90+ events to keep you busy and booked this June
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Winter might officially be here, but Canberra is heating up with a manic month of events.
And the list. Just. Keeps. Growing.
From your favourite winter markets to the Xmas In July festival, music, movies and more, there’s sure to be something in these 90+ events to keep you busy and booked this June.
Special Events and Festivals
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
This is one the whole family can enjoy. But just a warning: it’s not a fluffy fairytale. Instead, this story is brimming with mirth and mayhem, whimsy and wickedness – and it’s probably what Shakespeare would have wanted.
Coming to the Canberra Theatre Centre this June, Bell Shakespeare’s fantastical adaption of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is bringing the beloved romantic comedy by William Shakespeare to the Playhouse stage, reimagined and refreshed.
Friday 7 until Saturday 15 June | Canberra Theatre Centre | Tickets here.
Rent: The Musical
You read that right, Jonathan Larson’s electrifying, multi-Tony® Award-winning musical Rent is coming to Canberra.
Featuring the iconic songs ‘Seasons of Love’ ‘Take Me or Leave Me’ and ‘La Vie Bohème’, this groundbreaking phenomenon is more than a musical; it’s a celebration of life, love, and the human spirit. Grab tickets now!
Friday 7 until Thursday 13 June, 7:30 pm – 10 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Book here.
Royal Canberra Poultry Show
This is set to be an iconic gathering of poultry enthusiasts as the finest poultry specimens from the region gather for two days.
This year’s exhibition will feature a diverse array of chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys but beyond the competitions, you can look forward to an exciting blend of entertainment, educational programs, and captivating exhibitions!
Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June, 8:30 am – 2 pm | Exhibition Park, Flemington Road, Mitchell | More information here.
Fresh Fest: Harris Farm Markets grand opening
Welcome to Fresh Fest, the highly anticipated grand opening of Harris Farm Markets!
Celebrate and experience a weekend of excitement and fun for the whole family. Enjoy creative kids’ workshops, live music, entertainment, cooking demonstrations by chefs, exciting giveaways and more.
With a commitment to sustainability and quality, Harris Farm Markets offers a wide range of products, from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to gourmet groceries and pantry essentials.
This new fresh food shopping experience, along with retail giants already located at Majura Park, including Costco, Woolworths, and Aldi, makes Majura Park the ultimate grocery destination for Canberrans.
8-9 June | Harris Farm Market, Majura Park | Free entry | Some activities require registrations, see website for more information and full event details.
Hughes Repair Café
This is a fun and hands-on event where you can bring in your broken items and learn how to fix them with the help of some very skilled volunteers.
Whether it’s a wonky toaster or a wobbly chair, it can be fixed. There will also be an electric bike come-and try and you can get some gardening advice from Helen’s Garden Mentoring!
Saturday 8 June, 10 am – 1 pm | Hughes Community Centre, Whittle Street, Hughes | More information here.
Centenary of Style Walking Tour
For a century, the Hyatt Hotel Canberra has been synonymous with elegance and splendour – and this is your chance to learn all about it.
Experience an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel (which starts with a glass of sparkling wine on arrival) and hear of its rich history and cultural significance, before finishing your day with a Devonshire tea.
Tuesday 18 June, 1 pm – 3 pm | Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | Book here.
The Xmas in July Festival
Real Christmas trees, wooden huts, hot chocolate, mulled wine, Christmas lights and melted cheese stations…our favourite European-style Christmas Market is back this winter. After a tres successful year last year that saw over 60,000 people attending the free festival, French Christmas vibes are back for one long weekend of seasonal deliciousness from Thursday 27 until Sunday 30 June.
Expect mulled wine and falling snow to melted cheese (raclette!) stations, real Christmas trees, wooden huts, hot chocolate, mulled wine, Christmas lights and live music.
Thursday 27 until Sunday 30 June | National Rose Gardens, Parkes | More information here.
Friends with Her x HerCanberra
Friends With Her x HerCanberra is back at Highball this June for our next networking and friend-making event.
Get ready for a night of laughter, connection, and empowerment with people you know or want to know. See you there?
Thursday 27 June, 6 pm – 7.30 pm | Highball Bar, 77 London Circuit, City | Registration is required via Eventbrite
Markets
Hartley Hall Markets
Held on the first Sunday of the month, head along to the Hartley Hall Markets to explore over 200 stalls of food, furniture, clothing, toys, art and more.
Stroll among the trees, stay for lunch and enjoy the fresh air, live entertainment and children’s activities!
Sunday 2 June, 10 am – 3 pm | Hall Showground, Hall Street, Hall | More information here.
Geek Markets
This is the biggest free pop-culture event in Canberra!
The perfect place to come and support local and interstate geeky artists, creators and traders, you’ll find handmade items, art, comic books, collectibles and more.
Saturday 8 June, 9 am – 5 pm | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Corner Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell | More information here.
Kids In The Shed
This is a super fun family day out at the markets.
Celebrating being a kid and what they do best – have fun – you’ll find handcrafted toys, kids’ room accessories, artworks, handmade clothes and more!
