The National Multicultural Festival, Little Explorers’ Days and 50+ other ways to spend the first week of February
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Yep, a lot is happening in Canberra this week.
And it’s only just the beginning of February.
From the National Multicultural Festival, Little Explorers’ Days and Hot Summer Nights to exhibitions, theatre, fundraising events, and more, grab your diary, block out your days, and get ready for a non-stop week of fun.
Don’t miss…
Little Explorers’ Days
Questacon hosts two days of activities designed for children aged 0–6 and their caregivers. The program includes science shows, sensory play, crafts and hands-on activities across multiple stations. The interactive roaring dinosaur adventure show explores prehistoric creatures. The Shed offers light and shadow experiments with building and tinkering activities. Artist Ronnie Jordan from Culture on the Move guides a weaving workshop creating Australian bush animals inspired by Tjanpi weavers. Tiny Teach and ACT Playgroups lead sensory experiences, music sessions, movement activities and yoga, concluding with a bubble finale. Free arts and crafts are available for children.
Thursday, 5 February–Friday, 6 February, 2026 | Questacon, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | questacon.edu.au
Hot Department
Honor and Patrick present a best-of collection from their sketch comedy shows celebrating five years of performance. Hot Department has performed across three continents, five countries and over 30 cities with their high-camp sketch comedy. The performance includes fan-favourite sketches from their previous shows alongside new material and surprises. The duo has opened for Patti Harrison and Aunty Donna, building a following through chaotic physicality, genre-hopping satire and queer absurdism. The show takes place at The Q in Queanbeyan. Tickets are available through The Q’s website for this Thursday evening performance.
Thursday, 5 February, 7.30 pm | The Q, Queanbeyan | theq.net.au
Mooseheads K-Pop Pop-Up
Mooseheads nightclub presents a K-Pop themed party as part of Canberra Multicultural Festival celebrations. K-Pop DJs perform throughout the evening playing Korean pop music. The first 150 guests receive complimentary Moose Juices on arrival. The venue transforms for this one-night event focusing on K-Pop sound and style. Entry is free for this three-hour event from 9 pm to midnight. The pop-up celebrates cultural diversity through nightclub entertainment. The venue is located on London Circuit in central Canberra.
Friday, 6 February, 9 pm–11.59 pm | Mooseheads, 105 London Circuit, Mooseheads Pub, Canberra | mooseheads.com.au
Lifeline Canberra EPIC Bookfair
Lifeline Canberra’s February Bookfair returns to Exhibition Park with one million books across 112,000kg of stock. The three-day sale features fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, textbooks, foreign language collections, magazines, sheet music, comics, maps, records, CDs, DVDs, games and jigsaws donated by the community. Volunteers operate the beloved Canberra tradition three times annually, raising funds for Lifeline’s 24/7 crisis support service. Dare to Care Bears return for $26 each, the cost of answering one call to 13 11 14. Entry is by gold coin donation with all proceeds supporting local crisis support and suicide prevention services. The bookfair expects 25,000 visitors across the weekend.
Friday, 6 February, 9 am–6 pm; Saturday, 7 February, 9 am–5 pm; Sunday, 8 February, 9 am–4 pm | Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), corner Northbourne Avenue & Flemington Road, Mitchell | lifelinecanberra.org.au/bookfair
National Multicultural Festival
The National Multicultural Festival transforms Canberra’s CBD into a celebration of global cultures across three days. The free event features live music, dance performances and cultural displays representing traditions from around the world. Street food vendors offer authentic dishes from diverse cuisines throughout the festival precinct. The program includes a parade through the city featuring colourful costumes and performances. Interactive cultural experiences and workshops take place across multiple stages and venues in the CBD and Glebe Park. The festival attracts visitors from across the region for performances, food tastings and community engagement activities throughout the weekend.
Friday, 6 February–Sunday, 8 February, 2026 | Canberra CBD, Glebe Park, Canberra | multiculturalfestival.com.au
Special Events and Festivals
Echoes from the Delta
Aman ACT presents a showcase celebrating Southeast Asian cultures from the Eastern Delta region. The three-day event features cultural displays, performances and dance workshops representing communities across Southeast Asia. Festival attendees can observe traditional performances and participate in interactive dance sessions led by community members. The event takes place at a venue in O’Connor. The program emphasises cultural diversity and community inclusion through music, dance and traditional presentations. Contact details for registration and program information are available via email. The festival operates across the first weekend of February.
