A mega guide to what’s on this week in Canberra (it’s a lot)
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Looking for something to do this week? Trust us when we say that there’s plenty to choose from.
Over 60 events in fact. From the Supply Nation Indigenous Trade Fair to Little Explorers’ Day, Valentine’s Day and more, here’s your mega guide to what’s on this week in Canberra.
Little Explorers’ Day
Looking for a fun activity for a little scientist in your life? Questacon’s Little Explorers Day is back for another fun-filled year.
Inviting little ones aged between zero and six years (and their grown-ups) to enjoy a unique experience at Questacon across four days in February, the event is designed to ignite curiosity in young minds through hands-on learning and play.
And from baby sensory spaces to the Butterfly Adventure, your little scientists will enjoy a range of activities – including the iconic Questacon science shows, storytime, interactive demonstrations, dress ups and more.
Tuesday 11 until Friday 14 February, 9 am – 1 pm | Questacon, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | Book here.
Supply Nation Indigenous Trade Fair
Have you heard of Supply Nation? It’s a unique not-for-profit that verifies and promotes Indigenous businesses across the nation through a central registry.
Supply Nation has been a force for Indigenous business growth and identity, supporting the procurement of their products and services from the government, corporate and non-profit sectors. And if supporting home-grown Indigenous businesses is something you’re interested in, Supply Nation is hosting an Indigenous Business Trade Fair. See you there?
Wednesday 12 February, 9 am – 12.30 pm | QT Canberra, 1 London Circuit, Civic | More information here.
Friends with Her
Because not all soul mates are the romantic kind. Head along to Cabo for a Galentine’s Day-themed evening with Friends with Her! This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, enjoy great company, and make new friends. Get ready for an evening of laughter, good vibes, and maybe even some surprises!
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to mingle and network with the amazing Canberra community. See you there!
Thursday 13 February, 6 pm – 7.30 pm | Cabo, 27 Northbourne Avenue, City | Book here.
Valentine’s Day at Canberra Outlet
From a Floral Society Pop-Up Store to free balloons and a love-filled photo op, Canberra Outlet is feeling the love this Valentine’s Day.
From 11 am to 1 pm (or until stocks run out), you can pick up fresh, beautiful bouquets from The Floral Society Pop-Up to wow your Valentine. Don’t miss your chance to get your hands on one of these gorgeous floral arrangements – perfect for gifting or brightening up your home.
Want to add an extra touch of whimsy to your Valentine’s celebration? Get a free balloon design from Giggly Wiggly Balloons – whether it’s heart-shaped balloons or something a little more creative, the team will create the perfect designs for you.
Step into the heart of the love-filled photo oppsetting and snap the perfect photo with your loved ones. It’s the perfect way to capture the magic of this special occasion.
Valentine’s Day isn’t just about flowers and balloons – it’s also about giving the perfect gift. Find huge savings on your favorite brands, so you can spoil your loved ones without breaking the bank – everything from stylish Oroton bags to sporty Nike apparel, chic Bendon lingerie, fashionable finds at TK Maxx, and luxurious Harris Scarfe homeware.
Friday 14 February | Canberra Outlet Centre, 337 Canberra Avenue, Fyshwick | Find out more here.
The Belco Bowl Jam
The Belco Bowl Jam isn’t just an event – it’s a three-day party that’s got the whole skateboarding world talking. This is a multi-day extravaganza that draws talent from across the globe, turning thee city into a skaters paradise.
Along an event calendar that truly offers something for every style of skater, the 2025 Belco Bowl Jam will see a wild street party with a half pipe taking over Elouera Street in Braddon, along with the Kambah U-Pipe getting its fair share of action. This is one party you don’t want to miss.
Friday 14 until Sunday 16 February | Various locations | @belcobowljam
Urban Cocktail Trail Canberra
A self-guided experience where you decide to stop and sip? Sign us up! The Urban Cocktail Trail is back for another year.
Rally your friends together and start the afternoon with a bite to eat and (of course), a cocktail at your starting location before making your way around the trail to redeem your cocktail vouchers, choosing your favourites from the Signature Cocktail List!
Saturday 15 February, 1 pm – 5 pm | Various locations | Book here.
2025 Lantern Festival
Don’t miss the Australia-China Friendship Society’s Lantern Festival! Held from 6.15 pm – 8.30 pm on Saturday 15 February at the Beijing Garden, this free event is fun for the whole family.
