Everyone stay calm – The Canberra Balloon Spectacular, Skyfire, and the Canberra Comedy Festival are all on this week!
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This week in Canberra is overflowing with fun.
From the Canberra Balloon Spectacular to Skyfire, the Canberra Comedy Festival, and the National Sheep Dog Trial Championships, you’ll have so much to choose from, there’s no excuse to be bored.
Read on for your curated guide of 60+ things to do!
Special Events and Festivals
Canberra Outlet Big Brand Sale
Shoppers, mark your calendars for the upcoming Canberra Outlet Big Brand Sale during the Canberra Day long weekend! This annual event promises three days of exceptional deals across over 100 iconic brands, making it the perfect opportunity to refresh your wardrobe, update your home, or find the ideal gift.
Renowned for offering unbeatable prices on high-quality products, whether you’re looking to update your wardrobe, enhance your home, or find the perfect gift, this event provides a one stop shopping experience with substantial savings.
Until Monday 10 March | Canberra Outlet Centre, 337 Canberra Avenue, Fyshwick | More information here.
Enlighten Festival
It’s back, baby! Canberra will once again be lighting up as culture and creativity collide during the Enlighten Festival. See the nation’s capital in a dazzling new light when Enlighten Illuminations light up some of Canberra’s iconic buildings with stunning architectural projections.
Make sure to check out the website to see what’s happening!
Until Monday 10 March | Various locations | More information here.
The Nature of Things
Glebe Park is being transformed into a mystical forest, for 11 unforgettable nights.
Step into the magic, let the forest be your guide, and meet the creatures who walk by your side as the internationally renowned storytellers Erth, take you through an interactive experience. Ideal for the whole family, don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in a world where nature’s magic comes alive.
Until Monday 10 March | Glebe Park, Bunda Street, City | Book here.
Canberra Day
Celebrate Canberra Day and support your community by joining the Canberra Day Appeal Fun Run!
Followed by a morning of family activities in Commonwealth Park, the run raises funds for Hands Across Canberra. Once you’ve completed the run, head along to Commonwealth Park for markets, food and entertainment to celebrate Canberra Day!
Monday 10 March | Commonwealth Park, Commonwealth Park, Parkes | More information here.
Free crepes for Canberrans travelling to the coast!
This Canberra Day, Provisions Braidwood are offering FREE crepes to the first 100 Canberrans that travel through Braidwood to the coast.
All you need to do is prove you’re from the round-about-city (driver’s licence will suffice) and you’ll get a ‘Canberra Classic’ crepe to enjoy on the road. Topped with your choice of Nutella, Provisions-made chocolate sauce, or salted caramel, you’ll want to take a break in Braidwood. Bon appétit!
Monday 10 March, open 8 am to 3 pm | Provision Braidwood, 56C Wallace Street, Braidwood | Find out more here.
Canberra Steam Train Rides
Love trains? Experience the unique thrill of a heritage rail journey behind one of the Canberra Railway Stations’ restored Steam Locomotives as you travel from Canberra to Bungendore and return.
You’ll enjoy views of the spectacular Molonglo Gorge, travel through three tunnels, and view the rolling country scenery from your heritage carriage!
Monday 10 March | Canberra Railway Station, Kingston | More information here.
National Sheep Dog Trial Championships
You’d be barking mad to miss it — the National Sheepdog Trial Championships are back! Celebrating 82 years in Canberra, this seven-day event is one of the cutest on our calendar.
Over 300 of Australia’s best-working dogs will be making their way to our favourite tiny village of Hall and everyone is invited. Even your furry friends are welcome – as long as they stay on a lead of course. You’ll see three species—sheep, dog, and person—endeavour to work together to complete a course of three obstacles in fifteen minutes. You might even spot a diamond in the ruff come out on top.
Monday 10 until Sunday 16 March | National Sheep Dog Trial Championships, 21 Gladstone Street, Hall Showground, Hall | More information here.
Canberra Comedy Festival
Canberra’s chuckle-fest is back with a bang for 2025 and with a lineup packed full of local and international stars, there’s sure to be plenty to tickle your funny bone.