Friday, 6 February–Sunday, 8 February, 2026 | Canberra City, 32 Quandong Street, O’Connor | Contact ivaravi@gmail.com for more information
RAW Comedy ACT Heats
The Melbourne International Comedy Festival presents the ACT State Heats of RAW Comedy at Lucky’s Speakeasy in QT Canberra. For almost 30 years, RAW Comedy has discovered emerging Australian comedians, and this year’s heats showcase original comedy from the next generation of ACT talent. Two nights of performances feature multiple comedians performing original sets in the speakeasy venue. The evening runs for approximately two hours per session. The competition identifies promising comedians progressing through state and national heats. Tickets are $25 for each session. The event takes place across Friday and Saturday evenings at QT Canberra on London Circuit.
Friday, 6 February–Saturday, 7 February, 7.30 pm | Lucky’s Speakeasy, QT Canberra, 1 London Circuit, Canberra | melbournefestival.com.au
Ukulele Death Squad
Australian band Ukulele Death Squad performs at The Q celebrating their sea shanty releases. The eight-piece ensemble combines ukuleles, brass and vocals for a 60-minute show featuring pirate-inspired ballads, shanties and original compositions. The award-winning act from Adelaide and Edinburgh Fringe festivals blends folk, soul, funk, R&B and pop with dark humour and energetic stage performance. The afternoon show includes singalong elements and interactive audience participation. The performance contains coarse language and adult themes. Tickets range from $30 to $40 with concessions available. The Sunday afternoon show takes place at The Q.
Sunday, 8 February, 1.30 pm | The Q, Queanbeyan | theq.net.au
Canberra Puppy Yoga – Mini Daschund Puppy Yoga
A 60-minute session combines beginner-friendly yoga with mini Dachshund puppies at Gumnut Dance in Mitchell. Participants practise relaxing yoga movements while interacting with puppies throughout the class. Yoga mats and puppies are provided for the session. The class is designed for participants of all yoga experience levels, with the focus on relaxation and puppy interaction. The session takes place on a Sunday morning. Bookings are available through the Paws and Poses website. The venue is located at Gumnut Dance in Mitchell.
Sunday, 8 February, 2026 | Gumnut Dance, Mitchell | pawsandposes.com.au
Hot Summer Nights
Live local music and classic cinema; your summer nights have never sounded so good. Every Friday and Saturday night until Saturday 14 February, Hot Summer Nights is taking over the NFSA heritage courtyard, pairing carefully curated live music with films that range from sensual classics to gritty dramas.
Featuring live performances by talented local artists, you’ll sip on local wines and summer cocktails, all while nibbling on charcuterie from Dom’s Deli & Bar.
Then, at 8 pm, you’ll step into the cinema for a hand-picked film. This year, the NFSA’s entire summer film series is themed around peace, love and revolution, spanning decades from the rebellious ‘60s right through to visionary works created in 2025.
Promising the perfect music-and-movie combo all in one ticket, book now so you don’t miss out!
Until Saturday 14 February | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | Find out more here.
Food and Wine
Amici del Vino
Amici celebrates the National Multicultural Festival weekend with an evening of Italian music, food and wine. The event runs alongside regular dinner service from 6 pm, with live Italian-style music beginning at 7.30 pm. A curated selection of Italian-inspired spritzes and wines accompanies the evening. Every guest receives a complimentary tiramisu dessert served from the tray and shared around the room. The event combines the restaurant’s regular menu with special drinks offerings and live entertainment. Bookings are essential for this Wednesday evening celebration on Northbourne Avenue.
Thursday, 5 February, 6 pm–10.30 pm | Amici, 27 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra | amici.bar
‘Around The World’ Wine Tasting Night
VICE presents a guided wine tasting evening during National Multicultural Festival week. Mark Davis of Joval Wines Australia hosts the event, featuring five wines from Italy, Australia and Spain paired with a set menu. The tasting includes 60ml serves of Alois Lageder Pinot Grigio, Lark Hill Riesling, Poliziano Chianti Sangiovese, Karman Rioja Tempranillo and Frogmore Creek Iced Riesling. The evening is paced to allow time to enjoy each course and wine pairing, with live music following the tasting. The event explores standout wine regions in a structured format.
Thursday, 5 February, 6 pm–10 pm | VICE, Odgers Lane, City | vice.restaurant
Markets
South Canberra Community Markets
South Canberra Community Markets take place at a rural farm location on Kambah Pool Road. The markets feature locally made products, delicious food, live music and a peaceful outdoor setting. Stallholders offer unique handcrafted items and fresh produce throughout the event. The markets operate from mid-morning through early afternoon. Money raised supports vulnerable youth programs of Galilee School and Lions Youth Haven. Stallholder booking information and visitor details are available through the Communities at Work website. The markets run on a Saturday in a farm environment with parking available.
