Wine, French films, and grape-stomping galore: Your week in Canberra
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This week, Canberra is serving up a delectable mix of experiences that promise to entertain and inspire.
From grape stomping at Mount Majura Vineyard to an elegant wine and cheese masterclass, and the sophisticated screenings of the French Film Festival, there’s something to spark every interest and indulge every passion.
Read on!
Special Events and Festivals
Canberra Play Outside Day
Canberra Play Outside Day is back, and this time, it’s all about power tools—yes, actual power tools for both kids and adults! The legends from SALT Ladies Tradies will be there to show you how to use them, and the project of the day is a cheese board. Because nothing says “I’m an absolute pro at life” like serving snacks on a board you made yourself—and the best part? You get to take it home.
But that’s just the beginning. There’s an inflatable obstacle course, hammocks, slack lines, and garden games for some outdoor fun, along with charcoal drawing and crafts for the creative minds.
Live music will set the vibe, featuring performances from Angie Who, Bec Taylor and the Lyrebirds, Hoppa-T, and PRISM Jazz Ensemble. Roving performances will keep things interesting, including a bagpiper who may or may not appear out of nowhere.
For those who prefer a quieter space, a low sensory play area offers a calming retreat for little ones.
And, of course, the Haig Park Village Markets will be running from 7 am to 2 pm, because weekends call for good coffee and market snacks. To top it all off, you just might see the biggest bubble machine you’ve ever encountered! So grab your friends, bring the kids, and make a day of it!
Sunday 6 April, 10 am – 3 pm | Haig Park, top of Mort Street, Braddon | More information here.
Blue Eyes Burlesque
Step into the intimate Blue Eyes Bar, where burlesque artists in rhinestones and feathers will perform to sensual, elegant music for an unforgettable experience. Guests are encouraged to enjoy light snacks and specialty cocktails and mocktails throughout the night.
Thursday 3 April | Blue Eyes Bar, Level 1/5 Garema Place, City | blueeyesbar.com.au
Chief Minister’s Seniors Concert
Join COTA ACT for this special concert featuring the Band of the Royal Military College Duntroon. The band will perform two unforgettable shows with a mix of tunes from classics to popular and modern favorites.
Thursday 3 April | Hughes Community Centre, 2 Wisdom Street, Hughes | cotaact.org.au
RSPCA ACT shelter Open Day
RSPCA ACT invites animal loving Canberrans to visit this Saturday, 5 April to learn more about what goes on in a busy animal shelter.
The open day is a free, family-friendly event and is an opportunity for the community to engage with RSPCA ACT, meet some of the animals in their care, see the dedicated team in action behind the scenes and learn more about the work involved in caring for and rehoming animals in need.
Adoption fees will be reduced on the day and there will be a broad range of free activities including: puppy meet and greets, the chance to create toys and treats for shelter animals or take them home for your own pets, soft toy microchipping, shelter tours, and food and coffee trucks.
Saturday, 5 April, 10 am – 2 pm | 12 Kirkpatrick Street, Weston | Find out more here.
FENG x Vessl: Movement, Lifestyle, and Connection
Get ready for an afternoon where movement meets artistry, softness meets strength. FENG Activewear and Studio Vessl have come together for a one-of-a-kind experience at Lil Mama’s, an inspiring and creative space with vibrant, character-filled interiors.
Taking place on Saturday 5 April, your ticket includes a guided Matwork session led by Susu Feng, the Founder of Peak Pilates Canberra & FENG Activewear). Both Yoga and Pilates movements inspire the class, and you will step into a 50-minute practice designed to help you refocus on your wellness. You’ll leave the session feeling balanced, refreshed and more connected to yourself – a perfect way to start your weekend.
You’ll also enjoy a fresh beverage made by Lil Mama’s in a handcrafted ceramic cup crafted by Madeline Cardone (Founder of Studio Vessl), designed exclusively for FENG x Vessl collaboration. Plus you’ll receive a handmade FENG x Vessl pouch, and the chance to browse and purchase exclusive pieces from FENG & Vessl. There are limited spots available so you better be quick! *BYO Mat
Saturday 5 April, 2 pm – 7 pm | 17 Eastlake Parade, Kingston | events.humanitix.com
African Festival in the Park
Experience the heart and soul of Africa’s rich and diverse cultures through art, music, dance, fashion, and authentic cuisine at this annual free family event. Indulge in spicy jollof rice, agushi, seswaa, nyama choma, sadza, fufu, and more while forging new friendships!
