday 7 November | The Theatre, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

Where is the Green Sheep?

Bring the little ones along for an enchanting visual theatre experience based on Mem Fox and Judy Horacek’s beloved children’s book. Blending delightful puppetry with charming animation, the production follows three farmers on an imaginative quest to find the elusive green sheep amongst blue, red, and bath-loving sheep. Co-created with student voices, this engaging family show resonates deeply with young audiences.

Friday 6 to Monday, 9 November | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au

Fountain Lakes: Y2K

Grab your butterfly clips and low-rise pants for a hilarious, nostalgia-fuelled drag parody prequel starring an all-star cast including Art Simone and Thomas Jaspers. Fountain Lakes: Y2k delivers wickedly sharp comedy, iconic ’90s references, and fabulous camp tunes as beloved characters navigate pre-millennium chaos. Following sellout success wherever it travels, this fast-paced theatrical comedy promises an unmissable night of laughter.

Friday 6 and Saturday 7 November  | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au

Picnic at Hanging Rock

Chaika Theatre presents Picnic at Hanging Rock, Tom Wright’s stage adaptation of Joan Lindsay’s novel, directed by Caitlin Baker, at ACT Hub’s Causeway Hall in Kingston from 23 October to 7 November. Set on a Valentine’s Day in 1900, the story follows a group of schoolgirls from Appleyard College whose picnic at Hanging Rock ends when several girls and a teacher vanish without explanation. Five young women later attempt to reconstruct events, as shifting memories blur the line between fact and myth. The production runs 80 minutes with no interval and features Jessi Gooding, Karina Hudson, Thea Jade, Breanna Kelly and Paris Scharkie.

Until Saturday 7 November, various times | ACT Hub, Causeway Hall, Kingston | acthub.littleboxoffice.com/

Khaled Khalafalla

Prepare for a night of sharp wit, reflection, and continuous laughter as acclaimed comedian Khaled Khalafalla brings his national tour to The Street Theatre. Following a string of sold-out shows across Australia, Khalafalla returns with a fresh performance that brilliantly weaves unspoken thoughts and relatable truths into captivating stage stories. Honest, clever, and deeply funny, his unique comedic style leaves audiences both thoroughly entertained and thoughtfully engaged long after the curtain falls. Early booking is strongly recommended for this popular event.

Saturday 7 November, 6.30 pm–8.30 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, City | thestreet.org.au

One-Take Musical

Experience an unscripted theatrical event as four talented improvisers and a live pianist create an original musical completely from scratch at Smith’s Alternative. Directed by Mike NL, One-Take Musical combines spontaneous comedy, original storylines, and improvised songs created live in front of the audience. Every single performance delivers a unique, non-repeatable musical comedy experience starring local performers Chonnie, Damian, Inez, Matt, and pianist Jessica.

Saturday 7 November, 5 pm–6 pm | Smith’s Alternative, 76 Alinga Street, City | smithsalternative.com

Screen

Queer Flicks

Gather for an inclusive and vibrant evening of LGBTIQA+ cinema at the National Film and Sound Archive. Queer Flicks offers a welcoming space to unwind, connect, and share memorable movie moments with fellow film enthusiasts. Kick off the night with delicious drinks from Dom’s deli and bar, live entertainment, and plenty of time to mingle before the screening begins. Designed as much for community gathering as it is for great storytelling, it promises a wonderful atmosphere in the heart of Acton.

Thursday 5 November, 7 pm–9 pm | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au

Special guests at the NFSA

Step behind the scenes of some of the season’s most captivating films with exclusive Q and A sessions at the National Film and Sound Archive. Audiences will hear directly from talented creators, including local filmmaker Rob Nugent, artist and director Jonathan Zawada, musician Mark Pritchard, and director Josh Collins. These engaging post-screening conversations offer unique insights into artistic collaboration, creative processes, and the compelling stories brought to life on screen. It is an unmissable opportunity for film lovers to connect more deeply with contemporary cinema.

Thursday 5 November and Saturday, 21 November | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au

Paul Thomas Anderson at the NFSA

Celebrate the visionary work of acclaimed filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson with an immersive double feature at Arc Cinema. The evening begins with the quirky, heartfelt romance of Punch-Drunk Love, followed by the sweeping ambition and dark power struggles of the Oscar-winning epic There Will Be Blood. Exploring profound themes of love, obsession, and loneliness, this cinematic showcase offers film lovers a rare chance to experience these modern masterpieces back-to-on-screen.

Friday 6 November, 6 pm–9 pm | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, 1 McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au

Irish Film Festival

Experience the richness of contemporary Irish culture, language, and storytelling during the largest film festival program hosted at Palace Electric Cinemas in twelve years. Featuring star-studded features, comedies, historical dramas, and folk horror, the festival includes exclusive Q and A sessions with visiting filmmakers and stars. Kick off the celebration with the famous opening night party and state premiere hosted by the Irish Embassy.

Friday 6 November, 6 pm–10.30 pm | Palace Electric Cinemas, 2 Phillip Law Street, City | irishfilmfestival.com.au

Life in the Great Barrier Reef 360° VR Documentary

Submerge yourself in a breathtaking underwater world without leaving the inner north. Premiering at the National Museum of Australia, Life in the Great Barrier Reef is an immersive 35-minute cinematic documentary utilising custom-built 8K 360° virtual reality technology. Guided by leading scientists, reef stewards, and Traditional Owners, audiences are transported to the depths of two UNESCO World Heritage sites to encounter manta rays, whales, and rare coral spawning events, while gaining a deeper understanding of current conservation efforts.