Saturday, 7 February, 10 am–2 pm | 244 Kambah Pool Road, Kambah | commsatwork.org
The Little Burley Market
A Saturday market operates by the waterside on Queen Elizabeth Terrace in Parkes. The curated gourmet food and artisan market features multicultural cuisines, chef-created desserts, smoked meats, fresh-baked pastries, flowers, handmade jewellery, artisan pottery and children’s apparel. Pet product stalls are also available. Live local musicians perform throughout the market hours. Free arts and crafts activities are provided for children. The market offers views across the lake with stallholders selling food to consume on-site or take home. The market operates from morning through early afternoon.
Saturday, 7 February, 9 am–2 pm | Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.com.au
Capital Region Farmers Market
This farmers’ market is iconic for a reason.
Go along to sample the region’s freshest produce from over 100 stallholders who bring freshly picked, grown and hand-crafted goods to Canberra and speak directly with growers and learn cooking tips while supporting the Rotary Club of Hall’s community projects.
It will make you appreciate your Saturday morning shopping trip in a whole new way.
Saturdays, 7 am-11:30 am | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Mitchell | capitalregionfarmersmarket.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. The sheer variety means you’ll discover something unexpected every visit, whether that’s a piece of pottery that speaks to you, a stunning necklace, or the perfect vintage find. 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
Haig Park Village Markets
Another local favourite, spend your Sunday morning browsing delicious cuisines, fresh produce, artisan products and locally handmade crafts while enjoying live music, an artists’ table and family-friendly activities.
It’s the kind of market where you can linger over breakfast, discover a new artist, and stock up on fresh produce all in one lovely morning, making it the perfect Sunday outing in leafy Braddon.
Sunday 18 and 25 January, 8 am – 2 pm | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.com.au
Southside Farmers Markets
This village market is located at Canberra College, making it the perfect place to duck in to grab what you need (and maybe a few things you don’t). Order an egg and bacon roll to start the morning as you explore the best of fresh seasonal veggies, handmade pasta, pet treats and more.
Sunday 7 am -11.30 am | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip | facebook.com/SouthsideFarmersMarketCanberra
Screen
European Avant-Garde at the NFSA
The National Film and Sound Archive presents a series of European avant-garde films from the 1960s postwar period. The program explores experimental cinema that rejected conventional narrative structures in favour of fragmentation and absurdity. The films reflect political and countercultural youth movements of the era through alternative cinematic forms. The series screens across three Wednesday evenings in February. Individual session times and film titles are available through the NFSA ticketing website. The screenings take place at the archive’s cinema in Acton.
Thursday, 5 February | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
Music & Dance
Victor Wooten & The Wooten Brothers (USA)
Gerrard Allman Events presents Victor Wooten & The Wooten Brothers direct from the United States. The Wooten Brothers began performing publicly in Hawaii in 1966, with Victor learning music alongside learning to talk. The family band opened for War, Curtis Mayfield and other national acts throughout the 1970s. The brothers have collectively earned 10 Grammy wins and 26 Grammy nominations across their careers. Victor Wooten has been named by Rolling Stone Magazine as one of the ten greatest bass players of all time. The performance takes place at the Zeppelin Room with tickets available through Humanitix.
Wednesday, 4 February, 7 pm–10 pm | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | events.humanitix.com
John Williamson – 55 Years – My Travellin’ Days are Done
John Williamson performs one exclusive ACT show marking his 55th year in the music industry and his 80th birthday. The performance features songs from across his career, beginning with his 1970 number one hit ‘Old Man Emu’ through to recent recordings. Williamson has written and recorded over 500 songs during his five-decade career touring Australia from Cape York to Tasmania. The concert spans his extensive catalogue of Australian country music. The evening performance at Canberra Theatre Centre runs for approximately two and a half hours.
Friday, 6 February, 7 pm–9.30 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Harry Manx
Canadian blues musician Harry Manx performs at The Street Theatre with material from his new album. Manx blends Indian folk melodies, slide guitar blues and gospel influences in his performances. He plays the 20-stringed Mohan Veena, an instrument invented by his mentor Vishwa Mohan Bhatt. The award-winning artist’s style combines traditional blues structures with Indian classical music elements. The two-hour performance takes place on a Thursday evening. Tickets are available through The Street Theatre website for this solo performance.
Friday, 6 February, 7.30 pm–9.30 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, Canberra | thestreet.org.au
Multicultural Festival WUA1CO Latin Party
Luna Bar hosts an evening of Latin music and dance during the National Multicultural Festival. The event features a live Latin orchestra and sets from Canberra’s leading Latin DJs. Music spans salsa, bachata, reggaeton and merengue throughout the night. Open salsa and bachata dance classes are available without partner requirements. The program includes Latin dance showcases, crowd animations and performance interludes. The venue offers curated cocktails in what’s described as a sophisticated yet high-energy atmosphere. Dress code is dress to impress. Early arrival is recommended as previous WUA1CO events have sold out.
