Is this the biggest week in October? Here are 105+ ways to fill your week

Posted on 12 October, 2026

We hope you had a relaxing weekend, because the next seven days are set to be a whirlwind.

Yep, October is officially delivering the goods. From the Canberra Writers Festival to the Canberra Art Fair, the Kultural Dreaming Capital Runway and even an arts hub in a car park, there’s sure to be something to do. To save you from the dread of weekend FOMO, we’ve put together your ultimate hit list featuring over 105 things to see, do, eat, and explore around Canberra this week.

Read on and thank us later!

Don’t miss…

Canberra Writers Festival

Celebrating its landmark 10th anniversary, the Canberra Writers Festival brings together over 200 artists and authors across 110 events for four days of literary exploration. Featuring leading novelists, journalists, political commentators, and children’s creators—including Judith Lucy, Michael Robotham, Pip Williams, Andy Griffiths, Waleed Aly, and Garth Nix—the festival offers big conversations on world ideas, current affairs, and storytelling. With new family-friendly programming like live drawing battles and children’s storytime alongside deep panel discussions, it is a must-attend event for book lovers of all ages.

Thursday 15 until Sunday 18 October | Various venues across Canberra | canberrawritersfestival.com.au

Questacon After Dark: Rewind

Travel back to the turn of the millennium for an adults-only evening of science and nostalgia at Questacon. After Dark: Rewind celebrates 2000s pop culture with Y2K fashion, MSN Messenger-inspired fun, friendship bracelet crafting, and hands-on slime experiments. Visitors can sing along to retro 2000s tracks, capture memories in photo booths, and experience live video game soundtracking performed by Extra Lives. Dust off your low-rise jeans, grab your friends, and explore interactive science exhibits without the daytime crowds. Strictly an 18+ event.

Friday 16 October, 6.30 pm–9.30 pm | Questacon, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | questacon.edu.au

Canberra Art Fair

Discover and buy fine art directly from regional, national, and international artists at the inaugural Canberra Art Fair. Held in the Quokka Pavilion at EPIC, this three-day artist-led initiative features hundreds of original works, live painting demonstrations, and creative workshops. Organised by local volunteers from the Artists Shed in Fyshwick, the fair offers a welcoming environment to chat directly with creators, discover new talent, and purchase unique pieces for your home or collection.

Friday 16 until Sunday 18 October | Quokka Pavilion, Exhibition Park in Canberra, Mitchell | canberraartfair.com.au

PAUSE Bar Night

PAUSE Bar Night is an evening for Menopause month, with The H Dispensary transformed into an old-world apothecary cocktail bar. The program combines herbal drinks, sparkling wine and music with education about herbs traditionally used to support women through the menopause transition. Attendees are introduced to herbs associated with relaxation, sleep, digestion and stress, and learn how to turn them into everyday drinks and simple preparations to use at home. Guests are encouraged to dress up and attend with friends or family. The ticket includes three drinks, and additional herbal beverages and sparkling wine are available to purchase on the night.

Friday 16 October, 6–8.30 pm | The H Dispensary, Griffith | eventbrite.com.au

ACT Pools showroom grand opening

ACT Pools is opening its new showroom to the public, with display pools installed and filled with water so visitors can see true colour, scale and finish in person.

Visitors can explore a selection of pools (one of which you can even splash in), compare options, meet the ACT Pools team and representatives from Plungie, ask questions and enjoy the onsite coffee van while imagining what their own backyard could become.

Saturday 17 October, 9 am–2 pm | 8/98 Sawmill Circuit, Hume | actpools.net.au

ARTPARK

Get ready for an extraordinary night of underground culture as MOONLIGHTING presents their biggest event yet. Taking over three industrial floors of an inner-city carpark, ARTPARK is a vibrant celebration showcasing 20 emerging local artists, three bands, and two DJs. Wander through dynamic art displays, catch DJs performing straight out of ute beds, and grab a drink at the bar. Created in collaboration with the Canberra Art Biennial, Molonglo, and local favourite Such and Such, this one-night-only 18+ festival brings bold creativity and nightlife together in a completely reimagined space.

Saturday 17 October, 7.30 pm–1 am | 5 Nangari Street, City | events.humanitix.com/artpark

Spring, Love and Kafka

Spring, Love and Kafka is an evening of classical music and poetry presented by PT. Gallery, with the space styled as a candlelit European château. Cellist Ivana Snaidr and pianist Jojo Yuen perform live, with their pieces interspersed by readings from Bohemian artist, curator and publisher Petra Jungmanova. The music draws on passionate works from across the classical tradition. Jungmanova reads love letters that Franz Kafka wrote to Milena Jesenská, which capture his intense, conflicted feelings for her. The atmosphere will be relaxed and dimly lit, and guests can come as they are or dress to suit the theme.

Saturday 17 October, 6–8 pm | PT. Gallery, Poppyfield Commons, Poppyfield Street, Dickson | events.humanitix.com

Kultural Dreaming Capital Runway

Experience an unforgettable evening of high fashion, culture, and artistic excellence as the First Nations Capital Runway debuts at the National Museum of Australia. Showcasing extraordinary talent from prominent local and national First Nations designers, this landmark event brings deadly models, bold contemporary collections, and expressive storytelling to the runway. Guests will be welcomed with complimentary canapés and drinks on arrival before enjoying powerful live musical performances and cultural presentations throughout the night. It promises to be a dazzling, glamour-filled celebration of First Nations creativity and style set against our city’s backdrop.

Saturday 17 October, 6 pm–11 pm | National Museum of Australia, Acton | events.humanitix.com

Googong RFS Open Day

Googong’s annual Rural Fire Service (RFS) Open Day returns, inviting the community to come together to celebrate, support their local brigade, and even participate in a firefighter experience.

The free event will bring together members of the recently renamed Googoong RFS brigade and local community, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the RFS’s history, equipment, and the crucial role the service plays in keeping the community safe.

Kids and adults alike can also explore the fire trucks, talk on the walkie-talkies, use the fire hoses, and try on uniforms for size.

The day will also feature live music from local artists, face painting, and a variety of food stalls.

A quiet space will also be available for neurodivergent visitors and anyone who may need a break from the day’s activity.

10 am–2 pm, Saturday, 17 October | Bunyip Park, Wellsvale Drive, Googong | googong.net

Loose LEGO Sale

Roundabout Canberra is holding its first Loose LEGO Sale, a new event for Canberra’s south. The sale offers loose LEGO at $30 per kilogram and loose DUPLO at $20 per kilogram, alongside a Build Your Own Minifigure station. Proceeds support Roundabout Canberra’s work providing baby and children’s items to local families in need.

Sunday 18 October, 11 am–4 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club, Woden | roundaboutcanberra.org

Tennis for Resilience – Season 2

Running for Resilience is launching season two of Tennis for Resilience, a free weekly tennis program open to players of all experience levels, from complete beginners to regulars. Sessions run across two Canberra venues, Turner Tennis Club and Melba Tennis Club, with equipment provided for both traditional tennis and POP Tennis. The program is framed around building mental wellbeing through movement and social connection, alongside weekly giveaways and an end-of-season prize pack. No experience required – just rock up and have some fun!

Until Friday 23 October, 4:45–6 pm weekly | Turner Tennis Club, 49 Condamine Street, Turner and Melba Tennis Club, Brownlee Place, Melba | runningforresilience.com

NFSA Spring Film Series

Enjoy the NFSA’s curated program of recent releases and revived classics, from high art to guilty pleasures. There’s something for everyone!

Follow the pull of earth, water, fire and air in the Spring Film Series at Arc Cinema. From epic river journeys and windswept adventures to stories of passion, change and survival, these films reveal the forces that shape our world and ourselves.

Step into these elemental worlds and discover stories that move, challenge and transform.

Until Monday 30 November | NFSA Acton, McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au/whats-on

Special Events + Festivals

Making Space ~ Space Making

A monthly women’s creative circle inspired by the beauty, awe, and wonder of nature.

The theme this month is “the world is your oyster” – participants will be exploring grit and growth, softening life’s abrasions and coating them in a shiny lustre.

All materials are provided.

