35 events to level up your calendar this week
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Sun? Is that you? While we won’t blame you if you spend the whole week sunbathing, there’s plenty to do around Canberra (ahem, 35 events but who’s counting?).
From vintage pop ups to endless Christmas-themed events and the Sunset Cinema—your diary just got a much-needed level up. Enjoy!
Special events + festivals
Christmas in the City
Celebrate Christmas in the City as City Walk is transformed into ‘Christmas Walk’ with uniquely Canberran Christmas decorations, a 16 metre renewed tree and a packed program of fantastic offers from local businesses.
Whether you’re popping out for a bit of Christmas shopping, celebrating with friends or getting that classic (sometimes stressful) family photo with Santa, there’s a bit of festive fun for everyone.
Until Saturday 24 December | City Walk, Canberra City | christmas.inthecity.com.au
Those Dashing McDonagh Sisters: A Book Launch at the NFSA
A terrific evening of literature, female empowerment and Australian cinema history, head along to the launch of Those Dashing McDonagh Sisters: Australia’s first female filmmaking team by Mandy Sayer.Mandy will be in conversation with NFSA Program Manager Karina Libbey about these three astonishing sisters, their careers and the book’s deep dive into Australian cinema history, supported by clips and images from the NFSA collection.
Thursday 8 December, 6 pm | Australian National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Cct, Acton | Tickets here.
Summer Harlequin Show
It’s the final show of the year—and to celebrate Grainger Gallery is bringing together a patchwork of pieces and genres from various artists. Available for purchase, there’s sure to be something in the eclectic variety of works that will make the perfect Christmas gift.
Thursday 8 December | Grainger Gallery, 3.3 1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick | graingergallery.com.au
Fix ‘N’ Ride Jam Session
This free Bike Library is the perfect opportunity to learn how to fix a bike (or even hire a bike if you need one)! There are lots of maintenance tips and tricks to learn, so bring your bike along—and don’t worry if you don’t have one, there will be plenty available for all ages. It will be a fun arvo of riding, fixing, and BBQ !
Friday 9 December, 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm | Margaret Hendry School, 100 Sutherland Cres, Taylor | facebook.com/events
Canberra Miss Flamingo Pop Up Shop
Fancy yourself a one-of-a-kind 50’s vintage dress? Let us point you in the direction of the Canberra Miss Flamingo Pop-Up Shop. With adorable cardigans, accessories and pin-up style dresses in an all-inclusive range, you are guaranteed to be stopped in the street and asked, ‘Where did you get that?!’ Head to Tuggeranong and thank us later.
Friday 9 December | Corner Anketell & Reed Streets, Greenway Tuggeranong | facebook.com
Cressida Campbell Archie Rose Gin Making Masterclass
Love gin? Join the National Gallery and Archie Rose Gin for an exclusive tasting at the Canberra Centre! Taste the limited-edition Cressida Campbell gin while you hear from the exhibition Curator and Archie Rose mixologist and learn it’s history of gin, how it’s made and how the specific Cressida Campbell gin came to be.
Friday 9 December, 6 pm – 7 pm | Canberra Centre | Tickets here.
Canberra Carols by Candlelight
Carols by Candlelight is back in Canberra! It’s the first free, live-audience performance of the Carols since the pandemic began, and the choir is very much looking forward to leading the audience in a selection of carols old and new. So pack a picnic and grab a blanket, it’s time to channel the Christmas spirit.
Saturday 10 December, 7 pm – 10 pm | Stage 88, Commonwealth Park | facebook.com/events
Ginninderry Christmas in the Park
Head along to Paddys Park and watch it come to life with live music, kids activities, carols, a Santa photo booth, food and market stalls, and much more! Name a better way to spend a Saturday (for free)?
Saturday 10 December, 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Paddys Park, Corner Asimus Avenue and Pro Hart Avenue, Strathnairn | facebook.com/events
Ukrainian Christmas and St Nicholas Day Celebration
Kick off the festive season with an evening filled with delicious Ukrainian food, including traditional Christmas dishes, and a variety of theatrical, musical and dance performances. Test you knowledge of everything Ukrainian in a trivia and win some amazing prizes in a raffle. You will also have a chance to purchase some unique items at an auction. Please bring your mobile phone with you as this will be required for the trivia.
All proceeds from this event will go to trusted Ukrainian charities.
Saturday 10 December, 5pm | Canberra Deakin Football Club 3 Grose Street Deakin | Tickets here
Free pet photography with Santa
That’s right, it’s time to grab your fur-child and dress them in their Christmas best—running every weekend until Sunday 17 December, families can head along to the Dickson Shops to have their family paw-trait taken (get it?)—and the best part is it’s FREE.