Friday, 6 February, 9 pm–11.59 pm | Luna Bar, London Circuit, Canberra | moshtix.com.au
The Necks
Australian trio The Necks perform at The Street Theatre celebrating the release of their album Disquiet. Chris Abrahams (piano), Tony Buck (drums) and Lloyd Swanton (bass) present their collaborative improvisational approach to jazz and experimental music. The group has developed a distinctive sound over their career, working primarily through extended improvisations. The two-hour performance takes place on a Friday evening. The trio’s live performances are known for their atmospheric and evolving musical structures. Tickets are available through The Street Theatre website.
Saturday, 7 February, 7.30 pm–9.30 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, Canberra | thestreet.org.au
Toni Childs – A Retrospective
Emmy winner and three-time Grammy-nominated artist Toni Childs presents a two-hour performance celebrating her musical career. The show features hits from Union, House of Hope, The Woman’s Boat and Keep the Faith, including Don’t Walk Away, Zimbabwe, Where’s the Ocean and Because You’re Beautiful. The first hour covers Childs’ established catalogue with stories about the creation of Union. The second hour introduces new music from her albums It’s All a Beautiful Noise and Citizens of the Planet. A VIP Meet & Greet package includes a first-row ticket, digital copy of the Greatest Hits collection, and a pre-concert drink backstage.
Saturday, 7 February, 7.30 pm | The B, Queanbeyan | theq.net.au
Queen – The Show
A tribute show celebrates Queen’s catalogue with a two-hour performance at the Zeppelin Room. The production features songs including We Will Rock You, We Are The Champions, Another One Bites The Dust, I Want to Break Free, Radio Ga Ga and Bohemian Rhapsody. The show incorporates video wall displays, authentic costumes, and concert-style sound and lighting production. The tribute performance aims to recreate Queen’s live concert experience through theatrical presentation. The evening runs for four hours including intervals. Tickets are available online for this Friday night performance.
Saturday, 7 February, 7 pm–11 pm | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | bit.ly/queentheshow
Barrio Beats
Highball presents Latin music and dance across two nights during the National Multicultural Festival. The venue hosts live Latin music sets, DJ performances, roaming percussion and pop-up dance moments. Cuban and South American-inspired cocktails and food are available throughout the evening. The program runs from early evening into the early hours with continuous music on the dance floor. Entry is free with no tickets required. The event takes place on Level 1 of the venue on London Circuit. The celebration continues across Friday and Saturday nights.
Saturday, 7 February–Sunday, 8 February | Highball, 77 London Circuit, Level 1, City | highball.bar
Sport and Wellness
Beginner World Dance Classes
Folk Dance Canberra offers beginner classes in world dance for all ages and experience levels. Classes explore dance cultures from around the world with music from various countries. Partners are not necessary for participation. Wednesday evening classes run from 7.30 pm to 9 pm, with Thursday morning classes from 10 am to 12 pm. Classes cost $15 per session with discounts available for term payment. The sessions take place at Folk Dance Canberra Hall in Hackett. Contact details are available for each class time. Classes begin from 2 February 2026 and provide physical and social wellbeing through dance.
Monday, 2 February, 2026 onwards | Folk Dance Canberra Hall, 114 Maitland Street, Hackett | folkdancecanberra.org.au
UC Capitals v Southside Melbourne Flyers – Round 16
The UC Capitals play Southside Melbourne Flyers in a Women’s National Basketball League Round 16 match. The Capitals have won nine WNBL championships and are Canberra’s most successful sporting team. Australian Opals Jade Melbourne and Sara Blicavs lead the team in this home game at AIS Arena. The match offers the opportunity to watch elite women’s basketball in Canberra. The game takes place on a Monday evening with tickets available through the WNBL website. AIS Arena is located in Bruce with parking available on-site.
Tuesday, 3 February, 6 pm–9 pm | AIS Arena, 26 Leverrier Street, Bruce | wnbl.basketball
No Lights No Lycra Canberra South
A weekly dance session offers participants the opportunity to dance freely in a darkened space without choreography or technique requirements. Running since 2016, the sessions provide an environment to move to music without inhibition. Music selection varies across genres including rock, EDM, pop, disco, R&B, 1980s, funk and country. Participants of all ages from their 20s to 70s, all abilities and all genders attend. Children over 12 are welcome with adult supervision. Comfortable clothing suitable for dancing is recommended. Sessions run for 70 minutes on Wednesday evenings.
Thursday, 5 February, 7.20 pm–8.30 pm | Weston Creek Community Centre next to Cooleman Court, Whitney Pl, Weston | nolightsnolycra.com
UC Capitals v Geelong Venom
The UC Capitals play Geelong Venom at AIS Arena in a Women’s National Basketball League match. The Capitals have won nine WNBL championships and are Canberra’s most successful sporting team. Australian Opals players Jade Melbourne and Sara Blicavs lead the team. The match offers the opportunity to watch elite women’s basketball in Canberra. The game takes place on a Friday afternoon at the AIS Arena in Bruce. Tickets are available through the WNBL website for this regular season fixture.
