Six reasons Ginninderry’s Inspire Festival just might be Spring’s best free event

Posted on 25 August, 2025

As the last of winter’s chill gives way to those glorious sunny Canberra mornings, Ginninderry’s Inspire Festival returns to remind us why we love living in this creative, connected city of ours.

We’ve been eagerly anticipating this all-ages celebration from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, 6 September, and honestly? It just might be Spring’s best free event. Here are six reasons why.

Get starstruck by Australia’s most beloved science communicator

We’re talking Dr Karl Kruszelnicki – yes, the Dr Karl – sharing his infectious enthusiasm for science in one of the festival’s intimate “In Conversations” sessions. These aren’t your typical lecture format either, but rather engaging discussions that’ll leave you buzzing with new ideas. It’s not every day you get to hear from Australia’s favourite science guru for free, right here in our backyard.

Learn survival skills from a reality TV legend

Survival expert Gina Chick joins the speaker lineup, bringing her incredible wilderness wisdom to Strathnairn. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just curious about self-sufficiency, her insights promise to be both practical and inspiring. Perfect for families looking to add some adventure to their weekend.

Transform your green thumb with expert gardening wisdom

Garden guru Indira Naidoo brings her wealth of sustainable living knowledge, while the hands-on workshop program covers everything from composting basics to family-friendly plant potting sessions. The kids can learn to pot plants nearby while you discover toxic-free cleaning product techniques – it’s the kind of multi-generational learning that makes this festival special.

Discover local creativity at open artist studios

Visit Strathnairn Arts open studios and witness artists at work in their creative spaces. You’ll glimpse works in progress, understand techniques up close, and maybe discover a medium you’ve never considered trying yourself. Got an art enthusiast in the family? This is your chance to see creativity in action and perhaps spark some inspiration of your own.

Taste the best of what our region produces

The food and markets showcase local artisans, food producers, and makers who pour their hearts into their craft. We’re talking freshly made cuisine on a sunny Canberra day, alongside unique local products you won’t find anywhere else. And who can say no to supporting our regional producers while treating the family to something delicious?

Soak up the perfect community atmosphere

Gullifer Street transforms into a vibrant community hub where live music plays in the background while families explore workshops, couples sample local treats, and everyone discovers something new. That’s the beauty of the Inspire Festival – it seamlessly weaves together art, sustainability, and community connection in a way that feels both enriching and genuinely fun.

With so much happening across four hours, we’d suggest checking out the full programme beforehand to identify your must-see speakers or workshops. And an insider tip – bring the whole family, pack reusable water bottles, and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Mark Saturday, 6 September in your diary, we’ll see you there, probably with mud on our hands from some enthusiastic plant potting.