Five new highlights of NightFest 2016

Posted on 16 September, 2016

You could be forgiven for thinking that Floriade’s beautiful floral display are best experienced during a stunning spring days – blue skies, bright sun, the whole deal.

But Canberra’s biggest spring festival is equally as enchanting at night, and you can see it in a whole new light during this year’s NightFest, when Commonwealth Park comes alive after dark from 28 September – 2 October.

NightFest has been popular since it was first introduced as a permanent part of the Floriade program in 2008 but this year it’s bigger, better and brighter.

From a meadow of light to belly laughs and a ‘Posh Pit’, there something at NightFest 2016 for everyone.

THE MARKETPLACE

Floriade always has great food on offer, whether it’s street food, or something a bit more fancy. This year NightFest is continuing the tradition, with The Kitchen Company Tasting Plate.

Canberra’s local food and beverage scene will be on display, with favourites such as Mount Majura vineyard and Bentspoke Brewery showcasing their beverages, and Pialligo Estate’s excellent edible treats.

Find out which chefs, restaurants and boutique companies will be showcasing at the NightFest Tasting Plate here.

ENTERTAINMENT

A night out is always made better by music, and this year’s line-up on Stage 88 is sure to get visitors of all ages dancing.

From 8.15pm every night, Melbourne’s Mad Men Jazz Trio will be getting people moving and for those who want to push on a little later, a DJ will be playing from 9.30pm each night.

There will also be special performances on select nights, from 7pm. Acts include Canberra locals East Row Rabble and Slow Turismo.

Away from the stage, a range of roving performers will surprise and delight guests. From circus duo Of the Flame, to the quirky Salvadore-Daliesque Time Minders, there’s a bit of everything.

Find the full program of musical entertainment here.

FOLLOW THE LIGHTS

Forget simple strings of fairy lights, lighting extraordinaire Mandylights have created a whole parkland filled with various sorts of twinkling light installations for NightFest 2016.

Inbetween the ferris wheel and the Parlour will be the perfect location to take a romantic walk with your favourite human, or to take mini humans to show them a different side to Floriade.

THE PARLOUR

If you’ve had your fill of flowers and food (as if), get your dose of stand-up comedy at The Parlour.

With headlining acts like Jimeoin, and shows by young Aussies like Nick Cody, Tom Walker and Becky Lucas, there’s something on every evening of NightFest.

Head over to The Parlour to relax, and let other people do the work to get you laughing.

Find the full program of entertainment here.

BE EXCLUSIVE

If you’re looking for something extra special (perhaps for someone extra special), NightFest has premium tickets on offer, and they’re plusher than ever.

You can opt for a ticket to the ‘Posh Pit’ aboard one of the ferries, which will ensure the bubbles and canapés will appear before you even reach Floriade.

Or if this isn’t luxurious enough, Premium tickets include transport to NightFest by ferry, red carpet entry, exclusive entertainment, and plenty of champagne and canapés in the premium lounge. Sign us up.

Find out more about premium tickets here.

the essentials

What: Floriade NightFest 2016
Where: Commonwealth Park
When: 6.30pm-10.30pm, 28 September – 2 October
Tickets and more information: www.floriadeaustralia.com/nightfest