Ongoing, session times vary | National Museum of Australia, Acton Peninsula | nma.gov.au

Sport + Wellness

Fitness in The Park

Fitness class for all levels of fitness for the whole community. Join Ginninderry local Vince as he takes you through a group fitness class in the fresh air at Paddys Park.

Every Wednesday, 7.30 am to 8.30 am, Paddys Park, Asimus Avenue, Strathnairn | ginninderry.com

Yoga at Ginninderry

Get bendy on Thursday evenings at a yoga class! You don’t need any experience – just head along for the slow-flow class that will help melt away tension, build strength and mobility, and give you a chance to recharge. Take along a yoga mat, water bottle, and comfy clothes.

Every Thursday, 6.45 pm to 7.45 pm | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | ginninderry.com

Salsa on Saturday

Dance the night away at Ainslie Arts Centre with Salsa on Saturday, Canberra’s premier long-running monthly Latin dance party. Commencing with an introductory one-hour dance workshop, the evening welcomes dancers of all experience levels to enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with salsa, bachata, and Cha-Cha-Cha. Featuring resident DJs and a spacious dance floor, it offers a friendly community space to socialise, learn new moves, and experience Latin dance culture.

Saturday 7 November, 7.30 pm–11.30 pm | Ainslie Arts Centre, 30 Elouera Street, Braddon | salsaonsaturday.square.site

Come and Try Jump Rope day

Jump Rope ACT holds its first Come and Try Jump Rope day, a free community session introducing rope skipping to people of all ages and skill levels. Coaches, including current Team Australia members, lead participants through fundamental skills, with instruction adapted to individual pace and movement needs. Skipping ropes are provided, and live demonstrations show more advanced techniques, including single-rope skills and dynamic manoeuvres. Jump Rope ACT works to grow the sport across the Australian Capital Territory, offering accessible pathways to build agility, coordination and cardiovascular fitness. Every participant goes home with a goodie bag. Registration is through an online form.

Saturday 7 November, 11 am–1 pm | Kaleen Primary School, 19 Ashburton Circuit, Kaleen | forms.gle/SSnj2LBJBzMfCVSW6

Walking Football 2026/27 summer season

Stay active, connected, and involved in the game with Capital Football’s Walking Football summer season at Hawker Football Centre. Designed for adults of all fitness and skill levels, this low-impact competition focuses on fun, social interaction, and movement without the physical strain of traditional matches. Mixed teams compete on Thursday evenings, offering a welcoming environment for newcomers or past players returning to sport. It is an ideal, inclusive format to maintain health, make new friends, and enjoy social sport.

Until Thursday 25 March, 6.20 pm–8.10 pm | Hawker Football Centre, Walhallow Street, Hawker | capitalfootball.com.au

Music

America

Acclaimed songwriter Fred Smith presents America, a hilarious and insightful musical safari exploring the political, cultural, and social complexities of modern United States history. A former US Marine Corps medal recipient who spent years living across America, Smith combines tracks from his acclaimed albums Texas and Great with sharp yarns and comedic observations. Backed by a stellar band of Melbourne musicians, the performance offers a nuanced, thought-provoking journey into a complex nation, making it a must-see for music and storytelling fans alike.

Tuesday 3 November, 7.30 pm–9.30 pm | The B, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, 253 Crawford Street, Queanbeyan | theq.net.au

Haydn’s Oxford

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking sound-world of the classical era with a brilliant all-Haydn program at the National Gallery of Australia. Performed up close by seven superb musicians on historical instruments, the Australian Haydn Ensemble brings grand orchestral arrangements into an intimate chamber setting. Audiences will experience the thrilling textures, nuance, and emotional depth that composers like Haydn and Beethoven originally knew and loved. Prepare to be amazed by the exceptional artistry and passionate execution of musicians who breathe new life into historical masterpieces right here in our national capital.

Thursday 5 November, 7 pm–9 pm | Gandel Hall, National Gallery of Australia, 30 Parkes Place East, Parkes | australianhaydn.com.au

Number Junky

Danish-Australian jazz trio Number Junky performs live at McGregor Hall to launch their third studio album, Composure. Led by acclaimed guitarist Kristian Borring alongside bassist Zac Grafton and drummer Peter Evans, the trio is celebrated for blending intricate rhythms and unusual time signatures with lyrical melodies. Audiences will enjoy an evening of original compositions, improvised jazz interplay, and modern arrangements of classical hymns.

Thursday 5 November, 7 pm–9 pm | McGregor Hall, 76 Alinga Street, City | smithsalternative.com

Kevin Borich Express

Celebrate over fifty years of legendary rock history as the Kevin Borich Express takes to the stage at the Harmonie German Club. Featuring special guest support from James Southwell, this high-energy performance brings one of Australia’s most enduring guitar greats to Narrabundah. Having shared stages with international icons like Santana, Elton John, and AC/DC, Kevin Borich delivers a powerhouse live show packed with blistering blues-rock energy. It is an unmissable night out for blues enthusiasts and rock fans alike.

Thursday 6 November, 8 pm–10.30 pm | Harmonie German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | facebook.com/events/1052710071002484

Raíces & Rhythms: Latin America in Australia

Kick off the La Fiesta weekend at The Street Theatre with an intimate evening of live music and rich cultural conversation. Acclaimed musicians from Chile, Cuba, Argentina, and Australia step away from festival ensembles for stripped-back performances spanning Afro-Cuban percussion, flamenco, Latin American folk, and contemporary sounds. Hosted by Frank Madrid, the evening features engaging discussions about tradition, heritage, and carrying those sounds into life in Australia.