Saturday 5 April, 10 am-8 pm | STAGE 88, Commonwealth Avenue, Parkes | africa2australia.com
Relay For Life Canberra
Join hundreds of Canberrans in this 24-hour relay to raise money for cancer research. This festival-like overnight event features activities, music and camaraderie as teams walk, run, or dance laps to signify that the fight against cancer never stops!
Saturday 5 April | AIS Athletics Track and Field Centre, Masterman Street, Bruce | relayforlife.org.au
Canberra District Stomp Festival
Explore Canberra’s wineries and producers during this must-visit autumn festival featuring exclusive tastings, live music, gourmet food and interactive experiences. Try grape stomping, winemaking workshops, chocolate tastings, cheese masterclasses and more throughout the region.
Saturday 5 April, 10 am-4 pm | Murrumbateman, Wallaroo, Hall, Majura, Gundaroo, Lake George | canberrawines.com.au
Grape Stomping at Mount Majura Vineyard
Join the team at Mount Majura Vineyard for an afternoon of grape stomping!
Get your shoes off and get into a bucket of grapes, and see how much juice you can extract in a minute! Your ticket will include your grape stomping session as well as wine tasting and a glass of wine.
Saturday 5 April, 1 pm – 4 pm | Mount Majura Vineyard, 88 Lime Kiln Road, Majura | canberrawines.com.au
Book Launch: The Colt from Old Regret
This is the story of the man from Snowy River and his fearless ride through the mountains, told from the Colt’s perspective, of nickering mares and a rearing stallion. What does Colt see, feel, and smell as he charges through the bush? Will he escape the snapping stockwhips, to find shelter in an alpine meadow?
Beloved children’s author Dianne Wolfer presents, together with illustrator Erica Wagner, an immersive read through of this new classic, followed by a hands-on crafting activity where children can collage their own horse.
This free event is aimed at children aged six and over, but all ages are welcome.
Saturday 5 April, 10.30 am – 11.30 am | Foyer, National Library of Australia Theatre, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Register here
Quiet Mornings at the Mint
On the first Saturday of each month, the Mint opens its doors earlier than usual for a morning of peaceful exploration.
Quiet Mornings are specially designed for those who might have heightened sensory requirements. So pop on in, have a leisurely stroll around the Mint’s exhibition space, and enjoy the reduced noise and smaller crowds.
Saturday 5 April, 9 am – 10 am | Denison Street, Deakin | Book your spot here
Alliance Française French Film Festival
Back for its 36th year, the Alliance Française French Film Festival will once again be treating local Francophile’s to the crème de la crème of contemporary French film from the last 12 months.
Transporting you to France without needing to buy a plane ticket or dedicate hours to Duolingo (thank goodness for subtitles), from biopics of legendary figures in French culture, to stories of l’Amour in all its forms, there’s something for everyone. Grab your popcorn, cause this is going to be good.
Until Wednesday 9 April | Palace Electric Cinema, New Acton | Book here.
Markets
Woden Seniors’ Big Book Fair
Browse through over 25,000 quality books at reasonable prices, plus jigsaws, DVDs, CDs, board games, and beautiful watercolours by the Woden Seniors’ Art group. Tables will be continuously restocked throughout the event, so there will be plenty to explore!
Friday 4 April, 10 am-4 pm | Woden Seniors | wodenseniors.org.au
Canberra Psychic & Wellbeing Fair
Browse beautiful stalls displaying crystals, handcrafted jewellery, candles, clothing, scents, and spiritual items at this special fair. You can also book readings with Australia’s top psychics and mediums or experience wax art readings, aura readings, spirit drawings, and reiki healing.
Saturday 5 April, 10 am-5 pm | Ainslie Football and Social Club, Wakefield Street, Ainslie | canberrapsychicfair.com.au
The South Canberra Community Markets
A fun-filled day with great street food, shopping, and live music. The kids will love the free Easter craft sessions, games alley, and tractor photos.
Tuck into the delicious street food, relax in the shady outdoor food court and listen to the live music. You can even pick up a new painting from the Charity Art Expo (done by local artists). All in a stunning rural setting.