Featuring the Gala, Guy Montgomery, Sara Pascoe, Luke McGregor, Wil Anderson, Melanie Bracewell, Lizzy Hoo, Luke Heggie and loads more, there’s something for everyone.
Wednesday 12 until Sunday 23 March | Various locations | More information here.
Women in Parliament Tours to celebrate International Women’s Day
Celebrate International Women’s Day by exploring the stories of remarkable women in Australian politics who broke barriers and made significant contributions to the nation’s political landscape.
Participants on the Women in Parliament Tour will learn about the trailblazing first females – Dame Enid Lyons and Dame Dorothy Tangney, and the first female Presiding Officers Joan Child AO and Margaret Reid AO.
The tour also explores a range of art works that reveal the inspiring stories of the women who shaped our democracy. Artwork of our first female Prime Minister the Hon Julia Gillard AC, and the first female Indigenous parliamentarians, Former Senator Nova Perris OAM and the Hon Linda Burney MP are highlights of the tour.
In this fascinating tour, visitors will delve into the incredible challenges trailblazing women faced and the significant impact they had on our Parliament.
Every day until 12 March, 11 am to 11:45 am | Australian Parliament House | Book here.
Grainger Gallery presents three captivating exhibitions by female artists
“Lost and Found” by Penelope Boyd features masked young heroines in dreamlike landscapes, borrowing from Old Masters techniques to create eerie, post-gothic worlds.
Sally Kent’s “The Blooming” reimagines female mythological figures through hand-built porcelain, celebrating feminine power and knowledge through lush imagery of flowers and serpents.
Award-winning artist Narelle Zeller returns with “Through My Eyes,” continuing her exploration of human adornment through detailed oil paintings that evoke emotion and narrative. All three artists have received national and international recognition for their work.
Opening Thursday 13 March at 6pm – 30 March | Building 3.3, 1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick | More information here.
The ShowRoom Canberra Home & Lifestyle Show
The two-day event brings together Canberra’s most creative, innovative and informative industry professionals all under one roof at the ACT’s largest premier indoor and outdoor venue, Exhibition Park in Canberra.
Quality home design, build, garden and lifestyle exhibitors, the popular Speaker Series presentations and unlimited inspiration!
Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 March | Budawang Pavilion, EPIC, Flemington Road, Mitchell | Free Entry | Visit the website to register for your FREE ticket.
Zonta Club of Canberra Breakfast Pre-Loved Fashion Sale
The Zonta Club of Canberra Breakfast is holding its annual Pre-Loved Fashion Sale and it sounded better than ever.
Head along on Friday 17 March to the VIP sale (tickets cost $30) to get your hands on some goodies, or attend the general session on Saturday to browse the racks. You’ll find an extensive range of designer and evening wear, all in great condition and affordable prices.
Friday 14 and Saturday 15 March | 15 Gordon Street, Acton | Book tickets here.
Canberra Balloon Spectacular
Held over nine days, watch in awe as the Canberra skyline turns into a sea of colour and movement thanks to the Canberra Balloon Spectacular.
Free for spectators, the balloons will inflate and launch each morning from around 6 am at John Dunmore Lang Place in Parkes before they lift off and drift across the city. For those who have braved the dawn start there’s a hot breakfast to enjoy and plenty of opportunities to grab a great snap!
Saturday 15 March until Sunday 23 March | John Dunmore Lang Place, Parkes | Book here.
Skyfire
Skyfire is back with a bang (pun intended)! Lighting up the skies above Lake Burley Griffin, the free recent will see food trucks, markets and entertainment hubs transform the area into one of the funniest places to be on a Saturday night.
And as one of Australia’s finest fireworks shows set to a 20-minute soundtrack, this iconic event promises a memorable experience for everyone. Make sure to bring your own radio and turn up the volume!
Saturday 15 March | Lake Burley Griffin, Parkes | More information here.
The National Zoo and Aquarium’s ‘Teddy Bears Picnic for Free The Bears’
Take your favourite teddy bear and join the National Zoo and Aquarium team at the Viewing Park for a Teddy Bears Picnic to celebrate World Bear Day and 30 years of Free The Bears!
