From Christmas chalets to Hip-Hop legends: 75+ epic ways to spend your week in Canberra
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Whether you’re craving high culture with opera reductions and contemporary art exhibitions, or just want to lose yourself in the darkness at No Lights No Lycra, this week’s incredible lineup of 75+ events proves that hibernation is totally overrated.
Winter just got a whole lot more exciting with Canberra serving up everything from a magical Christmas in July festival complete with alpine chalets and falling snow, to Grammy-nominated Toni Childs delivering a career-spanning retrospective and Bliss n Eso bringing their explosive hip-hop energy to town.
Add in the beloved Mr Squiggle making his museum debut, intimate wine tastings with truffle-infused delights, a self-guided cocktail trail for the adventurous, and even wand-making classes for aspiring wizards, and you’ve got the perfect prescription for beating those winter blues.
Five Not To Miss
Christmas in July Festival
Canberra’s winter wonderland returns with authentic wooden chalets, towering nutcrackers, over 40 real pine trees, and sweeping views of Lake Burley Griffin in this magical alpine village transformation!
With over 20 pop-ups serving French and European winter cuisine, falling snow and more, this event will jingle your bells.
Thursday 3 until Sunday 6 July | Patrick White Lawns, Queens Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | christmasinjuly.com.au
Mr Squiggle and Friends: The Creative World of Norman Hetherington
Meet beloved puppet Mr Squiggle and iconic characters in this free exhibition exploring 40 years of Australian children’s TV history and creative magic.
Friday 4 July until 13 October | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton | nma.gov.au
Winter in the City
Fifteen days of spectacular entertainment? Say no more. Expect fire performances, award-winning circus acts, theatre, and musical comedy shows at the Grand Winter Stage.
Saturday 5 until Saturday 19 July | City Walk, Grand Winter Stage, City | winter.inthecity.com.au
Rutherglen in the City
Love a glass of wine in the winter? This intimate wine experience features sixteen Rutherglen wineries, plus free “Wine Bar, Wine Chats” sessions with winemakers, live music, and gourmet food options. This is a winter wine escape not to be missed.
Saturday 5 July | Old Parliament House Members Room, 18 King George Terrace, Parkes | explorerutherglen.com.au
The Beauty Queen of Leenane
Experience Martin McDonagh’s darkly comedic masterpiece in this intimate production by Free-Rain Theatre. Set in a rural Irish cottage, this powerful play follows plain, middle-aged Maureen and her manipulative mother Mag as they navigate isolation, hope, and sabotage when romance finally enters Maureen’s life.
Director Cate Clelland brings together a stellar local cast including Alice Ferguson, Janie Lawson, Bruce Hardie, and Robbie Haltiner in this quietly devastating black comedy that explores the malevolence of people living hopeless lives. Don’t miss this brilliant two-week run of work from one of Britain and Ireland’s greatest living playwrights.
Until Saturday 5 July | ACT Hub, 14 Spinifex Street, Kingston | acthub.com.au
Special Events and Festivals
Warm Trees at the Arboretum
The Friends of the National Arboretum Canberra are pleased to announce the return of Warm Trees, and this year, they are partnering with the Republic of Korea. Did you know the Arboretum is home to eight forests of trees native to Korea?
Pop along to see trees wrapped in vibrant scarves, bringing warmth and colour to the winter landscape. The Visitor Centre will also be adorned with beautiful decorations inspired by Korean heritage.
Plus, don’t miss the children’s activities hosted by the Korean Embassy, celebrating Korean culture through fun and creative workshops.
Tuesday 1 July to Sunday 10 August | National Arboretum Canberra, Forest Drive, Canberra | bit.ly/ArboretumWhatsOn
Feel-Good Book Swap Afternoon
Escape the pressure of traditional book clubs and embrace pure literary joy at this relaxed book swap afternoon.
Club Sup hosts this delightful community gathering where guests bring a beloved book to pass on and leave with a mystery wrapped story chosen at random. No assigned reading, no analysis—just genuine conversations about the books that have shaped, surprised, or remain unfinished on bedside tables. Enjoy homemade carrot cake, vegan caramel slices, and Redbrick’s specialty coffee whilst connecting over stories and perhaps making new friends.