Wednesday 14 October, 6-8 pm | Mingle in Whitlam | events.humanitix.com

No Lights No Lycra

Shake off the week’s stresses and dance like nobody is watching—literally. Running since 2016, this Southside favourite offers a judgment-free space to lose yourself in the music without the pressure of steps or choreography. The room is dimly lit, so you can feel completely uninhibited while grooving to a high-energy mix of rock, pop, disco, and R&B.

Thursday 15 October, 7.20 pm–8.30 pm | Weston Creek Community Centre, Weston | nolightsnolycra.com

Earth Science Week

Geoscience Australia hosts Earth Science Week, a global celebration highlighting the role of geoscience in everyday life. Centered on the 2026 theme “Critical Minerals for a Thriving Society,” the initiative spotlights essential minerals powering everyday technologies like smartphones, solar panels, and electric vehicles, which are key drivers for Australia’s sustainable future. Members of the public are invited to participate by hosting events, attending regional activities, or joining online.

Until Friday 16 October | Geoscience Australia, 101 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | ga.gov.au

After Dark Book Club: Women of Crime

Presented as part of the Canberra Writers Festival, this intimate evening discussion at the Hyatt Hotel explores how modern crime fiction uses female solidarity to address real-world issues. Held inside Griffin’s Lounge, authors Jane Caro, Naima Brown, and Petronella McGovern discuss the power of women-centred crime stories, character dynamics, and truth-telling in fiction. Perfect for lovers of mystery and social commentary, the event offers thought-provoking conversation in an elegant setting. Reservations are required as space is strictly limited.

Friday 16 October, 6 pm–7.30 pm | Griffin’s Lounge at Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | trybooking.com

Honouring the Hidden Service Gala Dinner

Hosted beneath the F-111 aircraft in the newly opened ANZAC Atrium at the Australian War Memorial, this formal Black Tie and Mess Dress gala honours the service of Defence and veteran families. The celebratory evening features fine dining, entertainment, guest speakers, and awards recognising key contributors who support the veteran community behind the scenes.

Friday 16 October | Australian War Memorial, Treloar Crescent, Campbell | eventbrite.com

Kath & Kim Drag Bingo at the Harmonie German Club

Break out the Baileys and put on your finest frock for a hilariously cheeky night of Kath & Kim Drag Bingo at the Harmonie German Club. Hosted by Sydney drag sensation Prada Clutch alongside special guests, the evening features five rounds of bingo with over $1000 in cash and prizes up for grabs. Following bingo, stick around for a live drag show packed with iconic quotes, camp performances, and outrageous comedy. Guests are encouraged to dress in their best Fountain Lakes attire to win the Best Dressed prize.

Friday 16 October, 7 pm–11 pm | The Zeppelin Room, Harmonie German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | events.humanitix.com

ACT Jigsaw Puzzle Competition 2026

Speed puzzling comes to Exhibition Park as the Australian Capital Territory Jigsaw Competition tests speed and strategy across three divisions: Solos, Pairs, and Teams. Open to casual puzzlers and competitive speed builders alike, all participants receive identical puzzles to complete within set time limits. Spectators can cheer on the builders, browse puzzle merchandise, or enter raffle draws throughout the day.

Saturday 17 October, 9 am–5.30 pm | Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), Flemington Road, Mitchell | australianjigsawpuzzle.org.au

Canberra Short Film Festival 2026

The Canberra Short Film Festival (CSFF) presents 114 films across ten sessions from 10–17 October, screening at Dendy Cinemas and Smith’s Alternative. The program also includes the Spiritus Awards screening. Opening Night on Saturday 10 October begins with a catered reception from 5.30 pm, and the festival closes on Saturday 17 October with a final screening followed by the awards ceremony. Sessions in between include Schools & Young Filmmakers, Comedy, Horror, two general programs and a Music Video & Experimental night at Smith’s Alternative. A Smith’s Shorts & Networking Night on Wednesday 14 October forms part of the filmmaker program.

Until Saturday 17 October, times vary by session | Dendy Cinemas and Smith’s Alternative, Canberra | csff.com.au

Goulburn Spring Gardens

Escape the city for a scenic day trip across the region as the Southern Tablelands Open Gardens Association presents its annual flagship event. The weekend offers rare, intimate access to some of Goulburn’s most breathtaking private gardens, lovingly cultivated and opened to the public by passionate local owner-gardeners. Visitors can wander through vibrant flower beds, gather landscaping inspiration, and enjoy a warm, welcoming community atmosphere. Best of all, proceeds raised directly support regional environmental conservation, local sustainability initiatives, and town beautification projects. It makes for a delightful, picturesque spring getaway for garden enthusiasts of all ages.

Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October, various times | Various locations, Goulburn | stoga.com.au

Live at Lanyon with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra

Pack a picnic and enjoy an outdoor concert on the manicured lawns of historic Lanyon Homestead. The Canberra Symphony Orchestra chamber ensemble presents a Latin-inspired program moving from classical tangos by Piazzolla to global pop hits by Shakira, Ricky Martin, and Despacito. Featuring classical guitarist Minh Le Hoang and live dancers from TengoTango, it is a relaxed evening of music against the backdrop of the Brindabella Ranges.

Saturday 17 October, 5 pm–6.30 pm | Lanyon Homestead, Tharwa Drive, Tharwa | historicplaces.com.au

SpringFest 

Tuggeranong Uniting Church hosts SpringFest, a lively, family-friendly community day packed with market stalls selling handmade gifts, pop-culture collectables, plants, fashion, and home-baked goods. The schedule features live dance, music, sustainability workshops, face painting, fairground games, and a classic sausage sizzle. Families can also register for the Indian Dance Adventure, a dedicated kids’ workshop beginning with a performance by Abinaya Dance followed by a guided traditional dance lesson.

Saturday, 17 October, 9 am–2 pm (Kids’ Workshop: 9 am–10.15 am) | Tuggeranong Uniting Church, 17 Comrie Street, Wanniassa | facebook.com

AfterHours: a celebration of Canberra music

AfterHours is a live outdoor concert presented by the ANU Students’ Association and the Australian National University as the flagship student event of the university’s 80th anniversary program. Up to 5,000 people can attend, with a professional stage and large-scale lighting and sound production. The lineup features Genesis Owusu, Rum Jungle, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, Chloe Parche and Lamb Legz, a 12-member big band and winner of the ANU Big Night Out. ARIA Award-winning Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers are based across Canberra and Melbourne. Food and drink vendors and AfterHours merchandise are on site. The event is for ages 14 and over.

Saturday 17 October, 5 pm–late | Chifley Meadows, ANU | events.humanitix.com

Building Reid Centenary

Step back in time and celebrate a century of local history as the suburb of Reid marks 100 years since its historic homes were first constructed. Built in 1926 to house public servants supporting Old Parliament House, these charming Federal Capital Commission houses remain a cherished part of Canberra’s heritage. Neighbours, history buffs, and visitors are invited to Dirrawan Gardens for a relaxed family afternoon featuring old-school games, a sausage sizzle, coffee, and a cake stall. Local historian Tony Maple will share fascinating insights about the precinct, making it a warm celebration of community connection.

Sunday 18 October, 2.30 pm–4 pm | Dirrawan Gardens, Reid | trybooking.com/1636340

Sense and Sensibility Movie Fundraiser

Gather your film-loving friends for an elegant afternoon of classic cinema while raising funds for vital medical research. Hosted by the Canberra Committee of the Children’s Medical Research Institute, this special fundraising screening presents a captivating new film adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved literary classic, Sense and Sensibility. Taking place at Palace Electric Cinema, each ticket includes a serving of ice cream or popcorn to enjoy during the movie. Every dollar raised directly supports groundbreaking research into childhood diseases, helping improve healthcare outcomes and bring hope to vulnerable children and their families nationwide.

Sunday 18 October, 1.30 pm | Palace Electric Cinema, Acton | fundraise.jeansforgenes.org.au

Garema sessions

As the sun sets over the city, Garema Place comes alive every Friday evening with local talent and vibrant community energy. Gather your friends after work, grab a bite from a nearby eatery, and kick off your weekend with free live music and variety performances in the heart of Canberra. With a fresh lineup of homegrown artists taking the stage each week, it is the ultimate way to unwind and soak up our city’s creative scene. Pack your appetite and let local melodies set the tone for your Friday night.

