This Week in The Can is your essential guide to what’s happening in Canberra. From theatre to sport, food and wine to music, and much much more!

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Floriade NightFest. Framed.

NightFest

When the sun goes down, NightFest comes to life for all those who dare to dabble in Floriade’s dark side.

Experience magical nights as this floral feast is transformed into an illuminated playground. Thursday to Saturday nights feature live music, while Sunday night will see side-splittingly funny comedians take to the stage.

Explore all the after-dark magic as this year’s Floriade theme, World in Bloom, infiltrates all aspects of the festival from pop-up performances through to foodie experiences and interactive displays.

Lighting up each night from 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm, tickets are available from Ticketek and start at $31.95 per person, visit floriadeaustralia.com/nightfest.

Happening 3-6 October from 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm at Floriade, Commonwealth Park.

See floriadeaustralia.com/nightfest for more information.

Meet & Greet with Shani Grimmond

With nearly 1.6 million subscribers on YouTube an

d over 1.4 million followers on Instagram, Shani is one of Australia’s leading social media personalities.

Her vlog’s and posts regularly include tips on makeup and the latest beauty trends, along with personal & lifestyle advice.

It’s time to make those Instagram stories a reality, as we give you the opportunity to meet her in person!

Part of Canberra Centre’s Temple of Beauty–discover a land devoted to all things beauty, with an insta-worthy Beauty Temple, special events, giveaways, a pop-up gin bar, beauty night markets and more.

Don’t miss special guests Elle Ferguson, Rae Morris, Danh Doan and Vogue Editors Remy Rippon and Kaila Matthews. Come and be immersed in the beautiful.

Cost: Free

Happening Saturday 5 October from 12-12.45 pm at Canberra Centre’s Temple of Beauty, Level One (outside R.M. Williams).

See cc.sproutix.com.au for tickets and more information.

The Burbury Terrace’s Dusk High Tea and NightFest experience

Experience a floral-filled evening of food, cocktails and flowers at Dusk High Tea and NightFest.

Canberra’s favourite high tea hotspot, the Burbury Terrace, has partnered with Floriade to bring the city its very first floral-filled Dusk High Tea on October 5 and 6.

Watch the sunset from the top of Doma Hotel’s chic Burbury Hotel as you enjoy French cakes, tarts, delicate savouries and traditional scones— washed down with a glass of sparkling.

Each of the dishes will be scattered with an array of edible florals to celebrate Floriade in full bloom. Also on the menu are Burbury’s new Spring floral tea cocktails, inspired by the festival itself.

Saturday night will feature live music while Sunday night will see comedians take to the stage.

Tickets also include access to Floriade’s NightFest. As the sun goes down, stroll over to Commonwealth Park to explore all the after-dark magic of this year’s Floriade theme, World in Bloom.

Browse all aspects of the starry-eyed festival; from pop-up performances through to more foodie experiences and awe-inspiring light displays.

Cost: $75 per person. Inclusions: High tea at The Burbury Terrace and ticket to Nightfest

Happening Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 October with seatings from 3.30 pm until 6 pm at The Burbury Terrace, Burbury Close, Barton

For bookings please call 6163 1802 or email iesha.flores@domahotels.com.au.

Beauty Night Markets + free HerCanberra gin cocktails

We can’t think of a better way to finish up the work week than with a pamper session (and a free gin cocktail, if you’re into that!),

Throughout Temple of Beauty at Canberra Centre (from 27 September until 27 October), every Friday night the Beauty Night Markets will be the place to chill out and ring in the weekend.

We’re talking complementary treatments, live music, free HerCanberra x The Canberra Distillery French Earl Grey gin cocktails and an indulgent candy cart.

Happening every Friday night from 5 pm to 8 pm until 25 October at the Temple of Beauty (Ground Level, near R. M. Williams) at Canberra Centre.

See canberracentre.com.au for more information.

Murrumbateman Moving Feast

Spend your weekend roving from maker to maker, indulging in delicious food and wine and taking in the beautiful countryside along the way.

Taking place on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 October, The Murrumbateman Moving Feast showcases some of Murrumbateman’s finest wine, food, produce and views – an exploration of the region and senses by roving degustation.

Participating wineries and venues dotted throughout Murrumbateman will wow you with fine food matched with their nationally and internationally recognised wines.

The Murrumbateman Region in NSW, near Canberra, is home to a group of passionate boutique makers of wine, mead, chocolate and artisan goods.

During the annual ‘Murrumbateman Moving Feast’ these producers open their doors and invite wine and food lovers to spend time amongst the vines.

Over two days 18 participating wineries and specialty producers in and around Murrumbateman invite visitors to sample their produce and enjoy a savoury or sweet dish perfectly matched to their selected wines.

Designated drivers The Makers of Murrumbateman are committed to a safe environment and encourage responsible service of alcohol. As part of the Feast all dishes can be accompanied by a soft drink, tea or coffee in place of wine.

Make the most of the Moving Feast and win! For your chance to win a prize pack filled with a selection of local wine, be sure to get your “Murrumbateman Moving Feast Passport” when you begin your feast trail and have it stamped at participating venues.

For $25 savoury fare and $20 desserts, each venue will present a tasting plate “signature dish” matched to one of their wines. Wines are presented in a complimentary Riedel wine glass valued at $20.

Savoury Dishes are entrée size, servings are $25. Dessert servings are $20. all meals include a complimentary glass of wine (and keep your Riedel wine glass valued at $20).

No tickets or bookings required. See the brochure here.

Happening 5-6 October from 9 am-5 pm both days at various locations across Murrumbateman, NSW.

See makersofmurrumbateman.org.au/moving-feast for more information.

Windows to the World

Tour the world, without the long-haul flight!

Windows to the World provides the rare opportunity to see behind the gates of the capital’s embassies and high commissions. See, taste and experience cultures from across the globe, whilst enjoying the beautiful gardens and intricate architecture of some of Canberra’s most iconic buildings.

During Floriade, visitors can also experience a taste of Windows to the World, with a selection of embassies exhibiting onsite at the flower festival on 5 October.

Cost: From $15

Happening 5- 20 October from 10 am at various venues across Canberra.

See windowstotheworld.com.au for more information.

Free School Holiday Activity Hub at Marketplace Gungahlin

Get the kids out of the house these School Holidays at Marketplace Gungahlin’s fun and free kids activity hub!

Activities are happening every day (except the Labour Day Public Holiday)  featuring mindfulness, sensory and skilled base play!