Whether you’re an avid reader or simply love coffee and chat, this welcoming space celebrates the simple pleasure of sharing something real.
Saturday 5 July, 1–3pm | Redbrick Coffee, 161 Newcastle Street, Fyshwick | eventbrite.com.au
Elegance in Heritage: First Nations Jewellery Unveiled
Don’t miss this , pecial one-week exhibition by Canberra Rising Star award recipient and celebrated jewellery artist, Thomas Coen Bonson, at ANCA Gallery in Dickson. The exhibition is Coen Bonson’s first solo exhibition and part of Canberra NAIDOC Week 2025 celebrations. You’ll see a collection of handcrafted pieces that blend high jewellery with deep cultural storytelling, grounded in Thomas’s proud First Nations heritage. Each work explores legacy, identity and artistry, reimagining heirloom design for a contemporary audience.
Sunday 6 until Sunday 13 July | Australian National Capital Artists (ANCA) Gallery, 1 Rosevear Place, Dickson | anca.net.au
Food and Wine
Fireside Wine Tastings at Hyatt Hotel Canberra
Beat the winter chill with sophisticated sips by the fire in the heritage-rich Griffin’s Lounge. Every Friday, Hyatt Hotel Canberra transforms into an intimate wine sanctuary where guests can discover exceptional Australian wines while warming up beside a crackling fireplace.
This complimentary tasting series brings together some of the country’s most respected winegrowers and makers, from Eden Road’s innovative approach to Lark Hill’s pioneering cool-climate expertise. Each session offers direct access to the passionate people behind the bottles, sharing stories and insights that bring each wine to life – the perfect antidote to Canberra’s frosty evenings, combining warmth, wine, and wonderful company.
Every Friday until 1 August | Griffin’s Lounge, Hyatt Hotel Canberra, Yarralumla | hyatt.com
Champagne and Fried Chicken
Who knew fried chicken and champagne were a match made in flavour heaven? The crisp bubbles cut through the golden crunch, creating the ultimate indulgent pairing you didn’t know you needed.
Taste four champagnes – Louis Roederer Collection 245, NV Piper-Heidsieck Brut, NV Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label and NV Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve – each expertly paired with a unique take on fried chicken, as you’re guided through the tasting experience.
This deliciously unexpected duo is worth the hype. $95PP
Every Saturday in July, 3:30–5:30 pm | Leyla Bar, Burbury Close, Barton | Book tickets here.
Urban Cocktail Trail Canberra
Grab your friends for this self-guided cocktail experience! Across the afternoon, you’ll explore multiple venues, while redeeming vouchers for signature cocktails. Where you decide to stop and sip is completely up to you!
Saturday 5 July | Multiple venues, Canberra | urbancocktailtrail.com
Truffle Infused Winter Tastings at Mount Majura Vineyard
It’s truffle season again! And Mount Majura Vineyard knows the most delicious way to enjoy truffles is with their wines. Fresh truffle from neighbour Jayson at The Truffle Farm is used to infuse a deliciously rich triple-cream brie-style cheese. With this, they pour a flight of three 80ml glasses matched to the truffled brie. Hungry yet?
Saturday 7 June–Sunday 31 August | Mount Majura Vineyard, 88 Lime Kiln Road, Majura | mountmajura.com.au
So France – So Good
This annual celebration honours the richness of French cuisine and the creativity of those who keep French gastronomy alive in Australia. Join the festivities by registering your activities or events to celebrate that special je ne sais quoi that makes French cuisine irresistible.
Tuesday 17 June – Wednesday 2 July | Various locations | sofrance-sogood.com
Stage and Screen
Canberra Comedy Club featuring Frankie McNair
This will be a wild night of comedy with MICF best newcomer winner Frankie McNair headlining. Plus, don’t miss Carlo Ritchie as MC and the multiple support acts!