There will be performances of Chinese music, dancing, and martial arts, with a Lantern Parade at the end. Bring a picnic and enjoy a family evening by the lake. Bring your own lantern or buy one there!
Saturday 15 February, 6.15 pm – 8.30 pm | Beijing Garden, Flynn Drive, Yarralumla | More information here.
Belco Bowl Jam 2025
Is this Australia’s most popular and best annual skateboarding event?
Head along to enjoy three days of skateboarding and music around Canberra City and Belconnen where some of the world’s best skateboarders will compete for over $30,000 in cash prizes.
Friday 14 until Sunday 16 February | Various locations | More information here.
The QURE Gala
The QURE Ball is Canberra’s premier fundraising gala dinner, proudly supporting the amazing work of Tour de Cure, in raising critical funds to support cancer research in Australia.
Held on International Childhood Cancer Day, funds raised at the QURE Gala will support Tour de Cure’s commitment to funding the Public Laboratory at the Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre (MCCCC) in Randwick, part of Australia’s first dedicated children’s comprehensive cancer centre.
In addition to speakers, dancing and dinner, a variety of offerings will be available on the night including special event cocktails, raffles, silent auction items on display and a live auction.
Saturday 15 February | The Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | Book here.
Googfest
Googong’s annual free music festival Googfest returns at Rockley Oval this month! Headlined by ARIA Award-winning, Samantha Jade, the event offers a diverse musical line-up with something for all the family to enjoy.
Head along to see DJ and rapper, Matthew Charles, and Last Call, fronted by the charismatic duo of Liam James and Claudia Tetreault-Percy. Plus, if that’s not enough there will be a range of food vendors!
Saturday 15 Feburary, 5 pm – 9 pm | Rockley Oval, Googong | More information here.
Front Yard Fest
Like your live music with a side of cold brews? Front Yard Fest at Capital Brewing in Fyshwick may be just what you’re looking for!
Front Yard Fest is back in the ACT this summer scene on Sunday 16 February with a red-hot lineup of local and interstate artists, including smartcasual, ARCHIE, Hope Wilkins, Ava Martina, Flik and finally headlined by Apricot Ink.
As well as the music, Capital Brewing Co. will boast over 20 freshly brewed beers for those looking for a cool beverage after dancing and singing their hearts out. And for our alcohol-free friends, lots of non-beer choices will be available to quench your thirst in the summer heat. It’s one event you don’t want to miss out on!
Sunday 16 February, 11.30 am | Capital Brewing Co. Taproom, Building 3/1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick | Book here.
Markets
Capital Region Farmers Market
This market is a community project run by the Rotary Club of Hall, the only rural Rotary Club in the ACT.
Head along to browse over 100 stallholders who bring their freshly picked, grown, and hand-crafted produce. Speak to a stallholder and ask them where their produce comes from – you’ll be surprised what you’ll learn and pick up cooking storage, and usage tips!
Saturday, 7 am – 11.30 am | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Exhibition Park in Canberra, Mitchell | More information here.
Haig Park Village Markets
The Haig Park Village Markets runs every Sunday in the beautiful leafy grounds of Haig Park, Braddon.
This farmers and foodie market will delight your senses with delicious cuisines, tasty treats, beautiful blooms, fresh produce, delectable charcuterie, and artisan products. Plus you’ll discover locally handmade crafts including jewellery, art, natural body care, unique homewares, hand-poured candles, children’s apparel, pooch wares, and more. Plus, there’s live music, an artists’ table, face painting, and more!
Sunday, 8 am – 2 pm | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | More information here.
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, and pet treats.
Sunday 8 am–11.30 am | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip | facebook.com
Food and Wine
Twilight in the Gardens
Join Hyatt Hotel Canberra for a magical evening in the gardens every Friday from 4 pm. With Tipple Time kicking off from 4 pm until 6 pm, head along to enjoy $12 boutique beers, $13 wines by the glass and $15 cocktails.
Plus there will be live acoustic music, a Chandon pop-up bar and a gourmet live grill. Re-live the glory days of Fridays at the Hyatt and use it as the perfect excuse to catch up with friends.
Every Friday, from 4 pm | 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | Walk-ins welcome or for larger bookings, please call 02 6269 8901 or email canbe.dining@hyatt.com
Stage and Screen
ANU Film Group
Free movies for a whole week? You read that right. Batman Returns, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, The Mummy Returns, xXx: The Return of Xander Cage… these are just some of the movies you can see when the ANU Film Group returns on February 10!