Activities include: Face painting, colouring-in competition, keeper talk at Sun Bears at 3 pm with Jemma, bear-themed cake stall and merch, and a roving magician.
Included in zoo entry for the day for all visitors.
15 March, 2 pm – 4:30 pm | Central Viewing Park (Next to Rhino Bistro), National Zoo and Aquarium | Find out more here.
Sunflower Maze
Looking for a fun family day out, a romantic countryside escape, or a picture-perfect adventure? Pop this one-of-a-kind event on your calendar. Step into a sea of golden blooms and lose yourself in the Sunflower Maze, where you can wander through towering sunflowers, capture stunning photos, and pick sunflowers to take home.
Make sure to stop by the farm gate shop to stock up on farm-fresh produce and locally made goods!
Until Sunday 16 March | Majura Valley Farm, 728 Majura Road, Majura House, Majura | More information here.
Balloon Spectacular Boat Cruises
This is your chance to get together with your friends or family and experience the hot air balloons from the lake during the Canberra Balloon Spectacular!
Enjoy a relaxing two-hour cruise around Lake Burley Griffin, BYO drinks and food and enjoy front-row views of the balloons! There are only 32 tickets available for each cruise so get in quick. Visit the website for dates, and times and to book!
Saturday 15, and Sunday 16 March | Canberra Cruises and Parties, 8 Trevillian Quay, Jetty 4, Kingston | Book here.
Free the Bears High Tea at Jamala Wildlife Lodge!
In celebration of Free the Bears’ 30th anniversary, Jamala Wildlife Lodge is hosting a high tea featuring a presentation from Matt Hunt, CEO of Free the Bears – a unique opportunity to hear firsthand about the incredible work being done to protect and rehabilitate rescued bears across Southeast Asia.
Tickets include: a High Tea experience in Jamala’s exclusive uShaka Lodge, a silent auction to raise funds for Free the Bears, the opportunity to join senior sun bear keepers on guided tours through the National Zoo and Aquarium, including a special sneak peek inside Jungle Bungalow 2 (Arataki and Otay’s home!), and a keeper talk and bear enrichment session at Arataki and Otay’s habitat.
Sunday, 16 March, 2 pm – 5 pm | Jamala Restaurant & Terrace, National Zoo and Aquarium | Book here.
Alliance Française French Film Festival
Back for its 36th year, the Alliance Française French Film Festival will once again be treating local Francophile’s to the crème de la crème of contemporary French film from the last 12 months.
Transporting you to France without needing to buy a plane ticket or dedicate hours to Duolingo (thank goodness for subtitles), from biopics of legendary figures in French culture, to stories of l’Amour in all its forms, there’s something for everyone. Grab your popcorn, cause this is going to be good.
Until Wednesday 9 April | Palace Electric Cinema, New Acton | Book here.
Markets
ACT Seasonal Antique and Collectable Fair
With up to 22 local and interstate dealers presenting a blend of antiques, old-world nostalgia, books, art, jewellery, pottery, silver, bronzes, furniture, linen, glassware, gift ideas, and much more, you’ll be sure to find something at this market.
Indulge yourself while searching for treasures with proceeds going towards the Early Morning Centre and other local charities supported by the Rotary Club of Murrumbidgee.
Friday 14, Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 March | Albert Hall, 100 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | More information here.
Three Sixty Fashion Market
Have a passion for sustainable fashion? Pop the Three Sixty Fashion Market into your calendar.
Perfect for stylish, discerning shoppers who love genuine, quality vintage, retro and pre-loved fashion that is far too good to chuck in a bin or send to landfill, you’ll discover some fabulous and fashionable goodies.
Sunday 16 March | Fitters Workshop, Printers Way, Kingston | More information here.
The Little Burley Market
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.
Saturday, 9 am – 2 pm| Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.com.au
Capital Region Farmers Market
This market is a community project run by the Rotary Club of Hall, the only rural Rotary Club in the ACT.
Head along to browse over 100 stallholders who bring their freshly picked, grown, and hand-crafted produce. Speak to a stallholder and ask them where their produce comes from – you’ll be surprised what you’ll learn and pick up cooking storage, and usage tips!