Wednesday 2 July | Fun Time Pony, 122 Alinga Street, City | comedyact.com.au
The Pirates of Penzance
Gilbert and Sullivan’s beloved operetta follows Frederic’s adventures with the infamous Pirates of Penzance, featuring romance, duty, and ingenious paradoxes in this classic tale.
Thursday 3 until Sunday 13 July | The Q – Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, Queanbeyan | qprc.sales.ticketsearch.com
Cinema & Sips at Verity Lane Market
A free movie screening with themed cocktails, fresh popcorn, and dinner from market vendors in a cozy community atmosphere? Yes please.
Thursday 3 July | Verity Lane Market, City | veritylanemarket.com.au
Spanish Film Festival
Head along to Palace Electric to see a superb mix of contemporary and award-winning films from Spain and Latin America. Featuring Festival Centrepiece EL 47 and other acclaimed titles including UNDERCOVER, OCHO, and THE JOCKEY, grab your popcorn.
Tuesday 11 June – Wednesday 2 July | Palace Electric Cinema | spanishfilmfestival.com
Meteor Shower by Steve Martin
Corky and Norm are excited to host Gerald and Laura at their home in the valley outside Los Angeles to watch a once-in-a-lifetime meteor shower. But as the stars come out and the conversation gets rolling, it becomes clear that Gerald and Laura might not be all that they appear to be.
Over the course of a crazy, starlit dinner party, the wildly unexpected occurs. The couples begin to flirt and insanity reigns. Martin, using his trademark absurdist humour, bends the fluid nature of time and reality to create a surprising and unforgettably funny new play.
*Contains adult themes 15+
Saturday 26 June – Saturday 5 July at 7.30 pm. Matinee performance at 2 pm on Saturday 5 July | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Markets
The Little Burley Market
This waterside market features gourmet food and artisan stalls with magnificent lake views, multicultural cuisines, handmade crafts, live local talent, and free kids’ arts activities!
Saturday 5 July | Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.com.au
Canberra Fashion Market
Discover designer labels and quality pre-loved fashion including clothing, shoes, bags, jewellery and accessories from Australian and international brands at this bustling market with free entry.
Sunday 6 July | Fitter’s Workshop, Kingston | canberramarkets.net.au
Hartley Hall Markets
This monthly family-friendly market features local produce, baked goods, plants, furniture, arts and crafts among the trees with live entertainment and children’s activities supporting people with disability.
Sunday 6 July | Hall Showground, Hall | hartley.org.au
Capital Region Farmers Market
Sample the region’s freshest produce from over 100 stallholders who bring freshly picked, grown and hand-crafted goods to Canberra. Speak directly with growers and learn cooking tips while supporting the Rotary Club of Hall’s community projects.
Saturdays, 7 am-11:30 am | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Mitchell | capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au
Haig Park Village Markets
Browse delicious cuisines, fresh produce, artisan products and locally handmade crafts while enjoying live music, an artists’ table and family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect Sunday outing in leafy Braddon.
Sundays, 8 am – 2 pm | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.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. 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
Sport & Wellness
No Lights No Lycra Canberra South
Shake off the week’s stress and lose yourself in the music at this unique dance experience running since 2016. No choreography, no technique required—just you, the darkness, and complete freedom to move however feels good. Dance to an eclectic mix of rock, EDM, pop, disco, R&B, 80s, funk, and country in a welcoming space that’s dark enough to feel uninhibited but light enough to see. This genuine community attracts people of all ages (20s to 70s), abilities, and genders, with children over 12 welcome with adult supervision. Come as you are—lycra optional, comfort essential.
Every Thursday (except school holidays), doors 7:20 pm, lights out 7:30 pm | Weston Creek Community Centre, Cooleman Court | nolightsnolycra.com
Brindabella Winter Dance Weekend
This will be a fun-filled weekend where you’ll learn historical dances from Renaissance to Victorian eras, with themed balls and afternoon tea dances for all skill levels.