After a nine-month intermission caused by building works, they are celebrating our long-awaited return with an entire week of free screenings. All seven films from February 10 to 15 will be open and free for all to attend – no membership or registration is required!
Until Saturday 15 February | The Australian National University, Cultural Centre, Kambri Precinct, Acton | More information here.
Bianca Del Rio – Dead Inside
Everyone’s favorite “clown in a gown”, Bianca Del Rio, is returning to the stage with a new comedy show, aptly titled Dead Inside.
Bianca will be entertaining the masses with her iconic lightning-fast wit and razor-sharp tongue. Her new show will cover politics, pop culture, political correctness, current events, cancel culture, and everyday life through the eyes of someone who’s “dead inside” and finds humor in everything. Expect audience interaction and endless laughter as no one and no topic is off-limits!
Tuesday 11 February, 8.15 pm – 9.30 pm | Llewellyn Hall, 100 William Herbert Place, City | Book here.
Elsie’s Film House
Elsie’s Film House is a pop-up cinema lounge and bar screening all of your retro favourites from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, from cult classics, to arthouse and international films.
Offering a cozy movie night experience, Elsie’s also hosts weekly community nights offering diverse communities a safe and inclusive space to connect. Elsie’s will be hosting movie nights for different migrant communities as well. Keep an eye out to see what’s coming up!
Thursday 13 February until Sunday 16 March, from 2 pm | 180 London Circuit, City | Book here.
Shakespeare By the Lakes V: Macbeth
Something wicked this way comes this summer…and it’s the chance to see Shakespeare’s shortest, sharpest, and bloodiest play like never before. Following on from the success of A Midsummer Night’s Dream in December, Echo Theatre returns with a second offering of outdoor Shakespeare in 2025. That’s right, you can watch Macbeth outside.
Gather your friends, pack a picnic, and strap in for a night of greed, ambition, and deception as one couple’s ruthless thirst for power turns nature upside down.
Wednesday 12 February until Sunday 2 March | Various locations | Book here.
Tinderella and the Eight Unique Uses of Tinder
This Valentine’s, gather your gals and go laugh at another woman’s disastrous dating life.
This is a one-human comedy cabaret, created and performed by Alyce Fisher. Exploring the real-life tales of her very own Tinder escapades, investigates contemporary app dating culture and aims to empower everyone to take control of their own app dating experience.
Strongly influenced by Disney characters, featuring a bespoke mockumentary film, a magic wand and audience interaction/participation, this show is for comedy and cabaret lovers, and anyone who has experienced the highs and the lows of dating apps.
Friday 14 February, 7 pm – 5 pm | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Reed Street North, Greenway | Book here.
Bubble Boy
Following Jimmy Livingston, a boy deathly allergic to germs who is kept in a decontaminated bubble room for his own protection, Bubble Boy is a gorgeous coming-of-age story full of love, laughs and self-discovery.
Head along to watch as his life is turned upside down when Chloe moves in next door and his eyes are opened to how big the world is.
Friday 14 until Sunday 23 February, 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm | Belconnen Community Theatre, 23 Swanson Court, Belconnen | Book here.
U3A at NFSA: A passionate glimpse into Australia’s film and sound history
The National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) is presenting three events by the NFSA Old Wise Lovely Seniors in association with U3A.
They will be delving into Australia’s audiovisual history with special insights from former staff, returning to share their passion for the NFSA collection. The events include: my Castles Reconsidered: Singing and Sectarianism, Still Silent After All These Years and Lottie’s Legacy.
Friday 14 February, 10 am – 12.30 pm | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | Book here.
HUB FEST 2025
Aussie Works. Done quick. Done good. Catch these two productions at the ACT Hub for the next week as they kick off the pilot program of their inaugural festival of new Australian work.
The Bestiary – An Interlude by Hannah Tonks is set in a dystopian 2038 Australia where artistic expression is outlawed. Four underground artists –Fox, Badger, Donkey, and Goat – capture the Minister for Aesthetics, seeking justice for the disappeared creatives and forcing a reckoning.
The Forsaken by Oliver Kuskie finds Leonard – alone in his rundown apartment – listening to his neighbours, a group of struggling young adults and a fractured family, forcing him to confront his past regrets and question whether he can find a place in a world that has left him behind.
