From ANU Community Day to a Canberra x Tasmania wine night out and an Alien film trilogy, here are 70+ things to do in Canberra this week
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Got your diary handy? You’ll want to open it up, because this week in Canberra is shaping up to be an absolute blockbuster.
We’ve rounded up over 70 incredible events across Canberra to help you plan – whether you’re gearing up for high-energy pop culture chaos at Oz Comic-Con, craving a sophisticated wine tasting at Verity Lane, or booking front-row seats for the razor-sharp drama of Heathers The Musical.
Here’s your ultimate guide to what’s happening this week in Canberra.
Don’t miss…
ANU Community Day
The Australian National University marks its 80th anniversary with a campus-wide celebration inviting the community to explore the iconic Kambri precinct. The free event features live music, student art displays, interactive science exhibits, face painting, and regional food trucks. Visitors can wander the grounds, meet researchers, and learn about the ideas that have shaped the university and nation over eight decades. All ages are welcome, and registered attendees enter a draw to win a stay at University House.
Saturday 15 August | Kambri Precinct, Australian National University, Acton | anu.edu.au
Oral History Pod: Capture your memories
Step inside a dedicated private recording pod at the National Library of Australia to document meaningful personal stories with a friend or family member. Created in celebration of the library’s Oral History Collection, this cozy pop-up experience provides prompts and a quiet space for two people to record a conversation using their own mobile phones. One person asks questions while the other shares cherished memories, creating a lasting digital keepsake for future generations. It’s a simple yet profound way to honor family history and preserve authentic personal voices before they fade.
Tuesday 11 until Friday 28 August| National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | library.gov.au
Southern Oscillations x CBR cellar to city @ Verity Lane Market
Wine lovers can celebrate cool-climate winemaking as boutique producers from Canberra and Tasmania gather at Verity Lane Market for an exclusive tasting event. Guests can taste side-by-side pours from acclaimed Canberra labels like MADA and Ravensworth alongside Tasmanian favourites like Glaetzer-Dixon and Sailor Seeks Horse. Discover how regional sunshine, elevation, and maritime climates shape expressive Shiraz, Riesling, Pinot Noir, and sparkling varieties. Meet the winemakers, compare regional profiles, and enjoy food offerings in the heart of the city precinct. It stands as a fantastic winter night out for curious palates.
Friday 14 August, 5.30 pm–9.30 pm | Verity Lane Market, 50 Northbourne Avenue, City | veritylanemarket.com.au
Fired Up!
Canberra Potters presents Fired Up!, a winter festival celebrating the region’s ceramics community at Watson Arts Centre. The event features live demonstrations from leading local ceramic artists covering wheel throwing, surface decoration, altered forms, monoprinting on clay, nerikomi coloured porcelain, handbuilding and raku firing. Visitors can take part in 20-minute Have-a-Go sessions, with clay and instruction included, and browse a curated ceramic market of handmade functional and sculptural work. Resident artists will open their studios, and Canberra Potters’ Soup Bowl and Tumbler Fundraiser, a wine bar and live music will run throughout. The festival closes with the opening of the wood-fired Petal Kiln.
Saturday 15 August, 3–8 pm | Canberra Potters, Watson Arts Centre, 1 Aspinall Street, Watson | events.humanitix.com/fired-up-2026
Alien trilogy movie marathon
Arc Cinema presents a movie marathon of the Alien franchise, screening all three original films in one sitting. The line-up includes Alien (1979), Aliens (Director’s Cut) (1986) and Alien³ (1992), starting at 4 pm with refreshment breaks between sessions. Mulled wine, hot chocolate and menu items from Dom’s deli and bar are available for purchase throughout the event. A Movie Marathon Pass covers entry to all three screenings, with seating automatically allocated for each film. Single sessions can also be booked separately at standard ticket prices. Arc Cinema is located at the National Film and Sound Archive in Acton, a short walk from the city.
Saturday 15 August, 4–11:30 pm | Arc Cinema, National Film and Sound Archive, 1 McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au
The Thrift Hub Grand Opening
Join Air Force veteran Rachael Hopkins in celebrating the grand opening of The Thrift Hub, a community-focused op-shop and upcycling space dedicated to circular fashion, mental health, and accessibility. Designed as an inclusive environment with wide aisles and a dedicated social seating area, the 198m² shop offers pre-loved clothing, books, homewares, and craft supplies. Proceeds and donations directly support local charities including Toora Women Inc, Rise Above, and Lids4Kids. Stop by to browse, connect over a cup of tea, or learn about upcoming sustainability workshops.
Saturday 15 August, 10 am–4 pm | 4/116–118 Wollongong Street, Fyshwick | @thethrifthub.canberra
Oz Comic-Con Canberra
Immerse yourself in a universe of creative fandom as Oz Comic-Con brings its celebrated pop culture festival to Exhibition Park. This multi-day event offers something for every enthusiast, featuring colorful cosplay, artist alley displays, interactive gaming zones, and special guest appearances. Attendees can browse unique merchandise, participate in community workshops, or simply admire the incredible costumes on display across the pavilion. It serves as an inclusive, welcoming space where fans of all ages can connect over shared passions. Gather your friends, unleash your imagination, and enjoy a weekend filled with vibrant pop culture celebration.
Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August| Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), Lyneham | ozcomiccon.com
Rear Vision: The Holden Collection
Take a nostalgic drive through the history of an absolute Australian icon with Rear vision: the Holden collection at the National Archives. This fascinating exhibition traces Holden’s journey from a humble 19th-century saddlery to ‘Australia’s Own Car’ and its permanent impact on the nation’s economy, industrial landscape, and cultural identity. Visitors can explore historical archival records, rare artifacts, blueprints, and photographs that reveal the innovations, challenges, and people behind General Motors-Holden. Developed by the State Library of South Australia and expanded with national records, the exhibition also offers daily gallery talks.