Every Friday until 18 December, 5 pm–7 pm | Garema Place, City | inthecity.com.au/garemasessions

Food + Drink

Spring Morning Tea

Spend a lovely morning supporting a great cause at the annual Spring Morning Tea hosted by the Marymead CatholicCare Auxiliary. Held at the scenic Royal Canberra Golf Club in Yarralumla, guests will enjoy delicious treats, hot drinks, homemade preserves, stalls, and exciting raffle prizes. Gather your friends for a social morning while raising vital funds to support Marymead CatholicCare’s important work with children, young people, and families across the Canberra region. It is a wonderful way to give back to our local community while celebrating the warm spring weather.

Tuesday 13 October, 10 am–12 pm | Royal Canberra Golf Club, 71 Bentham Street, Yarralumla | events.humanitix.com

Frock Up Bookclub! High Tea with author Sophie Green

Treat yourself to a luxurious Saturday morning high tea inside the iconic Tea Lounge at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra. Held as part of the Canberra Writers Festival, author Sophie Green joins Bookish Bron for a relaxed conversation about female friendship, second chances, and her latest books. Guests will enjoy traditional tiered stands filled with delicate sandwiches, warm scones, sweet pastries, and loose-leaf teas in a grand historic setting. Booking is required.

Saturday 17 October, 11 am–1 pm | The Tea Lounge at Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | hyatt.com

High Tea in Canberra at The Pavilion

Spend a relaxed Saturday afternoon dining inside the sunlit, leafy Atrium at The Pavilion on Northbourne. Guests can enjoy an array of sweet pastries, savoury bite-sized treats, loose-leaf teas, and bottomless prosecco. It provides an elegant, tropical glasshouse backdrop ideal for weekend celebrations, catch-ups, or casual afternoon dining in Dickson.

Saturday 17 October, 12 pm–2 pm | Atrium Restaurant and Bar, 242 Northbourne Avenue, Dickson | atriumrestaurantandbar.com.au

The Spritz Club

Escape to the sun-drenched deck at Capitol Bar & Grill for the ultimate Riviera ritual this season. The Spritz Club invites you to leave your responsibilities behind and enjoy an ice-cold, bittersweet prosecco infusion. Guests can choose between a classic Aperol or a refreshing Hugo Spritz, paired perfectly with high-low aperitivo bites like crisp chicken tenders and molten mozzarella sticks. Gather your friends, put on your oversized sunglasses, and soak up the Mediterranean vibes right in the city. Consider yourself a member of Canberra’s newest sun-soaked tradition – because a great drink should never be enjoyed alone.

Until Saturday 14 November | Capitol Bar & Grill, 6 Marcus Clarke Street, City | qthotels.com

Spring High Tea at Australian Parliament House

Soak up sweeping views of our bush capital in bloom with a seasonal high tea at Queen’s Terrace Café. Perfectly timed for your Floriade outing, this high tea experience showcases exceptional Australian produce across a delicious array of sweet and savoury treats. Guests can sip on artisan teas, barista-made coffee, or upgrade to a glass of sparkling wine for a true spring celebration. Make the most of your visit by pairing your afternoon tea with a wander through Parliament House’s courtyards, architecture, and world-class exhibitions. It is an unforgettable way to experience Canberra’s most iconic landmark this season.

Until Sunday 29 November | Australian Parliament House, 1 Parliament Drive, Canberra | aph.gov.au

Weekend Buffet at the Yacht Club

Looking for a relaxed, generous feast to kick off your weekend? The Yacht Club in Yarralumla is putting on a mouth-watering buffet spread every Saturday and Sunday. Diners can tuck into freshly carved roast meats, cold seafood straight off the ice, hot pasta, hearty seasonal soup, and a whole table of indulgent desserts. It is the ultimate dining experience for families and friends gathering along the water’s edge. Plus, kids receive complimentary chicken nuggets and chips with the purchase of an adult buffet, making it a stress-free weekend treat that caters to every appetite.

Until Sunday 29 November | Canberra Southern Cross Club Yacht Club, Mariner Place, Yarralumla | cscc.com.au

Markets & Expos

St John’s Community Fair

Canberra’s historical precinct comes alive for the annual St John’s Community Fair in Reid. Browse stalls filled with native plants, second-hand books, vintage clothes, homemade jams, crafts, and baked goods. The family-friendly event features live musical performances, organ recitals inside the 181-year-old church, a medieval tournament, a dedicated Kids Zone with rides, and guided tours of Canberra’s oldest church and cemetery led by Royal Military College Duntroon guides.

Saturday 17 October, 9 am–2 pm | St John’s Anglican Church, 45 Constitution Avenue, Reid | stjohnscanberra.org

Canberra Spring Gemcraft and Mineral Show

Hosted by the Canberra Lapidary Club, the Spring Gemcraft and Mineral Show fills the Mallee Pavilion with lapidary dealers, collectors, and artisans. Visitors can browse and purchase minerals, rare fossils, fine jewellery, raw and polished gemstones, opals, and beads. The weekend features member display cases, live gemstone faceting demonstrations, catering, and an educational pop-up exhibit from the Age of Fishes Museum showcasing regional prehistoric fossils.

Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October | Mallee Pavilion, EPIC, Flemington Road, Mitchell | canberralapidary.org.au

Canberra Fashion Market

The Fitters Workshop in Kingston hosts the Canberra Fashion Market, offering thousands of pre-loved and brand-new fashion items. Browse stalls filled with designer labels, vintage clothing, shoes, boots, handbags, and handcrafted jewellery. Offering free entry and ample parking, it is a great Sunday destination for bargain hunters, sustainable fashion enthusiasts, and vintage collectors.

Sunday 18 October, 10 am–3 pm | Fitters Workshop, Printers Way, Kingston | canberramarkets.net.au

Pre-Loved Fashion Market 

Need to update your wardrobe? The team at the Niche Markets is calling on local fashion lovers to visit the upcoming Pre-Loved Fashion Market in Fyshwick. Set inside a bustling hub surrounded by keen Sunday shoppers, it is a fun way to promote sustainable slow fashion. 

Sunday 18 October, 10 am – 2 pm| Niche Markets, Fyshwick | @fyshwickmarkets

Second Life Markets

Canberra’s favourite pre-loved fashion event returns to Kingston for its biggest curated market of the entire year! Transforming the iconic Former Transport Depot into a slow-fashion paradise, Second Life Markets brings together the city’s top vintage collectors, thrift curators, and local creatives all under one roof. Shoppers can hunt through hundreds of unique racks to refresh their warm-weather wardrobe with high-quality, sustainable style. With vibrant food trucks, iced matcha stalls, and local DJs spinning tunes throughout the day, it is a bustling, feel-good festival celebrating sustainable style, creativity, and conscious circular shopping.

Sunday 18 October, 10.30 am–4 pm | Former Transport Depot, Kingston | marketmate.live

Roundabout Canberra Loose LEGO Sale

Calling all master builders and brick enthusiasts! Roundabout Canberra is hosting a massive Loose LEGO Sale at the Canberra Southern Cross Club in Woden to raise vital funds for local children. Families and hobbyists can hunt through vast tables of pre-sorted bricks sold by weight, alongside a dedicated DUPLO station for toddlers and a fun Build-Your-Own-Minifigure setup. It is the perfect weekend outing to restock your creative stash with hard-to-find pieces. Every dollar raised helps supply essential items to vulnerable children and families across the region, making this a truly rewarding community event.

Sunday 18 October, 11 am–4 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club, Woden | roundaboutcanberra.org

Toora Preloved Fashion Fair

Elevate your weekend wardrobe while supporting a deeply meaningful cause at the Toora Preloved Fashion Fair in Belconnen. Hosted at the Canberra Labor Club, this inspiring afternoon fuses sustainable style with community impact. Guests can enjoy an exciting live fashion parade before browsing curated racks of pre-loved clothing, shoes, and accessories. Every single ticket purchased and dollar raised directly supports local women impacted by domestic violence, homelessness, and substance dependency across the ACT. It is a wonderful way to shop consciously, refresh your personal aesthetic, and make a tangible difference in our city.