Friday 4 until Sunday 6 July | Wesley Church Hall, Wesley Uniting Church, National Circuit, Forrest | historicdancedelights.org.au
MĀFANA Flow
Cultural wellness gathering blends breathwork, movement, sound healing, and Pacific Island culture in a lakeside setting led by Tongan yoga teacher Nancy Mahina.
Saturday 5 July | The Jetty, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | eventbrite.com.au
Raiders v Dragons
Don’t miss this doubleheader featuring NRLW and NRL matches, with the Raiders hosting Dragons at GIO Stadium including the famous Viking Clap celebration.
Saturday 5 July | GIO Stadium, Battye Street, Bruce | raiders.com.au
Quiet Mornings at the Mint
Don’t miss these monthly peaceful museum visits designed for those with heightened sensory needs, featuring reduced noise and smaller crowds for relaxed exploration.
Saturday 5 July | Royal Australian Mint, 62-114 Denison Street, Deakin | ramint.gov.au
Sound Healing Winter
Free your body from discomfort with ancient instruments including gongs, crystal bowls, and didgeridoo, designed to unlock stored emotions and achieve deep relaxation.
Sunday 6 July | Flow and Food Yoga & Ayurveda, G06/253 Northbourne Avenue, Lyneham | flowandfood.com.au
The British and Irish Lions vs ACT Brumbies
Don’t miss this historic rugby match as the Lions return to Australia after twelve years, combining the best players from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.
Wednesday 9 July | GIO Stadium, Battye Street, Bruce | giostadiumcanberra.com.au
Workshops, Talks and Programs
2025 Craft + Design Canberra Daily Challenge
Explore daily creative practice throughout July with the theme “Rewilding” to support wellbeing and contentment in this evolving community program.
Every day in July | Online | events.humanitix.com
MEGAfauna: Look Alike
Dive into Australia’s Ice Age megafauna at the Botanic Gardens with trails, presentations by children’s author Bronwyn Saunders, and art workshops with Tom Buckland using natural materials.
Tuesday 1 until Thursday 31 July | Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | parksaustralia.gov.au
Cut & Paste Collage Workshop
Go along to this three-hour relaxed evening session with artist Greta Cooper, where you’ll combine meaningful photos with collage techniques while enjoying wine, cheese, and creative connection.
Wednesday 2 July | PhotoAccess, 30 Manuka Circuit, Griffith | photoaccess.org.au
Wand-Making Class
Have a Harry Potter fan in the house? These school holidays, craft magical wands imbued with ancient lore, followed by scrumptious “butterscotchy” QBrew beverages for young witches and wizards!
Wednesday 2 until Sunday 20 July | Quizzic Alley, 5 Pirie Street, Fyshwick | quizzicalley.com
Book launch: Peculiar Parents
Join children’s author Stephanie Owen Reeder and illustrator Ingrid Bartkowiak to uncover the perfectly peculiar world of Australian animal families with their new book Peculiar Parents. Expect readings, craft activities, and reptile zoo animals!
Saturday 5 July | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | library.gov.au
Family Orienteering
Take the kids to this drop-in botanical puzzle adventure using maps and clue sheets to explore forests and gardens. It’s perfect for families during school holidays.
Saturday 5 until Sunday 20 July | National Arboretum,Forest Drive, Canberra | nationalarboretum.act.gov.au
Music
Zachary Li – Piano Recital 2025
Don’t miss this talented young pianist performing works by Bach, Mozart, Chopin, and Harvey in the Wednesday Lunchtime series, showcasing pieces from classical to contemporary periods.
Wednesday 2 July | Wesley Music Centre, Forrest | trybooking.com/CYREM
Ensemble Offspring – Divine Darkness
This drama-infused contemporary music program featuring David T. Little’s spellbinding Ghostlight, transcending traditional concert hall rituals. Don’t miss it!
Friday 4 July | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, City | thestreet.org.au
Der Rosenkavalier – a Love Triangle Reduction
Calling all romance lovers! The National Opera presents a condensed version of Richard Strauss’s beloved opera, complete with narration capturing the essence of longing and passion.
