One week, 60+ events: Your ultimate guide to what’s on in Canberra
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Ready to have your diary completely booked? This week in Canberra is absolutely packed with everything from champagne and fried chicken pairings (yes, really!) to lakeside markets, cosy wine festivals, and world-class theatre.
Whether you’re after cultural sophistication, foodie adventures, or just want to browse beautiful local treasures with a coffee in hand, we’ve got you sorted. Clear your schedule – you’re going to be busy!
Special Events and Festivals
Lerida Estate Presents: Low & Slow
Lerida Estate invites you to an immersive winter evening celebrating Canberra’s food, wine and art scene. Set at Canberra Contemporary against Lake Burley Griffin, this multisensory experience features award-winning wines including new release Shiraz, Pinot Noir and Riesling, slow-smoked barbecue by Big Box Barbeque’s pit masters, curated vinyl tunes, and access to the gallery’s latest contemporary visual arts exhibition Paradise exploring Pasifika/Australian artists living between multiple worlds.
Friday 1 August | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | leridaestate.com.au
She Leads Conference
Step into your power at Canberra’s premier women’s leadership conference. She Leads Conference 2025 UNITE! celebrates the transformative power of diverse voices joining forces to create meaningful impact. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or emerging leader, you’ll leave with powerful tools, unshakeable confidence, and a network of ambitious peers who have your back.
Friday 1 August | Canberra Rex Hotel, 150 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon | sheleads.org.au
Saloon pop-up at Goldfinch
Lovers of Braidwood’s Saloon Design House may be mourning the loss of the physical store, but they’ll be pleased to hear the news that the brand is popping up at Goldfinch in Kingston this weekend.
Join the opening night celebration with cocktails, tunes, and a carefully curated edit of Saloon’s stunning pieces – the perfect excuse to bring your bestie along. Sip on craft cocktails by Hold Fast Distillery while browsing the collection.
Teturn on Saturday for Designer Styling Day where you can meet Dena and Megan, the creative force behind the clothes, and receive personal styling advice.
This intimate fashion experience combines great drinks, music, and the chance to discover your next favourite outfit with expert guidance from the designers themselves.
Friday 1 August 5 pm–8 pm, Saturday 2 August 10am-4pm | Goldfinch, 1/45 Jardine Street, Kingston | RSVP required for Friday opening via eventbrite.com.au
Life Drawing & Lingerie
The Tipsy Sketching Club is partnering with local Canberra designer Holly Lulu Intimates to bring you an enchanting evening where delicate lingerie meets artistic expression.
The ethos of Holly Lulu Intimates is to celebrate the multi-faceted personalities and lifestyles of the modern customer. With designs available in vibrant colours and unique textiles, the Holly Lulu mission is to offer garments with a unique point of difference for the intimates category – garments to inspire lingerie wearers to be uniquely and unapologetically themselves.
‘Self Care’ and ‘Self Love’ aren’t just trends anymore, they are lifestyle choices. Lingerie lovers are no longer wearing beautiful intimates only for their partner; they are wearing it for themselves and this is something to celebrate!
This life drawing session will have lingerie-clad models posing for approximately two hours, in a range of timed poses between 2-25 minutes.
7 pm, Wednesday 30 July | Verity Lane Market, 50 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra City | tipsysketching.club
Quiet Mornings at the Mint
On the first Saturday of each month, the Mint opens its doors earlier than usual for a morning of peaceful exploration.
Quiet Mornings are specially designed for those who might have heightened sensory requirements. So pop on in, have a leisurely stroll around the Mint’s exhibition space, and enjoy the reduced noise and smaller crowds.
Saturday 2 August, 9 am – 10 am | Denison Street, Deakin | Book your spot here
Platy Party – Platypus Month Launch Event
This is a family-friendly celebration launching a month-long focus on Australia’s most iconic aquatic mammal. It features guided platypus walks, waterbug displays, live music, hands-on activities, and morning tea surrounded by wetlands habitat and is a unique opportunity to explore local waterways, discover fascinating wildlife, and connect with conservation in action.
Saturday 2 August | Jerrabomberra Wetlands, 2 Dairy Road, Fyshwick | act.waterwatch.org.au
Light Up Lyneham
Don’t miss the seventh annual winter celebration of community! Featuring live music, entertainment, community stalls, and the highlight sunset lantern walk led by the brilliantly lit Canberra Mountain Lion to specially illuminated local wetlands, it’s full of community cheer with food, entertainment, and illuminated art installations to warm the coldest winter night.