Saturday, 7 February, 2 pm–5 pm | AIS Arena, 26 Leverrier Street, Bruce | wnbl.basketball
Intro to Capoeira: 5-week course
Joanna Le (Graduada Joia) presents a five-week introduction to contemporary Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art blending movement, music, play and expression. Le trained for over 10 years under Mestre Borracha, Capoeira Aruanda. Each Sunday session covers fundamental techniques including ginga, kicks, escapes and transitions, alongside low-game movement and acrobatic flow. Participants learn clapping rhythms, call-and-response songs and partner awareness through playful interaction. The course explores connections between movement, rhythm and community. Pricing includes family packages with discounts for multiple children. Financial hardship assistance is available by contacting the organiser. The course concludes with a roda celebration.
Until Sunday, 1 March | Elements Grappling Academy, Braddon | events.humanitix.com/aruanda-canberra-intro
Workshops, Talks and Programs
Footsteps to Federation Tour
Australian Parliament House presents a guided tour marking 125 years since the Federation of Australia. The tour explores how six British colonies united to form a new nation, featuring artworks and artefacts including the 1297 Magna Carta, Queen Victoria’s writing table and Tom Roberts’ Big Picture. The tour examines international ideas, Constitutional Conventions and referendums that shaped Australia’s formation. The special limited-edition tour runs from early February through late March. Bookings are available through the Parliament House reservation system. The tour takes place at Australian Parliament House on Parliament Drive.
Tuesday, 3 February–Tuesday, 31 March, 2026 | Australian Parliament House, 1 Parliament Drive, Canberra| parliamenthouse.respax.com
Author talk: Great Writers & the Cats Who Owned Them
Author Susannah Fullerton presents her book Great Writers & the Cats Who Owned Them at the National Library of Australia. The talk explores relationships between famous writers and their cats throughout history, examining how felines inspired literary figures. Fullerton discusses notable literary cats and their influence on writers’ work and lives. The evening presentation runs for 90 minutes including time for questions. The event takes place in the National Library’s lecture theatre. Booking information is available through the library’s website for this Wednesday evening talk.
Thursday, 5 February, 6 pm–7.30 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | library.gov.au
BRUCE LINDENMAYER MEMORIAL LECTURE: David Lindenmayer
Distinguished Professor David Lindenmayer gives the inaugural Bruce Lindenmayer Memorial Lecture on ‘Re-imagining fire in the land of fire’.
This talk discusses many new insights into the ecology and management of wildfire and other kinds of fire in Australian landscapes. It charts a new path towards better understanding fire and its management in the land of fire.
Thursday 5 February, 6–7 pm | Manning Clark Hall, Lowitja O’Donoghue Cultural Centre, ANU, Tangney Road, Acton | trybooking.com
WORKSHOP | Life Drawing | Tipsy Sketching with Loz
Tipsy Sketching offers an inviting atmosphere for both curious beginners and seasoned artists seeking a social creative experience. Hosted by Loz, an experienced life model and the event’s founder, participants receive basic guidance along with essential materials including pencils and paper. The sessions feature diverse models, ranging from experienced professionals to enthusiastic newcomers, who bring creativity and humor through their imaginative poses.
Whether attendees are exploring life drawing for the first time or looking to practice their skills in a relaxed social setting with friends and drinks, this event promises an entertaining and enriching artistic experience that balances instruction with lighthearted fun.
Saturday 7 February, 4–6 pm | Craft + Design Canberra, North Building, 1, 180 London Cct, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Exhibitions
Lost: Kiata Mason & Hamish Bassett
Gallery of Small Things launches its 2026 exhibitions program with a duo show pairing NSW painter Kiata Mason with Melbourne ceramicist Hamish Bassett. Bassett, known for Tiny Pots with nearly 200,000 Instagram followers, creates miniature ceramic tea sets inspired by mismatched collections from suburban homes and 1980s Australian childhoods. The separated cups and teapots remind viewers of items lost through op shops, garage sales or breakages. Mason’s still life paintings explore the theme Lost, reflecting on the whimsy, hope and energy of youth growing up in 1990s Canberra. Life-sized books including To Kill a Mockingbird, Catch-22 and The Outsiders form foundations of domestic scenes–kitchen tables around which conversations, ideas and cups of tea are shared, evoking cultural institutions that shaped experiences.