Friday 4 to Saturday 6 and Thursday 10 to Friday 11 July | Albert Hall, 100 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla| nationalopera.org.au
Vinyl Lounge
Put this monthly listening party where vinyl lovers share treasured records and music stories in your diary. There will even be drinks and snacks before the session starts!
Friday 4 July | National Film and Sound Archive, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
Toni Childs – A Retrospective
This is a jam-packed two-hour performance celebrating the Grammy-nominated artist’s career, featuring hits from Union and House of Hope plus new music!
Friday 5 July | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Bliss n Eso | Party on the Moon Tour
Don’t miss this legendary Australian hip-hop crew as they bring explosive high-energy show with special guest Ivan Ooze for their 28-date tour.
Friday 5 July | UC Refectory, Bruce | ucx.canberra.edu.au
The Armed Man
In this concert, the Canberra Choral Society and National Capital Orchestra perform Sir Karl Jenkins’ powerful Mass for Peace alongside Elena Kats-Chernin’s Human Waves.
Friday 5 July | Llewellyn Hall, William Herbert Place, City| premier.ticketek.com.au
Children’s Concert: Something Old, Something New
This pre-concert performance of Something Old, Something New is designed for young children. Featuring thirty minutes of music and instrumental show-and-tell in a relaxed, informal setting, it’s perfect for curious young minds.
Sunday 6 July | Wesley Uniting Church, 22 National Circuit, Forrest | apeiron-baroque.com
Something Old, Something New
Don’t miss Apeiron’s Chamber Series exploring baroque gems alongside contemporary music inspired by the baroque era, featuring internationally recognised guest artists and special compositions.
Sunday 6 July | Wesley Uniting Church, 22 National Circuit, Forrest | apeiron-baroque.com
Exhibitions
“The Glass Skin” by Bronte Cormican-Jones & Megan Wilkinson
Featuring a series of sculptural and performative works with glass by early-career artists Bronte Cormican-Jones and Megan Wilkinson, the exhibition explores the role of glass in architecture and the relationships between architecture and the body through space, material, and perception.
Architecture frames our understanding of our bodies in space, and contemporary design increasingly employs windows and glass walls to separate interior and exterior realms, as well as public and private spaces. The artists examine glass not only as a structural element but also as a membrane that mediates our experience of space and perception.
Friday 4 to Sunday 20 July | Platform, 19 Furneaux Street, Manuka | canberracontemporary.com.au
Intentos de procesar una(s) vida(s) – Attempts at processing a life(s)
Experience the deeply personal artistic journey of mid-career artist Zoya Godoroja-Prieckaerts in her powerful dual-titled exhibition, Intentos de procesar una(s) vida(s) – Attempts at processing a life(s). This compelling collection of drawings and gestural printmaking explores different moments and emotive phases from the artist’s life over the past three years.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness raw artistic expression that transforms personal experience into universal emotional resonance.
Saturday 5 July until Saturday 16 August | Megalo Print Studio + Gallery, 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | megalo.org
LUSH (Gatya Kelly) and QUEENS (Fiona Smith) at Grainger Gallery
LUSH by Gatya Kelly is an ode to beauty—to ripeness and shadow, to forms revealed and secrets softly kept.
QUEENS by Fiona Smith is a parade of fabulous Queen-inspired birds in ornamental frames.
Gatya and Fiona will be at the opening (Thursday 12 June, 6pm) to celebrate the exhibitions and provide an insight into their practice.
Until Sunday 6 July | Building 3, I Dairy Road, Fyshwick | graingergallery.com.au
Taglietti: Life in Design
Discover the world of The Global Architect, Enrico Taglietti (1926–2019), a visionary whose design principles shaped modern Australian architecture and left an indelible imprint on Canberra, the city he and his wife Franca chose to call home. Celebrating the centenary of Taglietti’s birth, Taglietti: Life in Design explores the life, philosophy, and legacy of one of Australia’s most original architects.