Sunday 16 to Saturday 22 February | ACT Hub, 14 Spinifex Street, Kingston | acthub.com.au
Sunset Cinema
Who doesn’t love going to the movies? Get the most out of summer, by heading to the Sunset Cinema at the Botanic Gardens. Showing all the new hits, some old favourites, and family classics, bring a picnic, some camping chairs or a blanket and sit back and enjoy the show!
Until Saturday 22 February, from 6:30 pm | Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | Movies and tickets can be found here.
The Great Kimberley Wilderness
Be transported to one of the world’s most breathtaking and pristine landscapes in The Great Kimberley Wilderness – a 35-minute virtual reality experience narrated by Luke Hemsworth.
Guided by scientists and traditional owners, this journey crosses stunning coastlines and majestic gorges, venturing deep into these timeless lands. Soar over the thundering King George Falls, explore the remarkable striped sandstone domes of the UNESCO-listed Purnululu National Park, and travel back more than 350 million years to the Devonian Reef, uncovering the ancient geology that has shaped life as we know it.
This experience reveals the history, geology, culture and wonder of the remarkable Kimberley wilderness, which has been nearly two billion years in the making.
Daily, every hour from 9.15 am to 4.15 pm | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Acton | Find out more here.
Music
The Music & Lyrics of Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman is one of the music industry’s greatest singer-songwriter success stories, capturing a global audience in 1988 with her self-titled debut album with just her voice and guitar. This show is a tribute to her and her work.
Starring Australian/Fijian singer-songwriter Andrea Kirwin, Andrea and her band will play songs from each of Tracy’s eight albums including favourites such as Fast Car, Give Me One Reason, Talking Bout A Revolution, The Promise and more.
Thursday 13 February, 7.30 pm – 9.50 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, City | Book here.
Ash Grunwald – Feeling Better
The happiest bluesman on Earth, Ash Grunwald, is back with a new single entitled Feeling Better.
A household name in the Australian music scene, Ash Grunwald has spent over 25 years captivating audiences with his hilarious storytelling, soulful vocals, and virtuosic slide guitar skills. Supported by Will Harmer, don’t miss seeing this trailblazer in the industry.
Friday 14 February, 7.30 pm – 9.50 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, City | Book here.
Postmodern Jukebox’s “Magic & Moonlight” World Tour 2025
Fresh off playing their 1000th show, retro musical collective Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox will return to Canberra for a special show!
Concertgoers can expect to enter a parallel musical universe where modern-day earworms and iconic pop hits alike are reimagined in classic genres like 1920s jazz, Swing, Doo-wop, and Motown, and brought to life by a cast of some of the world’s best singers, dancers, and instrumentalists. Think The Great Gatsby meets Sinatra at the Sands meets Back! …To The Future.
Friday 14 February, 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm | Llewellyn Hall, 100 William Herbert Place, Llewellyn Hall ANU, City | Book here.
Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special
A sea of flickering candles, a program packed full of love songs, and a stunning venue – name something more romantic? This is one swoon-worthy event.
Fever is bringing a love-themed Candlelight Concert to Canberra for an enchanting evening of music. Playing some of the most romantic love songs from pop culture – including ‘Shallow’ from A Star Is Born and Elvis Presley’s ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ – this 65-minute performance will leave you with all of the warm and fuzzy feelings.
Friday 14 February with sittings at 6.30 pm and 8.30 pm | James Fairfax Theatre, National Gallery of Australia, 30 Parkes Place East, Parkes | Book here.
In Hearts Wake – ‘Incarnation’ Summer Tour
After entirely selling out their capital city tour and playing across the United States with Miss May I, In Hearts Wake will return home in 2025 to play the Incarnation Summer Tour, and perform in Canberra
With support from Australia’s next wave of heavy hitters (Ocean Sleeper, Reliqa and Inertia), run, don’t walk to get your hands on tickets for this Australian metalcore band from Byron Bay.
Saturday 15 February, 7 pm – 11 pm | UC Hub, 11 Kirinari Street, Bruce | Book here.
Eishan Ensemble in Concert
Eishan Ensemble has performed at the most well-known venues and festivals around the world since it was formed in 2016 in Sydney Australia.
Led by acclaimed Persian-Australian tar virtuoso and composer, Hamed Sadeghi, the ARIA-nominated Eishan Ensemble draws on contemporary and classical music traditions of both East and West. This is a rare chance to see (and hear) the fine compositions for yourself.
Saturday 15 February, 7.30 pm – 9.20 pm | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, City | Book here.