Saturday 5 April, 10 am–2 pm | 244 Kambah Pool Road, Kambah | Find out more here.
Hartley Hall Markets
The Hartley Hall Markets are back! Stroll among the trees and browse stalls offering a variety of products, including food, locally grown vegetables, baked goods, plants, furniture, clothing, pottery, arts and crafts, and unique gifts. Stay for lunch and enjoy live entertainment and children’s activities.
Sunday 6 April | Hall Showground, Victoria Street, 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
The Little Burley Market
Enjoy this waterside Saturday market featuring multicultural cuisines, chef-created desserts, fresh pastries, beautiful blooms, handmade jewellery, artisan pottery and more. Take the kids for free arts and crafts while taking in magnificent lake views.
Saturdays, 9 am-2 pm | Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.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 Ave, Kingston | obdm.com.au
Food and Wine
Canberra Wine Week at East Hotel
Experience an intimate evening sampling wines from six of the region’s top wineries. Your ticket includes a 90-minute tasting experience, a delicious antipasto platter from Agostini’s, conversation with winemakers, and exclusive wine pricing.
Friday 4 April, 6 pm- 7:30pm | East Hotel, 69 Canberra Avenue, Griffith | canberrawines.com.au
Canberra Cellar Door
Explore a thoughtfully curated selection of local wines that changes with the seasons at this pop-up in the Canberra and Region Visitor’s Centre. Taste wines from multiple local wineries, discover the stories behind regional varieties, and purchase your favorites.
Saturday 5 April | Canberra and Region Visitors’ Centre, 30 Barrine Drive, Parkes | canberracellardoor.com.au
Le Cheeserie Wine and Cheese Masterclass
Do you have an obsession with cheese? In this special masterclass, the team from Le Cheeserie will hand-select three of their best and favourite cheeses, which will then be matched to a number of Mount Majura wines.
Plus, the masterclasses will have an expert on hand from both Le Cheeserie and Mount Majura Vineyard for all your cheese and wine-related ideas!
Saturday 5 April, 11.30 am and 1.30 pm | Mount Majura Vineyard, 88 Lime Kiln Road, Majura | mountmajura.com.au
Comfort Food Cabaret
Experience this multi-award-winning cabaret as Australia’s singing cook Michelle Pearson serenades diners while creating a delicious three-course canapé menu. Accompanied by a live band performing jazz, rock and pop, this unique show blends music, comedy, cooking class and pop-up restaurant!
Saturday 5 April, 5 pm- 6:30pm | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Reed Street North, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com
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
The Pirates of Penzance
Experience the Gilbert & Sullivan classic re-wired and re-booted for a 21st-century audience. This boisterously joyful adaptation is brought to life by just four bold performers, including Jay Laga’aia and Brittanie Shipway. The whole family will love it!
Wednesday 2 April, 7:30 pm – 9 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Interesting Oz Composers
The Wesley Lunchtime concert series welcomes back Linus Lee performing on both piano and the fabulous Wesley organ. His program features delightful compositions by Australian composers with interesting biographies.
Wednesday 2 April, 12.40 pm – 1.20 pm | Wesley Music Centre, 20 National Circuit, Forrest | Book here
Queer Screen’s 32nd Mardi Gras Film Festival
Enjoy the best new LGBTIQ+ films, including award-winning trans narrative “Crossing,” French comedy-drama “Somewhere In Love,” captivating “Dunio,” and “Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story,” plus curated short film collections.
Thursday 3 April | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton | queerscreen.org.au
The Australian Dream? With Tim Ross
In The Australian Dream? Architecture and design enthusiast Tim Ross casts his discerning eye across the archival treasures of our much-loved public libraries and uncovers the telling images that reveal a multi-decade story of Australian homes: how they’re sold to us, why we buy them and how we make them our own.
Ross explores the reasons why home ownership is such an all-consuming distraction among Australians and uncovers some of the unique and special ways we have built in this place.
Bookings are essential.
Thursday 3 and Friday 4 April, 7 pm to 8.30 pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place, Parkes | Tickets here.
Opera’s Bad Girl
A one-woman show with music (+Pianist) telling the story of the life of extraordinary trailblazing Victorian Diva, Anna Bishop, who carved a career traveling the world surviving extraordinary odds and events. Presented with story and arias and popular songs of the age.