Saturday 7 June–Sunday 22 February 2026 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, City | cmag.com.au
Cézanne to Giacometti: Highlights from Museum Berggruen / Neue Nationalgalerie
Cézanne to Giacometti: Highlights from Museum Berggruen / Neue Nationalgalerie marks the first time works from this internationally significant collection will be seen in Australia. The exhibition presents a journey through the dynamic changes in European and Australian art in the twentieth century. Don’t miss it.
Until Saturday 21 September | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Wish You Were Here – Community Exhibition
Discover the beauty and uniqueness of Canberra’s South through this community exhibition curated from an open call for small works. Local artists reflect on the Tuggeranong Valley and South Canberra environment, sharing what makes their region special through diverse artistic expressions.
From everyday joys to memorable moments, this collection celebrates the things that bring delight to those who live, work, and visit this vibrant part of the capital. A heartfelt tribute to community connection and place, showcasing the artistic talent flourishing in Canberra’s southern suburbs.
Friday 13 June – Saturday 9 August | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com
True: Kevin Gilbert (1933-1993)
Celebrate the life and legacy of Kevin Gilbert through this powerful exhibition of prints and poetry marking what would have been his 92nd year. Featuring images and poetry created during his lifetime alongside works edited for the first time, this tribute explores Gilbert’s core themes of spiritual presence and cultural survival.
Through lino prints, poetry, and photography, witness how Gilbert’s work enhanced the cultural survival of his people against colonial oppression. A moving testament to an artist, writer, and activist whose vision continues to inspire and educate.
Friday 13 June – Saturday 9 August | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com
From Country – Rechelle Turner & Megan Daley
Experience the deep-rooted connection to Country through this collaborative exhibition by Megan Daley (Ngunnawal/Wiradjuri) and Rechelle Turner (Wiradjuri). “From Country” explores timeless stories, heritage, and identity through the lens of their artistic partnership that also birthed their fashion label, Corella & Crow.
This celebration of Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri cultures invites audiences to experience layers of belonging, wisdom, and spirit that inspire their creative journey. Discover how landscapes, cultural knowledge, and ancestral connections shape and sustain contemporary Indigenous artistic practice.
Friday 13 June – Saturday 9 August | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com
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
Reflection: 50 Years of the Australian Honours System
Discover the remarkable story of Australia’s honours system through a fascinating exhibition at the Royal Australian Mint. “Reflection” celebrates five decades of recognizing extraordinary Australians, featuring original medal sketches by Stuart Devlin, finished medals, and commemorative coins from the National Coin Collection.
Explore the journey from design concept to final recognition, including the 2003 Volunteers Fine Silver Proof Set, Afghanistan Medal displays, and stunning wattle-themed collectibles. This free exhibition honors over 500,000 Australians who have contributed to our nation’s spirit.
Now open | Royal Australian Mint, Deakin | Free entry | ramint.gov.au
In Bloom
In Bloom explores the beauty and symbolism of flowers. Featuring more than 50 portraits from the National Portrait Gallery collection, new acquisitions and selected loans, you will discover how flowers have long been used in art to express emotion and convey messages of personal, cultural and religious significance.
The show is a weird and wonderful floral extravaganza that includes much-loved and lesser-known works from the collection. See socialites, chefs, musicians, actors, doctors and politicians who are all unified by their accompanying floral markers.
Saturday 31 May 2025 until Sunday 19 April 2026 | National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | portrait.gov.au
Precarious Proximity
An exploration of the dynamic relationship between glass and porcelain by artists Jo Victoria, Robyn Campbell, and Julie Bartholomew. The exhibition celebrates the interplay of solidity and openness, reflection and refraction, highlighting the interconnectedness of humanity and environment through contrasting materials.
Thursday 12 June – Saturday 26 July | Craft + Design Canberra, 180 London Circuit, Level 1, North Building, Canberra | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Gestures of Retribution
Gestures of Retribution by Amy Carkeek, a Brisbane-based artist and researcher whose work investigates the contradictory nature of photography, the commodification of images and objects, and the manipulation of everyday language
Thursday 19 June until Saturday 12 July | photo access, 30 Manuka Circuit, Griffith | photoaccess.org.au
The River Report
The River Report by Natalie Davey, a multidisciplinary artist from Fitzroy Crossing in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, whose video work is a five-day map of when the normal Yitilal (wet season) turned into a major disaster displacing the local communities.
