It’s official – an epic drone spectacular and night markets are coming this summer

Posted on 15 December, 2023

In a first for Canberra, this January will see an epic drone show take to Lake Burley Griffin, complete with bustling night markets. Did someone say ‘perfect summer night out’?

Taking place above the lake next to Commonwealth Place, FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow and Night Markets will happen across three evenings from 25 to 27 January and be completely free.

FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow will feature 600 drones working in perfect synchronisation to an epic soundtrack, with previous shows by production company AGB Creative featuring enormous floating flowers, animals and more.

While we don’t know what’s in-store, the production will ‘depict a vast array of Australian experiences and stories across a trilogy of shows’.

Meanwhile, on the ground, the Night Markets will feature an array of multicultural food and drink vendors and other market stalls (Clothing! Jewellery! Art! Homewares!) as well as live entertainment, music and roving performers. And yes, there will be ice cream.

While the best view will be from Commonwealth Place, FLIGHT will be visible across most of Lake Burley Griffin and from Mount Ainslie, so if you’re looking to avoid crowds this summer, you’re covered.

Rendered image by AGB Creative & IIIShutter.

With an impressive track record of presenting large-scale drone shows, AGB Creative has created works for Vivid Light Sydney, Expo 2020 Al Wasl Plaza Dubai, and Parrtjima – A Festival in Light Alice Springs.

“The creative intent is not just to entertain but to enlighten, engage, and inspire,” says Anthony Bastic AM, Creative Director of AGB Creative. “‘Flight’ seeks to connect people with the heart of Australia, using the canvas of the night sky to tell a story that is both uniquely Australian and universally significant.”

Each evening will feature three shows: Welcome, Yumalundi| Part 1 at 8.30 pm, Part 2 | Rejoice at 9.30 pm and One and Free | Part 3 at 10.30 pm.

Credit: Elevate, AGB Creative.

“The National Capital Authority (NCA) is delighted to join hands with the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council in bringing FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow and Night Markets to Canberra,” says Sally Barnes, Chief Executive, National Capital Authority.

“This visually captivating drone show not only showcases our nation’s beauty but also serves as a powerful invitation for all Canberrans, visitors and the broader community to come together in reflection and celebration of our shared Australian identity in 2024. As we bask in the visual splendour, let us revel in the essence of our land, appreciate the diverse tapestry of life, and take pride in the unique offerings of our National Capital. This event stands as a beacon of unity, embodying the spirit of reconciliation that continues to strengthen the bonds of our great nation.”

Bringing Australians together to Reflect, Respect and Celebrate, the event is the brainchild of the National Capital Authority (NCA), assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.

“As a Ngunnawal Elder, I am delighted to work with the National Capital Authority and AGB Creative to present the community with a show that celebrates Australian culture both ancient and contemporary,” says Dr Caroline Hughes, Ngunnawal Elder and Executive Director, Collection Services Group, Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS).

“Our participation in the creative development of the show reflects our desire to invite the community to come together to reflect and enjoy the land and life here in the Capital, in the spirit of reconciliation and joy.”

As for getting to and from the events, the NCA will work closely with the ACT Government to ensure public transport is available to and from the event, with later night services increased.

While visitor parking will be available throughout the National Triangle, it’s important to note that the Questacon carpark will be closed to the public so it can be made available to patrons with access needs. Further accessible parking will be available at Regatta Point.

Feature image: Rendered image by AGB Creative & IIIShutter