Saturday, 7 am – 11.30 am | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Exhibition Park in Canberra, Mitchell | More information here.
Haig Park Village Markets
The Haig Park Village Markets runs every Sunday in the beautiful leafy grounds of Haig Park, Braddon.
This farmers and foodie market will delight your senses with delicious cuisines, tasty treats, beautiful blooms, fresh produce, delectable charcuterie, and artisan products. Plus you’ll discover locally handmade crafts including jewellery, art, natural body care, unique homewares, hand-poured candles, children’s apparel, pooch wares, and more. Plus, there’s live music, an artists’ table, face painting, and more!
Sunday, 8 am – 2 pm | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | More information here.
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.
Sunday 8 am–11.30 am | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip | facebook.com
Food and Wine
CPA Australia International Women’s Day Luncheon
Featuring renowned journalist, author, and gender equality advocate, Tracey Spicer, you’ll want to head to QT for this empowering luncheon.
Exploring the theme “Accelerate Action”, Tracey will give a keynote address and provide insights on navigating and transforming workplace inequality. There will also be live music performed by Charlie Grace, you’ll also have the chance to network with like-minded professionals and change-makers and there will be a charity raffle on the day with proceeds going towards Fearless Women.
Friday 14 March, 11.45 – 2.30 pm | 1 London Circuit, City | Book here.
Canberra Craft Beer & Cider Festival
Calling all beer (and cider, and seltzers and spirits) lovers, this one is for you! Featuring over 40 exhibitors from around Australia, the Canberra Craft Beer and Cider Festival is back for another year.
Featuring the ‘best of the best’, with opportunities to enjoy beer, cider, seltzers and premium spirits, there will also be live entertainment throughout the day, high-quality food and a range of family-friendly activities.
Saturday 15 March | Mercure Canberra, 39 Limestone Avenue, Braddon | Book here.
Stage and Screen
The Women’s Room – Underestimated
After selling out the first two seasons of The Women’s Room (both in Canberra and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival), they’re back for the third iteration of the hugely successful Women’s Room at the Canberra Comedy Festival.
And they know what you’re thinking – is anything good on its third go? In this threequel, Trish Hurley, Tanya Losanno and Jacqui Richards break the curse with their brand-new show Underestimated as they draw on their busy, active, funny lives and dare you to underestimate them.
Thursday 13 March and Saturday 16 March | Canberra Theatre Centre, Courtyard Studio, Theatre Lane, City | Book here.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
With a dazzling array of colourful costumes, energetic choreography, and a score packed with catchy tunes, this beloved musical is one the whole family will enjoy!
Canberra Philharmonic Society is bringing the vibrant and timeless Andrew Lloyd Webber musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat to life, telling his journey from adversity to triumph. It promises to delight audiences of all ages with its blend of humour, heart, and music.
Until Saturday 15 March | Erindale Theatre, 115 McBryde Crescent, Wanniassa | Book here.
Elsie’s Film House
Elsie’s Film House is a pop-up cinema lounge and bar that screens retro favourites from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, from cult classics to arthouse and international films.
Offering a cozy movie night experience, Elsie’s also hosts weekly community nights offering diverse communities a safe and inclusive space to connect. Elsie’s will be hosting movie nights for different migrant communities as well. Keep an eye out to see what’s coming up!
Until Sunday 16 March, from 2 pm | 180 London Circuit, City | Book here.
Autumn Film Series
Looking for a cosy escape this autumn? The National Film and Sound Archive has just announced an autumn film series that’s not to be missed. Enjoy their curated program of recent releases and revived classics, from high art to guilty pleasures. There’s something for everyone!
Check out the full program online.
Until Sunday 1 June | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | Book here.
The Great Kimberley Wilderness
Be transported to one of the world’s most breathtaking and pristine landscapes in The Great Kimberley Wilderness – a 35-minute virtual reality experience narrated by Luke Hemsworth.