Thursday 19 June until Saturday 12 July | photo access, 30 Manuka Circuit, Griffith | photoaccess.org.au
The Faces of Caring
A vibrant and heartwarming Textile & Fibre Art exhibition from local charity Good Omen Goodeze (GOG), this exhibition showcases the extraordinary creativity of GOG members from across the ACT and beyond, featuring everything from bold yarn installations to whimsical soft sculptures, and intricate pieces rich with personal meaning.
What started as small stitching circles in lounge rooms has grown into a thriving creative movement bringing people together through craft, connection and kindness.
Visitors are invited to explore the display and enjoy morning tea alongside artists and members from GOG’s various meetups across the region. The exhibition is part of GOG’s ongoing mission to foster wellbeing, creativity, and community connection through crafting.
From Saturday 21 June until Sunday 20 July | The Link, Ginninderry – 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn | goodomengoodeze.org.au
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.
The beautiful place where we live by An Pan
Canberra based artist An Pan’s Australian landscape exhibition is a true record of the natural scenery of the cities and countryside he has lived and visited in the past 35 years. From these paintings you can see Australia’s unique natural scenery, historical buildings and human culture.
Until Sunday 6 July | Generator Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
GW Bot: Portrait of a landscape
For the past four decades artist GW Bot has been based in Canberra, specifically in Belconnen, and has worked in the surrounding landscape of the Monaro plateau, the remnant grasslands of Canberra and the Murrumbidgee River corridor. Her work views nature and landscape as active collaborators.
Until Sunday 6 July | Pivot Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
HABITAT – An Open Printmaking Exhibition
Printmakers from throughout Australia are being invited to respond to the theme of what HABITAT means to them. Explore the beauty of these precious ecosystems, suburban, industrial, and other built landscapes. All finalist works will be eligible for selection in the AUD500 People’s Choice Award.
Until Sunday 6 July | West Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
Rendering the Invisible by Igor Kochovski
The exhibition revolves around the themes of seeing and transforming – a certain fascination with the physical world in which the visible coexists and is in constant dialogue with the invisible, gave impetus to the works and formed the common thread between them.
Until Sunday 6 July | Window Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | belcoarts.com.au
The Lodge by Amala Groom
The Lodge is the third moving image work in Amala Groom’s Raised by Wolves series. Filmed on Ngunnawal Country in Canberra’s Parliamentary Triangle, The Lodge engages with Groom’s history of direct action at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy and ceremonial rites of passage within and without the halls of Parliament House spanning the past 20 years from activist to advocate to artist.
The work references David Lynch’s Twin Peaks and its White and Black Lodges, reinterpreting them as the indivisible duality of ‘light’ and ‘dark’—a dynamic embodied by Canberra’s historical and political landscape.
Until Saturday 12 July | 19 Furneaux Street, Manuka | canberracontemporary.com.au
Am I in your way by Racquel Ormella
Am I in your way? extends Raquel Ormella’s career-long focus on the visual cultures of protest and resistance. This exhibition takes as its starting point the position of Canberra Contemporary at the centre of the Parliamentary Triangle as a site to consider past and present formations of national identities.
In this current moment of charged international and national relationships through conflict and brinkmanship, the work looks at the ways political protestors use their bodies as direct forms of passive disruption. In an environment where attitudes towards legitimate disruption and protest are changing, Am I in your way? is a timely exploration of an emerging criminalisation of ‘inconvenience’.
Until Saturday 12 July | 19 Furneaux Street, Manuka | canberracontemporary.com.au
KULATA TJUTA: TIRKILPA
Kulata Tjuta: Tirkilpa is the largest and most significant installation of the culturally important and visually spectacular Kulata Tjuta (Many Spears) Project.
