This just in: 60+ things to do in Canberra this week

Posted on 25 May, 2026

Consider this your weekly dispatch from the best city in Australia.

This week’s lineup has comedy for parents with prams, jazz on a rooftop, dogs dressed as Elvis, and a Sondheim musical that’s nearly sold out. Oh, and about 55 other things. You’re going to need a bigger diary. Here’s what’s on in Canberra this week.

Don’t miss…

Comedy 4 A Cause

Women Building Change is hosting a comedy night fundraiser, with all proceeds supporting the services provided by Vinnies Canberra Region. Tickets are $99 each, with proceeds directed to the CEO Sleepout fundraising campaign. To secure a seat, make a $99-per-ticket donation to Karen Porter’s Sleepout page and include “Comedy ticket x 1” in the message box.

Wednesday 28 May | CIT Woden | ceosleepout.org.au/fundraisers/karenporter/act

The Sapphires

Travel back to 1969 with this vibrant, music-filled story inspired by real events. The Sapphires follows four talented sisters from regional Victoria as they take their Supremes-inspired act from a local stage to entertaining troops in Vietnam. Packed with Motown hits and heartfelt moments, the production explores ambition, resilience and connection during a turbulent time in history. With its mix of humour, soul and powerful storytelling, it’s a theatrical experience that resonates long after the final note.

Saturday 30 May, 7.30 pm–9.15 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au

East Traders Hall grand opening day

East Traders Hall, Canberra’s new food and lifestyle precinct at 62 Constitution Avenue, Parkes, celebrates its grand opening with a full day of entertainment, food, drinks and prizes. The precinct brings together a collection of venues, including WORLD by Chairman Group, Lava Coffee, Sliceria and Lager House.

Opening day highlights include free batch brew coffee from 10 am–noon, hourly raffles at Lager House from 2–6 pm, live music, and face painting for kids. Free basement parking is available via Wendouree Drive, subject to availability.

Saturday 30 May, 10 am–6 pm | East Traders Hall, 62 Constitution Avenue, Parkes | easttraders-canberra.com.au

Nappies and Comedy

Canberrans with little ones in tow deserve a laugh too, and Nappies and Comedy at the Canberra Bowling Club in Forrest is exactly the comedy show parents have been waiting for. A lineup of Canberra’s funniest parent-comedians delivers unfiltered material about the beautiful, sleep-deprived chaos of early parenthood, while the audience is welcome to feed, change, rock or wrangle their babies without a single judgemental glance. Park the pram, spread a blanket for tummy time, grab a drink and a slice of cake and settle in. Doors open half an hour before showtime–arrive early to get comfortable.

Saturday 30 May, 3 pm–4 pm | Canberra Bowling Club, Forrest | trybooking.com

NASTY: Dynasty Studios Adult Dance Show 2026

Dynasty Studios presents NASTY, an adults-only dance showcase featuring students from the Dynasty AfterDark six-week course alongside Canberra choreographers and guest performers. The program spans hip hop, burlesque, lyrical and commercial styles, with performances designed for mature audiences that include spicy choreography and partial nudity.

Two shows are scheduled on Saturday 30 May, with evening sessions at 5 pm and 8 pm. Tickets are $35 and this event is strictly 18+.

Saturday 30 May, 5 pm & 8 pm | Dynasty Studios, Canberra | trybooking.com

National Reconciliation Week concert at the National Carillon

For National Reconciliation Week 2026, Senior Carillonist Dr Thomas Laue and rising Wiradjuri-Tongan vocalist Tahalianna Soward-Mahanga join forces at the National Carillon on Lake Burley Griffin for a concert that’s as musically rich as it is meaningful. The programme weaves together Indigenous Australian voices and international anthems of hope and unity–from Joe Geia’s healing Yil Lull and Midnight Oil’s Beds are Burning to Lennon’s Imagine and a new work by Canberra-based Dharug composer Professor Chris Sainsbury. The combination of the Carillon’s 57 bells and Tahalianna’s soaring vocals promises to be genuinely extraordinary.

Saturday, 30 May, 12.30 pm–1.30 pm | National Carillon, Aspen Island | nca.gov.au

Viva Paws Vegas

Haig Park in Turner is going full Elvis for a gloriously chaotic Saturday morning celebration of dogs, music and sheer community joy. Viva Paws Vegas is a free, casual gathering for dogs and their humans – blue suede shoes optional but enthusiastically encouraged. Expect wagging tails, great music and a park full of pups who are absolutely convinced they’re the main act. Whether your dog has an Elvis moment waiting to be unleashed or is more of a quietly dignified attendee, this is a wonderfully fun way to spend a late autumn morning in one of Canberra’s most beloved green spaces.