Thursday 6 November, 7 pm–10 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, Canberra | thestreet.org.au

Diamond to a King

Experience an unforgettable tribute to music royalty as the Canberra Southern Cross Club hosts an incredible evening celebrating Neil Diamond and Elvis Presley. Backed by the Canberra Symphony Orchestra, international artists Peter Byrne and Damian Mullin deliver timeless hits ranging from Sweet Caroline to Suspicious Minds. Every ticket directly supports life-changing Parkinson’s research through the Shake It Up Australia Foundation, blending heartfelt live entertainment with a wonderful charitable cause.

Thursday 6 November, 8 pm–10 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club Woden, 92-96 Corinna Street, Phillip | cscc.com.au

Gusto Gusto dance floor favourites

Melbourne instrumental band Gusto Gusto perform music from their second album, Tyrannosauroborus, in an early dance party set. The group blends accordion, trumpet, clarinet and a rock rhythm section across funk, afrobeat, djent and Celtic music. Over the past two years, they have played Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom, Dark Mofo in Tasmania and Port Fairy Folk Festival in Victoria, and shared bills with Skerryvore, Snarky Puppy and Sex On Toast. The 13-track album includes the singles Sunday Scaries, Split Second, Astro 9 and Down Below. Australian folk artist and fingerstyle guitarist Alec Randles joins the bill. Doors open at 6 pm.

Friday 6 November, 6.30–8.30 pm | Smith’s Alternative, Civic | smithsalternative.com

Lamia Yared & Efren Lopez – From Minho to Euphrates

Lebanese-born vocalist Lamia Yared and Spanish multi-instrumentalist Efrén López present an exquisite musical journey across the Arab world and medieval Iberia at The Street Theatre. Drawing on Yared’s Syriac-Maronite heritage, the performance blends fourth-century Syriac hymns, medieval Iberian songs, Aleppine Muwashahāt, and Sufi poetry. Played on historical modal instruments, this intimate concert highlights how sacred traditions, courtly melodies, and ancient musical cultures continue to converse across history.

Saturday 7 November, 7.30 pm–8.45 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, City | thestreet.org.au

Go West, With Love

Canberra Qwire presents Go West, With Love, an inspiring concert celebrating geography, community, and human connection at The B in Queanbeyan. Performed by one of Australia’s premier LGBTQIA+ choral ensembles, the program features fan-favourite tracks alongside two major world premieres: I Will by Cloud Tan and Find Your People by Alex Palmer. This special performance showcases the strength and diversity of choral music before Qwire represents the ACT at the 2026 Out & Loud Choral Festival in Perth.

Saturday 7 November, 5 pm–6.30 pm | The B, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, 253 Crawford Street, Queanbeyan | theq.net.au

80s Synth Anthem Voxneon

Relive the unforgettable energy of 80s electronica with Voxneon’s high-energy live show, Synth Anthems, at the Zeppelin Room. Armed with synthesisers, keytars, Simmons electronic drums, and synchronised visuals, the band delivers a passionate celebration of synth-pop and new wave classics. Fans can dance along to timeless hits from Depeche Mode, Duran Duran, New Order, Eurythmics, Pet Shop Boys, and Tears for Fears. It promises an immersive night of pulsing rhythms, retro nostalgia, and 80s euphoria in Narrabundah.

Saturday 7 November, 7.30 pm–11 pm | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | events.humanitix.com

Ami Williamson

Ami Williamson’s live show has been described by a Sydney Morning Herald music critic as “forceful, funny, powerful and poetic – a singer-songwriter like no other!”

Ami’s celebrated “One Woman Show” has been performed at major festivals and venues in Australia and abroad including Port Fairy Folk Festival, Woodford Folk Festival and The National Folk Festival. ”Ami Williamson is my favourite Australian act!” (International Folk Icon Judy Collins)

Ami Williamson’s show is a “roller coaster of fun”. Her songs are wicked, poignant and sometimes downright hilarious – matched by her brilliant, versatile voice and flamboyant stage presence.

A show not to be missed!

Saturday 7 November, 7 pm | Smith’s Alternative, 76 Alinga Street, Canberra City | smithsalternative.com

Children’s Concert: Daydreams

Introduce young children to classical music with a relaxed, informal thirty-minute pre-concert performance presented by Apeiron Baroque. Tailored for inquisitive young minds who may find full-length concerts challenging, this session features instrumental show-and-tell alongside accessible short works. Guest artists Adam Masters on oboe, Tim Willis on violin, and Ben Hoadley on bassoon provide an engaging, family-friendly musical experience at Wesley Uniting Church.

Sunday 8 November, 3 pm–3.30 pm | Wesley Uniting Church, 20 National Circuit, Forrest | apeiron-baroque.com

Distracted Minds

Apeiron Baroque concludes its 2026 concert season with a vibrant double-reed showcase featuring leading Australian early music specialists. Guest artists Adam Masters on oboe and Tim Willis on violin join bassoonist Ben Hoadley to perform baroque masterworks on historical period instruments. The rich chamber program explores works by Castello, Graun, Janitsch, Corette, and Graupner inside the acoustic surrounds of Wesley Uniting Church.

Sunday 8 November, 4.30 pm–5.45 pm | Wesley Uniting Church, 20 National Circuit, Forrest | apeiron-baroque.com

Classical Pops: Let’s Dance!