Week 1: Craft and Circus Fun (Monday 30 September – Friday 4 October from 10.30 am – 1.30 pm each day)

• Monday 30 September –  Dragonfly Bug Pots
• Tuesday 1 October  –  Pinwheel making
• Wednesday 2 October –  Spring Bouquet making
• Thursday 3 October – Mini Circus Skills
• Friday 4 October – Wooden Spinning top decorating

Week 2: Mindfulness and Sensory Play (Tuesday 8 – Saturday 12 October from 10.30 am – 1.30 pm each day)

• Tuesday 8 October  –  Pinwheel making
• Wednesday 9 October –  Spring Bouquet making
• Thursday 10 October – Mini Circus Skills
• Friday 11 October – Wooden Spinning top decorating
• Saturday 12 October – Dragonfly Bug Pots

Happening 30 September – 12 October from 10.30 am – 1.30 pm at Marketplace Gungahlin, directly outside Big W.

See marketplacegungahlin.com.au for more information.

Game Masters: The Exhibition

With the opening of Game Masters: The Exhibition, the NFSA turns into Australia’s biggest video game arcade with the world’s greatest designers, characters and 80 playable games.

Game Masters is an interactive journey through five decades of video game history, offering both a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind the world’s most popular characters and franchises and a chance to play them.

Featuring interviews, never-before-seen concept artwork, an amazing display of vintage consoles and collectable items, and 80 playable games, visitors won’t want to leave!

Created and curated by ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image), Game Masters first opened in Melbourne in 2012. It has since toured to nine museums worldwide including venues in the USA, Germany, New Zealand, Scotland and Sweden. Much loved by audiences around the globe, the exhibition has been updated to include the latest gaming blockbusters as well as Australian creations.

Game Masters is divided into three sections: Arcade Heroes, Game Changers and Indies. It features unique experiences such as a spectacular multiplayer dance stage for Dance Central 3(2012), hands-on experiential music booths and a selection of original classic arcade machines from the 1970s and ‘80s acquired especially for the exhibition, all playable in their original form. See the full list of 80 playable games and their Australian classifications.

Sign up to join the Game Masters club and receive the latest news from the NFSA plus updates about special gaming events and guests, and exclusive offers and discounts.

Open daily 10 am–4 pm until Monday 9 March 2020 at the National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton.

See the nfsa.gov.au for tickets and more information.

TEMPLE OF BEAUTY

Visit Canberra Centre to discover a land devoted to all things beauty, with an insta-worthy Beauty Temple, special events, giveaways, a pop-up gin bar (with HerCanberra French Earl Grey gin!), beauty night markets and more.

Plus, don’t miss special guests Shani Grimmond, Elle Ferguson, Rae Morris, Danh Doan and Vogue Editors Remy Rippon and Kaila Matthews. Come and be immersed in the beautiful.

Happening until 27 October at Canberra Centre, Level One (Outside R.M. Williams).

See canberracentre.com.au for more information.

Light the Night 2019

More than 35,000 Australians will unite to walk together and to shine a light on blood cancer at the annual Light the Night event on Friday 11 October.

The Leukaemia Foundation’s beautiful lantern walk is the only event in Australia that truly brings the country’s blood cancer community together, with crowds creating a sea of glowing support for Australians affected by blood cancer.

Light the Night 2019 in Canberra will take place on 4 October at Kingston Foreshore.

Participants carry lanterns in symbolic colours of blue, white and gold on a beautiful, reflective walk.

Gold … to remember loved ones lost
White … to honour those battling the disease, and those who have won the fight
Blue … to show support and hope for a cure for the future

You can also reserve lanterns to pick up on the night, or lanterns can be purchased at the event.

Happening Friday 4 October from 5.30 pm-8.30 pm at the Kingston Foreshore, Eastlake Parade, Kingston

To find out about event details and locations and to become a part of Light the Night today by signing up, go to at lightthenight.org.au.

Floriade

Floriade, Australia’s biggest celebration of spring, returns to Commonwealth Park from Saturday 14 September until Sunday 13 October 2019.

With over one million blooms on display and free entry, Floriade is the perfect place to experience the beauty of spring.

With a diverse and ever-expanding program of music, cultural celebrations, food and wine, horticultural workshops, market traders, artistic displays, entertainment, recreational activities and more, you’ll find something for everyone.

Celebrate this year’s theme, World in Bloom daily from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm.

Happening 14 September – 13 October from 9.30 am – 5.30 pm seven days a week at Commonwealth Park.

Visit floriadeaustralia.com for more information.

Woden Business Showcase

A day full of innovation, knowledge-sharing and sparking new connections!

Do you do business in Woden? Or, is your business located in Woden? An initiative of the ACT Government, the Woden Business Showcase invites you to discover some of the amazing businesses and community organisations that make the Woden Valley a wonderful place to work, shop and live.

This free two-day event includes a range of activities and culminates in a lunchtime community picnic on the Saturday, including a HerCanberra Women in Business lunchtime networking event.

See the full program here.

On Saturday 5 October between 12 pm and 3 pm, the Woden Business Showcase in conjunction with Floriade in the Suburbs will be hosting a Community Picnic at the #WodenExperiment, the transformed Woden Town Square.

This playful space with its sun loungers, table tennis table and children’s nature play areas will be a colourful mix of market stalls, music and performances as well as art and craft workshops suitable for all ages.

WODEN BUSINESS SHOWCASE

When: Friday 4 October from 9 am-5pm
Where: Canberra Southern Cross Club, 92-96 Corinna Street, Woden
Entry: Free
Booking: You can book in for the full day or individual workshops via Eventbrite

WODEN COMMUNITY PICNIC

When: Saturday 5 October from 12 pm-3 pm
Where: #WodenExperiment, Woden Town Square
Entry: Free
Find more information: wodenbusinessnews.com.au

See Eventbrite for the full program and more information.

Pialligo Estate: High Tea Floriade

Delight your tastebuds and indulge them in beautiful Pialligo Estate delicacies, all while you enjoy the atmosphere at Floriade.

While you enjoy the gorgeous view across the tulips in comfort from Pialligo Urban’s sunny deck, you’ll have the chance to unwind and spoil yourself with a range of sweet and savoury treats handmade by the renowned chefs at Pialligo Estate.

Beautiful china will accompany the variety of Moroccan inspired sweet treats, classic ribbon sandwiches, Pialligo Estate smokehouse sausage rolls, seasonal fruit and more, all while enjoying a selection of quality drinks including housemade lemonade and kaffir, loose leaf and herbal tea or barista coffee.

You may also purchase bubbles or other alcoholic beverages to help you really relax and recharge.

Pialligo Estate’s High Tea will be the perfect enhancement to your Floriade experience–it’ll add that extra little something to your weekend, go on, you deserve it!

Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, please notify Pialligo Estate when making your booking.