Until Sunday 11 October | National Archives of Australia, Parkes | naa.gov.au
Special Events and Festivals
Marvel Superheroes Family Trivia at Jamison
Assemble your crew of comic book fans for an engaging afternoon of trivia at Henry’s in Jamison. Test your collective knowledge on iconic characters from Iron Man to the Avengers in a friendly, relaxed setting designed for all ages. Dressing up as favorite characters is encouraged, adding a playful atmosphere to the afternoon. Delicious food and drink options ensure everyone stays energized throughout the competition. It provides a wonderful opportunity for families and friends to connect, share laughs, and celebrate superhero lore together. Be sure to reserve a table early to secure a spot for your team.
Saturday 15 August, 1,30 pm–3.30 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club, Macquarie | cscc.com.au
Soroptimist Trivia Night: ‘Round the World in 80 Questions’
Gather your cleverest mates for a global-themed trivia night hosted by Soroptimist International Canberra. Raising funds for two vital local causes – care packages for women escaping domestic violence and endometriosis awareness initiatives – the evening promises spirited trivia rounds, raffles, prizes, and a silent auction. Tables fit up to eight people, with food and drinks available for purchase at the club beforehand.
Saturday 15 August, 7.15 pm – 9.30 pm | Canberra Deakin Football Club, 3 Grose Street, Deakin | $20 per person | trybooking.com
Foodie Fun Play! – National Science Week 2026
Introduce young children to healthy eating through balloon art, science, and sensory play in this free interactive National Science Week event. Co-designed with a University of Canberra nutrition academic and hosted by balloon scientist Dr Chloe Lim, Foodie Fun Play! uses creative storytelling and play-based activities to help kids aged 3 to 8 explore fruits and vegetables. Sessions run across four Canberra community venues throughout August, including dedicated Auslan-interpreted performances.
Saturday 15 until Saturday 22 August | Multiple Canberra Community Centres | twistyfic.eventbrite.com
Fired Up Winter Festival
Celebrate local craftsmanship as the Watson Arts Centre lights up the winter sky for the annual Fired Up festival. This community gathering invites visitors to explore pottery demonstrations, open artist studios, and hands-on activities suitable for both beginners and experienced makers. An artisan market showcases unique ceramic works alongside live music performances, warm local food stalls, and interactive firing displays. It provides a cozy, inspiring atmosphere to embrace Canberra’s cooler weather while supporting talented regional creators. Gather around the fires, soak in the creative energy, and discover the wonderful world of ceramic art.
Saturday 15 August, 3 pm–8 pm | Watson Arts Centre, 1 Aspinall Street, Watson | canberrapotters.com.au
Mexican Wrestling
Lucha Fantastica brings its vibrant Mexican wrestling showcase to Narrabundah for an action-packed day of colorful entertainment. The afternoon family session features high-flying acrobatics from over ten masked Luchadores, complete with authentic tacos and a piñata party for younger attendees. As evening falls, the adult show turns up the energy with sensational ring action, live Mariachi music, and a lively party atmosphere. Known for its playful spirit and dramatic athleticism, this unique event offers something memorable for both first-time spectators and returning fans. Gather your friends for an unforgettable celebration of Mexican culture and spectacle.
Saturday 15 August, 3.30 pm–11 pm | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | bit.ly/luchafantasticaaugust26
Questacon Science Time: Light
Engage curious young minds with a hands-on exploration of light, color, and shadows at Questacon’s Science Time designed specifically for three to five-year-olds. Preschoolers will discover how shadows form and how colored lights interact through simple experiments, creative crafts, and interactive questioning led by early childhood science educators. Each session concludes with a fun live demonstration and a take-home activity sheet to keep the STEM learning going. It provides an encouraging, supportive environment for little scientists to investigate the natural world.
Until Saturday 15 August | Questacon, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | questacon.edu.au
Club Art
Transform your winter evenings with Club Art, a seasonal visual arts activation bringing local creativity to city venue ONE22. Throughout August, the space showcases a rotating exhibition of contemporary works by Canberra visual artists, culminating in a special Local Artist Bonanza evening on Friday night. Attendees can hear short artist talks, enjoy live music, and celebrate the formal unveiling of new winter installations. It provides a warm, welcoming venue to connect with regional art, socialize with local creators, and support independent culture. Drop by for a drink and experience Canberra’s vibrant artistic scene in an urban setting.
Until Monday 31 August | ONE22, 122 Alinga Street, City | one22.com.au
Platypus Month
Discover one of Australia’s most unique, magical wildlife experiences during Platypus Month across the stunning Upper Murrumbidgee region. Running from late July through August, this annual celebration shines a spotlight on the iconic, elusive platypus through a diverse calendar of guided walks, citizen science surveys, family activities, expert talks, and local film screenings. The local waterways are home to highly active, healthy platypus populations, and the month offers a rare opportunity to join guided dawn or dusk platypus-spotting walks at picturesque river corridors. It’s an authentic outdoor adventure perfect for nature enthusiasts, families, and wildlife photographers looking to connect with local conservation teams.
Until Monday 31 August | Various regional waterways and locations | act.waterwatch.org.au
NFSA’s Winter Film Series
Take a cinematic journey through time and space in the Winter Film Series at Arc Cinema.
From mind-bending time travel and fractured narratives to intergalactic adventures, alien encounters and cosmic odysseys, join us for stories stretching across eras and into the far reaches of the universe.
Whether you’re drawn to contemplative tales or epic escapism, you can explore worlds reshaped by technology, desire and chance.
Until 31 August | NFSA, McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au
Antarctica
Explore the frozen continent at the National Museum of Australia through a fascinating exhibition sharing Australia’s enduring connection to the icy south. Visitors can discover over 100 years of Antarctic science, exploration, and survival through rare artefacts, historic equipment, and first-hand accounts from researchers. Immersive displays bring polar landscapes to life with blizzards and the aurora australis, teaching families about the region’s unique wildlife and environmental significance. It’s a captivating opportunity for curious minds of all ages to journey into an extreme environment right from the comfort of our capital.