The National Capital Orchestra concludes its 2026 RESONATE season under the baton of Artistic Director Louis Sharpe with Classical Pops: Let’s Dance! at Snow Concert Hall. Celebrating rhythm, energy, and movement, this vibrant concert features audience-favourite orchestral works including Tchaikovsky’s dance suites, Khachaturian’s iconic Adagio from Spartacus, and Ravel’s hypnotic Boléro. It promises a joyful, high-energy afternoon of classical masterworks showcasing Canberra’s award-winning community orchestra live on stage.

Sunday 8 November, 3 pm–5 pm | Snow Concert Hall, Canberra Grammar School, 40 Alexander Street, Red Hill | nco.org.au

Talks, Tours + Workshops

Travel sketching

Kirsten Pitot leads a four-class introduction to travel sketching, a method of capturing the world around you in quick, impressionistic drawings. The course is aimed at beginners, and experienced artists can also pick up new approaches. Classes run on Monday mornings over four weeks and are capped at eight students to allow plenty of individual attention.

Monday 2 November, 9.30 am–12.30 pm | Q Gallery Art Hub, Ainslie | erinhillsketching.com

Fusing Depth and Light with Kirstie Rea

Unleash your creative potential during an immersive, hands-on workshop led by renowned glass artist Kirstie Rea. At the Canberra Glassworks, participants will dive deep into the technical and expressive possibilities of kilnforming thick glass. Using Bullseye glass, powders, and stringers, you will design and construct a solid layered glass slab while learning expert techniques in depth, transparency, and colour manipulation. Whether you are expanding your artistic practice or exploring glass for the first time, this is a unique chance to learn from a master.

Monday 2 November, 5.30 pm–8 pm | Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com

Friends Collection Viewing: Birds of a Feather

Delve into the fascinating world of birds during an exclusive evening with the Friends of the National Library of Australia. This special collection viewing begins with an engaging presentation by renowned ornithologist and author Dr Penny Olsen, who expertly curated the library’s display materials. Following the talk, guests can examine rare treasures up close, chat with knowledgeable staff, and enjoy light refreshments while mingling with fellow literature and nature lovers. Come and marvel at the incredible diversity and beauty of birds as they have been captured throughout history within the national collection.

Wednesday 4 November, 5.30 pm–7.30 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | library.gov.au

Number Junky Odd Meter Workshop

Musicians, composers, and improvisers can expand their rhythmic skills during a ninety-minute odd meter masterclass hosted by jazz trio Number Junky. Held in the ANU Big Band Room, members Kristian Borring, Zac Grafton, and Peter Evans demonstrate techniques for performing, composing, and improvising in complex time signatures. Featuring live demonstrations and practical exercises, participants are encouraged to bring their instruments for an engaging, hands-on workshop.

Wednesday 4 November, 5 pm–6.30 pm | Big Band Room, Peter Karmel Building, ANU, 4 Childers Street, City | music.cass.anu.edu.au

Sketching and sipping at Contentious Character

Unwind on the Kingston Foreshore with an inviting evening of life drawing, fine wine, and good company presented by The Tipsy Sketching Club. Set inside the intimate wine bar at Contentious Character, this relaxed session welcomes artists of every skill level to sketch live models through a series of timed poses. Enjoy quality local wines and chat during regular breaks designed to foster creative confidence in a low-pressure environment. Drawing materials are supplied for convenience, or participants are welcome to bring their own favourite tools to capture the evening.

Thursday 5 November, 6 pm–8.30 pm | Contentious Character, 45 Eastlake Parade, Unit 156, Kingston | tipsysketching.club

Alice Tay Lecture 2026–Preventing generated futures: Indigenous resistance to artificial intelligence (AI)

Dr Tamika Worrell, Senior Lecturer in the Centre for Critical Indigenous Studies at Macquarie University, presents the 2026 Alice Tay Lecture, hosted by the ANU Freilich Project. Her family is from Gamilaroi Country, and her research focuses on artificial intelligence and Indigenous perspectives. The lecture examines how AI can function as a form of algorithmic settler colonialism, considering how emerging technologies reinforce existing systems of power and shape the way knowledge is created, shared and valued. Dr Worrell also discusses how these dynamics are emerging in higher education and classrooms. A drinks reception with light refreshments follows. Entry is free, with bookings required, and an online option is available.

Thursday 5 November, 5.45–8 pm | Common Room, University House, Acton | events.humanitix.com

Designing Currency

Marking sixty years of decimal currency, the Royal Australian Mint presents an exclusive in-conversation event with coin designers Neve Foxcroft and Lydia Ashe. Attendees will gain a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the craft of coin design, exploring how traditional sketching tools and modern technologies merge to tell Australian stories. Discover the collaborative, sustainable, and safety-focused processes behind the production facility while learning how currency connects design with community.

Friday 6 November, 10 am–11 am | Royal Australian Mint, 62 Denison Street, Deakin | ramint.gov.au

Lynn Petersen–Radical joy

Artist and educator Lynn Petersen presents Radical Joy, an exhibition forming part of the Craft + Design Canberra Festival 2026. Lynn also hosts two free puppet-making workshops inspired by the exhibition on Saturday 14 November, at 10.30 am and 1 pm. Using simple felt-making techniques, participants create a protest finger puppet while reflecting on the exhibition’s themes. They consider how humour and creativity can express a personal story, hope or an act of resistance. Each puppet becomes a small gesture of protest and optimism, responding to the challenges and concerns shaping communities and the world.