Sunday 18 October, 12 pm doors for VIPs, 1 pm parade, 3 pm general sale | Canberra Labor Club, Belconnen | toora.supporterhub.net.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

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.

Sundays, 7 am -11.30 am | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip | facebook.com/SouthsideFarmersMarketCanberra

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.

Sundays, 8 am – 2 pm | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.com.au

Stage

Landed

Experience a hilarious, wildly original work of visual theatre as Landed takes over the Canberra Theatre Centre stage. Performed wordlessly by three shifty actors, this physical show brings a bizarre parade of characters to life—from disco yetis and grotesque Hollywood starlets to haunted embroiderers and Brontësque hunters. Set against shifting props, costumes, projections, and soundscapes, what begins as playful absurdity morphs into a captivating reflection on transformation and human imagination. Joyfully fearless and delightfully eccentric, Landed offers a unique theatrical feast for adventurous theatregoers.

Wednesday 14 until Friday 16 October | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au

The Fool (or Francesca Giselle)

Created by multi-award-winning Canberra director Chenoeh Miller, with movement direction by Alicia Melonie Jones and Noa Rotem, The Fool is a powerful 50-minute dance theatre work presented by Little Dove Theatre Art. The production explores the journey of continuing past hardship, honouring the women who guide us out of life’s deepest waters. Continuing Little Dove’s signature focus on love and human connection, this moving piece blends movement and physical storytelling to create a transcendent, deeply personal, and universal theatrical experience.

Wednesday 14 until Friday, 16 October | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au

Club Sandwich Comedy

South Canberra’s premier performance comedy venue returns to Tuggeranong Arts Centre for an evening of non-stop laughs. October’s edition features high-energy musical comedian Jeffrey Charles as the headliner, serving up witty, relatable songs about middle-aged existential crises, workplace drama, and ageing bodies. Hosted by RAW Comedy national finalist Trish Hurley, the night also features supporting sets from local stand-ups Suma Iyer and Dylan Holmes. Known for selling out quickly, it is a fantastic, relaxed Thursday night out for comedy lovers and friend groups alike.

Thursday 15 October, 7 pm–9 pm | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street North, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com

Nat’s What I Reckon – Panic At The Bistro

Following sell-out festival runs across Darwin and Adelaide, internet sensation, author, and comedian Nat’s What I Reckon brings his brand-new live tour to UC Hub. The sweary, long-haired online creator serves up a hilarious night of observational comedy, unfiltered chaos, and sharp social commentary. Backed by over six million online followers and hundreds of millions of video views, Nat delivers a high-energy live stage show that is both outrageously funny and surprisingly heartfelt. Grab your fellow “champignons” and secure your tickets before this popular show sells out.

Thursday 15 October, 7.30 pm–11 pm | UC Hub, 11 Kirinari Street, Building 1, Bruce | moshtix.com.au

Menopause The Musical

Embrace “The Change” with an empowering, laugh-out-loud night of theatre as the global hit Menopause The Musical comes to Canberra. Set in a department store, four women bond over hormonal hot flashes, memory loss, weight gain, and shifting sex lives. The musical reimagines hit pop anthems from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s—including “I Will Survive,” “Hot Stuff,” and “What’s Love Got to Do With It”—into witty parodies about the female experience. It is a joyful, uplifting celebration of sisterhood and midlife changes.

Thursday 15 until Sunday 18 October | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au

The Independents: Festival of New Works

Immerse yourself in bold contemporary storytelling as The Independents: Festival of New Works returns to the Canberra Theatre Centre. Over two vibrant weeks, the Courtyard Studio hosts four original physical, dance, and theatrical performances created by emerging artists from Canberra and Sydney. Each evening pairs a local work with an interstate guest, fostering an exciting creative dialogue across state lines. From Michael Simic’s candid musical exploration of fatherhood to Sydney’s absurdly funny, wordless physical comedy Landed, this festival celebrates the full depth of independent Australian theatre. Grab a double-bill pass and catch the next big wave of creative talent.

Until Friday, 16 October, various times | Courtyard Studio, Canberra Theatre Centre, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au

The Chaos Project 2026: We Come Together To Dance

Experience the joyful, electric energy of youth dance as Quantum Leap presents its latest creative performance, We Come Together To Dance. Staged at the Belconnen Arts Centre, this compelling show features a talented cast of young dancers aged 7 to 17 performing brand-new short works. Created collaboratively alongside acclaimed professional choreographers, the production celebrates why we move—whether for joy, freedom, or connection. Highlighted by infectious enthusiasm and impressive technical skill, this uplifting dance showcase offers an inspiring theatrical outing for families, arts lovers, and supporters of local youth development.

Friday 16 and Saturday 17 October, various times | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | ql2.org.au

Face To Face

Mockingbird Theatre Company presents David Williamson’s drama Face To Face, directed by Céline Oudin. Following his dismissal, young construction worker Glen rams his car into his boss’s Mercedes. Offered a community conferencing session as an alternative to court, Glen is forced to confront his boss, family, and colleagues face to face. Led by facilitator Jack Manning, the conference uncovers shifting loyalties, workplace politics, and underlying grievances in an exploration of restorative justice, accountability, and conflict resolution.

Until Saturday 17 October, 7.30 pm (Matinee: 17 October, 2 pm) | The Mockingbird Studio, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au/face-to-face

Mountain

Mountain is an evocative new performance bringing together electronic soundscapes from UK producer Clark, choreography by Melanie Lane, and fashion design by Akira Isogawa. Five dancers perform alongside five classical musicians from the Canberra Symphony Orchestra, exploring thematic journeys of ascension, collapse, and conquest. Clark’s score blends synth soundscapes with live string and piano instrumentation, while Lane’s intense physical movement pushes dancers across the stage in an arresting theatrical experience.

Saturday 17 October, 7 pm–8 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au

The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals

The talented cast of Youth Cabaret returns to the stage this October with the high-energy horror comedy The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals. Following their hit 2025 production, this apocalyptic parody tracks Paul, an everyday guy trapped in a chaotic alien invasion where everyone is forced to burst into song. Packed with clever satire on late-stage capitalism, conformity, and pop culture, the production showcases some of our city’s finest young theatrical talents. It is a funny, slightly spooky, and thoroughly entertaining night out at the theatre that will leave you humming along.

Until Saturday 17 October, various times | The Mill Theatre, Fyshwick | linktr.ee/youthcabaret

Paris After Dark

Paris After Dark is a French variety cabaret presented by entertainer Milko Foucault-Larche and Parisian-born performer Corinne Andrew, who return to Canberra following a 2022 season. The program travels through French popular music, with songs associated with Édith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, Gilbert Bécaud, Dalida, Yves Montand, Charles Trenet, Enrico Macias and Joséphine Baker. Music, humour and storytelling are performed in both English and French, evoking the atmosphere of a Parisian soirée. Foucault-Larche and Andrew have toured French repertoire to metropolitan and regional audiences across Australia. Sydney-based pianist and musical director Dr Joseph Macri accompanies the performers.

Sunday 18 October, 4 pm | The Street Theatre, Civic | thestreet.org.au

Screen

Japanese Film Festival

The Japanese Film Festival marks its 30th anniversary in Australia with a program screening in Canberra from 26 September to 13 October. Hirokazu Koreeda’s Look Back, adapted from Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga, opens the festival, joined by Australian premieres spanning samurai epics, horror, animation and social drama. The line-up brings together veteran director Yoji Yamada’s Tokyo Taxi and debut animator Kohei Kadowaki’s We Are Aliens, alongside official selections from Venice, Cannes and Berlin. A retrospective of films scored by composer Toru Takemitsu, marking 30 years since his death, also screens as part of the program. The festival coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Australia-Japan Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation.