Until Sunday 11 October | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton | nma.gov.au
Life in the Great Barrier Reef 360° VR Documentary
Submerge yourself in a breathtaking underwater world without leaving the inner north. Premiering at the National Museum of Australia, Life in the Great Barrier Reef is an immersive 35-minute cinematic documentary utilising custom-built 8K 360° virtual reality technology. Guided by leading scientists, reef stewards, and Traditional Owners, audiences are transported to the depths of two UNESCO World Heritage sites to encounter manta rays, whales, and rare coral spawning events, while gaining a deeper understanding of current conservation efforts.
Ongoing, session times vary | National Museum of Australia, Acton Peninsula | nma.gov.au
Food + Drink
Chaos Realm III: The Dark Ascension
Cypher Brewing Co. presents its flagship dark beer festival, bringing together 10 hand-picked dark brews from leading craft breweries across Australia and New Zealand. Attendees can use a new interactive Digital Passport to taste pours, rate brews, track live leaderboard rankings, and vote for the “Dark Sovereign.” Beyond the taps, the three-day event features fire pits, live music spanning metal, grunge, and punk, vinyl DJs, magic shows, and festival food pairings in Gungahlin. First Release digital passes are available ahead of the event.
Friday 14 until Sunday 16 August | Cypher Brewing Co., 3/35 Hinder Street, Gungahlin | cypherbrewing.com.au
Sunday Buffet Lunch
Treat yourself to a relaxing weekend feast surrounded by lush greenery at the Pavilion on Northbourne’s monthly buffet lunch. Held inside the light-filled Atrium Restaurant & Bar, this culinary spread features an array of fresh salads, premium cold meats, comforting hot dishes, and indulgent desserts. It provides a peaceful, fuss-free setting to gather with family and friends without worrying about cooking or clean-up. With limited seating available in this garden oasis, reserving a table early ensures a wonderful afternoon of good food and great company in the heart of Dickson.
Sunday 16 August, 12 pm–3 pm | Pavilion on Northbourne, 242 Northbourne Avenue, Dickson | pavilioncanberra.com.au
The Promenade Café’s Sunday Roast
Escape the Sunday blues and embrace a beautiful new winter tradition in the elegant surrounds of the Hyatt Hotel Canberra. The Promenade Café is throwing open its doors to serve up a spectacular, winter-warming Sunday Roast. Guests will be greeted by a wonderful sense of nostalgia, with fireplaces crackling in the historic lounges and the promise of exceptional, warm hospitality.
It is the perfect excuse to gather your closest friends and family for a classic cosy meal, featuring a traditional roast with all the trimmings. For a truly perfect finish to the weekend, you can stop by Speaker’s Corner Bar on your way out to enjoy a fireside cocktail or a premium whiskey. Spaces are bound to fill up fast for this comforting winter experience, so booking a table ahead of time is highly recommended.
Until Sunday 30 August | The Promenade Café, Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | hyatt.com
Après QTea High Tea
As the winter chill settles over the capital, Canberrans looking for a cosy alpine escape don’t need to head all the way to the snowy slopes. The gorgeous QT Lounge is teaming up with the sweet geniuses at Space Kitchen to transform their sky-high venue into a winter wonderland filled with après-ski indulgence. It is the perfect excuse to gather your favourite local friends for a sophisticated afternoon of elevated comfort food and stunning city views.
Guests will be treated to a spectacular tiered stand showcasing savoury delights like a rich split pea and smoked ham soup alongside earthy wild mushroom croquettes. The sweet side of the mountain features freshly baked scones piled high with mountains of rosewater cream and strawberry jam, all topped off with a spiced mulled cider and a flowing white chocolate fountain. For those wanting a little extra indulgence, a roving cake trolley features toasted s’mores and chocolate caramel snowballs.
Until Saturday, 29 August | QT Lounge, 6 Marcus Clarke Street, City | qthotels.com
The Brunch Club at Capitol Bar & Grill
There is nothing quite like a lazy weekend morning to reset the soul, and Capitol Bar & Grill is flipping the script on your average breakfast routine. The Brunch Club is introducing an unapologetically luxurious, all-day dining concept designed for food lovers who believe the weekend deserves a bit of theatrical flair. It is a long, decadent celebration of bold flavours that will make you want to cancel the rest of your daily plans.
The kitchen is serving up elevated favourites, from fluffy buttermilk pancakes to classic cheeseburgers slathered in a special secret sauce and savoury miso-grilled salmon. The star of the show is undoubtedly the interactive Bloody Mary cart in partnership with Ketel One Vodka. Guests can watch bartenders build their custom cocktail right before their eyes, choosing from an outrageous lineup of garnishes like crispy bacon, blue cheese olives, dill pickles, and even fresh mussels.
Until Sunday 30 August | Capitol Bar & Grill, 6 Marcus Clarke Street, City | qthotels.com
Bourbon Street Sunday Jazz
Bring the soulful sounds of New Orleans straight to your winter weekends! Every single Sunday evening, Molly transforms into Bourbon Street, showcasing a fantastic, rotating lineup of local brass bands playing loose, soulful Crescent City swing. It is the absolute perfect way to escape a cold Canberra night and close out your weekend in style. You can order a delicious cheese and charcuterie platter, sit back in the cosy hidden bar, and sip on a specialised bourbon cocktail from the NOLA-themed menu. Follow the music down Odgers Lane to find the secret door.
Until Sunday 30 August, 6 pm–10 pm | Molly, Odgers Lane, Wooden Door, City| molly.bar
Stage and Screen
Heathers the Musical
Direct from West End and Broadway success, the wickedly entertaining Heathers the Musical arrives in Canberra to light up the stage. Based on the cult classic film, this dark comedy follows Veronica Sawyer as she navigates the perilous social hierarchy of Westerberg High. When she catches the eye of the mysterious rebel J.D., popularity quickly becomes a matter of life and death. Packed with sharp wit and a high-energy soundtrack, it offers an unforgettable theatrical experience. Gather your crew for a night of big tunes, bold drama, and deliciously dark humour that will leave you humming all week.