Saturday 2 August | Lyneham shops, Wattle Place, Lyneham | lyneham.org.au
Fireside Festival
Your cosy winter wine escape is nearly here! Fireside Festival lights up the Canberra Wine District from 21 July to 3 August.
Head to the Canberra Wines website to discover all the events, experiences and special offers our region’s winemakers have lined up for you.
Until Sunday 3 August | various venues | canberrawines.com.au
Food and Wine
Winter Wine Series
Warm up with complimentary fireside wine tastings every Friday in Hyatt Hotel Canberra’s historic Griffin’s lounge. Discover stories behind the vines while sipping incredible drops from Eden Road, Collector Wines, Nick O’Leary, Lark Hill and Bremerton Wines. Unwind, discover, and sip. No bookings required.
Every Friday | Hyatt Hotel Canberra, Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | hyatt.com
Champagne and Fried Chicken
Who knew fried chicken and champagne were a match made in flavour heaven? The crisp bubbles cut through the golden crunch, creating the ultimate indulgent pairing you didn’t know you needed.
Taste four champagnes – Louis Roederer Collection 245, NV Piper-Heidsieck Brut, NV Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label and NV Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve – each expertly paired with a unique take on fried chicken, as you’re guided through the tasting experience.
This deliciously unexpected duo is worth the hype. $95PP
Every Saturday in July, 3:30–5:30 pm | Leyla Bar, Burbury Close, Barton | Book tickets here.
Bubbles with Bite
If you like your sips sparkly and snacks sophisticated, then pull up a seat for some knock-out Champagne pairings with Perrier-Jouët at QT Canberra. The refreshing crispness of Champagne combined with the rich lusciousness of caviar is pure indulgence, while the French fry crunch adds that perfect comfort food kicker. It’s the smart-casual snack your suit and sneaker combo demands – luxe and laid-back, just the way we like it. Choose from a glass of Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut ($22), or go all out with bottles paired with fries and caviar. As always, QT promises to keep the posh playful.
Until Sunday 31 August | QT Canberra, 1 London Circuit, City | qthotels.com
Markets
The Little Burley Market
This Saturday waterside market favourite features beautifully curated gourmet food and artisan stalls with magnificent lake views. Head along to browse locally handmade goods, multicultural cuisines, chef-created desserts, smoked meats, fresh pastries, beautiful blooms, handmade jewellery, artisan pottery, children’s apparel, as well as stalls for furry friends! Plus, don’t miss the free arts and crafts activities for kids.
Saturday 2 August | Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.com.au
Hartley Hall Markets
At this family-friendly market, you’ll find everything from food to locally grown vegetables, baked goods, plants, furniture, clothing, pottery, children’s toys, arts and crafts, and unique gifts. Stroll among trees, enjoy lunch, fresh air, live entertainment, and children’s activities.
Sunday 3 August | Hall Showground, Victoria Street, Hall | hartley.org.au
Capital Region Farmers Market
Sample the region’s freshest produce from over 100 stallholders who bring freshly picked, grown and hand-crafted goods to Canberra. Speak directly with growers and learn cooking tips while supporting the Rotary Club of Hall’s community projects.
Saturdays, 7 am-11:30 am | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Mitchell | capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au
Haig Park Village Markets
Browse delicious cuisines, fresh produce, artisan products and locally handmade crafts while enjoying live music, an artists’ table and family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect Sunday outing in leafy Braddon.
Sundays, 8 am – 2 pm | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.com.au
Old Bus Depot Markets
Lovers of fine hand-crafted wares, clothing collectors, food fanatics and jewellery junkies are just a few of the people who head to Canberra’s award-winning Old Bus Depot Markets every Sunday. In a fabulous old industrial building you’ll experience the endless colour, tastes, sounds and atmosphere that is “Canberra’s Sunday Best”.
Not your average market, each week you’ll find over 200 stalls of exceptional quality, featuring items all hand-crafted by local and regional creatives. There’s simply no better way to spend your Sunday in Canberra.