Friday 6 until Wednesday 18 November | Q Gallery Art Hub, Ainslie | q-gallery.com.au

Introduction to Night Sky Photo and Aurora Forecasting Tharwa

Discover the unexpected opportunity to photograph the Aurora Australis and master general landscape astrophotography in the dark skies near Canberra. While solar activity peaked around 2025, excellent imaging opportunities are expected through 2027. Combining a theory session with a practical night-time field session, instructor Ian Williams provides expert tuition on monitoring solar flares, geomagnetic activity, and configuring camera or smartphone settings to capture stunning starscapes and auroral displays.

Saturday 7 November, 6.30 pm–9.30 pm | Tharwa, Canberra | ianwilliamsphotography.com

Matcha and Ceramic Painting Workshop by Noa Matcha Canberra

Unwind and tap into your creative side during a delightful two-hour workshop combining Japanese tradition with hands-on artistry. Hosted across welcoming community spaces in Canberra, this relaxed session teaches participants how to properly sift and whisk ceremonial-grade matcha to create a delicious latte. Following the tasting, guests will choose a ceramic mug or bowl to paint using simple, step-by-step techniques with all materials provided. No prior experience is necessary, and you get to take your unique hand-painted ceramic piece home.

Saturday 7 November and Saturday 14 November | Various locations, Canberra | noamatcha.com

Book launch: Bird Park

Introduce young readers to the wonder of Australian birds during the official book launch of Bird Park at the National Library of Australia. Author Julie Murphy and illustrator Annie White share a lively reading of their new picture book in the library foyer, followed by an interactive outdoor wildlife presentation by the Canberra Walk in Aviary featuring real feathered friends. Tailored for children aged three to five, this engaging morning event combines rhythmic storytelling with hands-on nature discovery.

Saturday 7 November, 10 am–11 am | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | library.gov.au

Quietly Seething | A Panel Discussion

Canberra Contemporary hosts an engaging panel discussion exploring themes of power, rage, politics, and craft as part of the Craft + Design Canberra Festival. Featuring exhibiting artist and craftivist Dr Tal Fitzpatrick alongside MoAD curator Stephanie Pfennigwerth and moderator Raquel Ormella, the panel examines the intersection of feminist activism and creative making. Centred on Fitzpatrick’s installation Quietly Seething: Fate, Fury and Transmutation, the conversation invites audiences to reflect on dissent and collective storytelling.

Saturday 7 November, 12 pm–1 pm | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

Los Workshops: Rhythm, Dance and Culture

Immerse yourself in Latin American music, dance, and cultural traditions during a full day of hands-on workshops presented as part of the La Fiesta Fringe Program. Featuring visiting artists from SENES Flamenco, Suns of Mercury, and iLe iLu, the sessions span flamenco dance, Cuban percussion, Afro-Cuban batá and rumba, pandeiro, and Brazilian samba rhythms. Each extended session pairs practical movement and musical instruction with rich historical and cultural context.

Sunday 8 November, 10 am–4.15 pm | Blank Cultural Platform, 131 City Walk, City | events.humanitix.com

Moving Semangat Forward: The Semangat Body

Discover movement as a living force of memory, endurance, and renewal in a two-hour workshop led by Aida Redza. Drawing from Redza’s Penjaga (guardian) practice, participants explore the shifting physical states of the storyteller, warrior, and healer using breath, rhythm, and sensory scores. No prior dance background is required for this inclusive BOLD Festival session focused on listening to the body’s natural expressions and stories.

Sunday 8 November, 10.30 am–12.30 pm | Gorman Arts Centre, 55 Ainslie Avenue, Braddon | theboldfestival.com.au

Moving Freely – An Inclusive Sensory Movement Workshop

Led by Aida Redza as part of The BOLD Festival, Moving Freely provides a safe, welcoming sensory movement space tailored for individuals with Autism, Down Syndrome, and varied learning or physical abilities. Through somatic practices, rhythm, breath, and sensory tools like scarves and fans, participants explore bodily memory and coordination. The workshop encourages self-expression, communication, and confidence through gentle, guided creative movement.

Sunday 8 November, 1 pm–2.30 pm | Gorman Arts Centre, 55 Ainslie Avenue, Braddon | theboldfestival.com.au

Exhibitions

A very merry Christmas

Gallery of Small Things (GOST) closes its 2026 program with A Very Merry Christmas, a group exhibition responding to the festive season. Gallery Director Anne Masters invited 11 artists, mostly from interstate, to create a small series of works for the compact gallery. Ceramicists Tamsin Ainslie, Ginny Lagos and Lucy Ings present circus friends, sculptural figures and baubles, while Fiona Chandler, Sally Browne and Simon Palmer contribute abstract paintings. Cleo Higgins shows embroidered brooches, Lisa Cahill presents glass coral sculptures, and Gwenyth Macnamara offers printed cushions. Eggpicnic and Outer Island add bird art prints, cards and decorations.

Until Sunday 20 December, 11 am–4 pm | Gallery of Small Things, 27 Wade Street, Watson | galleryofsmallthings.com

Filotimo Charity Art Exhibition

Discover powerful works of art with a profound purpose at Kambri’s Lowitja O’Donoghue Cultural Centre. Some of Australia’s most talented Greek-Australian artists have united for a bold AHEPA Australia fundraising exhibition, showcasing stunning paintings, sculptures, photography, and illustrations deeply rooted in Hellenic heritage. Every artwork purchased directly supports vital medical research at the ANU Centre for Personalised Medicine, giving back to the community that shaped these creators. It is a wonderful chance to acquire exceptional contemporary art while contributing to meaningful health breakthroughs that benefit people across the nation.