Steve Edmonds Band – Hendrix & Heroes
The Hendrix & Heroes Show is a heartfelt tribute to the great music and imagery of Jimi Hendrix and a tribute to the greatest guitar songs and bands of the ’70s.
A must for fans of great Classic 70’s style guitar-driven rock and Jimi Hendrix devotees, this promises to be fun night out for real rock and rollers!
Saturday 15 February, 7 pm – 10.30 pm | Harmonie German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | Book here.
Richard Clapton
With a career that spans over four decades, Richard Claption is known as one of Australia’s foremost singer/songwriters, paved the way for generations of songwriters to write about the experience of being Australian.
This concert is a chance to see one of the world’s most cherished singer/songwriters in the flesh.
Sunday 16 February, 7 pm – 8.50 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Book here.
Tyler Childers – Mule Pull Tour
Tyler Childers and his longtime band, The Food Stamps, are coming to Canberra!
Grab your tickets to hear the GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter and musician, who is known for his electric live concerts.
Sunday 16 February, 8 pm – 10 pm | Royal Theatre, 31 Constitution Avenue, City | Book here.
Exhibitions
Mumkurla-nginyi-ma parrngalinyparla – From the darkness into the light
The Gurindji Freedom Banners retell the story of the historic Wave Hill Walk-off in 1966.
The ten iconic banners will be on display to tell the Gurindji account of the ‘walk-off’, which was led by Vincent Jurlama Lingiari AM with Gurindji, Ngarinyman, Mudburra, Bilinara and Walpiri workers from Wave Hill Station, located in the Victoria River District on the northern edge of the Tanami Desert. This strike was a response to the unfair working and living conditions for Aboriginal people under the station’s management; Vestey’s Group.
Tuesday 11 February until Friday 28 March | ANU School of Art & Design Gallery, Corner Liversidge St & Ellery Crescent, Acton | More information here.
Jonas Balsaitis: Analogue
Jonas Balsaitis: Analogue is a survey exhibition of paintings, prints, and experimental films by Australian artist Jonas Balsaitis.
The exhibition re-considers the artist’s use of ‘imaging systems’ in light of contemporary developments in data imagery and digital technologies. Particular focus is given to the translation of Balsaitis’ paintings into film, highlighting the artist’s dedication to find a new, more experimental mode of experience in a pre-digital age.
Friday 14 February until Saturday 12 April | Drill Hall Gallery, Kingsley Street, Building 29, Acton | More information here.
Between Touch and Memory
Showing at Cox Gallery for a limited run, don’t miss this opportunity to see Sienna Curby’s work in person. Graduating with a Bachelor of Visual Art in 2024, and receiving the COX Prize (part of the Emerging Artist Support Scheme at the ANU’s School of Art & Design), it’s a unique opportunity to support a local up-and-coming artist.
Until Friday 14 February | 1/19 Eastlake Parade, Kingston | More information here.
…Is somebody gonna match my freak?
This is a joint exhibition by Sophie Dumaresq and Asil Habara (wet sahara), the 2024 recipients of the M16 Artspace ANU Emerging Artists Support Scheme.
A tongue-in-check nod to the two artists shared sense of humour and interest in online popular culture, shit posting, and the very real-life currents behind driving viral trends, you’ll want to see this for yourself.
Until Sunday 16 February | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
Creek
This is a solo exhibition by Kirsten Wehner, recipient of the 2024 M16 Artspace Environmental Artist Residency, generously supported by ConceptSix.
Exploring life along Weston Creek (a little-known waterway in suburban Canberra), ‘Creek’ presents drawings, sculptures and experimental collaborations that honour work to rehabilitate the catchment and invite attention to the waterway’s possibility as a place of cultural/ecological flourishing.
Until Sunday 16 February | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | More information here.
The Bald Archy Prize 2025
Get ready for Australia’s leading satirical art extravaganza, the Bald Archy Prize! Born in 1994 as a whimsical take that more serious competition, this prize throws open its canvas to artists of every stripe, inviting them to unleash their creativity in portrait paintings teeming with humour, dark satire, light comedy, or caricature.
Now, entering its 29th year in 2025, the Bald Archy Prize beckons artists to carry forward the rich tradition of revelling in laughter while basking in the beauty of art. The exhibition kicks off in Canberra before embarking on a tour across various venues in Eastern Australia, so make sure you don’t miss out!
Until Sunday 23 March | Watson Arts Centre (Canberra Potters), 1 Aspinall St Watson | More information here.
Waves of Kinship
This is a new photo-based work by Polish-born Kamberri/Canberra-based artist Marzena Wasikowska.