Guided by scientists and traditional owners, this journey crosses stunning coastlines and majestic gorges, venturing deep into these timeless lands. Soar over the thundering King George Falls, explore the remarkable striped sandstone domes of the UNESCO-listed Purnululu National Park, and travel back more than 350 million years to the Devonian Reef, uncovering the ancient geology that has shaped life as we know it.
This experience reveals the history, geology, culture and wonder of the remarkable Kimberley wilderness, which has been nearly two billion years in the making.
Daily, every hour from 9.15 am to 4.15 pm | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Acton | Find out more here.
Music
Chopin Sonata No. 3
Another lunchtime, another concert from the Wesley Music Centre. This time it’s the talented pianist Sam Row performing Frédéric Chopin’s third piano sonata, a dramatic work of the romantic era in four movements.
See you there?
Wednesday 12 March | Wesley Music Centre, 20 National Circuit, Forrest | Book here.
Camille O’Sullivan: Loveletter @ Tallagandra Hill Winery
Australia is set to welcome the exceptional Irish vocalist Camille O’Sullivan, a gifted interpreter of narrative song, renowned for seamlessly recasting well-known songs into stark new shapes.
A love letter in song, Camille’s new show, Loveletter celebrates her dear friend, Shane McGowan (The Pogues), for whom she performed a beautiful version of his duet Haunted at his funeral; and also features hits by Sinéad O’Connor, Leonard Cohen, David Bowie, Nick Cave and more.
Performing with accompaniment from long-time collaborator Fergal Murray, Camille has created an intimate, heartfelt show capturing the honest response to those much loved and lost.
Saturday 15 March, 7 pm–10 pm, Tallagandra Hill Winery, 1692 Murrumbateman Road, Gundaroo | Tickets here.
Exhibitions
Inhabited
Presented by Gungahlin Arts, Inhabited is an exhibition featuring works by eight artists who live or work in the Gungahlin region: Tilly Davey, Angela Deka, Remus Douglas, Sue Hewat, Fatmata Kamara, David Liu, Anael Lukban and PAW.
Featuring textiles, painting, woodwork, mixed media, ceramics and more, this exhibition begins to uncover some of the breadth of practice that is happening in our community.
Inhabited aims to contribute to a dialogue that centres Gungahlin as a creative and vibrant district where artists are considered an integral part of the fabric of our geographic identity.
Exhibition opens on 14 Friday March | Gungahlin Arts
Nicola Mason and Rebecca Dowling at GOST
Gallery of Small Things (GOST) is hosting its first duo show for 2025 with current and new works from regional artists Painter Nicola Mason from Bathurst and Ceramicist Rebecca Dowling from Cowra.
Anne Masters, Director of GOST has curated a selection of current wall works from two of Nicola’s residencies. The up-and-coming exhibition at GOST invites the viewer to be drawn into small wall paintings/drawings filled with observations and responses to domestic settings and light and dark patterns from windows and doors.
Alongside Nicola’s works are Rebecca Dowling’s exquisite everyday ceramic objects. Rebecca has created new ceramic cups/saucers, pourers and dishes.
Saturday 15 – Sunday 30 March, 11 am to 4pm | Gallery of Small Things, 27 Wade Street, Watson | More information here.
The Reckoning by Kate Stevens
Braidwood-based artist Kate Stevens presents a powerful series of paintings examining the impact of alleged war crimes committed by Australia’s Special Forces during the war in Afghanistan. Through her work, Stevens explores how these events shape Australian cultural identity, questioning the narratives we uphold and the voices we silence.
Until Sunday 16 March | Platform, 19 Furneaux St, Manuka |Find out more here.
Soft Edges
Soft Edges is an exhibition by four artist friends who are interested in environmental and creative sustainability.
Shan Crosbie, Michele Grimston, Ann McMahon, and Heidi Smith explore In Soft Edges the overlap of their love of material experimentation, combining their focus to create a series of sculptures, textiles, drawings and installations.
Until Sunday 16 March | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
In.Plane.Site.
In.Plane.Site by Dörte Conroy consists of a number of small hard-edge paintings, full of different shapes, colours, and arrangements.
The result? A body of work that demonstrates Conroy’s enduring interest in design andolour, informed by her decades-long experience in the graphic design industry.