Saturday 31 May, 10 am–12 pm | Haig Park, Turner | cityrenewal@act.gov.au

Special Events and Festivals

Sagarmatha Exhibition

Canberra artists Sheikh Lana and Fahmida Suma present Sagarmatha Exhibition, a collection of paintings and stories inspired by their trek to Everest Base Camp last year with a group of Bangladeshi Australians. The works reflect the landscapes of the Himalayas and the connections the artists formed with the people of Nepal.

Opening on Everest Day, the evening features music and Nepalese refreshments, with the exhibition continuing over the weekend. The artists are also recreating the atmosphere of Himalayan tea houses – those welcoming stops where trekkers find comfort and connection. All proceeds support mountain communities in Nepal through the Australian Himalayan Foundation.

Friday 29 May, 6 pm (opening); Sunday31 May–Sunday 1 June, 10 am–3 pm | Aarwun Gallery, 11 Federation Square, O’Hanlon Place, Nicholls | sagarmathaexhibition.com.au

Into the Woods

ACT Hub closes out its May fundraising season with a passionate, intimate production of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s beloved Into the Woods, performed by 16 of Canberra’s finest theatre artists across three unplugged performances in Kingston. With simple, evocative staging and scripts in hand, the focus falls entirely where it belongs: on Sondheim’s witty, emotionally rich score and the extraordinary fairy tale characters who discover what really happens after happily ever after. Every ticket purchased directly supports ACT Hub’s vital work nurturing independent theatre in the ACT. Tickets are selling fast – less than half remain.

Friday, 29 May, 7.30 pm; Saturday, 30 May, 2 pm and 7.30 pm | ACT Hub, Kingston | acthub.com.au

Artshow@Radford

Radford College opens its doors to the wider Canberra community for its much-loved annual art show, celebrating the creative excellence of current students, Collegians and established professional artists across three days. This year’s Gala Opening on Friday evening features guest judge and speaker Kacy Grainger, owner of the Grainger Gallery, who will announce the winner of the Jonquil Mackey First Prize–a $2,000 award named in honour of a beloved Radford teacher. Entry to the Gala includes champagne, canapés and entertainment. Visitors across the weekend can also vote for the People’s Choice Award before the show closes on Sunday.

Friday, 29 May (Gala Opening, 7 pm) to Sunday, 31 May | Radford College, Bruce | events.humanitix.com

The Art of Felt: Rapt in Felt Expo 2026

Felt is one of the world’s oldest textiles, and in the hands of Canberra Region Feltmakers it becomes something genuinely extraordinary. The Art of Felt: Rapt in Felt Expo 2026 takes over Kambah Scout Hall for a weekend celebration of handmade felt in all its remarkable forms–from wearable sculptures and textile art to jewellery and homewares. A stunning members’ exhibition sits alongside a pop-up shop and mini workshops for those keen to have a go themselves. Whether a devoted felt enthusiast, a lover of handmade things or simply curious about what this ancient material can do, there’s something here to delight.

Saturday 30 May, 10 am–4 pm; Sunday 31 May, 10 am–2 pm | Kambah Scout Hall, Kambah | canberrafelters.org.au

Canberra Winter Gemcraft and Mineral Show

For those who love a treasure hunt, this two-day event is a must-visit. The Canberra Winter Gemcraft and Mineral Show brings together dealers and fossickers showcasing everything from gemstones and fossils to jewellery and lapidary supplies. Alongside the stalls, there’s plenty to keep families entertained—think gold panning, sapphire sieving and hands-on demonstrations. It’s a chance to learn something new, discover unique pieces and connect with Canberra’s passionate crafting community in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 May, 9 am–4 pm | Exhibition Park (EPIC) Mallee Pavilion, Flemington Road, Mitchell | canberralapidary.org.au

Story Dogs on Sunday

The last Sunday of the month at the National Library of Australia brings one of Canberra’s most endearing recurring events – Story Dogs, where trained volunteers and their accredited dogs create a warm, relaxed environment for children to enjoy books and build confidence as readers. Children aged seven to 12 are invited to sit with a friendly reader and their attentive canine companion just outside the Bookshop in the Library foyer, while younger children can listen and pat with parental supervision. No bookings required–simply turn up from 11 am for an hour of stories, pats and genuine reading joy.

Sunday 31 May, 11 am–12 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au

Food + Drink

Canberra Made Series: Teddy’s Matcha Pop-Up

There are few more perfect Canberra morning combinations than a beautifully made matcha and a view of Lake Burley Griffin, and the Teddy’s Matcha pop-up at the Canberra and Region Visitors’ Centre in Parkes delivers both in one go. The duo behind one of Canberra’s most beloved matcha brands brings their famous drinks and signature syrups for a Friday morning showcase that’s part delicious, part celebration of local makers doing things brilliantly. It’s running from 9 am until 12 pm, so there’s plenty of time to swing by, say hello and treat the morning right.