Until Tuesday 13 October, various times | Palace Electric, 2 Phillip Law Street, Canberra | jffau.jpf.go.jp

2026 ST. ALi Italian Film Festival

Get ready to indulge in the warm magic of cinema, because the ST. ALi Italian Film Festival is returning to Canberra this spring! As the largest celebration of Italian culture outside Italy, this year’s festival brings a stunning lineup to Palace Electric Cinema. Film lovers can look forward to compelling highlights, including the bittersweet romantic drama Three Goodbyes, the scenic Italian island thriller The Eyes of Others, and the hilarious intergenerational comedy Classmates. Unwind with fine storytelling, rich visual landscapes, and a genuine taste of La Dolce Vita right here in the heart of our capital.

Until Wednesday 14 October, various times | Palace Electric Cinema, Acton | italianfilmfestival.com.au

Adventure Reels Film Tour 2026 Canberra

Action sport cinema comes alive at the National Film and Sound Archive with the homegrown Adventure Reels Film Tour. Packed with two-and-a-half hours of heart-pounding short films, this festival features world-class skiers, kayakers, rock climbers, and mountain bikers pushing boundaries across wild landscapes. Showcasing fearless jumps, endless lines, and breathtaking feats of human endurance, these carefully selected films celebrate the grit and passion of extreme sports athletes. Strap in for a full-throttle cinematic event that will leave you buzzing for your next outdoor adventure.

Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 October | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | adventurereelstour.com.au

Burt Bacharach Songbook

Celebrate the enduring musical legacy of one of pop music’s greatest composers at the Canberra Southern Cross Club. The Burt Bacharach Songbook honours three decades of timeless melodies originally written for legends like Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield, and Tom Jones. A cast of exceptional performers brings unforgettable hits to life, including “What the World Needs Now,” “Walk on By,” “Promises, Promises,” and “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head”. It promises an enchanting evening filled with nostalgic melodies, rich harmonies, and classic American songwriting.

Thursday 15 October, 8 pm–10 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club Woden, 92-96 Corinna Street, Phillip | cscc.com.au

Spotlight on David Gulpilil at the NFSA

Pay tribute to legendary Australian actor David Gulpilil through a special double-feature screening at the National Film and Sound Archive. Spanning 35 years of Australian cinema, the event showcases Peter Weir’s 1977 classic The Last Wave alongside Catriona McKenzie’s 2012 drama Satellite Boy. Both films highlight Gulpilil’s extraordinary ability to convey Country, culture, and spirituality on screen. It is a powerful cinematic retrospective honouring one of the most iconic and revered figures in Australian film history.

Friday 16 October, 6 pm–10 pm | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, 1 McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au

$8 Collection Selection

The National Film and Sound Archive opens its vault for a budget-friendly screening of early Australian cinema gems on the big screen. Following the movie, stay for an exclusive panel discussion exploring the film’s production background and historic impact, hosted by Friends of the NFSA President Ray Edmondson and film historian Andrew Pike OAM.

Sunday 18 October, 2 pm–4 pm | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au

Life in the Great Barrier Reef 360° VR Documentary

Submerge yourself in a breathtaking underwater world without leaving the inner north. Premiering at the National Museum of Australia, Life in the Great Barrier Reef is an immersive 35-minute cinematic documentary utilising custom-built 8K 360° virtual reality technology. Guided by leading scientists, reef stewards, and Traditional Owners, audiences are transported to the depths of two UNESCO World Heritage sites to encounter manta rays, whales, and rare coral spawning events, while gaining a deeper understanding of current conservation efforts.

Ongoing, session times vary | National Museum of Australia, Acton Peninsula | nma.gov.au

Sport and Wellness

Fitness in The Park

Fitness class for all levels of fitness for the whole community. Join Ginninderry local Vince as he takes you through a group fitness class in the fresh air at Paddys Park.

Every Wednesday, 7.30 am to 8.30 am, Paddys Park, Asimus Avenue, Strathnairn | ginninderry.com

Yoga at Ginninderry

Get bendy on Thursday evenings at a yoga class! You don’t need any experience – just head along for the slow-flow class that will help melt away tension, build strength and mobility, and give you a chance to recharge. Take along a yoga mat, water bottle, and comfy clothes.

Every Thursday, 6.45 pm to 7.45 pm | The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | ginninderry.com

Sydney Kings v New Zealand Breakers NBL27

Elite basketball returns to the ACT as the Sydney Kings take on the New Zealand Breakers at AIS Arena. Marking their first Canberra appearance of the season, the Kings bring fast-paced NBL action to local sports fans in an epic Ignite Cup clash. The game features an emotional storyline as former Sydney championship player Kouat Noi suits up against his old team for the first time. Gather your court-side crew and experience the high-flying dunks, court drama, and arena entertainment live in Bruce.

Wednesday 14 October, 7.15 pm–9.30 pm | AIS Arena, 26 Leverrier Street, Bruce | sydneykings.com.au

Dusk till Dawn

Test your stamina, teamwork, and spirit during Dusk till Dawn, a 12-hour overnight relay challenge set against the backdrop of the Australian War Memorial. Teams take turns completing laps through the night to keep at least one runner on course at all times. Focused on shared purpose and pacing rather than raw speed, this community endurance event raises funds for the Bravery Trust to support military veterans and families facing financial hardship. Rally a team and conquer the night for a great cause.

Friday 16 and Saturday 17 October | Australian War Memorial, 20 Treloar Crescent, Campbell | braverytrek.com.au

ICN Australian Natural Games & Canberra Fitness Expo

Exhibition Park hosts Australia’s premier natural physique, bodybuilding, and strength event as the ICN Australian Championships head to Canberra. Running alongside the multi-sport Canberra Fitness Expo, the weekend showcases top natural athletes competing across Fitness, Sports Model, Classic Physique, Powerlifting, Strongman, Wrestling, and Arm Wrestling. Visitors can watch live stage competitions, explore health and wellness brand stalls, access exclusive discounts, and meet industry professionals.

Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Flemington Road, Mitchell | cbrfitexpo.com.au

UC Capitals v Bendigo Spirit WNBL27

Basketball fans, the wait is finally over. Our beloved UC Capitals are returning to home court to launch their WNBL27 season against the Bendigo Spirit. The atmosphere at AIS Arena will be electric as the fresh-faced Caps roster, featuring superstars like Amy Atwell and Nyadiew Puoch, steps out for their round one clash. Bring your loudest cheer and rally the family, as we get behind our team for an action-packed afternoon of world-class sport.

Saturday 17 October, 3 pm–5 pm | AIS Arena, Bruce | uccapitals.wnbl.com.au

Two Feet & A Heartbeat

Join HeartKids at Bowen Park for Two Feet & A Heartbeat, an annual charity walk raising funds and awareness for children, adults, and families affected by childhood-onset heart disease. Participants can take part in a community walk along Lake Burley Griffin to commemorate loved ones and celebrate milestones. Registration includes an event bandana, an online fundraising portal, and access to the community gathering.

Sunday 18 October, 9 am–12 pm | Bowen Park, 6 Bowen Drive, Barton | heartkids.org.au

Pilates & Lattes × LSKD

Start your weekend feeling grounded, energised, and deeply connected with an exclusive morning wellbeing experience hosted by Good Energy Club in collaboration with LSKD. Held at the scenic Beltana Farm, the morning begins with a dynamic, restorative Pilates flow led by Que G, designed to awaken your body and boost your energy. Afterwards, guests can slow down and mingle over warm, freshly brewed lattes in a relaxed outdoor setting. Blending active movement with warm community spirit, it offers local women a wonderful opportunity to prioritise self-care, build new friendships, and kick off Sunday in style.

Sunday 18 October, 7.45 am for 8 am start | Beltana Farm, Pialligo | activelocals.app.link/XOSgq7Lb95b

Music

Amore, arie e amici

Harpsichordist Ariana Odermatt returns to the Wesley Lunchtime Concert series with her New Zealand colleague and friend, mezzo-soprano Teresa Block. Together they present a program of Italian arie antiche and baroque arias, including works by Handel, Marcello and Vivaldi. Arie antiche is a term for Italian songs and arias from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, many of which were later gathered in anthologies used in vocal training. The concert pairs voice and harpsichord, a combination closely associated with baroque chamber music.