There will be two High Tea sittings at 1 pm and 2 pm across various dates from 21 September – 13 October at Pialligo Urban, Floriade, inside Commonwealth Park.

See the website for more information.

Side by Side Chamber Orchestra

Musicians from the Canberra Symphony Orchestra join School of Music staff and students once more in 2019 to form the Side by Side Chamber Orchestra.

Under the baton of distinguished conductor Max McBride, the Orchestra’s spring concert will present a program of beloved baroque, and inspiring new repertoire.

The world premiere of Andrew Ford’s The Sea and the Mirror, written especially for Tor Frømyhr‏ (Concertmaster) and David Pereira (Principal Cello), will highlight the evening.

The audience will also be treated to Georg Matthias Monn’s Symphony in E-flat major and Christian Cannabich’s Symphony in E-flat.

Book now for an evening of musical brilliance, celebrating the collaboration of Canberra’s leading musical institutions.

Happening Friday 4 October from 7:30 pm – 8:45 pm at Llewellyn Hall, ANU School of Music, William Herbert Place, Acton.

See Eventbrite for more information.

Labour Day Festival and Union Picnic

This year’s Labour Day Festival is just around the corner on Monday 7 October!

Labour Day Union Picnic is a fun, free-entry, family-friendly, inclusive festival for all Canberrans to celebrate Labour Day, union members and the union movement; and the perfect way to spend a public holiday with some outdoor family fun.

For the kids, there will be rides, a petting zoo, team games and free face painting. Adults can enjoy food trucks, live music and entertainment, a beer garden and also the annual dog show!

Happening Monday 7 October from 10 am-2 pm in Eddison Park, Woden.

See Facebook for more information.

Pialligo Fields

It’s time to truly unwind and be blown away by the breathtaking views over the fields, watching the sun go down with a drink in hand.

Pialligo Estate is bringing Canberra a new style of fun–with next-level drinks by our funky bar crew, Canberra’s first Gintonica bar experience and the finest craft beers, you’ll taste your way to a new happy place.

Think great beats, highest-quality share platters, space for the kids to run around, and fun you won’t be expecting; Pialligo Fields is the place to bring your family and friends for some fresh air in style.

Whether you have an event that needs some personality, or you just want to find some weekend balance with the family and friends, Fields is a multi-purpose space that will deliver experiences you talk about.

Happening Wednesday to Friday from 3 pm until late and Saturdays and Sundays from 12 pm until late at Pialligo Estate, 18 Kallaroo Road, Pialligo.

See thepialligoestate.com.au/pialligo-fields for more information.

Author Talk: This Is What a Feminist Looks Like

In her new book, This Is What a Feminist Looks Like, author Emily Maguire charts a course through Australian feminist history and pays tribute to those who have taken action in the face of ridicule. In conversation with Zoya Patel, Emily discusses the actions that have led us to where we are today.

Emily Maguire is the author of five novels, including An Isolated Incident which was shortlisted for the Stella Prize, the ABIA Literary Fiction Book of the Year and the Miles Franklin Literary Award.

Her 2008 non-fiction book Princesses and Pornstars: Sex, Power, Identity was a frank, personal examination of what it meant to be young and female in Australia. Emily works as a teacher and as a mentor to young and emerging writers and was the 2018 Writer-in-Residence at the Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney.

Zoya Patel is a writer, editor and communications professional, based in Canberra. Her debut book, No Country Woman, a collection of memoir essays on race, identity and the diaspora is out now through Hachette Australia.

In 2015, Zoya was named ACT Young Woman of the Year for her commitment to raising the profile of women’s voices in the media. She is the founder and editor of Feminartsy, an online feminist arts and literature journal, and is the former Editor-In-Chief of Lip Magazine. She has written for a number of publications, including The Canberra Times, Right Now, Junkee, Women’s Agenda, and more.

Cost: $20

Happening Wednesday 2 October from 6-8 pm at the National Library of Australia.

See the website for tickets and more information.

DREAMWORKS ANIMATION: THE EXHIBITION – JOURNEY FROM SKETCH TO SCREEN

From the makers of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon and Trolls, comes and extraordinary exhibition celebrating over 25 years of DreamWorks Animation.

DreamWorks Animation: The Exhibition – Journey from Sketch to Screen brings together rare concept drawings, models and original artworks, interviews and interactive displays from DreamWorks’ much-loved animated classics.

Take a thrilling journey, from original sketches of grumpy ogres and friendly dragons, to amazing stories and fantasy worlds brought to you by DreamWorks’ award-winning artists.

An ACMI touring exhibition developed in partnership with DreamWorks Animation. © 2019 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved

Happening until 2 February 2020 at National Museum of Australia.

See nma.gov.au or more information.

Kids Cushion Concert in NewActon

Join members of the Canberra Symphony Orchestra on a musical journey around the world for children (aged 3 to 8 years old) and their grown-ups.

Each school holiday concert will take us to a different continent of the world, exploring music by composers from that region and musical instruments from the orchestra.

Accompanied by the adventurous narrator, Matilda, young listeners will hear a range of classical music, as well as learning folk songs from around the world.

Happening Wednesday 2 October at 10 am and 11.15 pm on the Nishi Grand Stair, inside the Nishi Building, NewActon.

See musicaroundtheworld.eventbrite.com.au for more information.

Floriade in The Suburbs: Woden Town Square

Floriade is bursting out of Commonwealth Park and heading to local town centres around Canberra!

Floriade in the Suburbs is bringing a little bit of Floriade flavour to Gungahlin, Belconnen, Tuggeranong, Molonglo and Woden.

Popping up between 12 pm and 3 pm, bring along your picnic blanket and enjoy an afternoon of food, drinks from the Pop Inn wine bar, live music and family entertainment. You’ll also get to meet Floriade’s famous pink gnome!

12 noon until 3 pm, Saturday 5 October: Woden Town Square

Find out more at floriadeaustralia.com

Craftivism. Dissident Objects and Subversive Forms

Craftivism. Dissident Objects and Subversive Forms is a Shepparton Art Museum curated exhibition, touring nationally by NETS Victoria.

It presents the work of 17 contemporary Australian artists who utilise craft-based materials and techniques with political intent. The artists in this exhibition subvert and extend craft forms as vehicles of activism and social change, exploring the ideas and issues of our time.

Some works encourage social connection and participation in collective processes, others respond to artistic or political movements and yet others reveal that the personal remains political.

Drawing on a long historical lineage, Craftivism. Dissident Objects and Subversive Forms challenges us to see craft in a new light, inviting us to reflect on social participation and political change.

Don’t miss this provocative exhibition, visiting Canberra for the only time.