Taking over the stage near the Dickson Library (perfect for popping in afterwards to read the kids a Christmas tale or two), Santa and Ms Claus will be ready and waiting for professional photos of the whole family—complete with a Christmas-y backdrop.
Every weekend until Sunday 17 December, 11 am – 2 pm | Dickson Shops | facebook.com/events
Food + wine
IKEA festive dining experience
IKEA Australia is bringing the cheer with an elaborate Christmas dining experience available in stores nationwide. Hosting a range of festive activities, (including lucky door prizes and Christmas craft workshops) IKEA will also be putting a Swedish twist on Christmas classics and serving up a delicious three course meal packed with a tasty array of delights including Kalles Kaviar, iconic IKEA meatballs and turkey roast topped off with a sweet treat of Daim cake or Christmas plum pudding.
Friday 9 December | 1030 Majura Rd, Pialligo | Tickets here.
Introductory wine appreciation with Pique Nique
Wine-not learn the basics of your favourite beverage this December? In this class you’ll discover the essential elements of wine, how wine is made, and food and wine pairing—and you get to do all this by tasting through a hand-picked selection of quality Canberra wines.
Saturday 10 December, 1 pm – 3 pm | Canberra Visitors Centre, Regatta Point, Parkes | Tickets here.
The Wizard’s Den
Witches and wizards of Canberra, behold! Get ready to unleash your inner magical being as you brew potions, cast spells, and drink more mead than you can shake a wand at—at this pop-up bar, you’ll concoct devilish brews for good (or evil), all under the watchful eye of their wise potions master.
Until Tuesday 31 January 2023 | Zoo Bar, London Circuit, Canberra City | Tickets here.
Cressida Campbell: Grazing by the Garden
Inspired by Cressida Campbell’s love of gardens and shared food between friends, the National Gallery is hosting Grazing by the Garden. Design your own grazing experience and choose from a selection of delicious scones with ribbon sandwiches, local grazing boards or a rustic pizza flatbread prepared daily. Espresso coffee, specialty tea or wine and beer will also be available, perfect for a light lunch in the Gallery’s dining room with scenic views of the Sculpture Garden and Lake Burley Griffin.
Until Sunday 19 February 2023 | National Gallery of Australia | nga.gov.au
Stage + screen
Decadence and Debauchery
You can’t miss this. Decadence and Debauchery is back this month at the Belconnen Arts Centre! Expect some of Canberra’s best performers and some international headliners—including Kelly Ann Doll, who was voted in the Top 10 Most Influential Burlesque Artists in Australia by 21st Century Burlesque Magazine!
Saturday 10 December, 8 pm | 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | Tickets here.
Full Swing
A great afternoon’s entertainment for the whole family, this concert at the Harmonie German Club will see a range of music played, reflecting the musical journey of Canberra’s big band, Full Swing. The band will be led by Musical Director (MD) Beth Way, and there will be several alumni appearing as special guests including former MD Nathan Sciberras.
Sunday 11 December, 3 pm – 5 pm | 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | harmonieclub.com.au
Winging It: The Musical
Canberra’s premier unscripted comedy troupe is back to combine the mischief of improvisation with the magic of musical theatre!
Each night, the Lightbulb players and musicians will create a brand new musical before your very eyes, complete with memorable characters, captivating songs, spirited dance routines, and epic story lines, with the razzle-dazzle of a Broadway show.
Thursday 8 until Saturday 10 December | Canberra Theatre Centre | Tickets here.
Sunset Cinema
Sunset cinema is back for summer and with even more screening nights, and food options (hello popcorn and burgers from the Hungry Brown Cow) you better be excited. Screening weekly Wednesday to Saturday until February 2023, it’s the perfect opportunity for movie lovers to bask in the warm nights while enjoying some of their favourite films.
Until Saturday 25 February 2023 | Australian National Botanic Gardens sunsetcinema
Music
‘Merry and Gay’
Canberra Qwire is hosting a concert full of beautiful, fun and queer vocal music that will bolster your spirits and propel you into the festive season with a full heart. Held on the eve of thier 30th anniversary year, Qwire is raising funds to support an LGBTIQ+ choir from Timor Leste.
Sunday 11 December, 2 pm |Q theatre, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre | Tickets here
On the Road to Christmas
The Wesley Music Scholars are here to make December festive. The final Wednesday Lunchtime Concert for 2022 is an opportunity to hear, appreciate and encourage this wonderful group of musicians as we look forward to the festive season and a new year. The Scholars performing in this concert are: Zoë Loxley Slump oboe; James Monro cello; Ronan Apcar piano; Yona Su viola. The program will feature Claude Debussy’s Sonata for Cello and Piano in D minor plus works by Ross Edwards and Brad Mehldau. Christmas refreshments for performers and audience follow the concert.