Saturday 30 May, 9 am–12 pm | Canberra and Region Visitors’ Centre, Parkes | visitcanberra.com.au

Parrilla Masterclass Tuggeranong

Fire up the skills with Executive Chef Bradley Howden at this immersive parrilla cooking masterclass at the Canberra Southern Cross Club in Greenway. Parrilla–the traditional South American method of cooking over live fire–is an art form that rewards patience, intuition and a genuine love of flavour, and this hands-on session takes participants from the basics all the way through to a finished plate. Whether a seasoned griller or simply curious about what fire can do to good ingredients, this is a relaxed, social and richly rewarding Saturday morning spent in excellent company with exceptional food.

Saturday 30 May, 11 am–2 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club Tuggeranong, Greenway | cscc.com.au

Introductory Wine Appreciation

Canberra’s wine region is one of Australia’s most exciting, and this friendly, fuss-free introductory class at the Canberra and Region Visitors’ Centre in Parkes is the perfect way to start exploring it properly. Participants discover the essential elements of wine, how it’s made, and the fundamentals of food and wine pairing–all through a guided tasting of hand-picked Canberra region wines. Relaxed, conversational and genuinely enjoyable, it’s ideal for those curious about wine but not sure where to begin, and just as rewarding for those who simply love a great reason to gather their people on a Sunday afternoon.

Sunday 31 May, 1 pm–3 pm | Canberra and Region Visitors’ Centre, Parkes | canberracellardoor.com.au

The Brunch Club at Capitol Bar & Grill

Sunday mornings in Canberra just got a serious upgrade. Capitol Bar & Grill’s Brunch Club is an all-day, unapologetically indulgent affair built for those who believe weekends deserve better than a rushed coffee and toast. The menu runs from fluffy buttermilk pancakes and classic cheeseburgers with secret sauce to miso grilled salmon and a few cheeky surprises in between. The real centrepiece, though, is the Bloody Mary cart–a Ketel One Vodka partnership that lets guests load up with crispy bacon, blue cheese olives, dill pickles, mussels, chilli, and more, built tableside by the brunch bartenders. Running every Sunday until 30 August.

Every Sunday until 30 August | Capitol Bar & Grill, Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra | qthotels.com

Markets

Sundays by the Lake

A new southside market has arrived, and it’s already shaping up to be a welcome addition to Canberra’s weekend calendar. Held on the fourth Sunday of each month alongside Tuggeranong Lake, Sundays by the Lake is organised by the same community-minded team behind the beloved Hartley Hall Markets. Local makers, unique finds, delicious food and good vibes make this a genuinely lovely way to spend a Sunday morning, with the lake providing one of the most peaceful backdrops of any market in the city.

Sunday 24 May, 9 am–2 pm | Lake Tuggeranong College 

Pandoras Recycled Fashions O’Connor – Everything Half Price Sale

Pandoras recycles high-end designer clothes, shoes, handbags, hats & jewellery. Top quality fashions at reasonable prices Everything you need to refresh your wardrobe from casual, work, evening or wedding. As the season changes Pandoras is having a half price sale to make room for all the fabulous Winter clothes we have ready to go.

Pandoras is based at St Philip’s Church in O’Connor and proceeds support local Canberra charities.

Half price sale dates are for three weeks on  Saturday 18 and 25 April and 2 May. This is followed by the Winter launch on Saturday 9 May.

Pandoras is open every Saturday, 10 am–1 pm | Lamerton Centre, St Philips Church, Cnr Moorhouse and Macpherson Streets | facebook.com

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

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 | Find out more here.

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 | More information here.

Night Shift RND2

More than just a run, Night Shift is a Canberra community movement built around showing up, moving together and looking after each other. Round 2 brings a 5–7km loop from Rosa’s Lawns, open to walkers, joggers, runners and riders of all paces, with this season’s community partner Barnardos Australia giving the movement added purpose in support of youth homelessness and positive mental health. Whether coming with a crew or arriving solo to meet new people, the welcome is genuine and the vibe is exactly right for a Friday afternoon reset. Meet at 5:15 pm; start at 5:30 pm sharp.

Friday, 29 May, 5.15 pm | Rosa’s Lawns, Canberra | @nightshift.run

ACT Brumbies v Moana Pasifika – Super Rugby Pacific Round 16

Round out the Super Rugby Pacific season with an afternoon of high-energy action as the ACT Brumbies take on Moana Pasifika. Set against the familiar buzz of GIO Stadium, this final round fixture offers a chance to soak up the atmosphere and celebrate the season with fellow fans. Whether it’s the thrill of the game or the camaraderie in the stands, it’s a classic Canberra sporting moment worth experiencing in person.