Inspired by fieldwork and studio meditations on the built environment, waterscapes and global warming, as well as her immediate family, works in this exhibition have been created with support from a Capital Arts Patrons’ Organisation (CAPO) grant.
Until Sunday 23 March | Platform, 19 Furneaux St Manuka | More information here.
Moonsnake
Thinking about possible connections between the moon and snakes, Steven Holland brings together a recent series of yellow-snake dream drawings with a selection of his bronze Serpent sculptures that were created over several decades.
Designed to coincide with the Chinese New Year, Luna Year of the Snake in 2025, this exhibition is free to visit.
Until Saturday 5 April | 137 Reed Street North, Greenway | More information here.
Unconditional
This is a mixed-media examination of loves in many forms, from the joyful, to the painful, life-affirming, difficult at times, but invariably unconditional.
Reflecting the multi-faceted qualities of love, in terms of media used as well as subjects, it shows various expressions of love and argues that we are all different yet united by emotions.
Until Saturday 5 April | 137 Reed Street North, Greenway | More information here.
This Is Studio&
Studio&’s debut exhibition as a collaborative, celebrating two years of making together.
In it, works are reflective of the diversity, interests and skills being honoured at Studio&. It’s a wonderful reminder the power art has in personal expression and community building and demonstrates that art exists in the exchange, process, collaboration, providing access to and noticing in everyday life.
Until Saturday 5 April | 137 Reed Street North, Greenway | More information here.
Celebrate Gungahlin: Young Voices
This exhibition features artworks and documentation from the 2024 Celebrate Gungahlin Festival.
Local artists Megan Daley and Pinal Maniar worked with children and their families to create masks, banners, and props for the inaugural festival parade. Showcasing the documentation of the process and the parade, as well as highlights from Our Town: A Celebrate Gungahlin Community Exhibition, head along to support over 100 young people who live, work or play in the Gungahlin region.
Until Sunday 23 March, 10 am – 4 pm | The Nook, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
Escape. Control. Delete. by Kristie Watts
In Australia, more than one in three women have been physically and/or sexually assaulted. Every week a woman is murdered by her current or former partner. Escape Control Delete is a process and conceptual-based installation that makes the statistics of violence against women in Australia visible.
Each blacked-out key represents a woman in the community creating an unavoidable visual representation of words heard and reports read about the increasing statistics of women in Australia affected by abuse.
Until Sunday 23 March, 10 am – 4 pm | Window Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
TILT by Alex Asch and Mariana del Castillo
This is the final exhibition in a two-year collaboration between artists Alex Asch and Mariana del Castillo.
Exploring ideas around identity, memory, belonging, and ownership, through colonisation, migration, and displacement the two artists enter the conversation from opposite ends. Head along to see it for yourself.
Until Sunday 23 March, 10 am – 4 pm | Pivot Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
3000 days … and counting …
Esteemed Australian botanical artist Sharon Field is waging a personal protest against global warming. And in doing so, she is creating a monumental piece of art.
Setting herself a challenge to create a draw/painting for 3000 days on a series of scrolls, she is making Australia’s own version of the Bayeux Tapestry (the historic 11th Century tapestry depicting the Norman conquest of England and measuring approximately 68 metres).
Providing a visual record of the plants the planet is in danger of losing, you can see it at the Belconnen Arts Centre.
Until Sunday 23 March, 10 am – 4 pm | West Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
Neither Here Nor There by Liz Faul
Liz Faul was born in Canberra and grew up here. And that’s what inspires her work.
Conveying her feelings about Canberra and how it’s changed over the years, in this exhibition, she uses repeated motifs to express her memories of growing up here — the Burley Griffin map, the photographs of familiar places, and silhouettes of the family at different times. It combines painted papers, recycled printed materials, found papers and her illustrations on canvasses or boxes.
Until Sunday 23 March, 10 am – 4 pm | Generator Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
BLAZE 2025
Canberra Contemporary’s eagerly awaited emerging artist showcase, BLAZE, returns to present the dynamic and diverse voices of Kamberri/Canberra’s rising creative talents.
Featuring six exciting artists at the beginning of their careers, BLAZE offers an insight into the evolving art scene of the region and exhibits bold, thought-provoking works across installation, painting, photography and sculpture.
Featuring the work of Sophia Childs, Sophie Dumaresq, Gabrielle Hall-Lomax, Emeirely Nucifora-Ryan, Brennan O’Brien and Jessika Spencer.