Sunday 9 June, 9:30 am – 2:30 pm | The Old Bus Depot Markets, 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | More information here.
Three Sixty Fashion Market
Get your fashion fix with this niche Canberra market dedicated to sustainable fashion. Selling high end designer and vintage clothing and accessories, you never know what you’ll find!
Sunday 23 June | Fitter’s Workshop, Printers Way, Kingston | More information here.
The Handmade Markets
It’s baaaaack! Head along to this award-winning indoor market to support small businesses, meet the makers and find unique Australian-made items.
With everything from fashion, to an indoor gourmet food and wine pavilion, you’ll be sure to discover something.
Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 June, 10 am – 4 pm | Exhibition Park (EPIC), Budawang and Coorong Pavilions, Lyneham | More information here.
Super Sunday
The Old Bus Depot Markets is pulling together some of the best stalls from the Multicultural, Designer and Collectable markets and it promises to be one of the most bustling events at the Old Bus Depot.
Head along to try some freshly baked treats, eye artful accessories from long-time jewellers, try on the latest styles from local designers and much more.
Sunday 30 June | The Old Bus Depot Markets, 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | More information here.
Capital Region Farmers Market
Fresh produce, flowers and the ready-to-eat food and coffee. What more could you need? The Capital Region Farmers Market has everything you need.
7 am – 11.30 am Saturday | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Old Well Station Road, Mitchell | capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au
Little Burley Markets
Offering a diverse array of multicultural foods, much-loved beverages and brunchables, beautiful blooms, locally made art, fashion, photography and homewares, artisanal bread, delectable pastries, seafood, smoked charcuterie, truffles, meats, puppy treats, and much more, you’ll be able to find plenty of goodies at this bespoke lakeside market
8 am – 1 pm Saturday | Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.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 and pet treats.
8 am–11.30 am Sunday | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip | facebook.com
Haig Park Markets
Moments away from Lonsdale street’s boutiques and cafes, the Haig Park Village Markets will delight your senses with delicious cuisines, tasty treats, beautiful blooms, fresh produce, delectable charcuterie and artisan products. It’s a lovely place to enjoy a picnic whilst feasting your senses on the culinary delights on offer or to browse the fabulous local handmade design stalls.
8.30 am – 2 pm Sundays | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.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. There’s simply no better way to spend your Sunday in Canberra.
Every Sunday | 21 Wentworth Ave, Kingston | obdm.com.au
Food and Wine
Truffle Infused Weekends at Mount Majura Vineyard
It’s finally truffle season and that means it’s time to book your favourite truffle and wine experience.
Enjoy truffle infused triple-cream brie-style cheese with a flight of three 80ml glasses that have been perfectly matched for $40 per person. With sessions available all day Saturday and Sunday, online bookings close the day prior.
Every weekend from Saturday 8 June until Sunday 1 September, 10 am – 5 pm | Mount Majura Vineyard, 88 Lime Kiln Road, Majura | Book here.
Whisky Business: The Science of Whisky at Questacon
Have you ever wondered how the smokiness in your whisky links to climate change? Or what happens when whisky meets liquid nitrogen? And just who is Bog Man? This is a night where the magic of whisky and the marvels of science come together.
Head to Questacon to explore the science of whisky. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice, their experts will share the secrets and fascinating science behind whisky production and aging.
Friday 21 and Saturday 22 June, 7 pm – 9 pm | Questacon, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | Book here.
Dinner With The Stars at Harvest Day Out
Love stars? Love food? This is the night for you.
Enjoy a delicious two-course meal at the Barrack’s Café with an introductory presentation on what to look out for in the night sky. Then move out into the grounds where you will explore the heavens through some powerful telescopes and learn more about the mysteries of the night sky.
Friday 21 June, 6 pm – 9 pm | Lanyon Homestead, Tharwa Drive, Tharwa | Book here.
The Forage
Popping up at the Acton Waterfront to celebrate their 10th birthday, this local food festival is back with a bang.
Expect your old favourites and some exciting new announcements.
Saturday 22 June | Acton Waterfront | More information here.
Tipsy Sundaze
At “Tipsy Sundaze” the weekend doesn’t have to end on a flat note.
Come together with friends and elevate your Sunday at Amici. Unwind, sip, and savour while experiencing the very best Canberra’s music scene has to offer.
Every Sunday from 2.30-5.30 pm | Amici, Northbourne Avenue, City | Find out more here
Stage and Screen
Chappie + Panel | Science. Art. Film. Series
Are robots superior to humans? What role does humour play in this exploration of AI-driven technological progress – and is it progress after all? These are the questions this screening and panel asks.
Examining both Chappie’s comic robot and its portrayal of artificial intelligence and social order, it’s a fun and insightful look at how digital technologies, algorithms and computational tools interact with human society.
Wednesday 5 June, 6 pm – 8:45 pm | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | Book here.
The Highway of Lost Hearts
Who doesn’t love a gritty road trip through the Australian outback? Playing at The Q in Queanbeyan for two days only, The Highway of Lost Hearts is a not-to-be-missed drama that fuses magic and realism.