Sundays, 9.30 am – 2.30 pm | 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | obdm.com.au
Stage and Screen
Dick & Angel’s Forever Home
Join the beloved Escape to the Chateau stars for untold stories, hearty laughs and their most interactive show yet!
Monday 28 July | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
The Gruffalo’s Child
Follow the adventurous sequel of The Gruffalo through the deep dark wood with magical musical theatre, puppetry and songs perfect for ages three and up.
Thursday 31 July | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Marrow
Australian Dance Theatre’s muscular choreographic work sees the incredible ensemble tangle with smoke and light to disassemble dominant cultural narratives and reveal historical truths. Created by Daniel Riley with Kaurna/Ngarrindjeri Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner AM, this bracingly honest work imagines a new future acknowledging our present moment.
Until Friday 1 August | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Asian Film Archive: Reciprocal
Film buffs will love this collaborative film program spotlighting archival collections exploring identity, love, resistance, and cultural change. Highlights include the Malaysian drama Maryam, the Singaporean film Be With Me, the disco-infused Forever Fever, the documentary Sementara, and the once-banned martial arts cult classic Ring of Fury. Some screenings followed by audience participation events, including karaoke.
Friday 1 until Sunday 3 August | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
Explorers – The Age of Discovery – with James May – Live on Stage
British television presenter James May premieres his landmark live theatre show, bringing to life extraordinary explorers who traversed deserts, scaled mountains, and sailed into the unknown. From Ice Age migrations to space travel, combining theatrical techniques with charismatic storytelling for compelling intellectual entertainment.
Saturday 2 August | Llewellyn Hall- ANU, Building 100, William Herbert Place | lateralevents.com
Ballet International Gala: BIG VI
Ballet’s biggest international stars from the Royal Ballet, Australian Ballet, and more perform in what’s widely regarded as ballet’s event of the year. Following a sell-out debut season, don’t miss this opportunity to experience ballet at its absolute best.
Saturday 2 August | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Consent
Experience Nina Raine’s acclaimed modern classic “Consent” in this powerful, provocative production by Mockingbird Theatre Company. When friends Ed and Tim take opposing sides in a sexual assault case, their own lives begin to unravel as every version of truth is challenged. This intricately constructed play explores questions of consent—sexual and personal—probing the murky moral terrain of courtrooms and marriages while putting Justice herself on trial.
Directed by Steph Evans, this “sparkling intelligence” work has been hailed as one of the most important plays of recent years, combining wit, humanity, and theatrical brilliance in an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Until Saturday 2 August | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au/consent
Julius Caesar
Shakespeare’s bloodiest political tragedy storms into Canberra with chilling contemporary relevance. Chaika Theatre’s gender-blind production reimagines the assassination of Caesar in modern dress, transforming suits for togas and placing audiences in the heart of Rome’s political machinations.
With Canberra’s corridors of power just beyond the theatre doors, this stripped-back adaptation finds eerie resonance as it explores themes of manipulation, democratic crisis, and the brutal cost of political ambition. Director Caitlin Baker leads a dynamic cast of 11, including Michael Sparks as Caesar and Lachlan Ruffy as the conflicted Brutus, in a production that reflects our turbulent political landscape.
Until Saturday 2 August, various times | ACT Hub, Kingston | acthub.com.au
21 Hearts: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke
Witness a compelling true story celebrating women’s strength and hope through the eyes of a wartime atrocity’s only survivor.
In one of the most atrocious acts of war crimes in history, 22 nurses were forced to march into the sea where they were callously machine gunned. The only survivor and witness, Vivian spent the rest of the war in a prison camp before liberation, and her remaining years fighting for recognition of the bravery of her friends and colleagues; their strength and courage in the face of death sustaining her for the rest of her illustrious life.
Until Sunday 3 August | Australian War Memorial Theatre, Campbell | awm.gov.au
Spider’s Web
Unravel Christie’s secrets in an English country manor where truth becomes lies and lies become truth in this wickedly entertaining mystery.
Until Saturday 9 August | Canberra REP Theatre, 3 Repertory Lane, City | canberrarep.org.au
Music
Illy – The Good-er Life Tour
Following Illy’s 3rd ARIA number one album “Good Life”, the explosive live show brings high octane energy with certified classics and new hits. The mammoth 27-date party tour features the band delivering their litany of hits to stages nationwide this August. Catch them in Canberra on Friday 1 August.