Like others in the series, it is rooted in age-old traditions, knowledge and skills that are designed around keeping Country and culture strong. On show at the National Gallery of Australia head along to see the large-scale, multi-disciplinary installations that incorporate film, sound, live performance and other artistic collaborations.
Safari Art – Neil Sloan
Journey through East Africa with Queanbeyan artist Neil Sloan’s vibrant collection of works on paper. “Safari Art” captures the raw energy of travel and cultural exchange through expressive printmaking, collage, drawing, and journaled musings created on-site during his African travels.
These layered works reflect connections with local communities, diverse landscapes, and wildlife, serving as both vivid snapshots and deep personal reflections of the region’s richness. Sloan, a Megalo Print Studio member and two-time Molonglo Prize winner, balances abstraction and realism in this compelling solo exhibition exploring responsive arts practice.
Until Saturday 19 July 2025 | Rusten House Arts Centre, 87 Collett Street, Queanbeyan | qprc.nsw.gov.au
Fit to Print: Defining Moments from the Fairfax Photo Archive selected by Mike Bowers
Showcasing the best of Australian photojournalism, the National Library has invited renowned Australian photojournalist Mike Bowers to select some of his favourite images from the Fairfax Photo Archive.
Tracing the art of photojournalism from its infancy to the highly illustrated news stories you know so well today, the free exhibition explores how the pioneers of press photography in Australia developed their storytelling skills.
Until Sunday 20 July | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | More information here.
Resonance – Art as the Voice of Nature
This exhibition at the Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG) showcases art from the NatureArt Lab teaching team and community, nature journals and natural history objects collected over our eight years of operation.
Celebrating the richness of biodiversity and the deep connections between art and the natural world, the exhibition extends beyond visual art, incorporating community engagement, school programs, and international nature tours spanning Borneo, Costa Rica, the Galapagos Islands, Amazonian Ecuador, and Peru.
Until Sunday 27 July | 176 London Circuit, City | More information here.
The Immersive World of Thom Roberts
This is the first solo exhibition for this multidisciplinary, contemporary Australian artist opens at the National Portrait Gallery. Showcasing over 100 works spanning his prolific, decade-long career, the exhibition features painting, installation and animation, as well as major new work, inviting audiences to consider the world through his eyes.
Until Sunday 20 July | National Portrait Gallery | portrait.gov.au
Camel trains to steel wheels
Explore a colourful chapter of Australia’s history at National Archives’ exhibition Camel trains to steel wheels: life on the Trans-Australian Railway.
This exhibition features fascinating archival records, photos and footage that captured the events and challenges from the railway’s first 60 years, including its impact on First Nations people.From the construction effort and its diverse workforce to the unique lives of communities that sprang up along the line, this is a must-see exhibition for those who revel in Australia’s railway history through time and place.
Until 19 October | National Archives of Australia, Kings Avenue, Parkes | naa.gov.au
The Whole is Greater than the Sum of Her Parts
Play and create in The Whole is Greater than the Sum of Her Parts, a dedicated interactive space created by artist Sanné Mestrom. Building on artistic dialogues initiated by the exhibition Cézanne to Giacometti, Mestrom transforms abstract cubist forms into a playable adventure.
Until Saturday 21 September | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Outer Space: Stromlo to the Stars
Celebrating 100 years of Mount Stromlo Observatory, this interactive exhibition highlights groundbreaking astronomical discoveries and the vibrant community of scientists and families behind them. Features immersive installations, historical objects, and interactive activities perfect for all ages.
Until 16 November | Canberra Museum + Gallery, City | More information here.
A Total Work of Art: Sidney Nolan and the Stage
Celebrate 50 years of Nolan’s cultural legacy with the Canberra Museum and Gallery’s year-long program of exhibitions, concerts, talks, and a symposium. A Total Work of Art: Sidney Nolan and the Stage showcases Sidney Nolan’s dynamic stage designs for opera, ballet, and theatre. You’ll discover costumes, set designs, and the iconic “Lyrebird” costume from The Display, 1964.
Until 8 March 2026 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, City | More information here