Until 17 April | Canberra Contemporary, 44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | canberracontemporary.com.au
VIEW2025
VIEW2025 brings together the work of Cailyn Forrest, Adam Hsieh, Fiona Lee, Aia Solis, and Emma Lyn Winkler. This annual exhibition spotlights regional emerging artists—the future leaders of Australian photo media practice—and is accompanied by a publication offering insights into current photographic trends across analogue, digital, and experimental forms.
In Darkroom Viscera, Cailyn Forrest transforms the act of photography into a bodily ritual, intertwining artist and material. Adam Hsieh’s I Didn’t Come Here for Love juxtaposes wide-angle views of Hobart’s kunanyi/Mount Wellington with intimate Grindr encounters, exploring how social currents shape our experience of place.
Fiona Lee’s Future Critical confronts ecological loss and political inertia, informed by her displacement during the 2019–2020 bushfires. In Tarantana Muna, Aia Solis merges past memories and present realities, revealing a delicate balance between control and disorder. Emma Lyn Winkler’s Shadow Puppets fuses painting, photography, and animation into textured narratives infused with humour and existential absurdity.
Until photo access, Manuka Arts Centre, 30 Manuka Circle, Griffith | More information here.
Carol Jerrems: Portraits
Photographers, this one’s for you! This week, spend time learning about a key influential figure in Australia’s photographic history at the National Portrait Gallery’s latest exhibit – Carol Jerrems: Portraits. The exhibition showcases more than 140 photographs, drawn from the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library of Australia, and the National Portrait Gallery.
Expect to see photographs from her earlier work to her more famous works, including Vale Street 1975. Learn how her work defined the 1970s and the future of Australian photography while examining portraits of cultural figures like tennis legend Evonne Goolagong, fashion designer Linda Jackson, and author Bobbi Sykes.
Until Sunday 2 March | National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | Book here.
History: Solo Exhibition by Martyn Thompson
Head along to the Canberra Glassworks to see the stunning works of cross-disciplinary artist Martyn Thompson.
Reimagining his ceramic vessels in glass, blending nostalgia and modernity through a tactile, painterly approach, this exhibition has been curated by Aimee Frodsham, the exhibition integrates his new glasswork with textiles, furniture, and objects from his studio.
Until Sunday 23 March | Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | More information here.
Anne Dangar
Get lost in a world of swirls, squares, lines, and colours at the NGA’s free Anne Dangar exhibit.
This iconic Australian artist played an important part in bringing modern art to Australia in the twentieth century, and this exhibit allows locals a chance to browse her ceramics, paintings, archival material, and more in this major retrospective exhibition celebrating her life and art.
Until Sunday 27 April | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here.
Ethel Carrick
The National Gallery of Australia is continuing its focus on celebrating the work of all women artists, with its major exhibition Ethel Carrick. Post-impressionist art lovers will be excited to see 140 pieces by Carrick, in the first retrospective of her work for nearly half a century.
What’s even better? Entry is free, so you can visit as many times as you want!
Until Sunday 27 April | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here.
20 Years of Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year
Experience the wonder of two decades of award-winning nature photography as a new exhibition opens at the National Archives of Australia. 20 Years of Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year celebrates the winning entries from each year since its inception.
Conceived in 2004 by Dr. Stuart Miller AM, the competition aims to stoke the public’s fascination with the natural world and provide a platform for emerging and established photographers alike to showcase the remarkable flora, fauna, and landscapes of Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica, and New Guinea.
Until Sunday 27 April | National Archives of Australia, Kings Avenue, Parkes | More information here.
Pompeii
If seeing Pompeii in Italy is on your bucket list, mark your calendars for this one! The National Museum of Australia is showing its Pompeiiexhibit, featuring over 90 discovered objects from the ancient city before Mount Vesuvius erupted. This display in Canberra will be the first time some of these objects have been seen outside Europe!
Visitors will be taken into the exhibit with an engaging atmosphere created by large-scale digital projections and captivating soundscapes. Expect to see recovered jewellery, sculptures, pottery, frescoes, and other objects once used by this civilisation.
Until Sunday 4 May | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Acton | Book here.
Lindy Lee
Lindy Lee is one of Australia’s most accomplished contemporary artists. This exhibition brings together highlights from across the artist’s career as well as a monumental new installation and works on paper.
Exploring themes of ancestry, spirituality, the environment, and the cosmos, this display of new and recent works will shed light on Lee’s ever-evolving and ambitious practice.