Happening until  2 February at the Museum of Australia Democracy, 18 King George Terrace, Parkes. 

See moadoph.gov.au/exhibitions/craftivism for more information.

Photography at Floriade

The popular Floriade Photography Workshops are back in 2019!

Run by leading Canberra photographers, Geoff Comfort and Ben Kopilow, these workshops run each Saturday morning at 6:30 am from September 14 until October 12.

During the workshops, Geoff and Ben explain the techniques of great flower photography, guide you through a hands-on photography session and then critique your photos at the end of the workshop.

The workshops are suitable for all budding photographers, from beginners to advanced.  You will need to bring a camera, anything from a compact camera or phone up to a full DSLR kit will be suitable.

The workshops are a great opportunity to improve your photography and composition skills and make the most of the morning light!  They fill quickly, so book here now!

Tickets $75 from Ticketek.

6:30 am to 9:30 am, Saturday 5 October: The Terrace at Floriade

6:30 am to 9:30 am, Saturday 12 October: The Terrace at Floriade

Find out more at floriadeaustralia.com.

Painting on Country

Five senior artists from Tjungu Palya art centre in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in South Australia have reinvigorated their ancestors’ practice of painting directly onto the land. Their work, captured in a series of large-format photographs, is both timeless and transient, bridging the ancient and the contemporary.

Exhibition on show at the National Museum of Australia until 30 September 2019. Free entry.

More information at nma.gov.au.

Phenomenal women in song 2019 White Ribbon Fundraiser

FLORIADE 2019

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CANBERRA’S BIGGEST CELEBRATION OF SPRING

Photography at Floriade

The popular Floriade Photography Workshops are back in 2019!

Run by leading Canberra photographers, Geoff Comfort and Ben Kopilow, these workshops run each Saturday morning at 6:30 am from September 14 until October 12.

During the workshops, Geoff and Ben explain the techniques of great flower photography, guide you through a hands-on photography session and then critique your photos at the end of the workshop.

The workshops are suitable for all budding photographers, from beginners to advanced.  You will need to bring a camera, anything from a compact camera or phone up to a full DSLR kit will be suitable.

The workshops are a great opportunity to improve your photography and composition skills and make the most of the morning light!  They fill quickly, so book here now!

Tickets $75 from Ticketek.

6:30 am to 9:30 am, Saturday 5 October: The Terrace at Floriade

6:30 am to 9:30 am, Saturday 12 October: The Terrace at Floriade

Find out more at floriadeaustralia.com.

The Burbury Terrace’s Dusk High Tea and NightFest experience

Floriade in The Suburbs: Woden Town Square

Floriade is bursting out of Commonwealth Park and heading to local town centres around Canberra!

Floriade in the Suburbs is bringing a little bit of Floriade flavour to Gungahlin, Belconnen, Tuggeranong, Molonglo and Woden.

Popping up between 12 pm and 3 pm, bring along your picnic blanket and enjoy an afternoon of food, drinks from the Pop Inn wine bar, live music and family entertainment. You’ll also get to meet Floriade’s famous pink gnome!

12 noon until 3 pm, Saturday 5 October: Woden Town Square

Find out more at floriadeaustralia.com

The Heart Foundation Early Morning Floriade Walks

The Heart Foundation ACT is hosting early morning Floriade walks everyday, except Sundays, until October 13. 

These walks are to start a movement to take positive steps towards active living to help reduce stress, have a healthier body and heart, and build stronger relationships. They are here to get everyone moving, no matter where you live or your fitness level.

The walks are held before Floriade opens to the public. It’s a great way to get some exercise, be beat the crowds! Come join in and enjoy the sun, get to know the community and be active!

The Heart Foundation would not be able to offer these walks without the help of their wonderful volunteer Leaders and Walkers.

Free entry. 

Happening every day except Sundays until October 13 from 8 am at Commonwealth Avenue, Floriade. 

See the website for more information.

FLORIADE WALK – WHAT MAKES A TREE SIGNIFICANT

Take a stroll down the Arboretum’s Central Valley zigzag pathway while your guide talks about the trees planted by dignitaries and celebrities over the last eight years. Find out about their significance, why they were chosen, their rarity, their uses and their symbolic value.

This will be a gentle walk taking 1 1/2 hours covering 1 km with a slight elevation on the way back.

Meet at the Information Desk in the Village Centre

Moderate fitness required. Please wear sturdy, covered footwear, dress for the weather conditions and bring water.

Cost: Free

Happening 6 October from 9:30 am- 11am at the National Arboretum.

See Facebook for more information.

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR IS 50 AT FLORIADE

Caterpillars are important inhabitants of our environment and one is the star of Eric Carle’s book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of this much-loved book, by listening to the story and enjoying a related hands-on activity.

Libraries ACT is so excited to host some of the most popular children’s programs at Floriade this year. Make sure you join them for all the events that they have among a million blooms this spring.

Cost: Free

Happening 3 October from 10:30 am- 11:15 am at Commonwealth Park.

See Facebook for more information.

FOOD & DRINK

Murrumbateman Moving Feast

Cellar Door is a wine market for Canberra’s wonderful wine scene happening every Saturday from 3-6 pm. Buy wines from local makers every Saturday afternoon in the iconic Nishi Grand Stair, NewActon Precinct.

Grab a souvenir glass, taste the latest drops, and buy at cellar door prices.

Wine stalls rotate each week with complementing stalls like flowers, cheese, chocolate and books.

Make a day of it with a film at Palace Electric Cinema and NewActon’s leading food and drink destinations.

Happening every Saturday from 3-6 pm on the Nishi Grand Stair, inside the Nishi Building, Philip Law Street, NewActon.

See the website for more details.

Monster’s Afternoon Delight

Serene, methodical and exceptionally Monster.

Presenting a new Sunday afternoon blend, Monster Kitchen and Bar is adding a little extra flavour to your signature lazy day with its very own High Tea…

Amidst the hand-crafted furniture, bespoke artwork, and ambient lighting you will find the familiar flavours you have come to appreciate from the team at Monster with a range of exclusive tea flavours by Tea Garden co, tea-inspired cocktails, Champagne all complemented by black and gold fixtures.

1 pm every Sunday at Monster Kitchen, Ovolo Nishi. Tickets $70 to $120  – more information on Facebook.

Freestyle Fridays at Vertikal

Join Vertikal every Friday for indoor ski lessons with indoor snow machines and music. Enjoy discounted sessions from $40 or kick back with a Jindabyne Brewing beers on tap or Canberra Distilling Co & Underground Spirits.

Every Friday at Vertikal Indoor Snow Sports, Unit 2, Building 3, 1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick.

Find out more at vertikalsnowsports.com.