Wednesday, 5 February–Sunday, 16 February | Gallery of Small Things, Watson | galleryofsmallthings.com
Solo Exhibition by Louis Grant
Canberra Glassworks presents new work by early career glass artist Louis Grant, specialising in kiln-formed and cold-worked glass with neon elements. The exhibition explores themes of queer identity, perception and transformation through sculptural glass forms and light installations. Grant uses glass’s inherent instability and resistance to fixed form as metaphors for fluidity and queer embodiment. The work draws on formalist principles to examine connection, reliance and resistance between forms. The exhibition includes opportunities to attend gallery floor talks. The full 2026 program and aligned events are available on the Canberra Glassworks website.
Thursday, 5 February, 10 am–4 pm | Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com
Meanwhile in Canberra
A collection of seven prints celebrates Canberra landmarks through lino, risograph and mokuhanga (Japanese woodblock) printmaking techniques. The exhibition features interpretations of Telstra Tower, Lake Burley Griffin and the Powerful Owl in visual styles inspired by Japanese ukiyo-e traditions. The prints respond to Canberra’s natural and built environment, drawing parallels with thematic print series such as Hokusai’s 100 Views of Mt Fuji. Each composition uses distinct printmaking methods to create connected works exploring the city’s character. The exhibition runs from early February through late March at Belconnen Arts Centre.
Friday, 6 February–Sunday, 22 March | East Wall, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
On Reimagined Wings
Beth Harcourt presents sculptural birds created from recycled and found objects at Belconnen Arts Centre. The exhibition explores character and personality through assemblages of disparate materials that would otherwise end up in landfill. Each bird sculpture combines sustainability themes with whimsical interpretations of native species. The works invite viewers to engage with wonder and introspection through Harcourt’s creative reuse of materials. The Window Gallery exhibition runs from early February through late March. The display demonstrates how art can transform waste materials into expressive sculptural forms.
Friday, 6 February–Sunday, 22 March | Window Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
DEEP END BY AMY CLAIRE MILLS
Deep End is an immersive sensory installation inviting exploration through touch, sight, and sound. The project explores the concept of accessible and adaptive ‘third spaces’. Third spaces, beyond home and work, are informal social environments that foster community and connection (Oldenburg, 1989).
However, for many Disabled people, third spaces often default to medical environments like doctors’ waiting rooms and outpatient clinics. Public pools have long served as adaptive third spaces existing somewhere between the social and the medical. Deep End invites you to wade into a future in which care, access, and disability culture are embedded in the design from the very beginning.
Saturday 7 February to Sunday 12 April | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | canberracontemporary.com.au/current
WATER BY HANDS ON STUDIO
The artworks in Water have been developed by artists from Hands On Studio, Canberra, whose practices foreground process, material engagement, and embodied ways of making.
Through diverse approaches and mediums, the artists examine water as a mutable substance that exists across multiple states — liquid, solid, and vapour — and across varied registers of meaning. Rain, sea, ice, and tap water are considered not only for their physical properties, but for the social, political, and environmental contexts in which they are encountered.
Saturday 7 February to Sunday 12 April | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | canberracontemporary.com.au/current
Postcards from Black Mountain
Artist Morgyn Phillips presents hand-drawn postcard-sized images in ink and coloured pencil inspired by Black Mountain in the heart of Canberra. The exhibition features different aspects of the iconic landmark including landscape, trees, plants and their stories, moving beyond the usual focus on buildings and events. The COVID period left Phillips appreciating what was special about her local environment and exploring what makes an ordinary place special. The free exhibition at the Australian National Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre offers an intimate exploration of Canberra’s natural environment through detailed botanical illustrations. Visitors can meet the artist on Saturday, 17 January from 1.30–4 pm in the Visitor Centre Gallery.
Until Sunday, 8 February | Australian National Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | visit.anbg.gov.au
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 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, City | cmag.com.au
Concrete Captions: Texting Rights
Kirsty Collins presents an exhibition exploring how texting and social media empower Deaf and disability cultures at Canberra Contemporary Art Space. The exhibition examines how digital communication shifts attitudes about disability and fosters disabled-led artistic innovation. The Craptioning Experience offers a live captioning interactive component connecting audiences with Deaf and hard-of-hearing experiences through lip-reading and humour. Collins questions narratives that frame disabled people as burdens, addressing ableism and victim-blaming through art. The work demonstrates how Deaf gain and disability intersectional insight provide transformative creative power to reimagine bodies and values. The exhibition runs in the Platform gallery space for three weeks.
Until Saturday, 22 February | Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Gorman Arts Centre, 55 Ainslie Avenue, Braddon | canberracontemporary.com.au/current-platform
Enjoy this trip: the art of music posters
Journey back to the Summer of Love and be transported to a time when the music was funky, the art was kaleidoscopic and psychedelia was in full swing. Drawn from the National Gallery’s expansive collection of Australian and international music posters spanning the 1960s to 1980s, Enjoy this trip: The art of music posters captures the spirit of the times as an era of experimentation.