Following a woman who is looking for her missing heart, her canine co-pilot and their journey in a campervan across 4,500kms of open road, from navigating fire and flood to murky waters filled with lost souls, it will leave you asking yourself how far you’d go to find your heart.
Thursday 6 to Friday 7 June | 253 Crawford Street, Queanbeyan | Tickets here.
Thank God It’s Theatre
Thank God It’s Theatre is a monthly improv show to help kick off your Friday night with a laugh.
Doors open with a casual open mic, followed by “Sink or Swim”, an improv show by Canberra’s most generously seasoned thespians. Grab yourself a drink and get giggling.
Friday 7 June, 5 pm – 7 pm | Blank, 15 Moore Street, City | Book here.
Almost Famous + Karaoke
With Billy Crudup and Jason Lee playing the too-cool-for-school bandmembers, and Kate Hudson their devout fan, this screening at the National Film and Sound Archive is perfect for music lovers.
Did we mention that you can stick around and showcase your own musical talents with a post-screening karaoke session on the Arc Cinema stage?
Friday 7 June, 6 pm – 9 pm | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | Book here.
Casper – Pizza and Pyjama Screening
Come in your comfiest PJs, bring your favourite teddy or blanket, and enjoy this extra-cosy, Friday night family screening of this 1990s family classic.
There will be pizza on arrival (included with ticket) and lots of fun!
Friday 14 June, 6 pm – 8:15 pm | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | Book here.
Floor Element 2024
This is an electrifying dance competition at Canberra’s Harmonie German Club!
Showcasing captivating routines, diverse talents, and sultry moves that will leave you breathless, it’s a massive celebration of creativity and community.
Saturday 15 June, 6 pm – 10 pm | Harmonie German Club, Canberra, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | More information here.
Terror by Ferdinand von Schirach
Guilty or not guilty? Enter the courtroom, hear the evidence, and make your judgement. An interactive show where the fate of a fighter pilot is placed in the audience’s hands, you’ll be the jury and judge.
Until Sunday 16 June | Mill Theatre at Dairy Road, 1 Dairy Road, Building 3.3, Fyshwick | Book here.
A Street Car Named Desire
It’s a classic story that’s been loved for decades. And now, (following their acclaimed production of Speaking in Tongues) Free-Rain Theatre Company returns in 2024 with one of the most influential plays of the twentieth century.
Set in the French Quarter of New Orleans in 1947 – the same year the play was written – when Blanche unexpectedly visits her estranged sister Stella, she brings with her a past that will threaten their future. Reality and illusion collide and a violent conflict changes their lives forever in Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire.
Wednesday 19 until Saturday 29 June | ACT Hub, 14 Spinifex Street, Kingston | Book here.
BIRRARANGGA Film Festival
The National Film and Sound Archive is partnering with BIRRARANGGA Film Festival to celebrate global Indigenous films that explore the curatorial themes of ‘strength, resilience and the environment’.
Don’t miss a selection of 15 outstanding feature-length and short films from First Nations creatives around the world, as well as a panel conversation with international screen leaders who will explore the idea of Story Sovereignty and examine the age-old question of who gets to tell Indigenous stories.
Thursday 20 until Sunday 23 June | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | Book here.
Momenta
This is a journey into the poetry and physics of human connection by celebrated choreographer Rafael Bonachela.
Brimming with Bonachela’s distinct style, rich with rhythmical and spatial patterning and endlessly inventive partnering, watch as the dancers of Sydney Dance Company transcend physical limitations; exploring the full range of their bodies with grace, power and vulnerability.
Friday 21 until Saturday 22 June, 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Book here.
James and The Giant Peach (Canberra Theatre Centre)
From the company behind the smash-hit, adored seasons of Fantastic Mr Fox, The Twits and George’s Marvellous Medicine, get ready for a bold new theatrical adaption of one of the most loved children’s classic books.
Bringing Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach to life, the whole family is invited to join James and his collection of curious critters on an enchanting, great escape from his backyard, across the world, to New York and back again. Bursting with magic, mischief and mayhem, if you’ve read the book and seen the movie, don’t miss this.
Wednesday 26 until Friday 29 June | Canberra Theatre Centre | Tickets here.
The Dataset
A bold new contemporary dance work by Canberra’s award-winning Australian Dance Party, this performance is a dance between two bodies, light, sound, and data.
Imagining a world where dancers physicalise the data that forms them and interrogate its purpose and power, The Dataset explores the complex relationship between humanity and data.
Thursday 27 until Sunday 29 June, 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm | The Vault, Dairy Road, Fyshwick | Book here.
Grand Kyiv Ballet: Forest Song & Don Quixote
By popular demand, The Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine is coming back to Canberra to once again present their double bill of Forest Song & Don Quixote.
Act One will see them perform the legendary ballet Forest Song, while Act Two brings the flamboyant and festive Spanish ballet. It’s a not-to-be-missed experience.
Friday 28 until Sunday 30 June, 7:30 pm – 10 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Book here.
MONSTER FEST WEEKENDER: SLASHER EDITION
After a five-year hiatus, the highly anticipated horror film festival MONSTER FEST is making a triumphant return to Canberra and all we can say is be afraid. Be very afraid.