Friday 1 August | University of Canberra, UC Hub, 1 Kirinari Street, Bruce | Book here.
International Blues Music Day
Seven hours of live blues music celebrating International Blues Music Day? Don’t miss this special event featuring with brilliant local and interstate musicians, including Barrow of Fiends, Don Morrison, Jesse Redwing Band, Roshani, and Checkerboard Lounge. As John Lee Hooker said, “The Blues tells a story. Every line of the Blues has a meaning.”
Saturday 2 August | Harmonie German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | facebook.com
Hollywood’s Greatest Songs
Art Song Canberra welcomes back soprano Lorina Gore and tenor Andrew Goodwin in Tea for Two, featuring songs and duets from the Golden Age of Hollywood. The award-winning performers present classic numbers from the American Songbook, including duets from Kiss Me Kate, Oklahoma and West Side Story, plus Cole Porter’s Tea For Tea immortalised by Doris Day. Accompanied by Anthony Smith, this collaboration showcases Gore’s exquisite soprano and Goodwin’s crystalline tenor.
Sunday 3 August| Wesley Music Centre, 20 National Circuit, Forrest | trybooking.com
Exhibitions
Wandering: Near & Far – Millie Black
Discover the profound connection between people and the natural world through emerging artist Millie Black’s captivating solo exhibition. Based on Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country, Black is a painter and textile artist whose multidisciplinary practice explores atmosphere and ground through painterly brushstrokes. Her works—at once quiet and monumental—reimagine landscapes both near and distant as sites of care, reverence, and shared belonging.
Hovering between the real and sublime, these pieces invite reflection on our relationship to wilderness, encouraging viewers to recognize these places not just as scenic, but as part of who we are. Join the artist for opening drinks and explore this research-led practice that blends environmental inquiry with poetic material expression.
Saturday 2 to Sunday 31 August – opening drinks Saturday 2 August, 3–5 pm | Suki & Hugh Gallery, 38A Gibraltar Street, Bungendore | sukihugh.com.au
Know My Name: Kee, Jackson and Delaunay
Know My Name: Kee, Jackson and Delaunay showcases two of Australia’s leading fashion designers: Linda Jackson and Jenny Kee, in conversation with international, multidisciplinary artist Sonia Delaunay (1885–1979).
The iconic and vibrant early designs of Kee and Jackson from the 1970s and early 1980s were directly inspired by the dynamic legacy of Delaunay, who was a member of the School of Paris and co-founder of Orphism, an art movement noted for its use of intense colours and abstract, geometric forms. As well as working in traditional mediums such as painting and printmaking, Delaunay’s practice also included textile, fashion, and theatre design.
For Jackson and Kee, who were beginning their shared journey in creating clothes as works of art, the discovery of Delaunay was revolutionary. This powerful display feature a rarely-seen collection of Kee and Jackson’s garments from their archives and are shown with the National Gallery’s collection of Delaunay’s prints, drawings, textiles and costumes.
Showing now | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
INTO THE VOID
This presents surreal digital collages exploring physical, intellectual and emotional boundaries through imagined spaces featuring a common female figure caught between reality and fantasy, trauma and healing.
Until Sunday 3 August | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | m16artspace.com.au
Inside the Outside
This showcases 30 years of natural environment paintings through oil paintings, charcoal drawings and mixed media studies encouraging appreciation of the Australian bush.
Until Sunday 3 August | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | m16artspace.com
The Space and Time Continuum Project
This exhibition unites long-time friends in their first collaborative exhibition, bridging distance through small paintings and sculptures and exploring connections across time and geography.
Until Sunday 3 August | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | m16artspace.com.au
Intentos de procesar una(s) vida(s) – Attempts at processing a life(s)
Experience the deeply personal artistic journey of mid-career artist Zoya Godoroja-Prieckaerts in her powerful dual-titled exhibition, Intentos de procesar una(s) vida(s) – Attempts at processing a life(s). This compelling collection of drawings and gestural printmaking explores different moments and emotive phases from the artist’s life over the past three years.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness raw artistic expression that transforms personal experience into universal emotional resonance.
Until Saturday 16 August | Megalo Print Studio + Gallery, 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | megalo.org
Exhibition: 10 years of NAIDOC in the North
Celebrates a decade of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture presentations, showcasing special moments captured through performance, creativity and community engagement.