Saturday 30 May, 2.15 pm–4.35 pm | GIO Stadium, Bruce | brumbies.rugby

Raiders v Cowboys – NRL Round 13

There’s nothing quite like a game day at GIO Stadium, and this Round 13 clash is set to bring the energy. As the Canberra Raiders face off against the North Queensland Cowboys, expect the stands to erupt with the iconic Viking Clap and a sea of green. Beyond the on-field action, the stadium comes alive with family-friendly activations, making it just as enjoyable for first-timers as it is for die-hard fans. It’s a classic Canberra sporting experience — loud, proud, and full of community spirit.

Saturday 31 May, 4.05 pm–7.05 pm | GIO Stadium, Bruce | raiders.com.au

NRG On The Jetty: Winter Pilates Event

NRG Pilates is back at The Jetty on Lake Burley Griffin for the third instalment of one of Canberra’s most beloved community fitness events, and if previous years are anything to go by, spots will disappear fast. A 45-minute mat Pilates session led by NRG founder Ally is designed for all levels–from seasoned practitioners to first-timers–with stunning lakeside views providing all the motivation anyone could need. Afterwards, The Jetty serves up pastries, fresh fruit and a warming drinks menu to keep the good energy going. Goodie bags and surprise prizes round out what promises to be a genuinely special Sunday morning.

Sunday, 31 May, arrive from 8 am (session starts 8.30 am sharp) | The Jetty, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | nrgpilates.com.au

Music

Austrian Harmonie Choir: Harmonie with Pipes and Piano

The Wesley Lunchtime Concert series marks a significant milestone this week, welcoming the Austrian Harmonie Choir to the Wesley Music Centre in Forrest to celebrate 45 years of their remarkable contribution to Canberra’s cultural life. Drawing from four and a half decades of broad and beautiful repertoire, the choir performs accompanied by Linus Lee on both the Wesley pipe organ and grand piano – a combination that suits the warmth and richness of the programme particularly well. A special occasion for a choir that has been part of the fabric of this city for a very long time.

Wednesday, 27 May, 12.40 pm–1.20 pm | Wesley Music Centre, Forrest | trybooking.com/DIJJK

Opera Gala: Cathy-Di Zhang and Helen Sherman

Snow Concert Hall in Red Hill hosts a glittering evening of opera’s most beloved arias and duets, as two of Australia’s brightest operatic stars share the stage for a gala concert of extraordinary scope. Soprano Cathy-Di Zhang–an Associate of the Royal Academy of Music and a compelling presence on major stages nationally and internationally–joins mezzo-soprano Helen Sherman, whose career has taken her from a lettuce farm in rural New South Wales to the Royal Opera House at Covent Garden and the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition. Together, accompanied by pianist Thomas Victor Johnson, they perform a ravishing programme spanning Puccini, Mozart, Bizet, Bellini and Offenbach.

Friday 29 May, 7 pm–9 pm | Snow Concert Hall, Red Hill | events.humanitix.com

Jazz and Friends

Blank Cultural Platform’s open-air rooftop on City Walk becomes a vibrant, judgement-free celebration of jazz, movement and community for one late Friday night. Hosts Elvis and Issy have gathered a lineup that brings together contemporary jazz, jazz-hop, afrobeat, afrofunk, ska and minimal house fusions across four acts–Rush Hour 5, MN Cappo, This Way Orkestra and Garaújo. Live art from Thiago Claus unfolds in real time throughout the night, with open canvases for anyone wanting to join in. Dance your heart out, sink into a couch with new friends or simply let the music fill the evening. All are genuinely welcome.

Saturday 30 May, 7 pm–11.55 pm | Blank Cultural Platform, City Walk, City| hello@theblankcorporation.com

Stage and Screen

Sheltering

This powerful triple bill explores themes of connection, place and cultural knowledge through contemporary dance. Featuring three distinct works, the program draws on First Nations perspectives to examine how stories are shared and sustained across generations. Each piece offers a unique lens, combining movement, music and visual storytelling to create an immersive experience. It’s a compelling addition to Canberra’s performing arts calendar, grounded in both tradition and innovation.

Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 May | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au

Cult classics with Venus Mantrap at the NFSA

Friday nights get a bold twist with this curated film series celebrating cult cinema. Hosted by local drag artist Venus Mantrap, each screening pairs striking films with a live introduction and performance, adding an extra layer of flair. From edgy thrillers to visually stunning favourites, the program explores movies that challenge, provoke and entertain. It’s an experience that goes beyond the screen – perfect for Canberrans keen to dive into something a little unexpected.

Friday 29 May, 8 pm–10 pm | National Film and Sound Archive, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au

Puffs of Smoke at the NFSA

The National Film and Sound Archive offers one of the most atmospheric cinema experiences available in Canberra this week, as composer and musician Phillip Johnston performs a live score to a programme of rare short silent films, most from before 1920. Dramatised poems, newsreel footage, bushranger melodramas, advertisements and early documentaries combine with magic lantern slides from the Salvation Army’s 1900 proto-multimedia event Soldiers of the Cross, all woven together with short narrative interludes that illuminate the little-known history of Australian silent cinema. An evening that genuinely transports.