Until Sunday 16 March | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
Inside Out
This exhibition presents sculptures, drawings, and paintings that stand as authentic counterpoints to the fast-paced, time-driven rhythm of modern life.
In it, each piece invites viewers to pause, reconnect, and reflect on their inner worlds and values. Head along to see it for yourself!
Until Sunday 16 March | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
Pages from a Diary of a Weatherwatcher
‘What is the weather like here and now, in this place, and how am I experiencing this?’ That was the fundamental question for Di Broomhall’s body of work Pages from a Diary of a Weatherwatcher.
This diary of the weather in her eucalyptus garden spans a period of 12 months from March 2023 to March 2024. Priortising colour, light, atmosphere and sensation, this is one exhibition you need to see.
Until Sunday 16 March | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
History: Solo Exhibition by Martyn Thompson
Head along to the Canberra Glassworks to see the stunning works of cross-disciplinary artist Martyn Thompson.
Reimagining his ceramic vessels in glass, blending nostalgia and modernity through a tactile, painterly approach, this exhibition has been curated by Aimee Frodsham, the exhibition integrates his new glasswork with textiles, furniture, and objects from his studio.
Until Sunday 23 March | Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | More information here.
Waves of Kinship
This is a new photo-based work by Polish-born Kamberri/Canberra-based artist Marzena Wasikowska.
Inspired by fieldwork and studio meditations on the built environment, waterscapes and global warming, as well as her immediate family, works in this exhibition have been created with support from a Capital Arts Patrons’ Organisation (CAPO) grant.
Until Sunday 23 March | Platform, 19 Furneaux St Manuka | More information here.
Celebrate Gungahlin: Young Voices
This exhibition features artworks and documentation from the 2024 Celebrate Gungahlin Festival.
Local artists Megan Daley and Pinal Maniar worked with children and their families to create masks, banners, and props for the inaugural festival parade. Showcasing the documentation of the process and the parade, as well as highlights from Our Town: A Celebrate Gungahlin Community Exhibition, head along to support over 100 young people who live, work or play in the Gungahlin region.
Until Sunday 23 March, 10 am – 4 pm | The Nook, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
Escape. Control. Delete. by Kristie Watts
In Australia, more than one in three women have been physically and/or sexually assaulted. Every week a woman is murdered by her current or former partner. Escape Control Delete is a process and conceptual-based installation that makes the statistics of violence against women in Australia visible.
Each blacked-out key represents a woman in the community creating an unavoidable visual representation of words heard and reports read about the increasing statistics of women in Australia affected by abuse.
Until Sunday 23 March, 10 am – 4 pm | Window Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
Mint-60 (Royal Australian Mint)
As a celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Royal Australian Mint, there is a display of never-before-seen objects from the national coin collection – including Roxie, who was Australia’s first coin packing robot. On display until 12 May, so make sure you head in to check it out!
Until Sunday, 11 May | Denison Street, Deakin | ramint.gov.au
TILT by Alex Asch and Mariana del Castillo
This is the final exhibition in a two-year collaboration between artists Alex Asch and Mariana del Castillo.
Exploring ideas around identity, memory, belonging, and ownership, through colonisation, migration, and displacement the two artists enter the conversation from opposite ends. Head along to see it for yourself.
Until Sunday 23 March, 10 am – 4 pm | Pivot Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
3000 days … and counting …
Esteemed Australian botanical artist Sharon Field is waging a personal protest against global warming. And in doing so, she is creating a monumental piece of art.
Setting herself a challenge to create a draw/painting for 3000 days on a series of scrolls, she is making Australia’s own version of the Bayeux Tapestry (the historic 11th Century tapestry depicting the Norman conquest of England and measuring approximately 68 metres).
Providing a visual record of the plants the planet is in danger of losing, you can see it at the Belconnen Arts Centre.
Until Sunday 23 March, 10 am – 4 pm | West Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
Neither Here Nor There by Liz Faul
Liz Faul was born in Canberra and grew up here. And that’s what inspires her work.