Until Sunday 24 August | The Window Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre | belcoarts.com.au
Djinindira (Ginninderra) by Bradley Mapiva
This exhibition reflects the Ngunnawal meaning “sparkling ray of light”, capturing the cultural significance of Ginninderra through patterns echoing riverlines, pathways and shimmering reflections.
Until Sunday 24 August | West Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre | belcoarts.com.au
Footsteps Through Country by Wilay Designs
This exhibition celebrates connection, growth and cultural strength through personal and collective journeys shaped by Country, guided by Old People and inspired by lived experiences.
Until Sunday 24 August | Pivot Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre | belcoarts.com.au
Home by Dominika Cady, Shawnah Cady, Hannah Langford & Eva-Lee Williams
Explore the varied meanings of “home” through four aspiring CIT Cultural Arts students’ interpretations ranging from physical spaces to childhood memories.
Until Sunday 24 August | Generator Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre | belcoarts.com.au
Reflection: 50 Years of the Australian Honours System
Discover the remarkable story of Australia’s honours system through a fascinating exhibition at the Royal Australian Mint. “Reflection” celebrates five decades of recognizing extraordinary Australians, featuring original medal sketches by Stuart Devlin, finished medals, and commemorative coins from the National Coin Collection.
Explore the journey from design concept to final recognition, including the 2003 Volunteers Fine Silver Proof Set, Afghanistan Medal displays, and stunning wattle-themed collectibles. This free exhibition honors over 500,000 Australians who have contributed to our nation’s spirit.
Now open | Royal Australian Mint, Deakin | Free entry | ramint.gov.au
Wish You Were Here – Community Exhibition
Discover the beauty and uniqueness of Canberra’s South through this community exhibition curated from an open call for small works. Local artists reflect on the Tuggeranong Valley and South Canberra environment, sharing what makes their region special through diverse artistic expressions.
From everyday joys to memorable moments, this collection celebrates the things that bring delight to those who live, work, and visit this vibrant part of the capital. A heartfelt tribute to community connection and place, showcasing the artistic talent flourishing in Canberra’s southern suburbs.
Until Saturday 9 August | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com
True: Kevin Gilbert (1933-1993)
Celebrate the life and legacy of Kevin Gilbert through this powerful exhibition of prints and poetry marking what would have been his 92nd year. Featuring images and poetry created during his lifetime alongside works edited for the first time, this tribute explores Gilbert’s core themes of spiritual presence and cultural survival.
Through lino prints, poetry, and photography, witness how Gilbert’s work enhanced the cultural survival of his people against colonial oppression. A moving testament to an artist, writer, and activist whose vision continues to inspire and educate.
Until Saturday 9 August | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com
From Country – Rechelle Turner & Megan Daley
Experience the deep-rooted connection to Country through this collaborative exhibition by Megan Daley (Ngunnawal/Wiradjuri) and Rechelle Turner (Wiradjuri). “From Country” explores timeless stories, heritage, and identity through the lens of their artistic partnership that also birthed their fashion label, Corella & Crow.
This celebration of Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri cultures invites audiences to experience layers of belonging, wisdom, and spirit that inspire their creative journey. Discover how landscapes, cultural knowledge, and ancestral connections shape and sustain contemporary Indigenous artistic practice.
Until Saturday 9 August | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com
Fulcrum
Discover powerful contemporary Indigenous art at Canberra Glassworks as Walgalu/Wiradjuri artist Aidan Hartshorn explores colonial disruptions to ancestral land connections. Raised in Tumut where the Murrumbidgee and Tumut Rivers converge, Hartshorn examines how the Snowy Hydro Scheme development in the 1960s restricted his family’s cultural connections.
Using industrial materials including glass, concrete, steel rebar, and water – all linked to hydro construction – he creates striking works where glass is symbolically pierced and severed by fluorescent tubes. This compelling exhibition investigates themes of disconnection, destruction, and degradation while showcasing Hartshorn’s journey of crafting cultural objects, building on his acclaimed work “These Violent Delights.”
Until Sunday 10 August | Canberra Glassworks Main Gallery | canberraglassworks.com
Mr Squiggle and Friends: The Creative World of Norman Hetherington
Meet beloved puppet Mr Squiggle and iconic characters in this free exhibition exploring 40 years of Australian children’s TV history and creative magic.