Saturday 30 May, 7 pm–9 pm | National Film and Sound Archive, Acton | nfsa.gov.au

Live Program: National Film and Sound Archive

Step into a celebration of Australia’s screen history with a dynamic program at the National Film and Sound Archive. From a lively silent film screening of Fatty Finn with live music and interactive activities, to a special anniversary event for Malcolm featuring a live score and Q&A, there’s something for every film lover. Rounding out the program is Puffs of Smoke, pairing rare silent shorts with an evocative live soundtrack. It’s a thoughtful mix of nostalgia, creativity and immersive storytelling in one of Canberra’s most iconic cultural spaces.

Saturday 30 May | National Film and Sound Archive, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au

Lano & Woodley – In Space

Comedy meets cosmic chaos in this latest show from iconic duo Lano & Woodley. Set aboard a spaceship, the pair deliver their trademark mix of physical comedy, clever timing and playful absurdity. Their on-stage chemistry shines as they bounce between moments of silliness and surprising brilliance, creating a performance that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s an hour of inventive, high-energy entertainment that leans fully into the ridiculous – in the best possible way.

Saturday 30 May, 4 pm–5 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | comedy.com.au

Kirsty Webeck: Lost for Words (Encore Show)

Kirsty Webeck returns to Canberra with her signature brand of upbeat, relatable comedy. Known for her quick wit and engaging storytelling, this encore performance promises an evening of laughter that feels both effortless and clever. Drawing on everyday observations and personal anecdotes, her style is warm, inclusive and refreshingly genuine. For anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a feel-good night out, this is an easy addition to the calendar.

Saturday 30 May, 6.30 pm–7.30 pm | The Street Theatre, City | thestreet.org.au

Les Misérables

Victor Hugo’s epic masterpiece of redemption, justice and revolution comes to The Q in Queanbeyan for a sweeping two-week season of musical theatre at its most powerful. The story of Jean Valjean – a man condemned for stealing a loaf of bread who finds himself embroiled in a Parisian revolution – is one of the great moral narratives in Western literature, and this production brings it to life with the full force of an extraordinary cast and iconic score. From On My Own to Bring Him Home and Do You Hear the People Sing, these songs deserve to be heard live. Two performances daily across the season.

Until Saturday 6 June | 253 Crawford Street, Queanbeyan | theq.net.au

Talks and Workshops

LLMs unplugged: a tech-free guide to understanding and teaching AI

Curious about how large language models actually work–but not sure where to start? The ANU School of Cybernetics offers a hands-on, entirely tech-free workshop that explores the basic principles behind tools like ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini through interactive activities and discussion. Participants explore probabilistic language, the role of data and how bias can emerge–all without opening a laptop. The workshop is also tailored for primary and high school teachers, with classroom-ready activities using everyday materials, and educators can accrue two hours of accredited TQI professional development. A genuinely illuminating afternoon for the curious and the classroom-minded alike.

Thursday, 28 May, 12 pm–2 pm | Innovation Space, Birch Building, ANU, Acton | events.humanitix.com

Create your own world & game workshop

This screen-free creative workshop at Belconnen Community Centre invites children aged 7–11 to design their own imaginative world and turn it into a game to play and take home. Participants explore storytelling, creativity and problem-solving as they plan a simple game complete with a goal, path and challenges. Sessions are structured and guided, with a focus on building creativity, confidence and independent thinking.

Saturday 30 May, 10 am–12 pm | Belconnen Community Centre, 23 Swanson Court, Belconnen | trybooking.com

Canberra’s Social History and Public Art Walking Tour

Canberra’s public artworks tell a richer, stranger and more surprising story than most residents realise, and this engaging tour led by historian Rohan Goyne unpacks more than 60 years of the city’s social history through the sculptures and installations woven into its streets. Starting at the Canberra Museum and Gallery, the route winds through Civic Square, Petrie Plaza and City Walk, uncovering the stories behind Ethos, the Big Little Man, the beloved Merry-Go-Round and more, before finishing at the Canberra Memorial. A comfortable 40-minute walk through six decades of a city told in bronze, stone and light.

Saturday 30 May, 2 pm–3.30 pm | Canberra Museum and Gallery, London Circuit | cmag.com.au

Book launch: Our Family Zoo by Maura Pierlot

Award-winning Canberra author Maura Pierlot returns to Green Square in Kingston for the sunny, celebratory launch of her newest picture book, Our Family Zoo – a rhyming adventure illustrated by A.Yi that’s bursting with animals, energy and a very big surprise. In a home already full of wonderful creatures, the question is: what’s the perfect pet to add to the mix? A reading of the book, animal-themed food and plenty of festivities make this a genuinely lovely Sunday morning outing for families with little ones. Pierlot is the author of five published picture books and a thoroughly wonderful advocate for children’s literature.

