Sport, movies and more: 10 ways to spend a perfect summer weekend in Canberra
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It’s finally here – the last weekend of the year.
The perfect balance of celebrations and nothing (and we mean nothing, because nothing counts and nothing feels real), it’s the perfect time to kick back, relax, and unwind. But for those who still want to get out and about, there’s still plenty happening around Canberra.
Here’s your last ‘What’s On This Weekend’ for 2024 – as always, there’s something for everyone.
Pompeii
It’s long been an event that’s fascinated the world for centuries – the catastrophic volcanic eruption that destroyed the city of Pompeii.
Pompeii is a blockbuster exhibition combining moving soundscapes and large-scale digital projections with over 90 fascinating objects to immerse visitors in the famous city’s last moments. Grab your tickets now for this first-of-its-kind exhibition to experience ancient Pompeii like never before.
Until May 2025 | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Acton | Book here.
Candle Making Class
Looking to unleash your creativity? Try your hand at a candle-making class in Braddon.
You’ll create unique scented candles and holders to take home! It’s perfect for the whole family.
Friday 27 until Sunday 29 December | 63/30 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | Book here.
Sunset Cinema
Your favourite outdoor cinema is back for the summer with its signature mix of new releases, all-time classics, and family favourites.
Catch new summer blockbusters like Gladiator 2, the latest superhero action Venom: The Last Dance, and don’t miss the brand new dark comedy sequel Beetlejuice Beetlejuice in the stunning Australian National Botanic Gardens. Grab yourself a bean bag, and some snacks, and enjoy!
Until Sunday 22 February 2025, 6.30 pm – 11.30 pm | The Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | Book here.
BBL: Melbourne Stars v Sydney Thunder
See Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis and Tom Curran go head-to-head with David Warner, Sam Billings, and Cam Bancroft.
Pop this not-to-miss event on your calendar!
Saturday 28 December, 7.15 pm – 10.15 pm | Manuka Oval, Manuka Circle, Griffith | Book here.
Perfume Making Class for Beginners
Looking for something unique to do? How about creating your very own perfume?
At this fun-filled workshop, you can create your preferred fragrance, and personalise it with a custom label, all elegantly packaged in a 50ml spray bottle, gift box, and matching bag! Whether it’s a thoughtful gift for a loved one or a well-deserved treat for yourself, book in for an unforgettable experience.
Friday 27 until Sunday 29 December | 63/30 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | Book here.
UC Capitals v Perth Lynx
Don’t miss the UC Capitals in their final game of the year as they head to the AIS to take on the Perth Lynx.
This will be the third time this season the Cap’s will take on the Lynx – gates open at 11.30 am with a 12.30 pm tip-off!
Sunday 29 December, 12.30 pm – 2.30 pm | AIS Arena, 26 Leverrier Street, Bruce | Book here.
Workday Canberra International 2025
World-class tennis, local music and more – this is the sporting event of the season.
This is a great opportunity to witness world-class tennis up close and personal, as the next generation of Grand Slam champions use the event as a launchpad for their 2025 season. The tournament will include the introduction of Kids Tennis Day, and a full schedule of free activities to keep the whole family entertained!
Sunday 29 December until Saturday 4 January, 11 am – 8 pm | Canberra Tennis Centre, 3 Riggall Place, Lyneham | Book here.
Carol Jerrems: Portraits
This is a major exhibition of one of Australia’s most influential photographers.
On show exclusively at the National Portrait Gallery until 2 March 2025, Jerrems’ intimate portraits of friends, lovers and artistic peers transcend the purely personal and have come to shape Australian visual culture. Set against the backdrop of social change in the 1970s, head along to see it for yourself.
Until Sunday 2 March 2025 | National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | More information here.
Anne Dangar
Coming to the NGA as part of a summer double bill with Ethel Carrick, don’t miss seeing retrospectives from Anne Dangar (1885–1951).
One of Australia’s most important, yet underacknowledged modern artists, the exhibition will explore Dangar’s life and practice, as well as her important position in French modern art as one of most dedicated and truly modern Australian artists of the twentieth century.
Until April 2025 | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | Book here.
CURIOSITY: Building Breakthroughs in LEGO® Bricks
This is a special hands-on learning experience that brings science and history to life in a collaboration between world-famous LEGO Certified Professional Ryan ‘Brickman’ McNaught and Questacon!
Designed by Brickman, one of the world’s leading LEGO brick artists and the only LEGO Certified Professional in the southern hemisphere, you’ll be taken on an exhilarating exploration of scientific knowledge, technological advancements, and more, all recreated in stunning detail with the versatile magic of LEGO bricks.
Until May 2025 | Questacon, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | Book here.