Until Tuesday 1 July | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here.
Sport and Wellness
Raiders v Sharks
The Canberra Raiders are back at GIO Stadium for their second pre-season trial of 2025, taking on the Cronulla Sharks.
With a mix of new recruits and returning stars, this game will be the perfect chance for fans to see how the Raiders are shaping up for the season ahead.
Thursday 13 February, 7.50 pm – 9.20 pm | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Book here.
UC Capitals v Bendigo Spirit
This is the final home game of the regular WNBL season and it won’t be one to miss.
Be there as Canberra cheers on the Caps as they take on the Bendigo Spirit at AIS Arena. It promises to be some entertaining Saturday afternoon basketball!
Saturday 15 February, 3.30 pm – 5 pm | AIS Arena, 26 Leverrier Street, Bruce | Book here.
Workshops and Programs
Ann Moyal Lecture: Dr Ken Henry AC at the National Library
The annual Ann Moyal Lecture is back for another year. Given by a distinguished speaker on a contemporary question that draws on such fields of knowledge as science, environment, ecology, history, anthropology, art, and technological change, this year, the lecture will be delivered by Dr Ken Henry AC.
Entry to this event is free but bookings are essential. A reception with complimentary drinks and canapes will also take place in the National Library Foyer following the event.
Tuesday 11 February, 6 pm – 8 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Book here.
Female Founders – Supporting Women Led Business
Featuring a cross-section of products, services, software and tech from female-led businesses in Canberra’s innovation ecosystem, this is the perfect way to celebrate local women in innovation.
Stroll around the events room at CBRIN and immerse yourself in a world of groundbreaking innovations while you network with like-minded individuals. Lunch is included in your ticket and provided by the local female-founded business, The Goods Wholefoods.
Tuesday 11 Feburary, 12.15 pm – 1.30 pm | Level 4, 1 Moore Street, City | Book here.
AI in Science: the promise, perils and path forward – What is AI?
Curious about how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the world around you? Join the Australian Academy of Science in 2025 for AI in science: the promise, perils and path forward to explore the current and future implications of AI.
An expert panel will look at what AI means, how it is being used in your everyday life, and how it is likely to impact you in the future. The panel will also delve into the risks, limitations and ethics of AI use in science and society.
Tuesday 11 February, 5.30 pm – 7 pm | Shine Dome, 15 Gordon Street, City | Book here.
Murrulangalang Story Time
Dive into the world of storytelling, imagination, and discovery as the National Archives of Australia brings tales to life through interactive storytelling sessions for zero to six-year-olds.
Take your children along for a fun, engaging, and educational morning where they’ll hear a story, act it out, sing a song, and go on a scavenger hunt to help find Archie the cat hiding somewhere in the East Block building!
Wednesday 12, 19 and 26 February, 10.15 am – 11 am | National Archives of Australia, Kings Avenue, Parkes | Book here.
Author talk – Frank Moorhouse: Strange Paths with Matthew Lamb
Join biographer Matthew Lamb for ‘a ramble in the mind of an adolescent’ as he delves into young Frank Moorhouse’s life, exploring how this critical period shaped the author and why adolescence deserves more attention in literary biography.
Head along to hear about the legendary writer in person or live stream it online.
Wednesday 12 February, 6 pm – 7 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Book here.
Climate Integrity Summit
This is a non-partisan event that brings people together to discuss what truly works in creating credible and actionable climate policies.
Featuring a range of prominent international and local experts, this summit is for people who want to understand the real solutions to the climate crisis, using evidence-based approaches. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation that shapes the future of the planet.
Wednesday 12 February, 9 am – 5 pm | Parliament House Theatre, Parliament Drive, Capital Hill | Book here.
The Big Gay Yoga Day
It’s all in the name. Get ready to experience a fabulous day of yoga, meditation, breathwork and sound healing with the LGBTQ+ community, allies, friends and family.
Led by four local experienced queer wellness facilitators, The Big Gay Yoga Day will nourish, inspire and connect the Canberra community deeper to themselves and each other. Along with a gentle yoga session and a guided breathwork practice and reiki healing, you’ll enjoy a delicious vegan lunch catered by Canberra queer caterers “Rosalie’s”, and baked treats from Sweet Bones Bakery & Cafe.
Saturday 15 February, 10 am – 4 pm | Griffith Neighbourhood Centre, 53 Stuart Street, Griffith | Book here.