MUSIC

Kids Cushion Concert in NewActon

More local music

Check out BMA and CBR DIY for more local gigs!

STAGE + SCREEN

The Vinyl Lounge at NFSA

Bring along your favourite records, share your music stories and hear what’s spinning on the NFSA’s turntables.The ultimate listening party for vinyl aficionados.

The Vinyl Lounge is on the first Friday of every month.

Happening until Friday 6 December from 5:30 pm – 7 pm at the National Film and Sound Archive.

See nfsa.gov.au for more information. 

FESTIVALS

Bulgaria.

Windows to the World

WORKSHOPS, TOURS & TALKS

Woden. Credit: Tim Bean Photography.

Woden Business Showcase

A day full of innovation, knowledge-sharing and sparking new connections!

Do you do business in Woden? Or, is your business located in Woden? An initiative of the ACT Government, the Woden Business Showcase invites you to discover some of the amazing businesses and community organisations that make the Woden Valley a wonderful place to work, shop and live.

This free two-day event includes a range of activities and culminates in a lunchtime community picnic on the Saturday, including a HerCanberra Women in Business lunchtime networking event.

See the full program here.

On Saturday 5 October between 12 pm and 3 pm, the Woden Business Showcase in conjunction with Floriade in the Suburbs will be hosting a Community Picnic at the #WodenExperiment, the transformed Woden Town Square.

This playful space with its sun loungers, table tennis table and children’s nature play areas will be a colourful mix of market stalls, music and performances as well as art and craft workshops suitable for all ages.

WODEN BUSINESS SHOWCASE

When: Friday 4 October from 9 am-5pm
Where: Canberra Southern Cross Club, 92-96 Corinna Street, Woden
Entry: Free
Booking: You can book in for the full day or individual workshops via Eventbrite

WODEN COMMUNITY PICNIC

When: Saturday 5 October from 12 pm-3 pm
Where: #WodenExperiment, Woden Town Square
Entry: Free
Find more information: wodenbusinessnews.com.au

See Eventbrite for the full program and more information.

Meet & Greet with Shani Grimmond

With nearly 1.6 million subscribers on YouTube and over 1.4 million followers on Instagram, Shani is one of Australia’s leading social media personalities.

Her vlog’s and posts regularly include tips on makeup and the latest beauty trends, along with personal & lifestyle advice.

It’s time to make those Instagram stories a reality, as we give you the opportunity to meet her in person!

Part of Canberra Centre’s Temple of Beauty–discover a land devoted to all things beauty, with an insta-worthy Beauty Temple, special events, giveaways, a pop-up gin bar, beauty night markets and more.

Don’t miss special guests Elle Ferguson, Rae Morris, Danh Doan and Vogue Editors Remy Rippon and Kaila Matthews. Come and be immersed in the beautiful.

Cost: Free

Happening Saturday 5 October from 12-12.45 pm at Canberra Centre’s Temple of Beauty, Level One (outside R.M. Williams).

See cc.sproutix.com.au for tickets and more information.

Author Talk: This Is What a Feminist Looks Like

In her new book, This Is What a Feminist Looks Like, author Emily Maguire charts a course through Australian feminist history and pays tribute to those who have taken action in the face of ridicule. In conversation with Zoya Patel, Emily discusses the actions that have led us to where we are today.

Emily Maguire is the author of five novels, including An Isolated Incident which was shortlisted for the Stella Prize, the ABIA Literary Fiction Book of the Year and the Miles Franklin Literary Award.

Her 2008 non-fiction book Princesses and Pornstars: Sex, Power, Identity was a frank, personal examination of what it meant to be young and female in Australia. Emily works as a teacher and as a mentor to young and emerging writers and was the 2018 Writer-in-Residence at the Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney.

Zoya Patel is a writer, editor and communications professional, based in Canberra. Her debut book, No Country Woman, a collection of memoir essays on race, identity and the diaspora is out now through Hachette Australia.

In 2015, Zoya was named ACT Young Woman of the Year for her commitment to raising the profile of women’s voices in the media. She is the founder and editor of Feminartsy, an online feminist arts and literature journal, and is the former Editor-In-Chief of Lip Magazine. She has written for a number of publications, including The Canberra Times, Right Now, Junkee, Women’s Agenda, and more.

Cost: $20

Happening Wednesday 2 October from 6-8 pm at the National Library of Australia.

See the website for tickets and more information.

Photography at Floriade

The popular Floriade Photography Workshops are back in 2019!

Run by leading Canberra photographers, Geoff Comfort and Ben Kopilow, these workshops run each Saturday morning at 6:30 am from September 14 until October 12.

During the workshops, Geoff and Ben explain the techniques of great flower photography, guide you through a hands-on photography session and then critique your photos at the end of the workshop.

The workshops are suitable for all budding photographers, from beginners to advanced.  You will need to bring a camera, anything from a compact camera or phone up to a full DSLR kit will be suitable.

The workshops are a great opportunity to improve your photography and composition skills and make the most of the morning light!  They fill quickly, so book here now!

Tickets $75 from Ticketek.

6:30 am to 9:30 am, Saturday 5 October: The Terrace at Floriade

6:30 am to 9:30 am, Saturday 12 October: The Terrace at Floriade

Find out more at floriadeaustralia.com.

TEMPLE OF BEAUTY

Visit Canberra Centre to discover a land devoted to all things beauty, with an insta-worthy Beauty Temple, special events, giveaways, a pop-up gin bar (with HerCanberra French Earl Grey gin!), beauty night markets and more.

Plus, don’t miss special guests Shani Grimmond, Elle Ferguson, Rae Morris, Danh Doan and Vogue Editors Remy Rippon and Kaila Matthews. Come and be immersed in the beautiful.

Happening until 27 October at Canberra Centre, Level One (Outside R.M. Williams).

See canberracentre.com.au for more information.

PAINT AND SIP CLASS- TREE OF LIFE

Ignite your creativity and learn to create an art masterpiece, the easy and fun way.

Bring your friends and/or make some new ones, over music and a guided two-hour painting session. Forget your stresses and worries and create your very own unique artwork (yours to keep). You’ll get step by step instructions from our expert artist, to create your own interpretation of the selected painting.

Guests must be 18 or older for this event, as our classes are held at licensed bars. If the date or theme of this class doesn’t suit you, we have lots of other classes available running regularly – check them out!

Cost: $65.00

Happening 4 October from 7:30 pm- 9:30 pm at 65 Northbourne Avenue.

See classbento.com.au for more information.

Art for lunch

Drop into 30-minute weekly talks or creative activities interpreting works of art in the NGA’s collection.

Check our website for further details. This event is free but bookings are essential.