Showing exclusively at Dendy Canberra, it promises to deliver a blood-pumping lineup that will slice and dice its way through the nation’s capital.
Friday 28 until Saturday 29 June | Dendy Canberra, City | Book here.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow
The funny is coming to you as Australia’s biggest and best comedy festival hits the road for a huge 26th year! Get ready for a stellar line-up with Roadshow favourites alongside the most talked-about breakthrough stars of the moment, together in one jam-packed show.
Saturday 29 June, 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Book here.
Music
Ben Lee
Performing alongside some special guests, Ben Lee is returning for a night of romantic anthems, clever wordplay and indie pop classics.
You’ll hear his new solo album and we can guarantee an evening of pure fun!
Friday 7 June, 8 pm – 9:20 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, City | Book here.
JET – 20th anniversary of their Get Born Extended Edition
Get ready to rock! Recently receiving the honour of being inducted into the 2023 ARIA Hall Of Fame, Jet will play Get Born in full, re-visiting the incredible track list that won them fans right across the world.
Expect timeless tracks such as ‘Are You Gonna Be My Girl’, ‘Look What You’ve Done’, ‘Rollover DJ’ and ‘Get Me Outta Here’.
Friday 7 June, 7:30 pm – 11:30 pm | UC Refectory, 11 Kirinari Street, Bruce | Book here.
The Rions – Sweet Cocoon Tour
Stopping in Canberra for their national tour, The Rions boast newfound grit in their unapologetic anthem ‘Sweet Cocoon’.
Head along to hear the coarse, near grunge guitar riff for yourself and get ready to experience the fever across the Sweet Cocoon Tour.
Saturday 8 June, 7 pm – 11:30 pm | UC Hub, 11 Kirinari Street, Bruce | Book here.
Formidable Vegetable Permaculture Dance Party
The Formidable Vegetable are back in the ACT for the first time since 2023! Following an appearance at Vivid Sydney, expect some all new electronically-boosted eco-funk/swing soaked in permaculture and positive climate action that the whole family can get down to.
Continuing their mission to inspire folks from five to 95 to grow their own food, restore their ecosystems and live a better life with irresistibly funky home-scale solutions, it’s an afternoon of music you won’t want to miss.
Sunday 9 June, 3:30 pm – 6 pm | Smiths Alternative, 76 Alinga Street, City | Book here.
Apeiron Baroque: Travel and Change
Baroque music meets philosophy for one afternoon only. Continuing on from the successful melding of Australian Poetry and Baroque Music last year, Apeiron continues to pair unlikely and interesting combinations of topics with Early Music performances.
Explore and absorb philosophical ideas of travel and change, presented by Drew Ninnis, whilst listening to music presented by Apeiron Baroque, John Ma and Marie Searles.
Sunday 9 June, 4 pm – 5:15 pm | Wesley Uniting Church, 20 National Circuit, Forrest | Book here.
Altstaedt plays Hadyn and Tchaikovsky
It’s been more than a decade since the young cellist burst onto the world stage as a BBC New Generation Artist, and now Nicolas Altstaedt is coming to Canberra.
Piling up musical accolades from the stages of New York, London and beyond, this is your chance to see his ACO debut as both director and soloist.
Friday 14 June, 8 pm – 10 pm | Llewellyn Hall, 100 William Herbert Place, City | Book here.
ANU Community Music Centre Jazz Junction
Two concerts featuring jazz? Yes please!
Presented by the ANU Community Music Centre’s Jazz Combos and Girls Jazz+, the first concert will run for 90 minutes and feature James & Lachlan’s Combo Groups and Girls Jazz+ while the second concert will run for 60 minutes and feature Ben’s Combo Groups.
Tuesday 18 June, 5:40 pm – 7 pm | The Athenaeum, ANU School of Music, William Herbert Place, Building 100, City | Book here.
Dirty Three
Five years since their last whistle stop visit and 12 years since that last national tour, the Dirty Three finally are returning.
Don’t miss Warren Ellis, Mick Turner and Jim White as they bring their collective energies to Canberra.
Tuesday 18 June, 8 pm – 10 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Book here.
Ensemble Offspring – Xanadu Sky
With three solos and an epic 30-minute trio, Xanadu Sky is one to add to your list. Taking you on a musical journey, hear every subtle sonority of the double bass, percussion and piano as they each take their turn in the spotlight as soloists.
Then to finish the night the trio will join forces as a meticulous musical machine in the ultimate jazz-infused slow burn: the Australian premiere of Sarah Hennies’ Spectral Malsconcities.
Wednesday 19 June, 7:30 pm – 8:45 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, City | Book here.
An Evening With Vika & Linda
This is a vocal duo not to be missed. Singing together their entire lives, from church to the charts Vika & Linda have enjoyed an amazing musical journey (including singing on albums by Paul Kelly, Kasey Chambers and John Farnham).
Head along to this show where they will be accompanied by their close collaborator and producer Cameron Bruce on grand piano, as they showcase the rich beauty of their voices together.