Until 13 October | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton | nma.gov.au
Camel trains to steel wheels
Explore a colourful chapter of Australia’s history at National Archives’ exhibition Camel trains to steel wheels: life on the Trans-Australian Railway.
This exhibition features fascinating archival records, photos and footage that captured the events and challenges from the railway’s first 60 years, including its impact on First Nations people.From the construction effort and its diverse workforce to the unique lives of communities that sprang up along the line, this is a must-see exhibition for those who revel in Australia’s railway history through time and place.
Until 19 October | National Archives of Australia, Kings Avenue, Parkes | naa.gov.au
Cézanne to Giacometti: Highlights from Museum Berggruen / Neue Nationalgalerie
Cézanne to Giacometti: Highlights from Museum Berggruen / Neue Nationalgalerie marks the first time works from this internationally significant collection will be seen in Australia. The exhibition presents a journey through the dynamic changes in European and Australian art in the twentieth century. Don’t miss it.
Until Saturday 21 September | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
The Whole is Greater than the Sum of Her Parts
Play and create in The Whole is Greater than the Sum of Her Parts, a dedicated interactive space created by artist Sanné Mestrom. Building on artistic dialogues initiated by the exhibition Cézanne to Giacometti, Mestrom transforms abstract cubist forms into a playable adventure.
Until Saturday 21 September | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Outer Space: Stromlo to the Stars
Celebrating 100 years of Mount Stromlo Observatory, this interactive exhibition highlights groundbreaking astronomical discoveries and the vibrant community of scientists and families behind them. Features immersive installations, historical objects, and interactive activities perfect for all ages.
Until 16 November | Canberra Museum + Gallery, City | More information here.
Taglietti: Life in Design
Discover the world of The Global Architect, Enrico Taglietti (1926–2019), a visionary whose design principles shaped modern Australian architecture and left an indelible imprint on Canberra, the city he and his wife Franca chose to call home. Celebrating the centenary of Taglietti’s birth, Taglietti: Life in Design explores the life, philosophy, and legacy of one of Australia’s most original architects.
Until Sunday 22 February 2026 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, City | cmag.com.au
A Total Work of Art: Sidney Nolan and the Stage
Celebrate 50 years of Nolan’s cultural legacy with the Canberra Museum and Gallery’s year-long program of exhibitions, concerts, talks, and a symposium. A Total Work of Art: Sidney Nolan and the Stage showcases Sidney Nolan’s dynamic stage designs for opera, ballet, and theatre. You’ll discover costumes, set designs, and the iconic “Lyrebird” costume from The Display, 1964.
Until 8 March 2026 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, City | More information here.
In Bloom
In Bloom explores the beauty and symbolism of flowers. Featuring more than 50 portraits from the National Portrait Gallery collection, new acquisitions and selected loans, you will discover how flowers have long been used in art to express emotion and convey messages of personal, cultural and religious significance.
The show is a weird and wonderful floral extravaganza that includes much-loved and lesser-known works from the collection. See socialites, chefs, musicians, actors, doctors and politicians who are all unified by their accompanying floral markers.
Until Sunday 19 April 2026 | National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | portrait.gov.au
Sport and Wellness
No Lights No Lycra Canberra South
Shake off the week’s stress and lose yourself in the music at this unique dance experience running since 2016. No choreography, no technique required—just you, the darkness, and complete freedom to move however feels good. Dance to an eclectic mix of rock, EDM, pop, disco, R&B, 80s, funk, and country in a welcoming space that’s dark enough to feel uninhibited but light enough to see. This genuine community attracts people of all ages (20s to 70s), abilities, and genders, with children over 12 welcome with adult supervision. Come as you are—lycra optional, comfort essential.
Every Thursday (except school holidays), doors 7:20 pm, lights out 7:30 pm | Weston Creek Community Centre, Cooleman Court | nolightsnolycra.com
Canberra MS Mega Swim
Register for this fun team relay event where swimmers freestyle, backstroke, butterfly or doggy-paddle for 24 hours while raising funds for people living with MS. Swimmers of all ages and abilities welcome – swim one lap or fifty, for ten minutes or four hours. Teams just need one swimmer in pool at all times.
Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 August 2025 | Australian Institute of Sport, 26 Leverrier Street, Bruce | msmegachallenge.org.au
InterPlay Canberra
This is a creative classes combining gentle voice and body warm-ups with step-by-step “forms” exploring movement, stories, and voice. Easy-to-learn activities involving interaction with others in safe, structured environments. Brings together body, mind, heart and spirit while looking for the good in everyday life.
Saturday 2 August | Uniting Church O’Connor Hall, Corner Brigalow and Schrivner Streets, O’Connor | interplayaus.com.au
Art for Wellbeing
Go along to this monthly program enhancing wellbeing and mental health through a creative journey. Combines discussion, artmaking and simple word exercises with poetic outcomes, responding to three artworks. Small groups enable conversation and collaboration. Facilitated by Gallery staff with health professional support.
Saturday 2 August | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Sound Healing for Men
Experience sacred masculine energy sharing and clearing through ancient sound healing instruments. Experience gongs, Medicine Drums, Didgeridoo, Native American Flutes, Crystal Bowls, and more to unlock stored emotions, relieve stress, and settle anxiety. Facilitated by intuitive practitioner Peter from HUM.
Sunday 3 August | Flow and Food Yoga & Ayurveda, 253 Northbourne Avenue, Lyneham | flowandfood.com.au
Workshops, Talks and Programs
2025 Craft + Design Canberra Daily Challenge
Explore daily creative practice throughout July with the theme “Rewilding” to support wellbeing and contentment in this evolving community program.
Every day in July | Online | events.humanitix.com
2025 Kenneth Myer Lecture
Hear Professor Brett Sutton AO explore existential threats including climate change, biodiversity loss, and social cohesion challenges facing modern Australia.
Tuesday 29 July | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
Book launch: Anzac Guerrillas
Meet author Edmund Goldrick for book signings and discussion of his new military history release in the cosy Library Bookshop setting.
Wednesday 30 July | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
Book launch: Fleeced
Discover wool’s fascinating wartime role with authors Trish FitzSimons and Madelyn Shaw exploring industrial fabric production and microplastic pollution. Drawing extensively on the National Library’s collections, Fleeced: Unraveling the History of Wool and War explores how, throughout history, heightened demand for wool in wartime existed in a vortex of negotiation, intrigue and anxiety.
Thursday 31 July | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
MEGAfauna: Look Alike
Dive into Australia’s Ice Age megafauna at the Botanic Gardens with trails, presentations by children’s author Bronwyn Saunders, and art workshops with Tom Buckland using natural materials.
Until Thursday 31 July | Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | parksaustralia.gov.au
Stella Day Out Canberra – Cher Tan
Join Cher Tan discussing her brilliant 2025 Stella longlisted book of essays Peripathetic, moderated by Zoya Patel. The highly commended Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards winner explores shit jobs, online identity, living on interstices, and resisting orthodoxies through luminous, inventive prose. Tan’s non-linear essays pay homage to outsider artists, punks and drop-outs while seeking answers that continually elude in this thought-provoking and deeply pleasurable read.
Saturday 2 August, 10-11am | Harry Hartog ANU Campus, Acton | events.humanitix.com
Stella Day Out Canberra – Jumaana Abdu
2025 Stella shortlisted author Jumaana Abdu discusses her debut novel Translations, moderated by Beejay Silcox. Winner of SMH Best Young Australian Novelists and shortlisted for NSW Premier’s Literary Awards, this story follows Aliyah and daughter Sakina as they retreat to rural NSW, hire Palestinian farmhand Shep, and navigate complex relationships while bushfires rage. Books will be available for purchase and signing at this accessible venue event.
Saturday 2 August | Harry Hartog ANU Campus, Acton | events.humanitix.com
Crafternoons @ Café Stepping Stone
Crafternoons are the perfect escape into the world of arts and crafts. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a curious beginner, this event is for you! Whether you’re keen on knitting, scrapbooking, painting, or DIY decor, there’s something for everyone. Feel free to bring your own project that you’re working on or start something new. Basic materials are provided, but please bring any additional materials you wish to use.
Sunday 3 August | Café Stepping Stone, Gullifer Street, Strathnairn | Register here.
Feature image: @_5foot / 5 Foot Photography. Via the Little Burley Market Facebook page.
