The Ginninderry Festival is coming… and it’s completely free (yes, even the rides)
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Mark Saturday 29 August in your calendar, because the inaugural Ginninderry Festival is coming – and it sounds like the perfect way to welcome spring.
It’s a whole afternoon of unfiltered fun for the whole family, with local music and community vibes. Here’s what we’re excited for.
Tasty food, markets and more
Browse market stalls to discover community makers and small businesses, from Good Omen Good Eze’s beautiful handmade creations to Bonnie’s Boho Designs, Upcycled by Trish’s thoughtfully repurposed pieces, and Turtle and Rose Creations’ unique offerings. Then tuck into delicious food from local food trucks and vendors including Dumpling Diplomat, GRILL-AX, Slinko, Tikka Stand Food Truck, Tacontento, and Ricco and Dulce. There’s genuinely something for every appetite and taste.
And if you want to see how some of Canberra’s most talented artists actually work, wander into the open studios at Strathnairn Arts. It’s not just food and shopping – it’s a genuine celebration of local creativity and community enterprise.
Meet and greet with Mal Meninga
If you’re a Raiders fan (or raising one) NRL and Raiders legend Mal Meninga will be making a special appearance at the festival for a meet and greet. One of the greatest players the game has ever seen, Mal is a beloved figure in Canberra and a true icon of the green machine. It’s a rare chance to meet the man himself.
Free rides
If your kids (or let’s be honest, you) are thrill-seekers, this is your moment. We’re talking unlimited free rides on everything from a Giant Slide to a Pirate Ship, Cups and Saucers, the Storm, and Bungee Trampolining. Whether you’re five or 50, there’s something to get your heart racing.
Live music
Ginninderry’s brought in a seriously good local lineup to soundtrack your afternoon. You’ve got Michael Bray with soulful, engaging performances, Azlan bringing his distinctive percussion-infused guitar looping, Maddy Proud’s genre-spanning warmth, The Po Boys, and the Amosa Family rounding it all out.
Activities for the kids
And did we mention there’s plenty more to tire out the kids on a Saturday afternoon? There will be face painting, roving performers keeping energy high, games, and a free bike repair station (brilliant for anyone whose trusty two-wheeler needs a bit of TLC).
What to know before you go
Park in the Strathnairn Arts overflow carpark on Gullifer Street.
Wear comfy shoes because you’ll be walking around exploring.
THE ESSENTIALS
When: Saturday 29 August, 2 pm–7 pm
Where: The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn
Cost: Completely free (rides, entry, activities, everything)
Web: For more information, follow Ginninderry on social media or visit the event page.