Happening until Thursday 28 November, every Thursday from 12:45-1:15 pm at the National Gallery of Australia.

See nga.gov.au for more information.

#UDHRQUILTPROJECT

The #UDHRQuiltProject features never before seen work from a global craftivism project. Stitching in local and global stories; see the intricate detail of these quilts that represent the world’s conscience.

Through the creation of fourquilts, each embroidered with the articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the project draws attention to the way human rights are challenged around the world today. The messages sewn into the quilts encourage visitors think, engage and take action.

The #UDHRQuiltProject moves byond a traditional museum experience by inviting visitors to participate in a range of hand-on craft activities and workshops.

Happening daily from 9am – 5pm until 30 June 2020 at the Museum of Australian Democracy.

See moadoph.gov.au for more information.

LET’S ROAM CANBERRA

See the best of Canberra and delight your friends with some epic scavenger hunt ideas for adults. On, ART In Canberra, ACT, you will wander with purpose to see the most entertaining sights in Canberra, and learn about the history and culture while you’re at it. Snap silly photos, answer tough trivia, and have a blast with the Let’s Roam scavenger hunt app!

Australia’s capital is like an outdoor art gallery. On this art-filled Canberra scavenger hunt, we explore iconic landmarks and find more than a dozen incredible sculptures. What wonders are contained in Civic Square? Is the Shine Dome really from outer space? Find out on this scavenger hunt of Canberra!

Happening until 12 June 2020 from 8 am – 10pm at 170 London Circuit.

See letsroam.com for more information.

TREASURES IN TIMBER

Discover the finest work of the ACT Woodcraft Guild, meet the members and explore a variety of woodworking techniques through demonstrations.

They’ll be examples of bowls, puzzles and pieces of wood art on display in the Crosbie Morrison Building at the Australian National Botanic Gardens.

Cost: Free

Happening 4-7 October from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm at Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton.

See parksaustralia.gov.au for more information.

GUIDED TOURS OF THE NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA 

Visiting the National Library of Australia? Take a tour and see a side of the Library most visitors never experience. Whether this is your first visit or the next of many, you can learn more about the Library and its exhibitions by joining a free guided tour. Tours are offered by trained Volunteer Guides who have a passion for sharing their knowledge of the Library and its collections. Your Guide will welcome the opportunity to introduce you to the National Library, its collections and the stories of Australia.

Treasures Gallery – Daily at 11.30 am. Take a tour and come face-to-face with some of the Library’s greatest treasures and Australia’s greatest stories.

Behind The Scenes – Thursdays at 2 pm. Take a tour to visit enormous stacks where the books are stored and learn about strange curiosities in the Library’s collection that have been acquired over more than a century of collecting.

Discover your National Library – Saturdays at 2 pm. Join a Library guide for a journey around the building and discover the stories in the Reading ooms and public spaces.

For more detailed information visit the website.

FRIDAY WITH A FRIEND

An engaging tour of the NGA collection for people with dementia and their carers. This event is free however it is recommended that participants register interest.

Happening 10.30 am – 11.30 am every Friday at the National Gallery of Australia, Parkes.

See the website for more information.

‘YERIBEE’: INDIGENOUS EXPERIENCES OF PARLIAMENT HOUSE.

Hear the stories of our Indigenous parliamentarians and staff, explore the site history of Parliament House, gain insights into how Australia’s First Peoples are participating in the nation’s democratic processes, and enjoy significant artworks from the Parliament House Art Collection by celebrated Indigenous artists.

The tour will look at the Great Hall Tapestry, The Great Hall Embroidery, The Barunga Statement, The Apology to Australia’s Indigenous Peoples, The Yirrkala Bark Petitions, recent portraiture commissions, and significant pieces from Indigenous artists from the Parliament House Art Collection.

‘Yeribee’ is the Ngunnawal word for ‘Walk’. The United Ngunnawal Council of Elders have kindly allowed us to use the word as the name of our tour.

We recommend to arrive at least 20 minutes before the tour for screening and check-in. All tours run subject to the operational needs of the Parliament.

Happening until 29 December at Australian Parliament House.

See aph.gov.au for more information.

Happy and Glorious

The Queen’s Visit in 1954. The phrase conjures up memories of a young Queen in summer dresses and ball gowns, crowds of Australians excitedly waving flags and charming tableaus spelling out heartfelt messages.

Old Parliament House was central to the royal tour while the Queen was in Canberra. The Queen alighted from the Daimler and walked up the front steps in her coronation gown to rousing cheers. She was escorted through King’s Hall by a very proud Prime Minister Menzies to attend the State Banquet. In her most formal duty, the Queen opened the 20th Parliament in the Senate Chamber. A room in the President of the Senate’s suite was redecorated and furnished for her private use while she was in the house.

Relive the memories of her visit at the Happy and Glorious exhibition. Enter the very room the Queen used while she was at Old Parliament House.

On until Thursday 16 January 2020 daily at the Museum of Australian Democracy.

See moadoph.gov.au for more information.

CHANGING LIVES WITH SCIENCE

The 2019 Canberra Speaker Series held across the year at the iconic Shine Dome.

Throughout this series listen to remarkable science stories that haven’t yet been told. Stories of innovation, research, breakthroughs, and how science is solving the big challenges of our time.

Happening now until Tuesday 10 December from 5:30 pm – 7 pm with a cost of $ 15.

See science.org.au for more information.

SPORT + FITNESS

Freestyle Fridays at Vertikal

Join Vertikal every Friday for indoor ski lessons with indoor snow machines and music. Enjoy discounted sessions from $40 or kick back with a Jindabyne Brewing beers on tap or Canberra Distilling Co & Underground Spirits.

Every Friday at Vertikal Indoor Snow Sports, Unit 2, Building 3, 1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick. Find out more at vertikalsnowsports.com.

MEET & MOVE

Are you finding it hard to get active since having kids? Perhaps it’s time for you to Meet & Move!

Meet & Move is a new, active playgroup. It’s facilitator, Nicole Sadlier from Bluearth, knows that it can be hard to get out of the house when you have young kids. But like she says “When you do get outside,  you feel much better. Your mood improves and you feel refreshed and more energetic!”

Meet & Move sessions occur outdoors and include a pram-friendly, baby-wearing friendly walk, gentle yoga-style stretching or toning exercises (selected sessions) and a chance for the kids to burn off some energy at a playground or to walk/bike with the group.

It also engages parents and their kids in activities which develop skills such as running, kicking, balancing, throwing and catching. Their focus is to make movement fun and help parents to bank more active time into their day.

Join one of their free weekly sessions which run on Monday – Thursday from 10 am during the school term. Full details for locations can be found on Facebook.