Thursday 3 April, 7:30 pm. Friday 4 April, 7:30 pm. Saturday 5 April matinee, 2 pm | Canberra Repertory Theatre, Repertory Lane, Acton | Tickets here.
Swan Lake by Victorian State Ballet
Experience this spectacular classical ballet production featuring Petipa’s original choreography to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. Don’t miss the superb White Swan pas de deux, the thrilling 32 fouettés of the Black Swan and the world-famous Four Cygnets’ Dance!
Friday 4 April, 7 pm-9:40 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
NFSA Vinyl Night
Bring your treasured vinyl records to this monthly listening party featuring music from all genres and decades. Share your favorite music stories while enjoying drinks and snacks.
Friday 4 April, 5:30 pm-9 pm | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
Faulty Towers The Dining Experience
Step inside the BBC sitcom and interact with Basil, Sybil and Manuel in this highly improvised, immersive theater experience. Enjoy two hours of comedy and a three-course meal at this global sensation as it returns to Mercure Canberra.
Saturday 5 April, 7 pm-9 pm | Mercure Canberra, Corner of Ainslie & Limestone Avenue, Braddon | faultytowersdining.com
A Steam Train Passes: 50th Anniversary Celebration
Celebrate the anniversary of this highly awarded short documentary featuring the C38 class steam locomotive 3801. Your ticket includes a film screening, a discussion with special guests, a new documentary by Transport Heritage NSW, and never-before-seen footage.
Sunday 6 April, 1 pm-4 pm | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au
NFSA Weekend Documentaries
Drop in for free Australian documentaries offering windows into key moments in our history and culture. The current program includes “Bombora – The Story of Australian Surfing,” “A Calcutta Christmas,” “Harder than Everest,” and “Broken Journey, Mending Dreams.”
Every Saturday and Sunday | National Film and Sound Archive Theatrette | nfsa.gov.au
Elsie’s Film House
Elsie’s Film House is a pop-up cinema lounge and bar that screens retro favourites from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, 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!
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 2 pm | 180 London Circuit, City | Book here.
Autumn Film Series
Looking for a cosy escape this autumn? The National Film and Sound Archive has just announced an autumn film series that’s not to be missed. Enjoy their curated program of recent releases and revived classics, from high art to guilty pleasures. There’s something for everyone!
Check out the full program online.
Until Sunday 1 June | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | Book here.
Music
Pierce Brothers: 10 Years of The Night Tree
Don’t miss this as the Melbourne indie folk stars celebrate a decade of their breakout EP with a special tour featuring the first-ever vinyl release of “The Night Tree,” complete with new tracks and a live B-side. Fresh from supporting James Blunt, this show is expected to sell out quickly.
Thursday 3 April, 7 pm-11 pm | UC Hub, 11 Kirinari Street, Bruce | ucx.canberra.edu.au
Vargas Blues Band: Australian Tour
Experience Javier Vargas, Spain’s most acclaimed Blues and Blues Rock guitarist, as he brings his versatile blend of blues, rock, soul, latin and jazz influences to Australia for the first time. With eight platinum discs and collaborations with Carlos Santana, BB King and more.
Friday 4 April, 7 pm-10:30pm | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Ave, Narrabundah | bit.ly
Resonant Spaces: Sophie Hutchings
ARIA Award-winning pianist and composer Sophie Hutchings brings her deeply expressive style to this unique solo piano concert celebrating the intersection of music and visual art. Following the performance, join a discussion with the curator about the dialogue between music and Sidney Nolan’s art.
Friday 4 April, 7 pm-9 pm | Canberra Museum + Gallery, London Circuit | cmag.com.au
Damien Leith: Ireland Orchestrated
Following the sell-out success of Roy Orbison Orchestrated, Damien Leith returns with Ireland Orchestrated. This spectacular performance celebrates the rich musical heritage of his homeland with heartfelt renditions of beloved Irish classics such as Danny Boy, Molly Malone, and The Fields of Athenry, all backed by a full orchestra.
Saturday 5 April | Llewellyn Hall, Canberra | premier.ticketek.com.au
Canberra Big Band Collective
The first in a series of concerts for 2025 featuring In Full Swing and TraXion Big Band. TraXion will perform a range of modern big band tunes incorporating Latin, Funk and Soul genres, while In Full Swing brings over 30 years of jazz experience to the stage.