Friday 14 until Sunday 23 August | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
The Big Bike Film Night
Cycling enthusiasts and film lovers can gear up for an inspiring evening as The Big Bike Film Night returns to Kambri at ANU. Featuring two and a half hours of international short films, the collection showcases breathtaking pedal-powered adventures from the fjords of Norway to the rugged trails of Scotland and New Zealand. Blending humor, high-stakes action, and touching human stories, the screening offers a glorious celebration of two-wheeled culture. Grab your cycling mates, soak in the stunning cinematography, and perhaps even enter the draw to win a New Zealand riding holiday.
Monday 10 August, 6.30 pm–9 pm | Kambri at ANU, Tangney Road, Acton | bigbikefilmnight.nz
Dita Von Teese – Nocturnelle
International burlesque icon Dita Von Teese brings her breathtaking new world tour, Nocturnelle, to the Canberra Theatre Centre stage. Drawing inspiration from the golden age of magic and classic cinema, the glamorous production blends sophisticated striptease with grand illusion and opulent costume design. Joined by a hand-picked cast of world-class neo-burlesque performers, Dita delivers a lavish, captivating performance infused with signature elegance and vintage charm. It offers an unforgettable night of high-end theatrical fantasy and old-Hollywood allure. Secure your tickets early to witness this living legend perform live.
Monday 10 and Tuesday 11 August | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
CatVideoFest 2026
The ultimate feline film festival lands on the big screen at Dendy Cinemas. CatVideoFest 2026 is a hilarious, family-friendly collection of the Internet’s newest, best, and most iconic cat videos, animations, and music clips. Beyond the laughs, this cinema-exclusive event directly benefits local feline welfare, with a portion of every ticket donated to animal shelters to support cats in need.
Friday 14 August | Dendy Cinemas Canberra, Canberra Centre | dendy.com.au
The Winter’s Tale Youth Production
Experience Shakespeare’s classic story of jealousy, loss, and miraculous redemption in a dynamic production staged by young local performers. Directed by Heidi Silberman with verse coaching from Lakespeare & Co. co-founder Lexi Sekuless, this 80-minute performance brings UK drama-school text rigour to the local stage. Spanning two kingdoms and sixteen years, the narrative moves from tragic paranoia to pastoral romance, complete with disguises, young love, and theatre’s most famous stage direction: “Exit, pursued by a bear.”
Until Saturday 15 August | Mill Theatre at Dairy Road, Building 3.3, 1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick | milltheatreatdairyroad.com
Rock hard! The Geological Cabaret
Ready for a night where science meets sultry entertainment? Strap in as The Earth’s Most Eminent Geoactress takes the stage for a cheeky, adult-only cabaret that is equal parts educational and scandalous. Expect smouldering dance routines, clever wit, and a splash of burlesque that makes geology delightfully scandalous. Fresh off winning a Science at the Fringe Award, this show blends cocktail hour glamour with playful, volcanic humour. It’s the ultimate grown-up night out for anyone who likes their performance art with a bit of shimmer and spice. Leave the safety glasses at home and bring your friends.
Friday 14 and Saturday 15 August | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Movie marathons at the NFSA
Escape the winter chill with immersive cinematic marathons hosted in the comfort of the National Film and Sound Archive. Designed for relaxed, unhurried viewing, these curated sessions bring iconic film series to the big screen alongside warm food options and refreshments from the onsite bar. From classic sci-fi adventures to mind-bending thrillers, the program offers a cozy communal atmosphere for film enthusiasts. Settle into the plush cinema seats, indulge in delicious snacks, and enjoy a full day of captivating storytelling. It stands as an ideal way to spend a peaceful weekend wrapped in great cinema.
Until Saturday 15 August | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au
Book Club at NFSA
Discover how beloved literature transitions from the printed page to the silver screen at this unique monthly gathering. Hosted in partnership with ABC Radio Canberra, the event features an onscreen screening followed by an engaging panel discussion led by broadcaster Alice Matthews and local author Rhiân Williams. Attendees gain fresh perspectives on narrative adaptation while sharing insights with fellow book and film enthusiasts in a relaxed environment. It offers a thoughtful, inspiring afternoon for anyone passionate about storytelling, media, and culture. Be sure to reserve a seat in advance for this popular community fixture.
Sunday 16 August | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au
9th Taiwan Film Festival in Australia
Cinema lovers are in for a treat as the Taiwan Film Festival returns to Canberra for a special one-day showcase. The lineup features the inspiring sports documentary Hero! Hito!, tracking Taiwan’s historic run to a world baseball championship. Audiences can also experience the haunting psychological drama Deep Quiet Room, boasting seven Golden Horse Award nominations, alongside the poignant drama Last Night In Taipei. Celebrating rich storytelling and vibrant culture, this curated program offers an extraordinary cinematic getaway right in the heart of the city. Grab some popcorn and settle in for a day of brilliant international film.
Saturday 15 August, 2 pm–9 pm | Dendy Cinemas Canberra, 148 Bunda Street, City | taiwanfilmfestival.org.au
We Don’t Have Time For This – Know Thyself
Popular podcasters Gem and Revz bring their dry wit and authentic humor back to the Canberra stage with a brand new musical comedy show. Known for their hit podcast exploring the chaotic reality of parenting, the duo tackles motherhood, relationships, and modern womanhood with hilarious honesty. The interactive performance combines catchy music, sharp observational comedy, and plenty of audience engagement for a memorable night out. It offers a welcoming space to relax, connect, and share a collective laugh over the absurdities of daily life. Grab your best mates and enjoy a night of genuine fun.
Saturday 15 August, 7 pm–9 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Nonna & Yiayia comedy show
Get ready for an evening of non-stop laughter as legendary comedians George Kapiniaris and James Liotta join forces for a hilarious cultural clash. Drawing on their rich Greek and Italian heritage, the duo delivers a dynamic stand-up performance packed with sketches, songs, and lively audience interaction. With decades of stage and television experience between them, these comedy veterans explore the endearing quirks and shared experiences of Mediterranean upbringing. It’s a warm, high-energy show that promises a fantastic night out for anyone who appreciates great observational humour, community warmth, and plenty of lighthearted fun.