Thursday 5 November to Sunday, 15 November (Check venue for daily hours) | Lowitja O’Donoghue Cultural Centre, University Avenue, Level 2 The Gallery Kambri ANU, Canberra | filotimoart.com

Raw and Refined

Presented as part of the 2026 Craft + Design Canberra Festival, Canberra-based contemporary jeweller Phoebe Porter presents Raw and Refined, a thought-provoking exhibition exploring the tensions between raw and worked, natural and cultural, and material and meaning. Responding to the festival’s theme of Dissent, Porter’s work challenges traditional ideas around value, preciousness, and craft. Set in the Canberra Airport Departure Lounge, the display contrasts raw Australian gold, native copper, uncut sapphires, and meteorite fragments with precision-crafted structures—celebrating deliberate craftsmanship as an act of creative dissent.

Thursday 5 until Sunday 22 November, 5 am–11 pm | Departures Lounge, Canberra Airport | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

Funny Peculiar, Not Funny ‘Ha Ha’: Solo Exhibition by Erin Dickson

Immerse yourself in a striking new body of work by British artist Erin Dickson, marking her first Australian solo exhibition. Hosted at the Canberra Glassworks, this irreverent and maximalist showcase fuses endangered craft traditions like glass gilding with digital technologies, contemporary signage, and internet memes. The exhibition boldly explores the friction between high and low culture while navigating complex themes of humour, grief, anger, and isolation. By colliding British and Australian cultural references, Dickson challenges conventional gallery standards and redefines the boundaries of modern craftsmanship.

Thursday 5 November to Sunday, 31 January | Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com

Enough? Enough! ENOUGH

Canberra Potters presents Enough? Enough! ENOUGH, an exhibition bringing together artists Kara Wood, Raquel Ormella, and Zoe Brand to explore activism, labor, and women’s power. Featuring Wood’s large-scale installation of raw, unfired clay vessels crafted in collaboration with local potters using reclaimed clay, the exhibition combines textile art, wearables, and ceramics to reflect on collective strength, remembrance, and social change.

Friday 6 to Sunday 29 November | Canberra Potters, Watson Arts Centre, 1 Aspinall Street, Watson | canberrapotters.com.au

Inke Falkner: Round and Round

CMAG on the Square presents a major contemporary sculptural work by biologist-turned-artist Dr Inke Falkner. Created following her success at the 2025 Lanyon Art Prize, Round and Round uses the traditional 17th-century technique of straw marquetry on a monumental scale to depict the organic succession and microhabitats of an ant mound. Dyed, split, and flattened by hand, the reflective geometric straw patterns contrast with and mirror the intricate patterns of ecological growth and change.

Saturday 7 November 2026 to Sunday, 13 June 2027 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 180 London Circuit, City | cmag.com.au

POWER – The Future is Here

Canberra Contemporary presents POWER – The Future is Here, a collaborative exhibition between First Nations artist Dennis Golding and Torres Strait Island students from Alexandria Park Community School. Developed through Solid Ground, the exhibition displays handcrafted superhero capes featuring cultural iconography and personal narratives. The capes empower young creators while offering a sharp critique of social and cultural representations of contemporary First Nations experiences.

Saturday 7 November to Saturday, 30 January | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

Quietly Seething: Fate, Fury and Transmutation

Explore an immersive textile and audio installation by artist Dr Tal Fitzpatrick at Canberra Contemporary. Quietly Seething: Fate, Fury and Transmutation features intricate appliqué and embroidery crafted from upcycled materials, surrounding visitors as they listen to headphones playing anonymous confessions of feminine rage from sixty female-identifying individuals. Presented as part of the Craft + Design Canberra Festival, the exhibition creates a gentle yet powerful space reflecting on emotion and gender.

Saturday 7 November to Saturday 30 January, 11 am–5 pm | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

ASOC Spring Exhibition

The Art Society of Canberra (ASOC) presents its 84th annual Spring Exhibition, featuring nearly 300 works by more than 70 local artists. Independent judges will award prizes across nine categories, including Best in Show, Abstract, Flora/Fauna/Still Life, Landscape and Portrait/Figure, while visitors vote for the People’s Choice. ACT Minister for Arts Michael Pettersson will open the exhibition on Saturday 7 November at 6 pm. Founded in 1927, ASOC is one of Canberra’s oldest cultural organisations. Entry is free.

Saturday 7 until Sunday 15 November | Fitters Workshop Gallery, Kingston | asoc.au/spring-exhibition-2026

Kris Ancog: Yearning to breathe free

Kris Ancog presents Yearning to Breathe Free, a solo exhibition of paintings titled after Emma Lazarus’ poem The New Colossus. Inspired by refugees travelling towards safety and rebuilding their lives in unfamiliar lands, the works also reflect the life-changing moments many people encounter. Drawing on the compositional harmony and restrained palettes of Renaissance and Rococo painting, Ancog reworks the classical tradition as contemporary abstraction. Viewed up close, the canvases read as expressive brushwork, colour and light, while from a distance, scenes gradually emerge as though recalled from memory. Light runs through the series as a metaphor for resilience, offering hope without denying struggle.

Until Sunday 8 November | Aarwun Gallery, Shop 11, Federation Square, Nicholls | aarwungallery.com.au

‘Byproducts II’ by Anie Nheu

‘Byproducts II’ began in 2024 with Nheu’s transformation of found materials. Attentive to their histories, functions and uses, their reassembly draws them into new relations guided by their inherent attributes.

Together, elements generate unexpected, sometimes clumsy encounters, neither fully planned nor resolved. The result is not a finished object but a record of transformation: an ongoing negotiation between construction and deconstruction, stability and flux.