Sunday 6 April | Live at the Polo, 38 David Street, Turner | Trybooking.com
Shostakovich – National Capital Orchestra
The National Capital Orchestra opens its 2025 season with one of the most impressive works in the symphonic repertoire: the incomparable Symphony No. 5 by Dmitri Shostakovich. The program also includes Ella Macens’ “The Space Between Stars” and Weber’s Bassoon Concerto featuring Ben Hoadley.
Sunday 6 April | Snow Concert Hall, Red Hill | events.humanitix.com
Harmonic Curves: Piano Four-Hands
The first concert in the 2025 Harmonic Curves series features Arnan Wiesel and Aaron Chew performing piano four-hands. This concert series, presented by Alice Giles (harp) and Arnan Wiesel (piano) offers a wide palette of musical colours and styles in the beautiful acoustics of the Mansfield Room.
Sunday 6 April | Wesley Music Centre, 20-22 National Circuit, Forrest | alicegiles.com
Exhibitions
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.
2025 Emerging Contemporaries
Emerging Contemporaries is Craft + Design Canberra’s prestigious award exhibition celebrating the next generation of designers and makers.
In this showcase you’ll see works by early career artists from leading local institutions, including the Canberra Potters Society, Canberra Institute of Technology, and the ANU School of Art + Design, highlighting the diverse talent shaping the future of craft and design.
Until Sunday 5 April | Craft + Design Canberra, 180 London Circuit, City | More information here.
My unStill Life
My unStill Life by Cam Michael delves into the interplay between work and home life, celebrating the value of the familiar. Through a series of small, intricately crafted rooms, he recreates spaces that reflect parts of his home and studio.
Drawing on his experiences with disability, caring, and LGBTIQ+ identity and using glass, textiles, wood, and found objects, he reimagines everyday items distorted by memory.
Until Sunday 5 April | Craft + Design Canberra, 180 London Circuit, City | More information here.
The Omega Series
The Omega Series by Pamela Irving re-contextualises discarded objects and materials into new forms. In it, she uses sardine tins to create her Omega characters.
It’s a play on the essential omega 3 vitamin and the Greek letter Omega, representing the end, the ultimate limit.
Until Sunday 5 April | Craft + Design Canberra, 180 London Circuit, City | 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.
Our Home
Coinciding with the Heritage Festival, local artist Alex Lynn’s solo exhibition celebrates the beauty of everyday moments and the serenity of familiar landscapes across our region through a series of intimate oil paintings.
Alex’s work focuses on the urban-infused landscapes of Queanbeyan and its surroundings, capturing the essence of places Alex feels a deep connection to. His paintings reflect the calming atmosphere and stunning light of the region, offering viewers a chance to pause and visually immerse themselves in scenes from daily life – blending the ordinary with the extraordinary.
Saturday 5 April – Saturday 24 May | Rusten House Art Centre, 87 Collett Street, Queanbeyan | Find out more here.
FAKE & FAMOUS
FAKE & FAMOUS invites local artists to reinterpret some of history’s most famous artworks. This diverse collection of work spans painting, collage and sculpture, offering fresh perspectives on well-known masterpieces from artists like Monet, Frida Kahlo, and Van Gogh, among others.
Participating artists have taken on the exciting challenge of reimagining iconic works—some creating near-identical replicas, while others offer abstract or conceptual interpretations. The exhibition explores themes of homage, parody, and artistic transformation.
Saturday 5 April – Saturday 24 May | Rusten House Art Centre, 87 Collett Street, Queanbeyan | Find out more here.
The Fraudulent Isotopic Analysis by Visyaya Hoffie
Visaya Hoffie’s painting series reflects on shifting notions of identity, belonging and place. As inherited understandings of physical connection to materials, people and place are challenged, altered and at times denied, our relationships to materiality and imagery also shift; traditions become contested, overlaid, reconnected, integrated and transformed through new propositions.
Until Sunday 6 April | Platform, 19 Furneaux St, Manuka | More info 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
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.
Constellations by Robin Fox
Constellations is an unmissable immersive audiovisual experience in which sound, light, and space collide.
Internationally recognised, Australian-based audiovisual artist Robin Fox will transform The Gallery at the NFSA into a splendour of sound and light, with sixty crystal balls suspended from the ceiling, acting as target points for white laser lights that explode and refract on impact – splitting into a colourful cornucopia of light and sound. See you there?