Saturday 15 August, 8 pm–10 pm | Canberra Southern Cross Club Woden, 92–96 Corinna Street, Phillip | cscc.com.au
The Girl on the Train
Mockingbird Theatre Company presents the Canberra premiere of the stage thriller The Girl on the Train, adapted from Paula Hawkins’ best-selling novel and the hit DreamWorks film. Directed and designed by Chris Baldock, this psychological drama follows Rachel Watson, who becomes entangled in a dangerous missing-persons mystery involving a couple she observes daily from her commute. Featuring a strong local cast, this gripping 140-minute production delivers twists, secrets, and high-stakes tension in the intimate Mockingbird Studio at Belconnen Arts Centre.
Until Saturday 22 August, 7.30 pm (Matinees 2 pm) | The Mockingbird Studio, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Markets
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
Sugar Peer Suport Group
A weekly peer support group for people looking to change their relationship with sugar meets each Tuesday at Dickson Library. The informal, free sessions bring together people exploring alternatives to high-sugar eating patterns, offering a space for companionship, shared ideas and mutual support.
Tuesday 11 August, 11 am–12 pm | Dickson Library, 1 Dickson Place, Dickson | Free – no booking required
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.
hiit republic No Name Lane Games
Lace up your sneakers for a high-energy community fitness experience taking over No Name Lane and hiit republic Canberra City. This free hybrid event blends endurance, strength, and functional fitness in a dynamic race format open to anyone aged 13 and over. Participants move seamlessly between outdoor and indoor workout spaces, supported by pumping tracks from a live DJ. Local precinct businesses will be serving up warm drinks and tasty treats to keep the spectator energy soaring. Whether competing or cheering from the sidelines, it promises an exhilarating, movement-filled day in the city center.
Saturday 15 August | hiit republic Canberra City, 40 Marcus Clarke Street, Shop g16, City | hiitrepublic.com.au
Canberra Brave vs Brisbane Lightning
Catch high-octane ice hockey action as the Canberra Brave take to the ice for their final home game of the regular season. Facing off against the Brisbane Lightning, the match promises fast-paced competition, dramatic plays, and a vibrant stadium atmosphere at the AIS Arena. Local sports fans can gather to support the home team one last time before the finals series begins. With delicious venue snacks, lively crowd energy, and top-tier athleticism on display, it offers a thrilling weekend outing for families and sports enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss your chance to wear your team colors.
Sunday 16 August, 1.45 pm–3.45 pm | AIS Arena, 26 Leverrier Street, Bruce | canberrabrave.com.au
Music
Weddings and Parties Over Coffee
Bach Akademie Australia presents an enchanting chamber music performance featuring award-winning soprano Miriam Allan alongside her father, acclaimed baritone Christopher Allan. Directed by violinist Madeleine Easton, this special concert weaves together baroque vocal masterpieces, dramatic cantatas, and lively instrumental works inside the intimate Wesley Music Centre. Celebrating musical heritage and family collaboration, the performance offers local classical music lovers a rare chance to hear world-class Australian vocalists up close. It promises an uplifting evening of refined musical storytelling and sublime acoustic harmonies.
Tuesday 11 August, 7.30 pm–9.30 pm | Wesley Music Centre, National Circuit, Forrest | bachakademieaustralia.com.au
The Canberra Men’s Choir: Celebrating 40 Years of Song
Canberra’s longest-running male voice choir returns to the Wesley Wednesday Lunchtime Concert series to celebrate four decades of musical harmony. Moving through a diverse repertoire of sacred pieces and uplifting ballads, the vibrant choir pays tribute to forty years of community and song. Tickets include a concert program and light post-performance refreshments.
Wednesday 12 August, 12.40 pm – 1.20 pm | Wesley Music Centre, 20 National Circuit, Forrest | trybooking.com
Nicolas Altstaedt & Thomas Dunford
Classical superstars Nicolas Altstaedt and lutenist Thomas Dunford team up for an extraordinary chamber music concert at Llewellyn Hall. Presented by Musica Viva Australia, this charismatic duo brings fresh energy to seventeenth-century baroque repertoire, pitting rival court composers against one another before exploring works by Bach, Arvo Pärt, and Henri Duparc. Known for their improvisational flair and virtuosic command, Altstaedt’s expressive cello and Dunford’s fluid lute playing create an exhilarating dialogue on stage. It offers local concertgoers a world-class evening of musical brilliance and master storytelling.
Thursday 13 August, 7 pm–9 pm | Llewellyn Hall, ANU, William Herbert Place, Building 100, City | musicaviva.com.au
Touch the sky: Woden Valley Youth Choir Annual Concert 2026
Experience the inspiring sounds of young local talent as the Woden Valley Youth Choir presents its annual showcase performance. This year’s theme explores music connected to expansive horizons, featuring a rich blend of contemporary choral works, folk traditions, and reimagined classic stories. Moving through shifting musical moods (from reflective and calm to energetic and rhythmic) the choir brings communities together through harmony. Held in the peaceful setting of Wesley Uniting Church, the concert offers an uplifting afternoon filled with artistic expression. It stands as a heartwarming celebration of youth creativity and local musical tradition.
Saturday 15 August, 4.30 pm–6.30 pm | Wesley Uniting Church, 20–22 National Circuit, Forrest | wvyc.org.au
Talks and Workshops
Creative Maker Business Skills with Lea Durie
Turn your creative passion into a sustainable business with this practical, insight-packed workshop series led by ceramic artist Lea Durie. Across three sessions, you’ll explore everything from building a business strategy and understanding your audience to marketing your work and generating income. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your practice, you’ll gain valuable tools, industry know-how and the confidence to take your creative career to the next level.