Friday 21 June, 8 pm – 10 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Book here.
Frank Sultana Blues Band & Tomcat Playground
Winner of the 2023 prestigious Memphis International Blues Challenge, Frank Sultana and his band will join fellow South Coasters, Tomcat Playground, to bring together raw soulful blues and vintage traditional for the perfect blues mix right here in Canberra.
Drawing influence from the masters of the music Muddy Waters, Howlin Wolf and Little Walter, don’t miss this modern day Australian bluesman.
Friday 21 June, 7 pm – 10:30 pm | Harmonie German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | More information here.
VOCES8 and Jack Liebeck
GRAMMY-nominated vocal ensemble VOCES8 and celebrated violinist Jack Liebeck are coming to the Snow Concert Hall for one night only.
Presenting an intimate portrayal of hope, peace and renewal, they will present a stunning program that will inspire you through music and the sheer joy of singing.
Friday 21 June, 8 pm – 9 pm | Snow Concert Hall, Canberra Grammar School, 40 Monaro Crescent, Red Hill | Book tickets here.
Presents Messiah
Experience Handel’s timeless Messiah in a return performance across two huge nights that is not to be missed.
The orchestra and choir will be joined by celebrated guest artists, under the baton of Brett Weymark OAM, one of Australia’s foremost choral conductors. Best known for the matchless ‘Hallelujah chorus’, you’ll hear some of the greatest hits of classical music.
Friday 21 June, 7 pm – 9:30 pm | Llewellyn Hall, ANU School of Music, William Herbert Place, City | Book tickets here.
Chamber Classics: Reverie
The Canberra Symphony Orchestra is presenting a program that pairs Classical icon Joseph Haydn with Norwegian Romantic composer Edvard Grieg.
Opening with Grieg’s light-footed First String Quartet in G minor, you’ll also hear the fifth quartet from Haydn’s String Quartet in F major, nicknamed ‘The Dream’.
Friday 21 and Saturday 22 June, 7 pm – 9:30 pm | Albert Hall, Yarralumla, 100 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | Book here.
The Historian
This is a concert of Baroque music, including works by Handel, Haydn, Vivaldi and Purcell. We won’t give too much away, but if you adore history and music, this will enrich your appreciation of the compositions and provide you with a rich source of cultural history of Charles Burney.
Friday 21 June, 7:30 pm – 8:45 pm | Fairfax Theatre, National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | Book tickets here.
Vanguard
Head along to Gandel Hall to hear groundbreaking works from Beethoven and Korngold. Performed by the Australian String Quartet, don’t miss the work of Australian composer Harry Sdraulig.
Sunday 23 June | Gandel Hall, National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | Book tickets here.
ANU Community Music Centre Wamburang Women’s Choir
This is an evening of choral music led by Ngunnawal musician, Alinta Barlow. The choir will explore contemporary music and Indigenous languages of Australia.
Monday 24 June, 6 pm – 7 pm | Larry Sitsky Recital Room, ANU School of Music, William Herbert Place, Building 100, City | Book here.
Tina: The Ultimate Tribute
Brimming with Tina Turner hits from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s, this electrifying concert experience will pay tribute to one of the 20th century’s biggest names in music.
See Caroline Borole live on stage, complete with band, brass section, backing vocalists and dancers as she plays all the hits you know and love.
Tuesday 25 June, 8 pm – 9:30 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Book here.
Mozart in Winter
Soprano Madeline Anderson and pianist Hilda Visser-Scott are coming to the Wesley Music Centre to bring some lightness to the cold and slack of winter in their program dedicated to Mozart.
Wednesday 26 June, 12:40 pm – 1:20 pm | Wesley Music Centre, 20-22 National Circuit, Forrest | Book here.
Boney M – The Farewell Tour
Calling all disco ducks, this one is for you. Disco Superstars Boney M Featuring Maizie Williams will be performing all their greatest hits including ‘Rasputin’ ‘Daddy Cool’ ‘Ma Baker’ ‘Gotta Go Home’ ‘Rivers Of Babylon’ ‘Brown Girl In The Ring’ ‘Sunny’ and more with a full live band!
Grab your dancing shows, cause this will be a disco inferno of epic proportions.
Sunday 30 June, 7:30 pm – 9 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Book here.
Opera Gems for a Winter’s Eve
Love opera? We’ll leave this here. Join the National Opera Chorus for a fun afternoon of your operatic favourites (including those you haven’t heard yet!), featuring professional local performers. Plus, there will also be an afternoon tea!
Sunday 30 June, 3 pm – 5 pm | Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, 15 Blackall Street, Barton | Book here.
The Stars Turn
Capturing the essence of The Song Company’s vibrant history, this performance draws inspiration from the iconic masterpiece by Peter Sculthorpe of the same name.
Celebrating the past, present and future of The Song Company, from musical milestones to highlighting the next generation of composers whose talents light up the musical sky, it will be a mesmerising show.
Sunday 30 June, 3 pm – 4:10 pm | Wesley Music Centre, 20-22 National Circuit, Forrest | Book here.