Sunday, 31 May, 11.30 am–12.30 pm | Green Square, Kingston | events.humanitix.com

Exhibitions

Barbara O’Ryan at Q Gallery

At 93, Barbara O’Ryan is still painting with the kind of energetic curiosity that puts most of us to shame. This new exhibition at Q Gallery in Ainslie brings together vibrant acrylic works drawn from a lifetime of exploration across abstraction, printmaking, etching and illustration–with the Australian bush, her garden, family and travels providing the wellspring of ideas. An art teacher and children’s book author, O’Ryan moves between poetry and painting with a fluency that speaks to decades of attentive looking. Her current large-scale canvases are alive with colour–the work of someone who has found her medium and is making the very most of it.

Until Thursday, 28 May | Q Gallery, 13A Edgar Street, Ainslie | q-gallery.com.au

Rematriate by Jessika Spencer

‘Rematriate’ is a feminist, First Nations reimagining of “repatriate,” recentring matriarchal knowledge, cultural care, and Indigenous sovereignty. Through woven banners and textile installations made from secondhand and naturally dyed materials, Jessika Spencer expands her weaving practise into acts of cultural resistance and craft activism. Grounded in sustainability and ancestral practice, the works speak to survival, healing, and the ongoing rematriation of culture back into Indigenous hands.

Friday 29 May to Sunday 21 June | Platform, 19 Furneaux Street, Manuka | canberracontemporary.com.au

Bling Bling: Lee Nelms, Liz Crowe and Jacqui Keogh at Canberra Potters Gallery

Bling Bling brings together three Canberra region ceramic artists in a contemporary exploration of decoration and the vessel at the Canberra Potters Gallery, Watson. Embracing the aesthetic and occasionally excessive qualities of bling, the exhibition celebrates surface and spectacle while inviting reflection on the cultural and artistic meanings underpinning the works. Lee Nelms combines playful form with functional intention; Liz Crowe presents tactile hand-built and wheel-thrown vessels incorporating copper wire, engobes and lustres; and Jacqui Keogh offers mid-century inspired carved forms finished with striking metallic glazes and lustres. Together, the three artists explore the vessel as a carrier of story, connection and individual expression. Entry is free.

Exhibition runs Tuesday–Friday 10 am–4 pm, Saturday–Sunday 10 am–2 pm, until 14 June | Canberra Potters Gallery, Watson Arts Centre, 1 Aspinall Street, Watson | canberrapotters.org.au

Art with Heart: The Gogster Chronicles

There’s something genuinely moving about the community fibre art exhibition now showing at The Link in Ginninderry. Good Omen Goodeze presents a special collection of Gogsters–soft, handmade companions crocheted and knitted with bright yarns, expressive faces and a whole lot of heart–designed to offer comfort and connection to people spending long periods in hospital. More than decorative objects, Gogsters serve as therapeutic companions, mimicking the soothing weight of a pet or providing gentle physical support. Every stitch in every piece represents a quiet act of kindness from a community that genuinely cares about bringing comfort to others.

Until Sunday 7 June | The Link, Ginninderry | ginninderry.com

Pigment, Powder, Wax, Sand

Artists Dionysia Salas, Jacqueline Bradley, Roslyn Lemoh and Merryn Lloyd present Pigment, Powder, Wax, Sand at Tuggeranong Arts Centre. Born from years of friendship and shared creative dialogue, the exhibition brings together four distinct practices that run in parallel yet resonate with one another in quiet, material ways.

Since 2019 the artists have met regularly to discuss their work, and this exhibition reflects that ongoing conversation–a shared site where works, ideas and vulnerabilities sit side by side. A panel discussion with all four artists takes place on Saturday 2 May at 1:30 pm. Free entry.

Until Friday 13 June | Tuggeranong Arts Centre Gallery | tuggeranongarts.com

There and Back Again – Peter Bitmead

Peter Bitmead presents There and Back Again at Tuggeranong Arts Centre, an exhibition exploring his return to Canberra after 14 years farming in rural Tasmania. Working across printmaking, painting and ink, Bitmead examines the differences and surprising similarities between these two environments, past and present. The work reflects a circular journey encompassing several themes, both current and historical, united by underlying global concerns such as climate change. An artist talk on Saturday 16 May at 1:30 pm offers a chance to hear more about the ideas behind the work. Free entry to the gallery.