Conveying her feelings about Canberra and how it’s changed over the years, in this exhibition, she uses repeated motifs to express her memories of growing up here — the Burley Griffin map, the photographs of familiar places, and silhouettes of the family at different times. It combines painted papers, recycled printed materials, found papers and her illustrations on canvasses or boxes.
Until Sunday 23 March, 10 am – 4 pm | Generator Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
The Bald Archy Prize 2025
Get ready for Australia’s leading satirical art extravaganza, the Bald Archy Prize! Born in 1994 as a whimsical take that more serious competition, this prize throws open its canvas to artists of every stripe, inviting them to unleash their creativity in portrait paintings teeming with humour, dark satire, light comedy, or caricature.
Now, entering its 29th year in 2025, the Bald Archy Prize beckons artists to carry forward the rich tradition of revelling in laughter while basking in the beauty of art. The exhibition kicks off in Canberra before embarking on a tour across various venues in Eastern Australia, so make sure you don’t miss out!
Until Sunday 23 March | Watson Arts Centre (Canberra Potters), 1 Aspinall St Watson | More information here.
Pompeii
If seeing Pompeii in Italy is on your bucket list, mark your calendars for this one! The National Museum of Australia is showing its Pompeiiexhibit, featuring over 90 discovered objects from the ancient city before Mount Vesuvius erupted. This display in Canberra will be the first time some of these objects have been seen outside Europe!
Visitors will be taken into the exhibit with an engaging atmosphere created by large-scale digital projections and captivating soundscapes. Expect to see recovered jewellery, sculptures, pottery, frescoes, and other objects once used by this civilisation.
Until Sunday 4 May | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Acton | Book here.
Lindy Lee
Lindy Lee is one of Australia’s most accomplished contemporary artists. This exhibition brings together highlights from across the artist’s career as well as a monumental new installation and works on paper.
Exploring themes of ancestry, spirituality, the environment, and the cosmos, this display of new and recent works will shed light on Lee’s ever-evolving and ambitious practice.
Until Tuesday 1 July | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here.
KULATA TJUTA: TIRKILPA
Kulata Tjuta: Tirkilpa is the largest and most significant installation of the culturally important and visually spectacular Kulata Tjuta (Many Spears) Project.
Like others in the series, it is rooted in age-old traditions, knowledge and skills that are designed around keeping Country and culture strong. On show at the National Gallery of Australia head along to see the large-scale, multi-disciplinary installations that incorporate film, sound, live performance and other artistic collaborations.
Resonance – Art as the Voice of Nature
This exhibition at the Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG) showcases art from the NatureArt Lab teaching team and community, nature journals and natural history objects collected over our eight years of operation.
Celebrating the richness of biodiversity and the deep connections between art and the natural world, the exhibition extends beyond visual art, incorporating community engagement, school programs, and international nature tours spanning Borneo, Costa Rica, the Galapagos Islands, Amazonian Ecuador, and Peru.
Until Sunday 27 July | 176 London Circuit, City | More information here.
Fit to Print: Defining Moments from the Fairfax Photo Archive selected by Mike Bowers
Showcasing the best of Australian photojournalism, the National Library has invited renowned Australian photojournalist Mike Bowers to select some of his favourite images from the Fairfax Photo Archive.
Tracing the art of photojournalism from its infancy to the highly illustrated news stories you know so well today, the free exhibition explores how the pioneers of press photography in Australia developed their storytelling skills.
Until Sunday 20 July | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | More information here.
Sport and Wellness
Saturday morning Yoga with Atmaraga Yoga
Interested in embarking on a yogic journey? Join Nandhini Nagaratnam on Saturday mornings for an hour long class focused on strength, flexibility, health and well-being.
Held in the Lennox Gardens, we dare you to name a better way to kick off the weekend than with a general-level yoga class by the lake. Classes may be cancelled due to bad weather, so make sure to register with your contact details by emailing yogaatmaraga@gmail.com. Each class costs $20 (payment can be made in advance, or in cash on the day) and you’ll need to bring a mat!
Saturday 15 March | Lennox Gardens, Flynn Drive, Yarralumla | Register with your contact details by emailing yogaatmaraga@gmail.com
Free All Girls AFL Clinics
Do you have a young girl in your life who loves AFL or wants to know more about the sport? Take them along to this free program!