Exhibitions
Gardens of Academe
All inspired and created on the grounds of the Australian National University, don’t miss the latest watercolour and charcoal artworks by Elizabeth Truswell.
Showing at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, the exhibition reflects the landscaped gardens from the lower slopes of Black Mountain and Sullivans creek.
Wednesday 5 until Sunday 30 June | Australian National Botanic Gardens, Visitor Centre Gallery, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | More information here.
Canberra Potters’ Student | Teacher Exhibition
This annual exhbition is an opportunity to celebrate the skills and creativity of the many students who attend classes at Canberra Potters!
Giving students a welcoming environment to publicly display their work, participation is open to all students – adults and children – who have attended classes at Canberra Potters in the previous 12 months. All Canberra Potters teachers are excellent potters in their own right and their work is exhibited alongside the students’.
Thursday 6 June until Sunday 7 July, 10 am – 4 pm | Canberra Potters, 1 Aspinall Street, Watson Arts Centre, Watson | More information here.
Futures Exhibition
Presenting ongoing research from the Australian National University School of Art & Design, this exhibition explores everything from climate change, to digital heritage, maternal health, and the emerging arts of metabolism and digestion.
Thursday 6 June until Friday 5 July, 10:30 am – 3 pm | ANU School of Art & Design Gallery, Building 105, Corner Liversidge Street & Ellery Crescent, Acton | More information here.
Monuments
‘Monuments’ is a body of work that investigates and celebrates the forms found within our landscape. Created by Emma Pattenden, it reinterprets the rock forms found in different parts of the Australian landscape to express the monumental value of these forms and places, inviting you on a transformative journey through the sculptural wonders of our Australian landscape.
Until Sunday 9 June| M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
Field Of Vision
‘Field of Vision’ a solo exhibition by Lee Leibrandt. It presents a collection of woven tapestries that reflect the connection between the natural landscape and personal experience of place.
In combining the traditional medium of tapestry weaving with modern design elements of mixed-media collage and mark making, Leibrandt aims to make pattern and colour manifest as dream-like representations via a meditative and intentional practice.
Until Sunday 9 June | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
Creating Apart, Together
M16 Artspace Gallery in Canberra is where the exhibition Creating Apart, Together is on show from 16 May to 9 June, with an opening on 16 May at 6 pm. It brings together 21 local visual, fibre and textile artists from Networks Australia (@networks_australia_artists), and proposes an alternative to the privilege of visiting artists’ studios.
The visitor is offered three perspectives – the works themselves (painting, machine and hand-stitching, tapestry, weaving etc); a ‘concept board’ for each artist and photographs by Networks member, Fiona Bowring. The artists are brought together in a bank of portraits of each in their studios.
Free entry.
Until Sunday 9 June | M16 Artspace Gallery, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here
Women Who Rendered Blind
This is a solo exhibition by Sepideh Farzam. Based the ongoing challenges faced by women in Iran, Sepideh has been deeply inspired to develop a new body of work serving as a testament to the courage, resilience, and struggles of women who have stood up against oppression and fought for their rights.
In the form of textile and installation, she uses various materials such as uncoated canvas, waxed thread, marbles, plaster, steel plate, plexiglas, cotton bandage fabric and hand-woven carpet as well as symbolic imagery, to shed light on the experiences of Iranian women, giving voice to their stories and advocating for change.
Friday 14 June until Sunday 7 July | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
On Show – Sustainability
This is a group exhibition by the members of the Canberra Art Workshop (CAW).
It focuses on the theme of creating a world that sustains both us and future generations, alongside our natural environment.
Friday 14 June until Sunday 7 July | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
Life in the System
A solo exhibition by Melanie Olde, this represents her ongoing exploration of hand-woven three-dimensional fabric forms that mimic living tissue, life-like structures and functions.
Using weaving as a metaphor for complexity within life systems, the works challenge weaving as a medium for questioning how cloth can mimic a living system.
Friday 14 June until Sunday 7 July | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
Golden Hour
Sophie Ryan is an emerging artist originally from Bathurst, New South Wales, driven by a deep connection to her surroundings and a desire to convey the vitality and movement of the world around her.
Currently looking into different ways of representing landscapes through gesture, embodiment, emotion and memory while combining elements of drawing and painting, this solo exhibition will feature a series of landscapes and other depicted moments to respond to feelings of growth, and what it means to live in a new place but yearn for the grounding of familiarity and comforts.
Until Sunday 16 June | Strathnairn Arts Association, 90 Stockdill Drive, Holt | More information here.
Joan McKay: Touched By Fauna
In this exhbition at the Strathnairn Arts Association, artist Joan McKay uses hyperrealism to invite the viewer to connect with the beauty, gentleness and vulnerability of local animals and birds. Presenting a new body of work using scratchboards, you’ll see everything from red-necked wallabies to swamp wallabies, peewees, magpies and more.
Until Sunday 16 June | Strathnairn Arts Association, 90 Stockdill Drive, Holt | More information here.
Gauguin’s World: Tōna Iho, Tōna Ao
This is a rare opportunity to experience the enduring art of French Post-Impressionist Paul Gauguin. Featuring some of his most recognised masterpieces, many of which were created in the Pacific region, the exhibition offers new perspectives on Gauguin’s life and work, his artistic influences and networks, as well as his historical impact and contemporary legacies.