Until Sunday 22 February | National Gallery, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Women Photographers 1853–2018
Women Photographers 1853–2018 highlights the transformative impact of women artists on the history of photography.
Since its inception, the National Gallery’s photography collection has reflected the vital place of women in the medium’s history. Some of its earliest acquisitions were major works by women.
As a result, the National Gallery is uniquely placed to consider how photography has changed the worlds in which women live, and how women have changed photography. As the great modernist photographer Lucia Moholy wrote, ‘Photography has not only changed the way we see the world but also how we see ourselves.’ For women artists, making photographs has always been an act of resistance. Photography has given women access to spaces of knowledge, artistic practices and technology from which they were previously excluded.
This exhibition features work spanning more than 160 years of women working with photography.
Until Sunday 1 March | National Gallery, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.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 Sunday 8 March 2026 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, City | More information here.
Super Kaylene Whiskey
Super Kaylene Whiskey celebrates one of Australia’s leading contemporary artists, proud Yankunytjatjara woman Kaylene Whiskey. This major survey brings together works from across Whiskey’s career, showcasing her dynamic practice that is grounded in stories of First Nations joy and strength. Drawn from public and private collections, the exhibition features over 80 paintings, video work and installation from her early career to now, as well as a newly commissioned portrait.
With irreverent humour, Whiskey playfully combines everyday life, Aṉangu culture and beloved pop culture icons in her work. Dolly Parton, Cher and Wonder Woman share centre stage with Whiskey and other strong kungkas (women) as together they hunt and collect bush tucker. Through her rich visual stories, Whiskey joyfully connects cultures, Country and celebrity and invites us along for the ride.
Until Monday 9 March | National Portrait Gallery, Parkes | portrait.gov.au
1975: Living in the Seventies
Step back 50 years and immerse yourself in the unforgettable year that was 1975! The National Library of Australia’s fascinating new exhibition explores what it was truly like to live in the seventies, from the dramatic political upheaval of Gough Whitlam’s dismissal to the cultural phenomena that defined the decade.
Discover iconic fashion like flared jeans and platform shoes, relive the magic of Countdown’s glam rockers Skyhooks and ABBA’s infectious pop, and explore groundbreaking Australian films like Picnic at Hanging Rock. This colourful celebration brings together objects exploring politics, conflicts, popular culture, food, fashion, and sport in iconic seventies design, revealing a complex story beyond Baby Boomer nostalgia.
Until Monday 9 March | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place, Canberra | library.gov.au
50 Years on the Beat: The Legacy of Constable Kenny Koala
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Constable Kenny Koala, the AFP Museum presents a major temporary exhibition honouring the iconic community policing mascot held at the National Capital Exhibition, Regatta Point.
Known for educating children about safety since 1975, Kenny Koala is beloved by generations of Canberrans. This exhibition captures his origins, evolution, and ongoing impact on public trust and community engagement. Visitors will experience five decades of memorabilia, puppets, costumes, media, and interactive learning tools that showcase the enduring values of kindness, education, and public service.
Until Wednesday 18 March 2026 | National Capital Exhibition, Regatta Point | nca.gov.au
A Loving City: Queerberra Revisited
A Loving City: Queerberra Revisited explores love, identity and resilience within Canberra’s LGBTQIA+ community. In 2017, photographer Jane Duong and producer Victoria Firth-Smith created Queerberra to document queer Canberrans during the national postal vote on marriage equality. Over 100 portraits captured moments of pride, exhaustion, defiance and hope when love itself was publicly debated. Eight years later, this exhibition returns to those portraits to reflect on personal growth, community strength and the enduring power of love. The exhibition invites visitors to consider progress made and work remaining in the city that voted yes more strongly than any other in Australia.
Until Saturday, 5 April | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, Canberra | cmag.com.au
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
Bilong Papua New Guinea: 50 years of Independence
Bilong Papua New Guinea marks the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s independence and the birth of a new nation on September 16, 1975. The National Gallery holds the largest collection of Papua New Guinea urban art outside the country. Each of the works selected for Bilong Papua New Guinea presents a story, reflecting on cultural heritage, historical moments, the influence of ancestors, Christianity, kastom, societal changes and new technologies.
Until Sunday 19 April | National Gallery, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
5th National Indigenous Art Triennial
The National Indigenous Art Triennial brings together commissioned work by established and emerging First Nations artists from across Australia. Artistic Director Tony Albert (Girramay/Yidinji/Kuku-Yalanji peoples), one of Australia’s foremost contemporary artists, leads this iteration. After the Rain presents new immersive projects resonating with ideas of rebirth and cycles of cleansing, celebrating inter-generational legacies and cultural warriors of past, present and future. Made possible through the continued generosity of Wesfarmers Arts and key philanthropic supporters, the Triennial creates an important platform for art and ideas. Following its Kamberri/Canerra presentation, After the Rain will tour nationally.