Until Sunday 8 November |  Platform, 19 Furneaux Street, Forrest | canberracontemporary.com.au

Future Feature: Teen artists from studioMAP

Step into the inspiring world of young creative talent with the upcoming Future Feature exhibition at M16 Artspace in Griffith. Showcasing the diverse perspectives of emerging teenage artists, this thoughtful collection offers a fascinating glimpse into their artistic journeys as they build confidence and step toward future maturity. It is a wonderful chance for local art lovers to support the next generation of creatives, celebrate fresh local talent, and witness the hopeful, imaginative visions shaping the future of our arts community right here in the heart of the capital.

Until Sunday 15 November, 10 am–4 pm | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | m16artspace.com.au

Bespoke Utopia | Exhibition

An art and design exhibition highlighting regional artists whose practices prioritise craftsmanship, slow design, and sustainability as an alternative to mass production.

Until Sunday 15 November | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

Illuminate: How Science Comes to Light

Questacon presents an interactive exhibition exploring the science of light through 13 hands-on exhibits. Visitors can experiment with light refraction, colour blending, shadow manipulation and reflection across multiple activity stations. The exhibition demonstrates how light travels, reflects and refracts, alongside displays of tools humans have developed to harness light. Activities include bending light, using sensors to create music, and working with lenses. The exhibition is designed for hands-on engagement with scientific concepts. Illuminate: How Science Comes to Light is a Museums Victoria Touring Exhibition running until November 2026.

Until Sunday 22 November | Questacon–The National Science and Technology Centre, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | questacon.edu.au

Hop In! – An Immersive World of Play

Turn the familiar family home inside out at Hop In!, a hands-on exhibition designed for children aged three to 12 and their families. Rooms shift in scale to encourage active play, letting little ones crawl under oversized furniture, stretch beneath cloud-filled skies, and wander through reimagined backyards and kitchens. At the heart of the space is artist Beci Orpin’s Bunny Dearest, a gentle companion guiding children through these imaginative spaces. Created for open-ended discovery, this interactive experience sparks curiosity, builds creative confidence, and offers families a wonderful opportunity to connect through shared play in the heart of the city.

Until Sunday 22 November | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, City | cmag.com.au

Exhibitions at Belconnen Arts Centre

Belconnen Arts Centre opens six diverse new exhibitions showcasing regional talent across textiles, printmaking, ceramics, digital imagery, and painting:

• Animal Portraits: Brenda Runnegar presents composite digital works reimagining domestic pets as majestic figures in early American folk art.

• Occupying Space: Helen Heslop explores South Coast landscapes, colonial history, and Yuin Country through intricate art quilts and collages.

• Passions, Journeys and Imaginings: Christine Upton uses carved bird figures, patterns, and abstract blossoms to explore nature and personal memory.

• Phases: Staff and collaborators from the UC Faculty of Art and Design reflect on global transition, change, and harmony.

• Colour Through My Eyes: Visually impaired artist Lien To shares vibrant Copic marker and collage works reflecting her imaginary safe spaces.

• Histories & Habitats: Fenja T. Ringl combines archaeology, palaeo-ecology, and printmaking on paper and ceramic forms.

Until Sunday 29 November | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

60 Years – Canberra Spinners and Weavers

A retrospective exhibition showcasing contemporary textile works by members of the Canberra Spinners and Weavers to mark 60 years of local craft heritage.

Until Saturday 12 December | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street North, Greenway | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

Behind the Lines 2025: ‘Are We Rolling?’

Behind the Lines 2025: ‘Are We Rolling?’ celebrates the year’s best political cartoons.

Featuring established and emerging cartoonists from across Australia, this exhibition highlights the significant contribution they make to cultural and political debates through witty, insightful and often poignant satirical drawings.

This year our Behind the Lines theme is the cinema, acknowledging that, like some of our favourite movies, 2025 has been full of thrills and spills, romance and heartbreak, with plenty of unexpected plot twists. Australia’s cartoonists and illustrators have tackled many of the issues that made news, including the federal election, the cost of living, energy policy, interest rates, housing security, the economy, climate change and stories from overseas.

Until December 2026 | Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House | moadoph.gov.au

Gurindji Freedom Banners 

A powerful new exhibition commemorating the pivotal 1966 Wave Hill Walk-off opens at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Gurindji Freedom Banners: Mumkurla-nginyi-ma parrngalinyparla–From the darkness into the light unites all ten hand-painted banners for the first time in years, telling the story of when Gurindji and neighbouring peoples, led by Vincent Lingiari AM, walked off Wave Hill Station on 23 August 1966.

Their demands for fair working conditions and return of traditional lands sparked landmark change, leading to the first handback of Aboriginal land in 1975 and paving the way for the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976. The textile banners were created in 2000 by 35 Gurindji people, many walk-off participants, with one recently recreated after going missing.

Now showing until late 2026 | Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House | moadoph.gov.au

Wangka Wakaṉutja: the story of the Papunya Literature Production Centre

Between 1979 and 1990, the Papunya Literature Production Centre produced hundreds of illustrated bilingual books–funny, moving, extraordinary documents of Pintupi-Luritja language and culture, guided by community Elders who were also pioneers of the Western Desert art movement. Many of those books have been held in the National Library’s collections ever since, and this landmark new exhibition finally brings them to life. Featuring stories, drawings, photographs, manuscripts, and oral histories drawn from multiple collections, it’s a profoundly significant celebration of Aboriginal literary culture, collective creativity, and the remarkable human effort to keep language alive across generations.