Wednesday 12 August, 5.30 pm–8 pm | Craft + Design Canberra, City | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Rebus Theatre’s Resilience Workshops
Rebus Theatre presents Resilience Workshops, a five-part series for performers, actors, community artists and facilitators, led by Koko Shie and Lucien Simon. Designed to support sustainable creative practice, the workshops explore practical strategies for building resilience, strengthening wellbeing and fostering connection within Canberra’s creative community. Sessions run across five evenings from 12 August to 2 September at the Ralph Wilson Theatre, Gorman Arts Centre, offering a supportive, inclusive environment for learning, reflection and collaboration. Full-price and concession tickets are available, along with a limited number of scholarships for those needing financial support to attend the series.
Wednesday 12 August, 5.30–7 pm | Ralph Wilson Theatre, Gorman Arts Centre, 55 Ainslie Avenue, Braddon | events.humanitix.com/resilience-workshops
Curator talk – 75 years of School of the Air
Step behind the scenes of Australian history with a lunch-hour curator talk at the National Archives of Australia. Marking seventy-five years of the School of the Air, this thirty-minute session explores how radio technology revolutionized education for children living in remote bush communities. Attendees can view historical archival materials, including early lesson scripts, correspondence, and student artwork, while learning about the dedicated teachers who connected isolated outback homesteads. The session concludes with an interactive Q&A, making it a fascinating pop-up history lesson for curious locals and lifelong learners alike.
Thursday 13 August, 12.30 pm–1 pm | National Archives of Australia, Kings Avenue, Parkes | eventbrite.com.au
Author Talk: Beyond Timbuktu with Catherine DeVrye
Bestselling Australian author Catherine DeVrye visits the National Library of Australia to discuss her inspiring new memoir, Beyond Timbuktu: Journeys of Hope and Humanity. Introduced by social researcher Hugh Mackay AO, Catherine shares moving personal reflections from her travels through more than 150 countries, highlighting moments of unexpected human warmth and resilience. From trekking remote deserts to sharing meals in refugee camps, her stories offer a timely reminder of shared humanity and international connection. It promises an uplifting evening for book lovers, avid travelers, and anyone seeking positive perspectives on global community.
Thursday 13 August, 6 pm–7 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | library.gov.au
Capturing your family stories session
Ever wondered how to properly capture the stories of your loved ones before they slip away? Head to the National Library of Australia for a beginner-level oral history workshop designed to help you preserve precious memories. Industry experts Claudia Craig and Gerard Callinan guide you through the essentials of interviewing, crafting thoughtful questions, and navigating easy-to-use recording technology. It’s a wonderful chance to build confidence, gain practical skills, and ensure your family’s unique heritage is recorded for future generations. Pack your curiosity and get ready to turn cherished tales into lasting keepsakes.
Friday 14 and Saturday 15 August | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | library.gov.au
Morning Tea at The Gardener’s Bar: In Conversation with Tamara Henderson
During this special exhibition tour, hear from Tamara Henderson in conversation with Hester Lyon (Curator + Program Manager, Canberra Contemporary) and Tony Oates (Director, Drill Hall Gallery), as they explore the ideas and processes behind her latest exhibition. Connecting the exhibition with Henderson’s studio at Strathnairn Arts, this event is catered by Stepping Stone Café.
Saturday 15 August, 9:30–11:30 am | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | events.humanitix.com
Exhibitions
Spirit Dwellings by Sarah Hickey
Brisbane artist Sarah Hickey brings her latest solo exhibition, Spirit Dwellings, to Grainger Gallery. Developed following an artist residency in County Cork, Ireland, the collection explores ancestry, folklore, and the quiet memory contained within ancestral landscapes. Featuring large-scale figurative paintings inhabited by blue-faced figures, botanical motifs, and animal companions, Hickey’s richly layered work examines the unseen threads connecting past and present.
Thursday 13 until Sunday 30 August, 11 am – 5 pm | Grainger Gallery, 1/34 Geelong Street, Fyshwick | graingergallery.com.au
Afternoon of the Harpies
Grainger Gallery presents Afternoon of the Harpies, a joint exhibition by Canberra-based photographic artist Judith Nangala Crispin and sculptor Stephen Harrison. Crispin’s Lumachrome glass prints are made through a camera-less process she developed while living and working with Warlpiri communities in the Tanami Desert, combining images of roadside-found animals and birds with local plant matter, ochre and clay on light-sensitive paper exposed to the sun. Harrison, a Canberra School of Art graduate whose work has featured at Sculpture by the Sea, contributes bronze figures including sphinxes, harpies and heads. Together the works explore themes of mythology, mortality and transformation.
Thursday 13 to Sunday 30 August | Grainger Gallery, 1/34 Geelong St, Fyshwick | graingergallery.com.au
Canberra Contemporary Photographic Prize 2026
PhotoAccess presents the Canberra Contemporary Photographic Prize 2026, an exhibition and competition open to photographers of all experience levels worldwide. The show brings together new work in contemporary photo media, presenting a range of approaches and perspectives within the medium.
Until Saturday 15 August, 10 am–4 pm | photo access, Manuka Arts Centre, 30 Manuka Circle, Griffith | photoaccess.org.au
Distant blues, from a little closer
Olivia Gates presents Distant blues, from a little closer, her first solo exhibition. The exhibition explores losing, loss and being lost, alongside moments of love and joy interwoven through these experiences. Works were developed during Gates’ residency at M16 ArtSpace this year, marking her return to textiles after a decade-long focus on glass. Rather than seeking resolution, the pieces hold grounding memories and hope for an imagined life, sitting with the pull between leaving something unknown and letting it become familiar.
Until Sunday 16 August | Platform, 19 Furneaux Street, Manuka | canberracontemporary.com.au
Flutterbry: Worlds Beyond Waste
Worlds Beyond Waste invites viewers into a surreal ecosystem built entirely from discarded plastic laundry hamper lids.
Flutterbry transforms everyday waste into mesmerising sculptural forms that feel both organic and architectural, creating a world suspended between the deep ocean and the outer cosmos.
The exhibition will be visible 24/7, offering a different experience by day and by night, with creative lighting and dramatic shadows bringing the works to life.