Keep an eye out for talks, public programs, a podcast series and films at the National Gallery that will also explore Gauguin’s life, art and controversial legacy.
From Saturday 29 June until Monday 7 October | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here.
SaVĀge K’lub
SaVĀge K’lub is a multi-disciplinary vehicle to explore ideas of hospitality, culture and identity. Presented alongside Gauguin’s World: Tōna Iho, Tōna Ao it celebrates all forms of art and culture, collaborating to acti.VĀ.te people and things.
First conceived by artist and scholar Rosanna Raymond in 2010, The SaVĀge K’lub have participated in large-scale research-based art projects in Australia, Aotearoa NZ, UK and Hawaii working with Queensland Museum, QAGOMA, Auckland Museum, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongawera, the Bishop Museum and Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.
From Saturday 29 June until Monday 7 October | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here.
Temple at the NFSA
Created by Australian artists Leila Jeffreys and Melvin J. Montalban, this contemplative artwork celebrates the awe-inspiring beauty of native cockatoos.
Temple invites us to reflect on the wonder of nature and our place within it.
Until Sunday 30 June | NFSA Acton | nfsa.gov.au
NYARU
This is an exhibition of new works in glass by Yankunytjatjara / Western Arrernte artist, Robert Fielding. Co-curated by Erin Vink and Aimee Frodsham, the works challenges the perception of Central Desert artwork in the medium of glass with the artist combining strong cultural roots with contemporary views on the tensions between community life and global concerns.
Until Sunday 21 July | 11 Wentworth Avenue Kingston | More information here.
Sport
State of Origin: Game One at the ONYX Lounge
It’s State of Origin time! Head along to the ONYX Lounge and watch game one State of Origin as the NSW Blues clash with the QLD Maroons.
Wednesday 5 June, 6:30 pm – 10 pm | Onyx Lounge @ Casino Canberra, 21 Binara Street, City | Book here.
Tenpin Bowling National Disability Championships
Australia’s premier tenpin bowling championships for people with disability will see over 350 bowlers with descend on Zone Bowling Tuggeranong.
Welcoming talent from across the country competing in single, doubles and teams events including State Vs State and the Care Givers Challenge, this is the 35th championship!
Wednesday 5 June | Zone Bowling Tuggeranong, 76 Cowlishaw Street, Greenway | More information here.
Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies vs TBC
The Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies are heading in to the Super Rugby Pacific Quarter Finals for 2024! Don’t miss any of the action.
Saturday 8 June | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Book here.
Raiders v Cowboys
Hello Friday night footy! The Canberra Raiders are returning home to GIO Stadium for NRL Round 15 action when they take on the North Queensland Cowboys. Grab your tickets before they’re gone.
Friday 14 June, 6 pm – 8 pm | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Book here.
Australian Sports Camps
This is a three day sporting camp children aged five to 15! Suitable for all skill and experience levels, the aim is to promote fun and enjoyment whilst playing sports with friends.
With a variety of sports on offer including AFL/AFLW, rugby union, netball, basketball and soccer, there’s something for every little budding sports star.
Sunday 16 until Tuesday 18 June | The Australian National University, North Road, Acton | More information here.
Walk to Defeat MND Canberra
Join in to show people facing motor neurone disease that they are not alone. Walking 5km from Upper Commonwealth Place, the money raised from this walk will provide vital support to people living with motor neurone disease, as well as their families and carers.
Designed for all ages and abilities, with stroller and wheelchair-friendly course around Lake Burley Griffin that you can complete at your own pace, everyone is invited to participate.
Sunday 16 June, 10 am – 1 pm | Upper Commonwealth Place, Mall Road West, Parkes | More information here.
Sri Chinmoy “Tuggeranong Trot” Trail Runs
The “Tuggeranong Trot” is race four of the Sri Chinmoy Canberra Trail Series, with three distance options – 20km, 8km and 2km – following tracks and trails along the spectacular Murrumbidgee River Corridor.
Grab your running shoes and make your way to Tuggeranong Town Centre for an unforgettable race.
Sunday 23 June , 10 am – 2 pm | Pine Island North Picnic Area, Pine Island Road, Tuggeranong | More information here.
State of Origin: Game Two at the ONYX Lounge
Head along to the ONYX Lounge to catch game two of the State of Origin! Cheer on your team and make a night of it.
Wednesday 26 June, 5 pm – 11 pm | Onyx Lounge @ Casino Canberra, 21 Binara Street, City | More information here.
Workshops, Tours and Talks
NYARU Artist Talk
This is an exhibition of new works in glass by Yankunytjatjara / Western Arrernte artist, Robert Fielding.
Don’t miss the official opening by Bruce Johnson McLean (Wierdi/ Birri-Gubba peoples) which will be, preceded by an artist talk at 4pm.
Wednesday 5 June, from 4 pm | 11 Wentworth Avenue Kingston | More information here.