Wednesday 7 December, 12:40 pm – 1:20 pm | 20 National Circuit, Forrest | Tickets here.
Full Swing
A great afternoon’s entertainment for the whole family, this concert at the Harmonie German Club will see a range of music played, reflecting the musical journey of Canberra’s big band, Full Swing. The band will be led by Musical Director (MD) Beth Way, and there will be several alumni appearing as special guests including former MD Nathan Sciberras.
Sunday 11 December, 3 pm – 5 pm | 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | harmonieclub
Midland at UC Refectory
Grammy-nominated trio Midland will return Down Under in December as they bring The Last Resort: Greetings From Tour to Australia. Hailing from Dripping Springs, TX lead vocalist Mark Wystrach fronts Midland’s rich sound that is rounded out with lead guitarist Jess Carson and bass player Cameron Duddy.
Their critically acclaimed freshman album “On the Rocks” (Big Machine Records), features 13 tracks with songwriting credits from each member alongside hitmakers Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne.
Thursday 8 December | UC Refectory | Tickets here.
The Feather Came First EP Launch
After concluding four years of study at the ANU Jazz School of Music, join Ally Hocking Howe for her debut EP launch ‘The Feather Came First’.
Blending layers of violin harmony, electronic production and the musical expertise of Regina Carter, Andrea Keller, Brendan Keller-Tuberg and Isaac Said.
Her live arrangements will feature the talent of Tab Hart, Yona Su, Isaac Said, Nick Chenery, John Dobson and Ragnel Jansdotter. Support acts include the Isaac Said Trio and Nick Chenery and Co.
Thursday 8 December | Shop4/2 Frencham Pl, Downer | Tickets here.
Markets (Christmas Edition)
Christmas at The Little Burley Market
Some festive fun is coming to the lakeside: The Little Burley Market will be celebrating the festive season every Saturday in December. Forget the chaos of Christmas stuck inside a shopping center, this year Canberra’s own bespoke market by the lake is bringing a festive shopping experience. And with the chance to have photos with Santa, a relaxing drink and picnic whilst listening to Christmas tunes, and shopping for the perfect gift from local Canberra makers, we’ll be there with (jingle) bells on.
Saturday until Saturday 24 December, 9 am – 1.30pm | Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket
Handmade Market
Canberra’s favourite handmade food and design market is back, just in time for Christmas shopping. Browse jewellery, beauty products, art, clothing, food, drink and more—there’s sure to be something you want to leave under the tree.
Friday 9 until Sunday 11 December | EPIC Park, Corner of Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell | handmadecanberra.com.au
Ginninderry Christmas in the Park
Head along to Paddys Park and watch it come to life with live music, kids activities, carols, a Santa photo booth, food and market stalls, and much more! Name a better way to spend a Saturday (for free)?
Saturday 10 December, 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Paddys Park, Corner Asimus Avenue and Pro Hart Avenue, Strathnairn | facebook.com/events
The Canberra Christmas Market
Gather family and friends and get into the Christmas spirit: over two-days, shoppers will uncover wonderful gifts, specialty items, gourmet foods and more…many items not available in regular retail outlets or shopping mall stores.
Listen to wonderful carols, meet Santa and get the kids to help decorate gingerbread houses—this is a one-stop shop for all your Christmas needs.
Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December | Fitzroy Building, Exhibition Park, Mitchell | canberramarkets.net.au
Canberra Potters 2022 Christmas Fair
When you’re looking for Christmas gifts, where can you go for something truly unique? The answer: the Canberra Potters Christmas Fair. Between the fair and the shop you’re sure to find the perfect gift at the perfect price, and you’ll know that you’re buying from a local maker. Browse a wonderful selection of ceramic art and pottery and enjoy coffee, cold drinks and poffertjes from Sylvie & Bruno.
Saturday 10 until Saturday 18 December, 10 am – 4 pm | 1 Aspinall St, Watson | canberrapotters.com.au
Exhibitions
Weird Years
A family who tragically lost their young son to suicide last year are sharing his artistic works to highlight the importance of integrated support for young people struggling with mental health.
Ravi Madan was a Canberra-based artist who, following a degree in industrial design, ventured to explore his own brand of neo-expressionism. The exhibition Weird Years uniquely self-chronicles the later years of Ravi’s life, capturing his experiences of happiness, love, and tragedy. The exhibition comprises of large and small-scale oil paintings, all displaying Ravi’s immense talent and passion for colour, layers, and symbolism.