Until Saturday, 26 April 2026 | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Hallyu! The Korean Wave
An exhibition exploring Korea’s cultural journey to global influence through 250 objects from the V&A in London. The exhibition spans film, fashion, drama, beauty and music–from BTS to aespa, Squid Game to Parasite, glass skin to bibimbap. Visitors can discover the powerhouse behind Korea’s dramatic cultural transformation and the vibrant world of K-culture as it continues to sweep across the globe. The exhibition examines how creativity, collaboration and cultural ambition shaped Korea’s contemporary identity.
Until Sunday, 10 May | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Acton | nma.gov.au
In real life: inventors, innovators and opportunists
Celebrate Australian innovation at National Archives’ latest exhibition in Canberra, In real life: inventors, innovators and opportunists. Explore the history of Australian invention, from First Nations creativity to 150 years of patents, designs and trademark registrations.
See life-changing inventions, iconic designs and household brand names with original design drawings and trademarks from the national archival collection alongside their real-life counterparts.
Australians from all walks of life have pursued their ideas in the laboratory, at the drafting table and in the humble backyard shed. Learn about the innovators behind advances such as the baby capsule, spray-on skin and the stump-cam. Discover the origins of everyday products and national icons such as the Victa lawnmower, Hills Hoist and ‘goon bag’.
From pedestrian crossing buttons to dual flush toilets, see how the Australian Government played a vital role in supporting inventions and designs that you regularly see, hear, use – and flush. Spark your own imagination and be inspired by stories of bold dreams, determination and Australian ingenuity.
Until 17 May | National Archives of Australia, Kings Avenue, Parkes | naa.gov.au
Trent Parke: The Christmas tree bucket
Trent Parke’s photographic series The Christmas tree bucket 2006–09 is a tender and darkly humorous portrayal of his extended family coming together to celebrate Christmas. The series showcases Parke’s distinctive and acclaimed visual style and his skilful use of light and colour, to transcendent effect.The Christmas tree bucket is a candid, unsettling and often absurd portrait of family life—centred on the chaos, rituals and contradictions of the suburban Australian Christmas. It is a fond, insider’s view—sharp but affectionate—and one that the participants, after initial bemusement, actively embraced.
Parke draws from the legacy of postwar American photography while retaining a distinctly personal visual language, using light and colour to transform the everyday. The resulting photographs are both intimate and theatrical, sometimes hilarious, sometimes poetic and haunting. The exhibition also features a small selection of work from Parke’s black-and-white series Minutes to midnight 2003‒04 and a number of his handmade concertina photobooks, which he sees as a central part of his practice.
Until Sunday 6 September | National Gallery, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
National Library of Australia Treasures Gallery
The National Library has millions of books, and the Treasures Gallery answers the frequently asked question, ‘Where are they’. They also collect other items. From maps and manuscripts to photographs and paintings, the Treasures Gallery is where you can find highlights from their vast physical and digital collections. Behind-the-scenes videos, pages from William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice from the First Folio, a cedar bookcase carved by Dorothea Mackellar, photographs from the nation’s photo album, and a display of The Wiggles’ websites from 1997 to today from the Australian Web Archive are among the new additions.
Until December 2030 | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
Behind the Lines 2025: ‘Are We Rolling?’
Behind the Lines 2025: ‘Are We Rolling?’ celebrates the year’s best political cartoons.
Featuring established and emerging cartoonists from across Australia, this exhibition highlights the significant contribution they make to cultural and political debates through witty, insightful and often poignant satirical drawings.
This year our Behind the Lines theme is the cinema, acknowledging that, like some of our favourite movies, 2025 has been full of thrills and spills, romance and heartbreak, with plenty of unexpected plot twists. Australia’s cartoonists and illustrators have tackled many of the issues that made news, including the federal election, the cost of living, energy policy, interest rates, housing security, the economy, climate change and stories from overseas.
Until December 2026 | Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House | moadoph.gov.au
Gurindji Freedom Banners
A powerful new exhibition commemorating the pivotal 1966 Wave Hill Walk-off opens at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Gurindji Freedom Banners: Mumkurla-nginyi-ma parrngalinyparla–From the darkness into the light unites all ten hand-painted banners for the first time in years, telling the story of when Gurindji and neighbouring peoples, led by Vincent Lingiari AM, walked off Wave Hill Station on 23 August 1966.
Their demands for fair working conditions and return of traditional lands sparked landmark change, leading to the first handback of Aboriginal land in 1975 and paving the way for the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976. The textile banners were created in 2000 by 35 Gurindji people, many walk-off participants, with one recently recreated after going missing.
Now showing until late 2026 | Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House | moadoph.gov.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 recognising 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 collectables. 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
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