Based in Canberra, Flutterbry is a visual artist also known to many locals as the former owner of the iconic Toast Bar nightclub (2001–2007).
Until Monday 17 August | Canberra Museum + Gallery, Civic Square | cmag.com.au
Glad Tidings: Susan Chancellor
Step into the serene, shifting environment of a coastal estuary with Glad Tidings, a multi-media solo exhibition by Susan Chancellor. Grounded in the visual wonders of the transition zone where land meets sea, this exhibition features vibrant works alongside a mesmerizing digital installation capturing the rhythmic movements and reflective surfaces of tidal flows.
Until Sunday 23 August | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | m16artspace.com.au
Position/Trajectory: Matthew Freeman, Anne Pyne Irving & Tristan Ouweleen
Position/Trajectory brings together three distinct drawing practices that explore drawing as a tool for connection and meaning-making. Through varied techniques, artists Matthew Freeman, Anne Pyne Irving, and Tristan Ouweleen navigate the fleeting and the luminous, mapping how movement, memory, and change shape our experience of the world.
Until Sunday 23 August | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | m16artspace.com.au
UNRuly: Catherine Anselmi, David Helmers, Ro Murray & Mandy Burgess
In UNRuly, four artists embrace unruliness as a creative catalyst across sculpture, ceramics, and collaborative drawing. Through raw, expressive installations, Catherine Anselmi, David Helmers, Ro Murray, and Mandy Burgess challenge traditional form while exploring themes of material flux, transformation, and female determination in old age.
Until Sunday 23 August | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | m16artspace.com.au
Ngurumbang-dhi Fashion Exhibition
Discover Ngurumbang-dhi, a striking collection by First Nations fashion label Corella & Crow, founded by talented designers Rechelle Turner and Megan Daley. On display in the Window Gallery at Belco Arts, these beautiful works were originally created for the 2025 Country to Couture runway. Exploring the deep connection between fashion, Country, and community, the collection highlights slow fashion processes, upcycled textiles, and stunning hand-worked surfaces. Through specialiSed dyeing, mark-making, layering, and reconstruction, each garment speaks beautifully to cycles of renewal and environmental care, honoring the stories and relationships that shape First Nations creative practice.
Until Sunday, 23 August, 10 am–4 pm | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
My Country, My Connection exhibition
Experience Full Circle, a deeply personal solo exhibition by a proud Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri woman at the Belconnen Arts Centre. This evocative showcase explores the artist’s unique journey and enduring cultural links, having been fortunate enough to live on both her grandmother and grandfather’s traditional countries for most of her life. Now living on beautiful Yuin Nation country—a place where her mother also lived for two decades while maintaining her traditional connections—the artist brings these three distinct regional relationships full circle through her creative practice. Step into the Pivot Gallery to witness this beautiful celebration of identity.
Until Sunday 23 August, 10 am–4 pm | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Ngiaga Art Exhibition
Step into the West Gallery at Belco Arts to experience Ngiaga, an extraordinary collaborative exhibition of mixed-media works created by First Nations artists. Grounded in spirituality, Country, and genealogy, this deeply autobiographical series explores the interconnected stages of life through ten powerful themes, including birth, heritage, society, and purpose. Each piece draws beautifully from lived experience and cultural knowledge, showing how we move through the world both as individuals and as part of a collective experience. Audiences are warmly invited to witness, reflect, and connect with this stunning, interwoven cultural map.
Until Sunday, 23 August, 10 am–4 pm | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Yawarj Mara Young Men’s Art Exhibition
Belconnen Arts Centre proudly presents the Yawarj Mara – Strong Pathways Young Men’s Group Art Exhibition. Led by proud Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri man Mitchell Daley, this vital program regularly engages over forty Aboriginal young people aged ten to eighteen from across North Canberra. Because creative arts are a core part of their program, this unique showcase in The Nook highlights beautiful artworks and cultural artifacts designed by the participants. Reflecting individual and collective journeys, identity, and connection to culture, these rare works aim to inspire the next generation with strength, vision, and a lasting legacy.
Until Sunday, 23 August, 10 am–4 pm | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | 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
Tamara Henderson: The Gardener’s Bar
Tamara Henderson presents The Gardener’s Bar, an exhibition centred on compost as material, method and model of transformation within her practice. Drawing on processes of decomposition and regeneration, Henderson builds an ecology where sculpture, painting, film and sound emerge through shared cycles of accumulation, decay and renewal, guided by four recurring archetypes: The Gardener, The Director, Light and Sound. First realised in London in 2023, the work responds to Henderson’s Kamberri/Canberra shed and operates as a site of cultivation, production and exchange. New glass panels for this iteration were produced at Canberra Glassworks. The exhibition is accompanied by a newly commissioned collection of texts by Henderson’s collaborators.
Until Saturday 29 August | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes ACT | canberracontemporary.com.au
Elisa Crossing: Move Me!
Discover Move me!, a striking solo exhibition by Canberra artist Elisa Crossing that champions the practice of “slow looking.” Countering the fast-paced, frictionless nature of the digital age, Crossing’s oil paintings explore the active, embodied relationship between the viewer, the studio, and the canvas. Moving between intimacy and distance, her works dissolve into abstract textures up close while revealing rhythmic structural scenes from afar, reminding us that seeing is never static.
Until Monday 31 August | Civic Art Bureau, Level 1, 76 Alinga Street, Canberra | civicartbureau.com
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
2XX People-Powered Radio: Celebrating 50 Years
For five decades, 2XX has carried the distinct voices, grassroots politics, and community stories of the capital over the airwaves. This winter, the Canberra Museum + Gallery (CMAG) is marking this massive milestone with a brand-new exhibition celebrating Canberra’s very first community radio station and the passionate people who shaped it. Tracing its evolution from its early beginnings as Radio ANU in 1976 to a modern broadcasting pillar, the exhibition brings together archival audio, vintage equipment, photographs, and vibrant, screen-printed posters made in collaboration with Megalo. Visitors can even step back in time inside a faithfully recreated 1970s and 1980s radio studio to listen to historic broadcast excerpts. It is a nostalgic, physical celebration of local music, multicultural programming, and the independent media movements that helped define modern Canberra.