Until Friday 13 June | Tuggeranong Arts Centre Gallery | tuggeranongarts.com

Nature Speaks – Vladimir Gottwald and Kate Shaw

Nature Speaks at Tuggeranong Arts Centre pairs stone sculptures by Vladimir Gottwald with a large-scale drawing by Kate Shaw. Gottwald’s works are fashioned from found black limestone, shaped by nature over time into expressive zoomorphic and anthropomorphic forms. Shaw’s expansive drawing serves as a counterpoint to the sculptural pieces, creating a dialogue between two- and three-dimensional responses to the natural world. The exhibition sits alongside the centre’s other current shows, Pigment, Powder, Wax, Sand and There and Back Again, as part of TAC’s autumn gallery program. Free entry.

Until Friday 13 June | Tuggeranong Arts Centre Gallery | tuggeranongarts.com

BLAZE

BLAZE is an exciting group exhibition at Canberra Contemporary, featuring 8 emerging artists from the Kamberri/ Canberra region and beyond. Working across diverse mediums to address various themes ranging from identity and autonomy to the significance of today’s algorithmic culture and its effect on socialisation – the artists in BLAZE signal an exciting direction in contemporary visual arts practices today.

Until Saturday 20 June | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | canberracontemporary.com.au

Painting Itself / 绘画本身

The Drill Hall Gallery at ANU, in partnership with the School of Art & Design Gallery and Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts, presents a thought-provoking international painting exhibition that asks what it means to look for the “face” of a work–that quality in a painting that looks back at its maker. Curated by Jonathan Nichols, Painting Itself / 绘画本身 brings together five painters from Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and China whose practices collectively reshape long-held assumptions about painting’s history and vitality, challenging the dominance of European and American values in the field. A quietly radical and visually compelling exhibition for anyone who takes painting seriously.

Until Sunday, 28 June | Drill Hall Gallery, ANU | drillhallgallery.anu.edu.au

Of Ravens and Rivers: Kerry McInnis and Mike MacGregor

Kerry McInnis and Mike MacGregor are two Canberra artists united by a shared interest in the environment, landscape, wildlife and waterways.

McInnis’s paintings of waterways explore the river as a conduit of life and a metaphor for survival, depicting the interconnectedness between river and earth. MacGregor’s drawings and sculptures juxtapose the forms of Man and the Raven, illustrating the remarkable connection between the two.

Together, their works form a conversation about the natural world and our place within it. Of Ravens and Rivers opens at the Pivot Gallery on Friday 22 May and runs through to 5 July.

Until Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Abstract Connotations: Brian Hincksman

Brian Hincksman’s Abstract Connotations presents a body of work that pushes back against rapid technological and social change by turning attention to the natural environment. Hincksman’s process moves between contemplation and action, responding to the fluidity of paint through colour, form, tone and varied mark-making. The resulting works aim to inspire respect for common humanity, explore the beauty and power of the natural world, and imagine ways of living in greater harmony with each other.

Until Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Becoming Now: Barbara Dawson

Barbara Dawson’s Becoming Now uses botanical forms as the central language for exploring the human journey. Across charcoal drawing, stitched textiles and photographic silk pieces, the exhibition examines themes of endurance, presence and emotional resonance–using plants as vessels to reflect lived experience. Dawson’s work explores the tension between strength and vulnerability, suggesting that human experience is layered, evolving, and shaped by connection, memory and time.

Until Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Dear earth…

Dear earth… is an open A5 unframed exhibition bringing together artists from throughout Australia to explore the concept of “earth”–our home, the environment, soil, land, and all that lives within it. Artists of all ages, viewpoints and levels of experience respond to this theme through drawing, painting, printmaking, photography and mixed media. The resulting collection provokes awareness, dialogue, political activism, experimentation and deep contemplation. Visitors are invited to vote for their favourite work in the People’s Choice Award.

Until Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Works

Explore the expressive possibilities of line and colour in this exhibition by artist Steve Roper. Featuring a collection of abstract works across pencil, ink, crayon and watercolour, the exhibition reflects an ongoing exploration of form, movement and perception. The pieces invite viewers to interpret shapes and patterns in their own way, creating a personal connection with the work. It’s a thoughtful and quietly engaging showcase that highlights the evolving nature of artistic practice.

Until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Abstract Connotations

This exhibition delves into the relationship between human experience and the natural world through a series of contemporary abstract works. Using colour, form and fluid mark-making, the artist explores themes of change, connection and coexistence. Each piece reflects a balance between contemplation and spontaneity, encouraging viewers to consider their own place within a shifting environment. It’s a visually engaging and reflective exhibition that speaks to both personal and shared experiences.

Until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Becoming Now

Through layered materials and delicate textures, this exhibition reflects on ageing as a process of growth and transformation. Drawing on plant life as a central metaphor, the works explore cycles of change, resilience and renewal. Combining charcoal drawings, stitched textiles and photographic elements, the pieces offer a quiet, contemplative experience. It’s an exhibition that invites viewers to pause and consider the richness of lived experience through both subtle and striking visual forms.