Until Saturday, 31 January | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au

Rosalie Gascoigne

Opening at the National Gallery of Australia, this major exhibition celebrates the career of Rosalie Gascoigne (1917–1999), one of Australia’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Famous for transforming discarded, weathered items—such as retro-reflective road signs, wooden crates, and feathers—into poetic assemblages, her works reflect the light, color, and texture of the surrounding Kamberri/Canberra landscape.

Until Sunday 14 February | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au

David Hockney: Portraits in Print

David Hockney: Portraits in Print opens at the National Gallery of Australia, drawing on the gallery’s own collection, the largest holding of Hockney’s work in the country. The display brings together more than 60 prints spanning almost 30 years, tracing the artist’s portraits of family, friends and collaborators across Los Angeles, Paris and London in the 1970s and 80s. Works include etchings, lithographs and photocollages, alongside experimental processes such as mylar sheets and faxes.

Until Sunday 14 February 2027, free | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place, Parkes | nga.gov.au

Quantum Tomorrow: Imagined Futures

Step into a vibrant, near-future Australia where once-impossible technologies transform how we live, work, and play. Questacon’s latest immersive gallery, Quantum Tomorrow: Imagined Futures, makes the complex world of quantum physics accessible, playful, and incredibly fun.

Developed in collaboration with Canberra illustrator Paul Summerfield, the exhibition brings tomorrow’s tech to life through colourful, highly detailed illustrations, giant airborne sculptures, and a mesmerising cloud chamber that reveals the invisible world of tiny particles. Along the way, visitors can meet the pioneering Australian researchers who are harnessing the unique behaviours of quantum objects to solve some of the world’s most critical challenges. From un-hackable communications and personalised medicine to ultra-responsive prosthetics, you’ll discover how a quantum future promises to make ordinary lives extraordinary.

Open daily through 30 June 2027 | Gallery 8, Questacon, Parkes | questacon.edu.au

Yarning: Sharing Stories, Celebrating Culture

Explore Yarning, a vibrant new exhibition at Australian Parliament House showcasing the creative voices and stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander secondary students from across the nation. Featuring artworks from over 70 young artists, the display showcases entries from the Yarning competition exploring themes of Country, identity, family, and reconciliation, including the three winning pieces. Located in the public area on the Level 1 Senate side, this inspiring collection offers a powerful platform for young First Nations storytellers.

Open daily until February 2027 | Australian Parliament House, Capital Hill | aph.gov.au

RELICS: A New World Rises

Step into an extraordinary, imagined future where vintage objects become homes for intricate miniature worlds built from LEGO® bricks. Created by LEGO® Masters winners Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler, RELICS: A New World Rises features over 15 large-scale installations set in a world humanity has abandoned. Discover a refrigerator turned cryogenic resort or a grandfather clock transformed into a time machine. Packed with hidden details, humor, and nostalgia, this immersive exhibition playfully explores sustainability, consumer culture, and human creativity. Designed to captivate visitors aged 0–99, it is a wonderful reminder to slow down and embrace curiosity.

Until Sunday 31 January 2027 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, City | cmag.com.au

Floral Impressions: Coins in Bloom

The Royal Australian Mint’s exhibition Floral Impressions: Coins in Bloom draws on never-before-seen objects from the National Collection to explore the rich symbolism of flowers on coins from around the world. The exhibition traces how floral designs struck into metal carry stories of national identity, cultural heritage and remembrance — from Australia’s kangaroo paw and the South African protea to the Western Samoan Teuila.

Decorative motifs such as laurel, olive and oak wreaths, used for centuries as symbols of victory, peace and strength, also feature. Commemorative coins in the exhibition show how flowers have honoured significant historical moments and individuals across cultures.

Until March 2027 | Royal Australian Mint, 62–114 Denison Street, Deakin | ramint.gov.au

Tamara Lalayan Gallery Exhibition

Immerse yourself in a world of colour and imagination with Tamara Lalayan’s latest art showcase, currently on display in the elegant Howard Lounge. Inspired by memory, movement, and the quiet beauty of everyday moments, Tamara’s expressive works invite viewers into richly layered landscapes. Each piece captures the subtle emotions and natural wonder found so effortlessly in our surrounding environment. Set within the historic surroundings of Hyatt Hotel Canberra, this peaceful exhibition offers art lovers and visitors a tranquil space to reflect and appreciate local creative talent. Pop in for a quiet moment of inspiration during your next city outing.

Until 28 February 2027 | Howard Lounge, Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | hyatt.com

National Library of Australia Treasures Gallery

The National Library has millions of books, and the Treasures Gallery answers the frequently asked question, ‘Where are they’. They also collect other items. From maps and manuscripts to photographs and paintings, the Treasures Gallery is where you can find highlights from their vast physical and digital collections. Behind-the-scenes videos, pages from William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice from the First Folio, a cedar bookcase carved by Dorothea Mackellar, photographs from the nation’s photo album, and a display of The Wiggles’ websites from 1997 to today from the Australian Web Archive are among the new additions.

Until December 2030 | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au

Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years

Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years is a permanent portrait exhibition celebrating 50 years of women as residents at John XXIII College. Featuring fifty alumni, the exhibition pairs portraiture with personal reflections to capture the evolving experience of women across five decades. Photographed by ANU School of Art graduate Bronte Morel across Australia and internationally, each work is set in a location of personal significance. Together, the collection forms an intergenerational narrative of leadership, identity and community, recognising the enduring contribution of women to the College and beyond.

Permanent exhibition, open 9 am–5 pm daily | Front foyer, John XXIII College, 51 Daley Road, Australian National University, Canberra | johnxxiii.anu.edu.au

Feature image: Tim-Ngo