Until Sunday 6 September | Canberra Museum + Gallery, Civic Square | cmag.com.au
Vessels of Dialogue: Sarit Cohen
Influenced by Bauhaus architecture and early 20th-century Decorative Arts, Vessels of Dialogue presents whimsical ceramic sculptures by Sarit Cohen. Crafted from delicate porcelain clay, these serene, minimal forms use subtle linear rhythms and a muted color palette to explore architectural memories and space.
Until Saturday 12 September | Craft + Design Canberra, Level 1, North Building, 180 London Circuit, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Correspondence: Jude Muduioa
Celebrating patience and sustained craft, Correspondence showcases Jude Muduioa’s exploration of ceramic accumulation. Each delicate element is individually shaped by hand before joining a larger structure. With restrained surfaces, the exhibition invites viewers to focus on rhythm, subtle detail, and the interplay of light and shadow.
Until Saturday 12 September | Craft + Design Canberra, Level 1, North Building, 180 London Circuit, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Dwell: Suzanne Knight
Through intricately woven tapestry forms shaped like discarded plastic bottles, Suzanne Knight’s Dwell examines the complex interplay between migration, consumer culture, and ecological change. The exhibition reflects on how introduced materials and settler traditions have permanently reshaped Australian landscapes.
Until Saturday 12 September | Craft + Design Canberra, Level 1, North Building, 180 London Circuit, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Fragile Structures: The Architecture of Decay
Step into a captivating collaborative exhibition by visual artists Madeline Cardone and Fran Romano. Working across glass and ceramics, the duo explores the built environment, ruins, decay, and architectural space through the deconstruction and abstraction of form. Their sculptural works examine dualities of strength and fragility, permanence and transience, creating a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
Until Saturday, 12 September (Opening night & artist talks Thursday, 30 July from 5.30 pm) | Craft + Design Canberra, Level 1, North Building, 180 London Circuit, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberra.org
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
GR’AFT: solo exhibition by Lynda Draper
Explore innovative contemporary sculpture at Canberra Glassworks with GR’AFT, a solo exhibition by artist Lynda Draper. Developed during a residency at the Kingston precinct, the body of work blends glass, ceramics, and bronze through skilled collaborations with local artisans and foundry specialists. Drawing inspiration from botanical grafting techniques, the tactile sculptures feature wax-like surfaces, biomorphic forms, and funnel shapes that evoke natural growth and transformation. The exhibition offers visitors a chance to contemplate material exchange, layered artistic histories, and collaborative craft. Drop by this iconic lakeside venue to experience stunning contemporary art firsthand.
Until Monday 26 October | Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com
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
Quantum Tomorrow: Imagined Futures
Step into a vibrant, near-future Australia where once-impossible technologies transform how we live, work, and play. Questacon’s latest immersive gallery, Quantum Tomorrow: Imagined Futures, makes the complex world of quantum physics accessible, playful, and incredibly fun.
Developed in collaboration with Canberra illustrator Paul Summerfield, the exhibition brings tomorrow’s tech to life through colorful, highly detailed illustrations, giant airborne sculptures, and a mesmerizing cloud chamber that reveals the invisible world of tiny particles. Along the way, visitors can meet the pioneering Australian researchers who are harnessing the unique behaviors of quantum objects to solve some of the world’s most critical challenges. From un-hackable communications and personalized medicine to ultra-responsive prosthetics, you’ll discover how a quantum future promises to make ordinary lives extraordinary.
Open daily through 30 June 2027 | Gallery 8, Questacon, Parkes | questacon.edu.au
Know My Name: Kee, Jackson and Delaunay
Know My Name: Kee, Jackson and Delaunay showcases two of Australia’s leading fashion designers: Linda Jackson and Jenny Kee, in conversation with international, multidisciplinary artist Sonia Delaunay (1885–1979).
The iconic and vibrant early designs of Kee and Jackson from the 1970s and early 1980s were directly inspired by the dynamic legacy of Delaunay, who was a member of the School of Paris and co-founder of Orphism, an art movement noted for its use of intense colours and abstract, geometric forms. As well as working in traditional mediums such as painting and printmaking, Delaunay’s practice also included textile, fashion, and theatre design.
For Jackson and Kee, who were beginning their shared journey in creating clothes as works of art, the discovery of Delaunay was revolutionary. This powerful display feature a rarely-seen collection of Kee and Jackson’s garments from their archives and are shown with the National Gallery’s collection of Delaunay’s prints, drawings, textiles and costumes.
Showing now | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Yarning: Sharing Stories, Celebrating Culture
Explore Yarning, a vibrant new exhibition at Australian Parliament House showcasing the creative voices and stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander secondary students from across the nation. Featuring artworks from over 70 young artists, the display showcases entries from the Yarning competition exploring themes of Country, identity, family, and reconciliation—including the three winning pieces. Located in the public area on the Level 1 Senate side, this inspiring collection offers a powerful platform for young First Nations storytellers.
Open daily until February 2027 | Australian Parliament House, Capital Hill | aph.gov.au
Floral Impressions: Coins in Bloom
The Royal Australian Mint’s exhibition Floral Impressions: Coins in Bloom draws on never-before-seen objects from the National Collection to explore the rich symbolism of flowers on coins from around the world. The exhibition traces how floral designs struck into metal carry stories of national identity, cultural heritage and remembrance — from Australia’s kangaroo paw and the South African protea to the Western Samoan Teuila.
Decorative motifs such as laurel, olive and oak wreaths, used for centuries as symbols of victory, peace and strength, also feature. Commemorative coins in the exhibition show how flowers have honoured significant historical moments and individuals across cultures.
Until March 2027 | Royal Australian Mint, 62–114 Denison Street, Deakin | ramint.gov.au
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
Credit: Pamela Raith Photography.