Held every Sunday until 13 April, it’s aimed at girls aged 4 – 12 and will allow them to participate with other girls and learn the skills of the game at their pace in a fun and safe environment!
Sunday 16 March | Alan Ray Oval, Ainslie | Register here.
Raiders v Broncos
Get excited for the first Raiders home game of the year! Fresh off their trip to Vegas for the opening round of the season, the Raiders will be keen to put in a strong performance for their home fans as they take on the Brisbane Broncos.
Grab your tickets before they sell out.
Saturday 15 March | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Book here.
Canoe Polo Summer Series
Ever heard of Canoe Polo? It’s an exciting, high-intensity kayaking discipline that combines paddling with the contact-sport nature of rugby and the ball skills of water polo and baseball.
And this is your chance to spectate the final event of the Australian Canoe Polo circuit at Molonglo Reach as national and developing players battle it out.
Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 March | Burley Griffin Canoe Club, Molonglo Reach, Campbell | More information here.
Yoga at the Farm
A relaxing outdoor yoga session surrounded by the beauty of a farm and views of the Brindabella mountain ranges? say no more.
Westwood Farm is helping people connect with nature and unwind in the serene surroundings of Lions Youth Haven. Starting from 8.15 am, all levels of yoga lovers are welcome to rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul. Just make sure to bring a yoga mat or towel.
Sunday 16 March | 244 Kambah Pool Road, Kambah | More information here.
Breathwork & Sound Healing Journey
Experience a transcendental healing journey and enjoy the benefits of this soul-nourishing session.
Starting with 15 minutes of relaxing breath-work to tune the body into a meditative state, you’ll be taken on a healing journey where native and meditative instruments are used. Bring your own mat, blanket and pillow and enjoy!
Sunday 16 March | SaltHouse Community Centre, Henty Street, Braddon | Book here.
Workshops and Programs
Canberra Day Oration 2025: Gary Humphries AO at the National Library
In the 2025 Canberra Day Oration, Gary Humphries AO will explore the question of whether ACT self-government has been a success.
You can attend in person or watch online as he attempts to answer this question.
Wednesday 12 March | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Register here.
A Story To Be Worn – Mariana Del Castillo
In this series of three workshops, you can join artist Mariana del Castillo in creating bespoke wearable art.
In session one, Paper Worn, you will explore a variety of heavy-weight papers, paper beads, metal attachments, drafting film, repurposed text, sumi and indigo ink. In session two, Leather Worn, you’ll explore a variety of cobbler remnants, stitches, vintage leather, tin and eyeglass lenses and in session three, you will explore a variety of threads, stencilling, stitches, natural materials and hand-dyed eco fabrics. Do one or do all three!
Wednesday 12 March | Craft + Design Canberra, 180 London Circuit, City | Book here.
My country burns: landscape photography with Samuel Markham
Head along to the National Archives of Australia for an inspiring afternoon with Samuel Markham, an award-winning Australian landscape photographer and the Overall Winner of the 2023 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year competition.
In this workshop, Samuel will share the story behind his striking image, provide valuable insights into landscape photography composition, and discuss other remarkable works within the exhibition.
Saturday 15 March | National Archives of Australia, Kings Avenue, Parkes | Book here.
Circus Play at Play Day
Warehouse Circus is taking over Play Day at Dairy Road! Along with roving performers mingling with audience members, you can expect performances from skilled circus artists, as well as guidance for kids of all ages through the basics of circus skills such as juggling, acrobatics, diablo, and hula hoops.
Sunday 16 March | LESS Gardens, Dairy Road, 1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick | More information here.
ACT FrogWatch Workshops
ACT FrogWatch is offering a unique opportunity to turn your outdoor space into a vibrant frog-friendly habitat with a series of hands-on workshops! Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply curious about attracting local wildlife, there’s something you will love.
It’s an exciting way to support the conservation of local species and help sustain our natural environment, one pond at a time. Hop to it!
Sunday 16 March | Various locations | Register here.
Feature image: Photox – Canberra Photography Services.
