Six family-friendly Canberra events worth clearing the calendar for
Posted on
Families have plenty to look forward to this February and March as the city overflows with kid-friendly things to do.
From festivals to family-fun days, these six events are suitable for children of all ages – ranging from 18 months to teenagers.
Clear out your calendar and start planning, because we promise you’ll enjoy some of these just as much as the kids.
The Royal Canberra Show
With more than 150 attractions, 5,000 animals and over 450 trade displays, the Royal Canberra Show is guaranteed to keep little ones entertained.
Sideshow Alley is always a hit, with rides for thrill-seekers and younger children alike, while free camel rides, the Farmyard Nursery and the endless showbag options are sure to go down a treat. Just don’t forget to stick around for the 9 pm fireworks
Friday 20 until Sunday 22 February | Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), Flemington Road, Mitchell | Find out more here.
Canberra Lunar New Year Festival
K-pop dance workshops, live music, dragon dances and more – this year’s Lunar New Year celebrations are shaping up to be bigger than ever, and there are loads of hands-on activities for kids including paper zodiac crafts, calligraphy, balloon workshops and face painting.
Bringing Woolley Street to life with colour, music and community spirit, this full-day festival promises plenty of family-friendly fun. Go for the performances and stay for the food.
Saturday 21 February, 10 am – 10 pm | Woolley Street, Dickson | Find out more here.
Nature Play at the Arboretum
Encourage little ones to head outdoors with Nature Play, a nature-based playgroup facilitated by the National Arboretum’s outdoor educators.
Held across two days in February in the Arboretum’s forests, the program offers a holistic approach to early childhood development, helping kids unleash their creativity through imaginative play. Designed for children aged 18 months to five years and their parents, activities range from water play to tree climbing and role-play.
Monday 23 and Friday 27 February | National Arboretum Canberra, Forest Drive, Molonglo | Find out more here.
Enlighten
Lighting up Canberra with 11 nights of culture, creativity and after-dark discovery, Enlighten is a must-do for families.
Illuminating some of the city’s most iconic national institutions with world-class projections, live music, immersive art and rare after-hours experiences, it’s a multi-sensory event with something for all ages. Family highlights include the Food Park, the Curiosity Lanterns, Serendipity, Murray and the Movers and more!
Friday 27 February until Sunday 8 March | Various locations | Find out more here.
Mint Family Fun Day
With live music, a coin swap, kids coin trade, face painting, a BBQ, and family-friendly activities, this free event is perfect for all ages.
Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Royal Australian Mint, the Mint Family Fun Day will be transforming the institution into a carnival of fun. Make sure to make time to explore the coin museum, visit the Mint Café and pack a picnic – this one will easily be a full day affair.
Saturday 28 February, 10 am – 4 pm | 114 Dennison Street, Deakin | Find out more here.
Canberra Balloon Spectacular
Yes, it’s an early start – but it’s well worth it. Making mornings extra magical this March, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular once again transforms the city skyline.
With fan-favourite Finley the Turtle making his Australian debut as a special shape balloon, it’s a delight for kids and adults alike. And even if the balloons don’t fly, there’s always a hot breakfast on offer for a wholesome start to the day.
Saturday 14 until Sunday 22 March | John Dunmore Lang Place, John Dunmore Lang Place, Parkes | Find out more here.
Feature image: Canberra Balloon Spectacular. Credit: Snaps by Sal.