Tuesday 6 December, 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm | 76 Alinga St, Canberra City smithsalternative
Feared and Revered: Feminine Power through the Ages
Celebrating the power and diversity of female spiritual beings in cultural traditions and beliefs across the globe, this exhibition explores how goddesses, demons, witches, spirits and saints have shaped our understanding of the world.
Featuring more than 160 objects from the British Museum’s exceptional collection, this is a timely exhibition that explores and questions feminine power, authority and identity.
Tuesday 8 December until Sunday 27 August 2023 | National Museum of Australia | nma.gov.au
The Robert F!NK National Metal Prize
We’re all obsessed with the F!nk jug (hello Christmas present inspo), but did you know that there’s a Robert Foster F!NK National Metal Prize celebrating outstanding work in the field of contemporary metalworking? Recognising the exceptional skill and innovative design of both established and emerging designers and craftspeople, head along to see the work of 10 finalists and see the winners of the three awards: an established artist, an emerging artist, and an acquisition prize.
Until Saturday 10 December | Craft ACT, Level 1, North Building, 180 London Circuit | designcanberrafestival
Seeing Seventies: Photography Competition
There’s no denying that Canberra has some iconic architecture—and this exhibition at Craft ACT is the ultimate celebration of design in the 70s. Capturing the best of Canberra’s design and architecture from the decade, the exhibition has over 90 photographs from professional and amateur photographers—perfect for spending an afternoon immersing yourself in architecture and art.
Until Saturday 10 December | Craft ACT, Level 1, North Building, 180 London Circuit | designcanberrafestival
Small works
Beaver Galleries has invited a selection of gallery and guest artists to participate in our annual small works exhibition. There will be a range of mediums— including paintings, prints, drawings, sculpture, glass, ceramics and weaving—with the artists working in a scale smaller than their usual practice. A tiny yet incredibly might exhibition, well worth checking out.
Until Friday 23 December | 81 Denison Street, Deakin | beavergalleries
Workshops, webinars + more
James Joyce’s Radio Tower of Babel
James Joyce’s Radio Tower of Babel is a program of words, music, sounds, noises, signals, static and interference inspired by Finnegans Wake. Held as apart of the programme of Out of the Ordinary: On Poetry and the World (a three day conference on poetry’s relationship to the extraordinary and Canberra’s first ever carbon-neutral conference) you can’t miss this.
Wednesday 7 December, 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm | King O’Malley’s 131 City Walk, Canberra City | Tickets here.
Frew Fellowship Public Lecture – Generating High-Intensity, Ultrashort Optical Pulses
It’s not often a Nobel Prize winner comes to town. Donna Strickland received the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics, 33 years after she published in first scientific paper in partnership with her PhD supervisor, Gérard Mourou.
In that paper, they described how they had succeeded in creating ultrashort high-intensity laser pulses without destroying the amplifying material. Their breakthrough, known as chirped pulse amplification, resulted in the most intense laser pulses ever. Book into the lecture to learn all about the research.
Wednesday 7 December, 5.30 pm – 6.30 pm | The Shine Dome, 15 Gordon St, Acton | Book here.
Portrait Photography Sessions at the National Library
Forget Santa! This Christmas, have your portrait taken at the National Library of Australia by the staff from PhotoAccess ACT. You’ll be able to takeaway a memento of your visit, create a family memory, or perhaps use the photo as a Christmas present for loved ones. And if that wasn’t enough to sway you to skip the queue for Santa, did we mention that the pictures will be taken on large format cameras?
Saturday 10 December | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | nla.gov.au
Choices in Childbirth
Are you expecting? Have you considered a doula? The Canberra Doulas are holding monthly information sessions for all those expecting to find out more about what a doula is and all that they can offer during pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Learn how a doula can support you in preparation for your birth and how they can also assist you once you bring your baby home.
Saturday 10 December, 10 am – 1 pm | Tulips Café, 8 Beltana Road Piallago | CanberraDoulas
Workshop: Make your own Victorian Christmas Decorations
Ever wonder how Christmas was celebrated in the Victorian era? Come along to Lanyon to see the home dressed for Christmas and learn how to make Victorian Christmas decorations. Make an aromatic pomander, peg doll angel and vintage Christmas card for your own home or to gift a loved one. A tour and workshop for all ages!
Saturday 10 December | Tharwa Drive, Tharwa | historicplaces
Mosaic Table Lamp Workshop Canberra
Are you obsessed with Turkish lamps? Learn how to make your own with the experts from Art Masterclass! With these fun Canberra activities, you’ll create a traditional Turkish mosaic using tiles (tesserae) and a beautiful geometric template of your choice. Time to get creative!
Until June 23 | 24 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | artmasterclass