Until Sunday 4 May | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton | More information 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.
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.
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.
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.
Sport and Wellness
Canberra Raiders vs Cronulla Sharks
Watch the Raiders take on the Sharks in a blockbuster Thursday night football match. See star halfbacks Jamal Fogarty and Nicho Hynes go head-to-head under the lights at GIO Stadium to kickstart round five of the season.
Thursday 3 April, 8 pm- 9:30pm | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | raiders.com.au
Yoga for Wellness & Joy: with Trish @ Sanctuary
Trish is committed to the collective wellbeing of all her clients and sharing the joy and benefits of Slow Flow Yoga. She is running classes at Sanctuary every Friday morning, followed by a cuppa!
No experience required. Wear loose comfortable clothing, bring a mat (if you have one), water, a small towel and a light blanket as the weather cools.
Every Friday, 7.45 am and 9.15 am | 17 Brockman St Narrabundah | Register by emailing trish@wisdominone.com.au
Saturday morning Yoga with Atmaraga Yoga
Interested in embarking on a yogic journey? Join Nandhini Nagaratnam on Saturday mornings for an hour long class focused on strength, flexibility, health and well-being.
Held in the Lennox Gardens, we dare you to name a better way to kick off the weekend than with a general-level yoga class by the lake. Classes may be cancelled due to bad weather, so make sure to register with your contact details by emailing yogaatmaraga@gmail.com. Each class costs $20 (payment can be made in advance, or in cash on the day) and you’ll need to bring a mat!
Saturday 5 April | Lennox Gardens, Flynn Drive, Yarralumla | Register with your contact details by emailing yogaatmaraga@gmail.com
Workshops and Programs
The First Eight Project: William ‘Billy’ Hughes Lecture
Join historian Dr David Headon for an illuminating lecture exploring the complex legacy of Australia’s controversial prime minister William Morris ‘Billy’ Hughes. Enjoy canapés while delving into Hughes’s remarkable six-decade political career and nation-shaping contributions.
Wednesday 2 April, 5:30 pm-7 pm | National Archives of Australia, Kings Avenue, Parkes | naa.gov.au
The Australian Dream? with Tim Ross
Join architecture and design enthusiast Tim Ross as he explores Australia’s obsession with home ownership through archival treasures from public libraries. Discover unique and special ways Australians have built in this place through telling images and compelling stories.
Friday 4 April, 7 pm-8:30pm | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West | nla.gov.au
The Horse’s Tale with Dianne Wolfer
Join beloved children’s author Dianne Wolfer and illustrator Erica Wagner for an immersive read-through of this new classic, followed by a hands-on crafting activity where children can create their own horse. Suitable for ages six and over, it will be lots of fun!
Saturday 5 April, 10:30 am – 11:30 am | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West | library.gov.au
ACT FrogWatch Pond Workshop
Learn how to turn your outdoor space into a vibrant, frog-friendly habitat with these hands-on workshops. By the end of the workshop, participants will have the knowledge and confidence to create their own frog habitat.
Saturday 5 April | Giralang Frog Pond Workshop 4 | Humanitix.com
From Naturalism to Abstraction: Lecture Series
Join Terence Maloon for “Cézanne’s posterity,” the seventh in a series examining the reorientation of painting from 19th-century Naturalism to 20th-century Abstraction. Learn how Cézanne, once marginal in the French art world, became the most influential artist of the early 20th century.
Sunday 6 April, 2 pm- 3:15 pm | Coombs Lecture Theatre, Fellows Road, Acton | dhg.anu.edu.au
The Tipsy Sketching Club
Whether you’re curious about life drawing, have been sketching for years, or are just after a fun time out with friends, join the Tipsy Sketching Club for an afternoon of sipping, snacking and sketching. The two-hour session includes a range of timed poses from two to 30 minutes, with breaks for drinks and food.
Sunday 6 April | Wakefield’s Bar & Wine, Shop 2, 1 Wakefield Gardens, Ainslie | tipsysketching.club
2025 Parkinson’s Australia National Conference
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to learn from international and local experts about the latest in Parkinson’s wellness, research, treatments, and more. It features three international keynote speakers and more than 20 local experts exploring everything from exercise and nutrition to the latest therapies.
Sunday 6 April until Tuesday 8 April | National Convention Centre, City | parkinsons.org.au