The Craft of Crime: In Conversation with Sulari Gentill and Chris Hammer
Don’t miss this intriguing discussion followed by a Q&A session and book-signing with two of Australia’s preeminent crime writers in conversation with crime fiction reviewer Anna Steele.
Sulari Gentill and Chris Hammer will talk all things crime writing and answer any question you might have about the genre.
Wednesday 5 June, 6 pm – 7:30 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Book here.
Crafternoons at Smith’s
It’s time to get crafty! Grab your projects, whatever they be, and hang out with other crafty types doing their thing.
Cross-stitch, visible mending, crochet, embroidery, knitting, tatting, sewing buttons on, bead stringing, wire-weaving, tapestry – whatever you’re into, take it along.
Wednesday 5, 12, 19 and 26 June, 12:30 pm – 3 pm | Smith’s Alternative, 76 Alinga Street, City | More information here.
Pyramid Making
Looking for something fun for your little one? In this special workshop, explore the themes of ancient Egypt in this hands-on activity for young budding archaeologists.
Toddlers will explore and experiment with a range of materials and textures to shape their own sandy pyramids. Visit the website for dates, times and to book!
Wednesday 5 June, 10:30 am – 11 am | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton | Book here.
A Little Look At Art: Art For Pre-Schoolers
In this free event, your child will connect with key works in the National Gallery collection through imagining and making activities in the Gallery, followed by creative play in the Tim Fairfax Learning Studio.
It’s perfect for encouraging their curiosity and creativity.
Thursday 6 June, 10:30 am – 11:30 am | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | Book here.
Japanese Timber Spoon Making Workshop
Join instructor Nobuyuki Ohashi from KOITOYA as he guides you through the process of making your own unique timber spoon using Japanese carving tools.
All materials will be supplied and at the end of the day, you will have made your own wooden spoon, gained knowledge of carving techniques and timbers, and had hands-on experience using Japanese tools.
Saturday 8 June, 9 am – 4 pm | Craft + Design Canberra, 180 London Circuit, Level 1, North Building, City | Book here.
Libraries ACT Author Talk: How to Pay Your Mortgage Off in 10 Years
An evening with bestselling personal finance author and money coach Serina Bird? Yes please.
Discussing her latest book ‘How to Pay Your Mortgage Off in 10 Years: Even when interest rates are going up’, Serina will present practical strategies, calculates the savings and shares the steps se has used – and anyone can use – to become mortgage free.
Friday 14 June, 6 pm – 7 pm | Dickson Library, Antill Street, Dickson | Book here.
Create and Curate – How Mother Kangaroo Got Her Pouch
This is an interactive children’s workshop celebrating the launch of the new book How Mother Kangaroo Got Her Pouch by Rebecca Beetson and illustrated by Paul Lalo.
Children will listen to the story told by Wiradjuri and Gamilaroi women Rebecca Beetson and Aunty Diane Riley-McNaboe, learn about First Nations symbols and other stories and then create and display their own artwork. Bookings are essential!
Saturday 15 June, 10:30 am – 12 pm | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent | Book here.
Artists in Conversation: Elizabeth Ficken, Isobel Rayson & Nick Stranks
Taking place at Belconnen Arts Centre, this special artist talk with Elizabeth Ficken, Isobel Rayson & Nick Stranks offers a rare opportunity learn more about their exhibitions “Awaken” and “Almost Always”. See you there?
Saturday 15 June, 2 pm – 3 pm | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | Book here.
Mining Modjeska’s Archive with Dr Bernadette Brennan
Don’t miss Dr Bernadette Brennan as she presents a lecture on her 2024 National Library Fellowship research into the archives of award-winning author and editor Drusilla Modjeska.
The award-winning author and editor of 14 books and scores of essays and reviews, Drusilla is best known for her boundary-crossing works of biography and memoir which celebrate the legacies of women writers and artists, and wrestle with questions about love, writing and independence. odjeska’s embargoed archive, held by the National Library, tells a rich, complex and, at times, heart-breaking story about her life and work.
Thursday 20 June, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Book here.
Winter Tales Presents Dr Liz Allen
Join Dr Liz Allen as she delivers the presentation ‘From accommodating to accommodated: How can Australia best support people from disadvantaged backgrounds?’ for The National Foundation for Australian Women and the Australian Women’s Archives Program (AWAP).
This is a unique opportunity to hear a senior lecturer at ANU Centre for Social Policy Research talk about fairness and equality.
Sunday 23 June | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | More information here.
The Trust Fall: Julian Assange Special Screening + In Conversation
Award -winning Australian journalist and publisher Julian Assange ignited a firestorm of controversy in 2010 following explosive WikiLeaks disclosures. The Trust Fall: Julian Assange examines the significance of the insights that WikiLeaks shared with the world, the subsequent behaviour of multiple governments, the extraordinary personal risk taken by Assange, and broader questions of press freedom and public interest.
This special screening will be followed by a panel conversation with members of the Bring Julian Assange Home Parliamentary Group: Josh Wilson MP, Bridget Archer MP and Andrew Wilkie MP.
Tuesday 25 June, 6 pm – 9 pm | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | Book here.