Meet & Move is a program of the Bluearth Foundation, working in partnership with Mums Exercise Group Australia (MEGA) Canberra and supported by ACT Government under the ACT Health Promotion Grants Program.  It has been created to help mums with young kids to be more active together, get outdoors and connect with other mums.

MARKETS & FAIR

Beauty Night Markets + free HerCanberra gin cocktails

LIVING GREEN VEGAN MARKET

A fun day of stalls, music and delicious plant-based food and drink for everyone.

Cost: Free

Happening 6 October from 10 am- 3pm at Albert Hall, Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla.

See Facebook for more information.

THE PRECINCT MARKETS

Take your Fridays to the next level at Kambri at ANU, with the exciting launch of the weekly Precinct Markets.

From Friday, 20 September you can come down to the Kambri Cultural Centre and meet artisanal makers at over 60 stalls. There’s everything you could want, all in the one place – freshly baked bread, organic produce, handmade smallgoods, farm fresh cheeses, vintage clothing and accessories, handmade vegan skincare, flowers, hot food and more!

Market-goers will enjoy a lively festival atmosphere each Friday with live entertainment and a perfectly curated mix of friendly vendors. Browse, taste and go home with the best!

Happening every Friday from 20 September – 22 November at Kambri, ANU.

See kambri.anu.edu.au for more information.

NORTHSIDE FAMILY MARKETS

Northside Farmers Markets brings you the best quality fresh produce from the region. Select from leafy vegetables, free range pork, pastured eggs, luscious peaches and juicy apples.

Grab a sit and enjoy the amazing aroma and refreshing taste of our freshly brewed coffee. Enjoy with some pastry or bakery product. Do all your weekly grocery shopping while enjoying the spacious and sunny atmosphere. Brings friends and family and friends, share a cuppa and stories from your week.

Happening every Saturday from 9.30 am – 4.30 pm at Thoroughbred Park, Lyneham.

See the website for more information.

SOUTHSIDE FARMERS MARKETS 

Get along to the Southside Farmers Markets every Sunday morning and pick up the finest fruit and vegetables and produce our region has to offer.  There are over 50 stalls made up of farmers and producers who sell their food direct from their farm or kitchen.  Many farmers are out picking their produce the night before the market and you can certainly taste the difference.

Talk to the farmer direct and find out where your food is being grown, how they grow it, and even how they best like to cook it.  Not only do they provide us with fresh food every week but they are a wealth of information on the food that nourishes week in week out.

What’s in season this week?  Annual herbs, beans, peas, beetroot, capsicums, carrots, chillies, corn, cucumber, daikon, eggplant, garlic, onion, radishes, rhubarb, squash, zucchini, melons, stonefruit, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, tomatoes and more!

Every Sunday from 8.30am to 11 am at Canberra College, 2 Launceston Street, Phillip. Entry is free, visit the website for more informatio

MARKET GARDEN PRODUCE STALL

Selling fresh, clean, chemical-free vegetables, preserves and baked goods in the Courtyard of 56 Wallace Street, Braidwood every Saturday morning from 8.30am until 12.00 or sold out. Wynlen House is a small urban micro-farm specialising in offering a broad range of seasonal vegetables all year round.

They also run workshops to show people how to grow vegetables, garlic, and raise small farm animals on a large suburban block and offer slow food events to showcase the benefit and deliciousness of produce grown locally, without chemical inputs and picked fresh.

On every Saturday from 8.30am – 12 pm, at The Courtyard, Braidwood. For more information visit the website

FOR A GOOD CAUSE

OUTDOORS

Take a short walk with a ranger and learn about the potoroos and other important inhabitants of the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve Eucalypt Forest and get back in time for “Koalas in the Canopy”.

This wildlife walk is suitable for all ages, there are no bookings required and the cost is included in the Reserve entry fee.

Available Saturdays, 2 pm – 2.45 pm until 29 June. Meet at the koala enclosure in the Eucalypt Forest.

Find out more at tidbinbilla.act.gov.au

Koalas in the Canopy

From 2.45 pm – 3.15 pm every Saturday until 29 June you can search for koalas and enjoy a ranger-guided walk through the tall eucalypt forest at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Hear a ranger’s story or two about these fascinating marsupials.

Meet at the Eucalypt Forest car park. Normal entry fees to Tidbinbilla apply. No bookings required for Koalas in the Canopy.

Find out more at tidbinbilla.act.gov.au.

KIDS

LOOKING FOR SPRING SCHOOL HOLIDAY IDEAS? CLICK HERE.

 

DRESSUP: CHANGE THE WORLD

Discover the incredible journeys of some of the world’s most inspiring people, taking the time to walk in their shoes in DressUP: Change the World.

Connect with the lives of historical and contemporary figures, including Frida Kahlo, Adam Goodes, Beyoncé, and many others, by dressing up in their most iconic outfits.

Immerse yourself in their stories of triumph as they go from ordinary people to visionary leaders who have made a difference in the world. Listen to their stories and learn about the challenges they overcame to leave their mark.

Visitors can also tell their own story in the new Zine Lounge. Whether you prefer writing or sketching, the Zine Lounge lets you carve out a space for your voice to be heard.

This engaging exhibition space provides a bold and quirky environment that will inspire young people and asks them “How will you change the world?”

On until 31 December 2019 at the Museum of Australian Democracy Old Parliament House.

See the website for more information.

LITTLE GRIFFINS

The National Capital Authority’s popular and entertaining Little Griffins program for children four years and under and their parents and carers is back for 2019.

The free, fun and interactive session will include building with DUPLO, songs, stories, and games. No bookings required – just come along!

Happening the last Friday of every month (unless that Friday falls on a school holiday) from 1 am at the National Capital Exhibition, Regatta Point.

Visit nca.gov.au for more information.

PLAYUP

After an exciting transformation, the imaginative family space in the Museum of Australian Democracy has all-new hands-on activities to educate, excite and challenge young minds.

This creative exhibition space celebrates the role of children in our community and provides a welcoming environment for families to engage in the rights and responsibilities of children through imagination, discovery, role-play and fun.

Happening every day from 9 am – 5 pm at the Museum of Australian Democracy, King George Terrace, Parkes. Entry costs vary.

Visit the website for more details.

LEAP INTO YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY  

Your local library is a treasure trove…not only are there free books and resources, there are regular amazing events! Giggle & Wiggle with your little ones (up to two years) and help them learn through language play using interactive rhymes, songs, games and stories.

Looking to improve your English and make new friends, then head along to your local library for one of the informal English conversation groups. For more events and info check them out here. 