Wednesday 14 October, 12.40–1.20 pm | Wesley Music Centre, Forrest | trybooking.com/DIJJK

Ronan Apcar – Brahms and the Opposite of Brahms

Virtuoso pianist Ronan Apcar presents a captivating 50-minute piano recital contrasting classic Romanticism with modern aggression at Wesley Music Centre. Performed as one continuous piece without pauses, the program juxtaposes the tender, lyrical piano works of Johannes Brahms against fierce modern compositions by Australian and American composers. Apcar’s dynamic range and whiplash transitions create a memorable musical experience showcasing the full emotional range of the piano.

Saturday 17 October, 7.30 pm–8.30 pm | Wesley Music Centre, 20-22 National Circuit, Forrest | wesleymusiccanberra.org

AfterHours: ANU 80th Anniversary Concert

Celebrate 80 years of the Australian National University at AfterHours, a massive student-driven outdoor concert transforming the campus for one night only. Staged in partnership with ANUSA, this landmark celebration brings together ARIA Award-winning artists, local music royalty, and national live acts for an epic evening under the stars. Students, alumni, staff, and Canberra music fans are invited to soak up the vibrant community festival atmosphere, delicious local food offerings, and outstanding live sets. It is the ultimate spring celebration of Australian sound, history, and young creative culture in the capital.

Saturday 17 October, 4 pm–10 pm | Australian National University, Acton | events.humanitix.com/after-hourss

Saturday Salon: A Viola in Bloom

Tuggeranong Arts Centre hosts a rich chamber music concert featuring violist Robert Harris and pianist Robert Manley. Celebrating the mellow, blooming tone of the viola, the program explores works by iconic composers sharing the same initial. The concert opens with classical pieces by Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms before shifting into Romantic works by Bruch, Bloch, and Bartók, alongside lighter arrangements of songs by Burt Bacharach and The Beatles.

Saturday 17 October, 1.30 pm–2.30 pm | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street North, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com

Bondi Cigars at The Zeppelin Room

Australian blues and R&B legends Bondi Cigars head to the Harmonie German Club for a hard-driving concert presented by the Canberra Blues Society. Performing together since 1989, the tight four-piece group is famous for their uncompromising soul, sharp guitar work, and relentless tour energy. Supported by the Divine Devilles Trio, it is a must-see night for fans of live roots, blues, and classic Aussie pub rock.

Saturday 17 October, 8 pm–10.30 pm | Harmonie German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | facebook.com

Charm Of Finches – Bodysuit Single Launch

Melbourne indie-folk sister duo Charm of Finches bring their dark, graceful blood harmonies to The Street Theatre. Following an extensive tour across Europe, the UK, and Canada, sisters Mabel and Ivy Windred-Wornes perform their brooding new single “Bodysuit” alongside favourites from across their catalogue. Known for melancholic songwriting and delicate instrumentation, the duo delivers an intimate concert of folk storytelling.

Saturday 17 October, 7.30 pm–9.10 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, City | thestreet.org.au

Paris After Dark

Entertainer Milko Foucault-Larche joins Parisian singer Corinne Andrew for Paris After Dark, a cabaret celebrating classical French popular music. Performing at The Street Theatre, the duo pays tribute to legendary icons including Edith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, Gilbert Bécaud, Dalida, and Yves Montand. The performance blends French opera, musical theatre hits, and translated Spanish and Italian classics into a polished, international musical showcase.

Sunday 18 October, 4 pm–5.20 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, City | thestreet.org.au

Talks, Tours and Workshops

Professional Dance Classes at Australian Dance Party

Independent dancers and movers are invited to join Australian Dance Party company artists for weekly professional dance training at QL2 Dance Studio. Offering three distinct skill levels (Open, Mover, and Advanced) these sessions focus on technique, creative movement, and networking within Canberra’s performing arts community. Advanced classes suit experienced dancers, Mover caters to those with basic movement training, and Open welcomes anyone with a passion for dance. It is a supportive, energising environment to move your body, hone your skills, and connect with local artists.

Monday 12 October, 10 am–11.30 am | QL2 Dance Studio, 55 Batman Street, Braddon | australiandance.party

Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP | Bernie Fraser Oration

The Australia Institute presents the 2026 Bernie Fraser Oration, featuring Treasurer of Australia, the Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP, at the Shine Dome. Established to honour former Reserve Bank Governor Bernie Fraser’s immense contribution to economic policy, this annual keynote features leading voices addressing Australia’s major economic challenges and opportunities. As Treasurer, Dr Chalmers will offer key insights into national economic decision-making, fiscal priorities, and public policy reform. Join policymakers, academics, and citizens for an intellectual evening exploring economic leadership, public service, and independent thought in Australia.

Tuesday 13 October, 7.30 pm–8.30 pm | Shine Dome, 15 Gordon Street, Canberra | events.humanitix.com

Revenue Summit | The Australia Institute

Join policymakers, leading economists, and independent experts at Parliament House for the Australia Institute’s 2026 Revenue Summit. Examining Australia’s tax structures and government spending priorities, this full-day summit focuses on economic reform, resource taxation, and strategies to reduce inequality. Key discussions will explore fair returns on fossil fuel exports, public institution funding, and structural changes needed to create a fairer national economy. It is an essential conference for anyone interested in Australian economic policy, civic governance, and social justice.

Wednesday 14 October, 9 am–5 pm | Parliament House, 1 Parliament Drive, Canberra | events.humanitix.com

Canberra October Cause Club

Gather with fellow locals for a meaningful afternoon of craft and connection at the Salthouse Community Centre. This month, the Do Good IRL crew is teaming up with NICU Cheer to sew snuggle hearts for premature and sick babies and their families in intensive care. These clever fabric pairs help mothers and newborns bond through scent, even when separated. No previous sewing experience is needed, as templates, guides, and friendly volunteers will be on hand to help. It is a wonderful chance to pick up a needle, meet new mates, and support a heart-warming cause in our city.

Saturday 17 October, 2 pm–3.30 pm | Salthouse Community Centre, Braddon | events.humanitix.com/canberra-october-cause-club

Artists in Conversation: Helen Heslop, Fenja T. Ringl, and Christine Upton

Join local creators Helen Heslop, Dr Fenja T. Ringl, and Christine Upton for an insightful, free panel discussion exploring their current visual art exhibitions at Belconnen Arts Centre. Heslop discusses her trauma- and healing-focused textile and collage work, Ringl details her combination of printmaking with ceramic pottery, and Upton shares her mastery of hand-carved vinyl printmaking. It offers art enthusiasts a rare chance to hear directly from three prominent regional artists about their creative processes, materials, and inspiration.

Saturday 17 October, 2 pm–3 pm | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Matcha and ceramic painting workshop

Unwind with a creative afternoon that combines mindful sipping with hands-on crafting. Hosted by Noa Matcha, this relaxed workshop invites you to learn the delicate art of sifting, whisking, and preparing your own ceremonial-grade matcha latte. Once you have mastered your brew, you will select a ceramic mug or matcha bowl to personalise using simple, step-by-step painting techniques. All tools, paints, and matcha are provided, making it an approachable weekend catch-up for friends or solo creators. Wear something paint-friendly and get ready to take home a uniquely painted piece to elevate your morning routine.

Saturday 17 October | The Pearce Community Centre, Pearce | noamatcha.com

Skin In The Game: An Introduction to Writing Short, Macabre Nonfiction

For those who find beauty and fascination in the darker corners of real-life storytelling, this immersive two-hour writing workshop offers a rare glimpse behind the curtain. Hosted by experienced freelance writer and Lost Souls Magazine Chief Spooky Officer Ben O’Mara, Skin In The Game equips emerging and established writers with tools to craft compelling macabre nonfiction. Participants will explore essential narrative techniques (such as sensory details, dialogue, and first-person perspectives) to balance fear with warmth, humour, and wonder. Even better, all proceeds directly support our local independent literary ecosystem, helping keep local publication Lost Souls Magazine thriving.

Saturday 17 October, 10 am | Downer Community Hall, Downer | events.humanitix.com

Local Legends: Documentary Filmmaking Program

Young storytellers in Year 9 and above can learn the art of documentary filmmaking in this practical Term 4 program run by Child Players. Meeting over ten Sunday afternoons in Fyshwick, participants use smartphones alongside professional microphones, tripods, and editing software provided on site. Guided by industry mentors, students complete weekly creative exercises before working in crews to produce a 3–5 minute film celebrating an inspiring local hero. The program culminates in a red-carpet public premiere, building creative confidence and screen production skills. No previous experience is required.

