Eight Canberra events to add to your spring calendar
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We don’t know about you, but we’re counting down the days until spring officially blooms in Canberra.
Maybe it’s the promise of warmer weather, longer days and the smell of fresh flowers in the air, or maybe it’s just because we have so many amazing events happening around town. Either way, this list is sure to put a spring (pun intended) into your step ahead of September.
The Handmade Market
Start spring with a bang at the Handmade Market as it brings over 260 Australian designers and producers to Canberra! Running across two days, you’ll find everything from slow fashion and handmade homewares to unique gifts, local gin, and delicious food.
Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 August | Exhibition Park, Budawang, Coorong, and Parkes Pavilions, Lyneham | More information here.
National Wattle Day
It feels only right that the last day of winter is National Wattle Day, so why not celebrate it at the National Arboretum? This year they’re hosting a range of activities, from hands-on workshops to a Wattle Day Walk, and even the opportunity to grow your own wattle at home. It’s a fun opportunity to learn about Australia’s floral emblem and see it in full bloom.
Sunday 31 August | National Arboretum, Forest Drive, Molonglo Valley | More information here.
Noods and Blooms
Say farewell to winter by playing florist for the day with House de Fleurs while eating some delicious food from DumpLinLins. Beginning with welcome drinks and snacks, you’ll be guided through a seasonal stems workshop where you’ll learn some floristry essentials as you make your own take-home floral arrangement.
Then, LinLin will serve lunch, with the choice of a Northern Thai Chicken Laksa or Thai Green Curry, so you can mingle and munch as you continue work on your designs and browse each other’s creations! Plus, there will be time for complimentary photos in the studio, mochi dessert and more.
Sunday 31 August | Mood Studio, Prospect Crescent, Phillip | Book here.
Floriade
You can’t talk about spring in Canberra without mentioning our very own festival of flowers – Floriade. Returning to Commonwealth Park for its 38th year, the 2025 celebration of spring is all about Science and Nature, transforming the park into a dynamic space of discovery and learning, all set amongst one million beautiful blooms.
With free entry, wander through vibrant garden beds before swapping your gardening gloves for a lab coat to make the most of the family-friendly hands-on workshops, talks and activities.
Saturday 13 September until Sunday 12 October | Commonwealth Park, City | More information here.
The Canberra Witches Picnic
Held at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, this is a free ticked event that provides a chance for local witches to meet others in the community and share food, drink and exchange a gift. Symbolising the beginning of change and growth, the picnic will have an Ostara and Spring Equinox theme and dressing for the occasion is encouraged!
Saturday 20 September | Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | Register here.
Kids Day Out at Lanyon Homestead
Celebrate the magic of spring with the whole family this September as Kids Day Out transforms the historic Lanyon Homestead into a festival of art, craft, science and food. Designed to spark curiosity and inspire young minds, from learning about nature to unleashing creativity through art and craft, there will be something for every child. Think: exploring the garden and historic outbuildings, sensory play, creating a cyanotype print and more. Make sure to pack a picnic, enjoy the vintage lawn games and make the most of the sun.
Saturday 27 September | Layon Homestead, Tharwa | Book here.
Spring Sustainability Market
This September, Haig Park is hosting a special edition of their much-loved Sunday markets – and it’s all about sustainability. Bursting with workshops, activities, and stalls focused on conservation, waste reduction, sustainable living and more, from organic produce to slow fashion (and even meeting native animals), it will be a celebration of all things sustainability. It promises to be a day of community connection, inspiration and (of course) supporting local!
Sunday 28 September | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | More information here.
NightFest
For those looking for something a little bit different this spring, Floriade has a dark side worth exploring. Returning for another year with a new and exciting program packed with entertainment, NightFest is always a seasonal highlight, and this year is no different.
With the full program to be announced soon, you’ll be able to see Commonwealth Park illuminated with vibrant colours, enjoy an amazing program of live music, watch roving entertainment, explore market stalls, and eat some fantastic food.
Thursday 2 until Sunday 5 October | Commonwealth Park, City | Book here.
Botanica Spirit and Food Festival
Because nothing says ‘Hello, spring’ like gin tasting at the stunning lakeside Lennox Gardens. Transforming the area into a botanical feast for the senses, festivalgoers will have a unique opportunity to experience a curated variety of Australian spirits, delicious food, live entertainment and botanically inspired markets. You’ll be raising a glass to (and in) this event.
Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 October | Lennox Gardens, Flynn Drive, Yarralumla | Book here.
Feature image: Courtesy Events ACT.