EXHIBITIONS

Installation imagery of Game Masters at ACMI. Courtesy and copyright ACMI. Photographer Mark Ashkanasy.

CONTEMPORARY WORLDS: INDONESIA AT THE NGA

Featuring 20 emerging and established artists, Contemporary Worlds: Indonesia showcases the vibrant and complex art of Australia’s closest neighbour, bringing together practitioners from Bali and Java’s key artistic centres of Yogyakarta, Jakarta, and Bandung.

Presenting new acquisitions and commissions from artists such as Melati Suryodarmo, Fx Harsono and Eko Nugroho, this is an exciting exhibition dedicated to the best of contemporary Indonesian art. Free.

Happening until Sunday 27 October from 10 am – 5 pm at the National Gallery of Australia.

See the nga.gov.au for more information.

Painting on Country

Five senior artists from Tjungu Palya art centre in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in South Australia have reinvigorated their ancestors’ practice of painting directly onto the land. Their work, captured in a series of large-format photographs, is both timeless and transient, bridging the ancient and the contemporary.

Exhibition on show at the National Museum of Australia until 30 September 2019. Free entry.

More information at nma.gov.au.

onetoeight: Australia’s first prime ministers

Visually arresting, humorous and thoughtful, Canberra-based artist Alison Alder reinterprets and reinvigorates portraits of the first eight prime ministers in onetoeight, a contemporary art exhibition. Developed from Alder’s fellowship with the Australian Prime Ministers Centre and motivated by the early period of our nation’s democracy, onetoeight brings these important historical figures a little bit closer to us.

Inspired by a picture of Stanley Bruce’s cabinet where they were all wearing a lapel badge, Alder presents each prime minister wearing at least one badge to reference a key aspect of their time in office. Neither explicitly positive or negative, we are left to form our own opinion.

Through the portraits, intense patterned wallpaper honouring the prime minister’s wives and a Term-O-Meter animation tracking the changing political hues of individuals and governments, Alder gives us a sense of our nation’s history that is lively, dynamic and parallels the present day.

Showing at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Find out more at moadoph.gov.au.

A Tale of Two Villages

A Tale of Two Villages tells the story of the Hall-Ginninderra district from Aboriginal times, through the early pioneer farming settlement at Palmerville and then Ginninderra, to the establishment of the village of Hall from 1881.

Showing at Hall School Museum and Heritage Centre, Victoria Street, Hall each Thursday 9 am-12 pm and Sunday 12 pm-4 pm.

Find out more at museum.hall.act.au.

ACTIVISM: FORCES FOR CHANGE IN CANBERRA

Canberra has a special relationship with activism as it is not only the location of protest on local issues but is also a site of national and international protest as the national capital.

This exhibition is about activism in many forms that has taken place in Canberra over the last century. It includes the well-known stories of the fight for women’s rights, for marriage equality and the establishment of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, but also stories of quiet activism; the creation of services for marginalised groups, artist’s collectives and the protest of presence. No matter whether it’s big and dramatic, or quiet and slow, these are stories of people working for change in the Canberra community.

Happening until Saturday 2 November from 10 am – 5 pm at the Canberra Museum and Gallery.

See Canberra Museum and Gallery for more information.

Magna Carta—An Australian Story

Magna Carta is one of the most famous and significant documents for democracy and human rights around the world.

First written in 1215, it set down rules limiting the power of the monarchy and safeguarding basic human rights and freedoms. Over its long history it has been reinterpreted as an icon of justice and liberty. In this exhibition, created with the assistance of the British Library, explore the history and relevance of Magna Carta from an Australian perspective.

The Magna Carta: An Australian Story exhibition at the Museum of Australian Democracy takes you on a journey through the history of the Magna Carta. You will discover the spirit and legacy of the Magna Carta and learn the significance it plays in Australia’s democratic history.

Happening until Monday 3 February 2020 daily at Museum of Australian Democracy.

See moadoph.gov.au for more information.

DRESSUP: CHANGE THE WORLD

Discover the incredible journeys of some of the world’s most inspiring people, taking the time to walk in their shoes in DressUP: Change the World.

Connect with the lives of historical and contemporary figures, including Frida Kahlo, Adam Goodes, Beyoncé, and many others, by dressing up in their most iconic outfits.

Immerse yourself in their stories of triumph as they go from ordinary people to visionary leaders who have made a difference in the world. Listen to their stories and learn about the challenges they overcame to leave their mark.

Visitors can also tell their own story in our new Zine Lounge. Whether you prefer writing or sketching, the Zine Lounge lets you carve out a space for your voice to be heard.

This engaging exhibition space provides a bold and quirky environment that will inspire young people and asks them “How will you change the world?”

Happening until 31 December at the Museum of Australian Democracy Old Parliament House.

See the website for more information.

BEHIND THE LINES 2018

Venture down the rabbit-hole for Behind the Lines: The Year’s Best Political Cartoons 2018, with this year’s theme Curiouser and Curiouser inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

Kids of all ages can visit the topsy-turvy world of Wonderland at MoAD for dress ups, games and adventures.

Step through the Looking Glass and dress up as the colourful and curious characters of Wonderland including Alice, the Queen of Hearts, the Cheshire Cat or the Mad Hatter.

There is also a wall of crazy mirrors that will stretch or shrink you and games with a special Wonderland twist that will delight the whole family.

Older kids can go on a cartooning trail through the exhibition, following clues and learning about the art of political cartooning.

While the children are entertained in Wonderland, parents can grin, smirk and grimace at the cartoons that explore the unexpected twists and turns of politics in 2018.

For more information visit moadoph.gov.au/family. 

DEMOCRACY. ARE YOU IN? 

Your voice, your hands and even your feet have the power to be heard. Our freedoms and our way of life have been built on the foundation of democracy. This living system is sustained through the participation of each and all of us. Democracy is sustained by you.

Australian democracy is a work in progress. Curiously, at a time of stability and unparalleled economic growth, confidence in our political and social institutions is at its lowest point in decades. But giving up on them is not the answer. Our democracy needs us. Are you in?

Open daily at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Find out more at moadoph.gov.au.

PLAYUP 

Discover PlayUP – The Right to Have an Opinion and Be Heard, where kids can explore the United Nations Convention on the Rights of a Child in a playful way. Adults can even join in the fun too!

From listening pods and a roleplay Kindness Café to a fuzzy felt wall and craft activities, PlayUP has a range of exciting and immersive experiences that flip the traditional idea of museums completely on its head.

See the website for more information. Free after museum admission. Open from 9 am to 5 pm daily at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Cost: Free.

NGA TALKS AND WORKSHOPS  

Talks and workshops cater for a range of different age groups.

For full details visit the NGA website.

Feature image: Martin Ollman