Until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Of Ravens and Rivers

This collaborative exhibition brings together two artists exploring shared themes of landscape, wildlife and connection to place. Through painting, drawing and sculpture, the works reflect on the relationship between natural environments and human experience. From interpretations of river systems to studies of the raven, each piece offers a layered perspective on coexistence and observation. It’s a considered and immersive exhibition that highlights the depth of long-term creative practice.

Until Sunday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Works: Steve Roper

Steve Roper’s Works brings together a collection of abstract drawings on paper, made using pencil, crayons, ink and watercolour. Line and colour have long been the foundation of Roper’s practice–he tends to draw with line rather than tone, producing works that are not necessarily representations of things but that may evoke subjects. For Roper, the appeal of abstract art is that it offers anyone the opportunity to experience it and interpret it on their own terms.

Until Sunday 5 July, 10 am–4 pm Tue–Sun | Belconnen Arts Centre, West Gallery, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au

Group Exhibition: Iltja Ntjarra Art Centre and Jordan Benson

A remarkable cross-cultural dialogue opens at Canberra Glassworks in Kingston, bringing together Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre artists Vanessa, Kathy, Dellina and Raelene Inkamala from Mparntwe (Alice Springs) alongside Melbourne-based artist Jordan Benson. The exhibition celebrates the enduring watercolour legacy of Albert Namatjira while placing it in conversation with Benson’s contemporary approach to traditional stained glass techniques. Together, they explore light, colour and transparency across two very different mediums – an expansion of their celebrated collaboration for the National Indigenous Art Triennial at the National Gallery of Australia. A genuinely special and culturally rich exhibition.

Until Friday 26 July | Canberra Glassworks, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com

Through the Window: Iltja Ntjarra Art Centre and Jordan Benson

A rich cross-cultural dialogue opens in the main gallery at Canberra Glassworks in Kingston, expanding on a celebrated collaboration first seen at the National Gallery of Australia’s National Indigenous Art Triennial. Artists Vanessa, Kathy, Dellina and Raelene Inkamala from Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre in Mparntwe (Alice Springs) bring the enduring watercolour legacy of Albert Namatjira into conversation with Melbourne-based Jordan Benson’s contemporary approach to traditional stained glass techniques. Together they explore light, colour and transparency across two very different mediums, sharing skills and stories in an exhibition that honours culture while engaging boldly with the present.

Until Sunday 26 July | Canberra Glassworks, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com

Good Neighbour

Belconnen Arts Centre presents an offsite group exhibition at SLA Display Village and Innovation Precinct, Whitlam, curated by Brooke McEachern. A printmaker, glass blower, ceramist, mark maker and knifemaker come together celebrating local makers and quiet creative lives unfolding around us. Estelle Briedis, Hugo Curtis, Jacky Lo, Isobel Rayson and Dan Venables live and work in our neighbourhoods as familiar dog-walkers, corner café regulars or simply good neighbours. Through functional objects and considered craftsmanship, the exhibition presents works feeling personal and lived-with, as though gathered over time from friends and neighbours. The collaboration highlights the creative talent existing within everyday community spaces, making visible the artistic practice happening in homes and studios throughout Canberra’s suburbs.

Until Sunday, 13 July | SLA Display Village, Whitlam | belcoarts.com.au

Ngura Puḻka–Epic Country

One of the most ambitious exhibitions to open at the National Gallery of Australia this year, Ngura Puḻka–Epic Country showcases major works by senior First Nations artists and collectives from the APY Lands, Coober Pedy, and Adelaide. These large-scale paintings depict Country while celebrating the powerful Tjukurpa–the law and cultural stories–that lies within, rendered sometimes in explosions of colour, sometimes in muted, contemplative palettes. From the beginning of the APY art movement, these artists have embraced monumental works as the ultimate expression of cultural freedom. The result is an exhibition that is genuinely epic in both scale and significance.

Until Sunday, 23 August | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes | nga.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

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 Sunday, 11 October | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au/whats-on/exhibitions/wangka-wakanutja

Hop In! an immersive world of play

Canberra Museum and Gallery launches one of its most delightful exhibitions this April–and it’s designed for the youngest visitors. Hop In! turns the familiar family home inside out, shifting rooms in scale and perspective to invite children aged 3–12 to move, build, crawl, splash, and imagine in surprising new ways. Stretch out beneath a sky of clouds, create secret worlds under oversized furniture, or wander through reimagined kitchens and backyards where creativity has completely taken over. At the heart of the experience is Bunny Dearest, a gentle guiding companion created by artist Beci Orpin.

Until Sunday, 11 October | Canberra Museum and Gallery, London Circuit, Canberra | cmag.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

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

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

Feature image: David Kelly.