Until Sunday 13 December| Child Players Drama Studio, 89 Tennant Street, Fyshwick | childplayersact.net

Exhibitions

Penelope Boyd – Surrender

Surrender is an exhibition of paintings by Canberra realist painter Penelope Boyd, centred on Artemis, the goddess associated with the wilderness, young girls, animals and the hunt. Boyd’s masked young women appear in imagined, moody landscapes, a device she links to Ovid’s retelling of the story of Artemis and Actaeon. Her approach draws on the traditional techniques of the Old Masters and on pre-industrial Western art. Boyd won the Cliftons Art Prize in 2014 and has been a finalist in the Shirley Hannan Portrait Prize and the Yen Female Art Award.

Thursday 15 October until Sunday 1 November | Grainger Gallery, Fyshwick | graingergallery.com.au

Narelle Zeller – All of the delicate things

All of the Delicate Things is an exhibition of oil paintings by Canberra-based representational painter Narelle Zeller. The works bring together flowers, insects and the human figure, drawing on the floral still lifes of the Dutch Masters. A recent trip to the Netherlands, where Zeller viewed paintings by Rachel Ruysch and Jan van Huysum, informed the series. Born in Taree in 1978 and largely self-taught, Zeller has been a finalist in competitions including the Darling Portrait Prize and the Shirley Hannan National Portrait Award. The exhibition opens on 15 October, with gallery hours of Thursday to Sunday, 11 am–4 pm.

Thursday 15 October until Sunday 1 November | Grainger Gallery, Fyshwick | graingergallery.com.au

Kris Ancog: Yearning to breathe free

Kris Ancog presents Yearning to Breathe Free, a solo exhibition of paintings titled after Emma Lazarus’ poem The New Colossus. Inspired by refugees travelling towards safety and rebuilding their lives in unfamiliar lands, the works also reflect the life-changing moments many people encounter. Drawing on the compositional harmony and restrained palettes of Renaissance and Rococo painting, Ancog reworks the classical tradition as contemporary abstraction. Viewed up close, the canvases read as expressive brushwork, colour and light, while from a distance, scenes gradually emerge as though recalled from memory. Light runs through the series as a metaphor for resilience, offering hope without denying struggle.

Thursday 15 October until Sunday 8 November | Aarwun Gallery, Shop 11, Federation Square, Nicholls | aarwungallery.com.au

Exhibitions at Belconnen Arts Centre

Belconnen Arts Centre opens six diverse new exhibitions showcasing regional talent across textiles, printmaking, ceramics, digital imagery, and painting:

• Animal Portraits: Brenda Runnegar presents composite digital works reimagining domestic pets as majestic figures in early American folk art.

• Occupying Space: Helen Heslop explores South Coast landscapes, colonial history, and Yuin Country through intricate art quilts and collages.

• Passions, Journeys and Imaginings: Christine Upton uses carved bird figures, patterns, and abstract blossoms to explore nature and personal memory.

• Phases: Staff and collaborators from the UC Faculty of Art and Design reflect on global transition, change, and harmony.

• Colour Through My Eyes: Visually impaired artist Lien To shares vibrant Copic marker and collage works reflecting her imaginary safe spaces.

• Histories & Habitats: Fenja T. Ringl combines archaeology, palaeo-ecology, and printmaking on paper and ceramic forms.

Until Sunday 29 November | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Weaving the Coast by Christiane Keller

Weaving the Coast is a new solo exhibition by Canberra-based fibre artist Christiane Keller. Featuring fifteen sculptural works crafted from natural fibres, recycled materials, and salvaged beach debris, the collection translates the distinct geological patterns and sediment layers of coastal rock formations into intricate, three-dimensional woven forms. Informed by her decades spent working alongside Indigenous fibre artists across Arnhem Land and Central Australia, Keller’s sustainable practice creates a deeply tactile connection to place and Country.

Until Saturday 17 October | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com

Echoes of Her: Solo Exhibition by Michelle A. Le Riche

Step into an evocative world where realism meets expressive abstraction in Echoes of Her, the debut solo exhibition by Canberra-based artist Michelle A. Le Riche. Inspired by her personal journey as a migrant to Australia, this vibrant collection of original oil paintings explores delicate themes of resilience, identity, healing, and belonging. Readers can expect everything from deeply intimate portraits to tranquil landscapes, each canvas reflecting moments of quiet strength and rich emotion. Beyond the breathtaking gallery wall, visitors can take home a piece of the experience with original artworks and selected handcrafted gifts available to purchase throughout the day.

Saturday 17 October, 10 am | Oaks Estate Community Hall, Oaks Estate | @michelleartistry2010

‘Byproducts II’ by Anie Nheu

‘Byproducts II’ began in 2024 with Nheu’s transformation of found materials. Attentive to their histories, functions and uses, their reassembly draws them into new relations guided by their inherent attributes.

Together, elements generate unexpected, sometimes clumsy encounters, neither fully planned nor resolved. The result is not a finished object but a record of transformation: an ongoing negotiation between construction and deconstruction, stability and flux.

Friday 16 October until Sunday 8 November |  Platform, 19 Furneaux Street, Forrest | canberracontemporary.com.au

Bespoke Utopia | Exhibition

An art and design exhibition highlighting regional artists whose practices prioritise craftsmanship, slow design, and sustainability as an alternative to mass production.

Friday 23 October until Sunday 15 November | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

60 Years – Canberra Spinners and Weavers

A retrospective exhibition showcasing contemporary textile works by members of the Canberra Spinners and Weavers to mark 60 years of local craft heritage.

Friday 23 October until Saturday 12 December | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street North, Greenway | craftanddesigncanberrafestival.org

Takeaway: Tales from the Flavour Superhighway

Explore ecological networks, food sovereignty, and decolonial cultural practices at Canberra Contemporary’s latest exhibition. Curated by Denise Thwaites and Mariam Ella Arcilla, Takeaway: Tales from the Flavour Superhighway features works by artists like Marley Dawson and James Tylor as part of the Canberra Art Biennial 2026. Delving into the regenerative stories underpinning how we eat and cultivate food, the project includes knowledge-trading sessions, talks, food demos, and tours. Visitors can also enjoy a pop-up reading area by Magenta House. It is a thoughtful exploration into community nourishment, waste economies, and the fraught histories of land and water.

Until Saturday 24 October | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | canberracontemporary.com.au

Arthur Boyd: Tapestries

Culture lovers have a world-first opportunity to witness a monumental artistic achievement right in the heart of the National Triangle. The National Gallery is presenting the inaugural exhibition of the complete cycle of twenty monumental tapestries by renowned Australian artist Arthur Boyd. Hand-woven in Portugal and acquired in 1975, these breathtaking textiles creatively retell the life of Saint Francis of Assisi. Displayed alongside the original lithographs, pastels, and drawings, this astonishing exhibition illuminates the immense collaborative and technical processes required to translate Boyd’s intensely creative visions into millions of rich, physical stitches.

Until Sunday 18 October. Times vary | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes | nga.gov.au

Rosalie Gascoigne

Opening at the National Gallery of Australia, this major exhibition celebrates the career of Rosalie Gascoigne (1917–1999), one of Australia’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Famous for transforming discarded, weathered items—such as retro-reflective road signs, wooden crates, and feathers—into poetic assemblages, her works reflect the light, color, and texture of the surrounding Kamberri/Canberra landscape.

Saturday 24 October until Sunday 14 February | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au

GR’AFT 

Canberra Glassworks presents GR’AFT, a new exhibition by Thirroul-based artist Lynda Draper, developed in partnership with Sullivan + Strumpf. Created over two years, the exhibition marks Draper’s first major body of work in bronze and glass, following four decades as a leading figure in Australian ceramics. GR’AFT draws on the ancient horticultural practice of grafting, joining separate elements into a single living form, as a method and metaphor for transformation. Draper worked alongside glass artists Annette Blair and Spike Deane, and Nick Stranks of Carwoola Casting, bringing glass, ceramics and bronze together across three ancient material practices.

Until Sunday 25 October, Wed–Sun 10 am–4 pm | Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Ave, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com

Quiet Places

Escape the rush of everyday life with Quiet Places, a collaborative exhibition hosted by The Gallery Next Door. Featuring ethereal landscape paintings by Penny Deacon alongside earthy ceramic forms by Amy Beggs-French, this peaceful show offers visitors a quiet sanctuary of art and reflection. Showcasing the talent of two local, emerging artists, the exhibition celebrates natural textures, soft tones, and subtle beauty. The gallery is fully accessible, free to enter, and provides a welcoming atmosphere to support Canberra’s creative talent. Pop in for a tranquil break and discover lovely handmade art in the heart of Duffy.

Until Sunday 1 November | The Gallery Next Door, Duffy Place, Shop 4, Duffy | info@thegallerynextdoor.com.au

Canberra Potters Members Exhibition

Discover contemporary ceramic art at the Canberra Potters Members Exhibition, held at the Watson Arts Centre. As the region’s major pottery event of the year, this showcase features stunning works created by local members over the past twelve months. The exhibition highlights creative trends across functional vessels, sculptural forms, and decorative pieces. Key awards including the prestigious $5000 Doug Alexander Award, recognise artistic excellence within the local pottery community. It is a wonderful opportunity to support local makers and admire exceptional craft.

Until Sunday 1 November | Canberra Potters, Watson Arts Centre, 1 Aspinall Street, Watson | canberrapotters.com.au

Illuminate: How Science Comes to Light

Questacon presents an interactive exhibition exploring the science of light through 13 hands-on exhibits. Visitors can experiment with light refraction, colour blending, shadow manipulation and reflection across multiple activity stations. The exhibition demonstrates how light travels, reflects and refracts, alongside displays of tools humans have developed to harness light. Activities include bending light, using sensors to create music, and working with lenses. The exhibition is designed for hands-on engagement with scientific concepts. Illuminate: How Science Comes to Light is a Museums Victoria Touring Exhibition running until November 2026.

Until Sunday 22 November | Questacon–The National Science and Technology Centre, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | questacon.edu.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

Wangka Wakaṉutja: the story of the Papunya Literature Production Centre

Between 1979 and 1990, the Papunya Literature Production Centre produced hundreds of illustrated bilingual books–funny, moving, extraordinary documents of Pintupi-Luritja language and culture, guided by community Elders who were also pioneers of the Western Desert art movement. Many of those books have been held in the National Library’s collections ever since, and this landmark new exhibition finally brings them to life. Featuring stories, drawings, photographs, manuscripts, and oral histories drawn from multiple collections, it’s a profoundly significant celebration of Aboriginal literary culture, collective creativity, and the remarkable human effort to keep language alive across generations.

Until Saturday, 31 January | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au/whats-on/exhibitions/wangka-wakanutja

David Hockney: Portraits in Print

David Hockney: Portraits in Print opens at the National Gallery of Australia, drawing on the gallery’s own collection, the largest holding of Hockney’s work in the country. The display brings together more than 60 prints spanning almost 30 years, tracing the artist’s portraits of family, friends and collaborators across Los Angeles, Paris and London in the 1970s and 80s. Works include etchings, lithographs and photocollages, alongside experimental processes such as mylar sheets and faxes.

Until Sunday 14 February 2027, free | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place, Parkes | nga.gov.au

Quantum Tomorrow: Imagined Futures

Step into a vibrant, near-future Australia where once-impossible technologies transform how we live, work, and play. Questacon’s latest immersive gallery, Quantum Tomorrow: Imagined Futures, makes the complex world of quantum physics accessible, playful, and incredibly fun.

Developed in collaboration with Canberra illustrator Paul Summerfield, the exhibition brings tomorrow’s tech to life through colourful, highly detailed illustrations, giant airborne sculptures, and a mesmerising cloud chamber that reveals the invisible world of tiny particles. Along the way, visitors can meet the pioneering Australian researchers who are harnessing the unique behaviours of quantum objects to solve some of the world’s most critical challenges. From un-hackable communications and personalised medicine to ultra-responsive prosthetics, you’ll discover how a quantum future promises to make ordinary lives extraordinary.

Open daily through 30 June 2027 | Gallery 8, Questacon, Parkes | questacon.edu.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.

Until Sunday 1 November | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au

Hop In! – An Immersive World of Play

Turn the familiar family home inside out at Hop In!, a hands-on exhibition designed for children aged three to 12 and their families. Rooms shift in scale to encourage active play, letting little ones crawl under oversized furniture, stretch beneath cloud-filled skies, and wander through reimagined backyards and kitchens. At the heart of the space is artist Beci Orpin’s Bunny Dearest, a gentle companion guiding children through these imaginative spaces. Created for open-ended discovery, this interactive experience sparks curiosity, builds creative confidence, and offers families a wonderful opportunity to connect through shared play in the heart of the city.

Until Sunday 22 November | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, City | cmag.com.au

Yarning: Sharing Stories, Celebrating Culture

Explore Yarning, a vibrant new exhibition at Australian Parliament House showcasing the creative voices and stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander secondary students from across the nation. Featuring artworks from over 70 young artists, the display showcases entries from the Yarning competition exploring themes of Country, identity, family, and reconciliation—including the three winning pieces. Located in the public area on the Level 1 Senate side, this inspiring collection offers a powerful platform for young First Nations storytellers.

Open daily until February 2027 | Australian Parliament House, Capital Hill | aph.gov.au

RELICS: A New World Rises

Step into an extraordinary, imagined future where vintage objects become homes for intricate miniature worlds built from LEGO® bricks. Created by LEGO® Masters winners Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler, RELICS: A New World Rises features over 15 large-scale installations set in a world abandoned by humanity. Discover a refrigerator turned cryogenic resort or a grandfather clock transformed into a time machine. Packed with hidden details, humor, and nostalgia, this immersive exhibition playfully explores sustainability, consumer culture, and human creativity. Designed to captivate visitors aged 0–99, it is a wonderful reminder to slow down and embrace curiosity.

Until Sunday 31 January 2027 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, City | cmag.com.au

Floral Impressions: Coins in Bloom

The Royal Australian Mint’s exhibition Floral Impressions: Coins in Bloom draws on never-before-seen objects from the National Collection to explore the rich symbolism of flowers on coins from around the world. The exhibition traces how floral designs struck into metal carry stories of national identity, cultural heritage and remembrance — from Australia’s kangaroo paw and the South African protea to the Western Samoan Teuila.

Decorative motifs such as laurel, olive and oak wreaths, used for centuries as symbols of victory, peace and strength, also feature. Commemorative coins in the exhibition show how flowers have honoured significant historical moments and individuals across cultures.

Until March 2027 | Royal Australian Mint, 62–114 Denison Street, Deakin | ramint.gov.au

Tamara Lalayan Gallery Exhibition

Immerse yourself in a world of color and imagination with Tamara Lalayan’s latest art showcase, currently on display in the elegant Howard Lounge. Inspired by memory, movement, and the quiet beauty of everyday moments, Tamara’s expressive works invite viewers into richly layered landscapes. Each piece captures the subtle emotions and natural wonder found so effortlessly in our surrounding environment. Set within the historic surrounds of Hyatt Hotel Canberra, this peaceful exhibition offers art lovers and visitors a tranquil space to reflect and appreciate local creative talent. Pop in for a quiet moment of inspiration during your next city outing.

Until 28 February 2027 | Howard Lounge, Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | hyatt.com

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

Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years

Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years is a permanent portrait exhibition celebrating 50 years of women as residents at John XXIII College. Featuring fifty alumni, the exhibition pairs portraiture with personal reflections to capture the evolving experience of women across five decades. Photographed by ANU School of Art graduate Bronte Morel across Australia and internationally, each work is set in a location of personal significance. Together, the collection forms an intergenerational narrative of leadership, identity and community, recognising the enduring contribution of women to the College and beyond.

Permanent exhibition, open 9 am–5 pm daily | Front foyer, John XXIII College, 51 Daley Road, Australian National University, Canberra | johnxxiii.anu.edu.au