Posted on
Your essential guide to what’s on this weekend is here and it’s overflowing with things to do.
From the big events (think: Skyfire, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, and the Dahlicious Festival) to markets and fairs (including the Capital Region Farmers Market 20th Birthday Celebrations), food festivals, and more, this is the biggest weekend in March.
Here’s everything you can do – it’s a bumper lineup.
Special Events and Festivals
Skyfire
After a five-year hiatus, Skyfire is finally coming back with a literal bang! Lighting up Canberra with a live entertainment stage at Regatta point, aerial displays, food trucks and a 20-minute long pyrotechnic bonanza launched from barges situated in the central basin of Lake Burley Griffin (which includes 40,000 effects, 2,500 shells and 25,000 shooting comets) all set to a high energy soundtrack played simultaneously on Hit 104.7 and Mix 106.3, don’t miss this chance to see this fireworks spectacular.
Saturday 16 March | Lake Burley Griffin, Parkes | More information here.
Floral Heaven at Twyllo Flower Farm
From the ultimate dahlia experience – an afternoon to sip, snip and create magic with flowers – to a picnic for two that lets you drink, dine and wander the flower field with your favourite person, relax on a picnic blanket among the blooms, and take in live music, Twyllo Flower Farm is the destination for anyone who loves beautiful blooms and experiences.
On Saturday 16 March, it’s Date Night – Petals and Picnic. Enjoy Prosecco or beer on arrival, a charcuterie picnic for two, enjoy live music from Jack Billman and learn how to harvest dahlias. You’ll even take home a large vase and flowers!
Saturday 16 March | Twyllo Flower Farm | Find out more here.
New Orleans Funk Party
Grab your dancing shoes, pull out your maracas and get ready to party! You’re invited to this colourful creole-inspired New Orleans Funk Party featuring fantastic 10-piece funk showband Cajun Moon. All of your favourite drinks will be flowing, there will be a tambourine or two on the tables for you to really get into the groove, and what would a New Orleans party be without a parade? Join in the fun as their musicians lead the way!
Saturday 16 March | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | Book here.
Government House Open Day
Enjoy the beautiful gardens, tour the House and explore one of the most historic properties in Australia as Government House throws open their doors. Bring a picnic rug, pack some food and drinks (or grab yourself something from the sausage sizzle and local coffee vendors) and make the most of a beautiful day – no tickets required.
Saturday 16 March | Government House, Dunrossil Drive, Yarralumla | More information here.
The Showroom Canberra 2024
Calling all home and lifestyle lovers, this one is for you! This two-day event brings together Canberra’s most creative, innovative and informative industry professionals all under one roof. Expect to see quality home design, build, garden and lifestyle exhibitors, the popular Speaker Series presentations and unlimited inspiration!
Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 March | Budawang Pavillion Exhibition Park in Canberra, Flemington Rd & Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell | More information here.
Canberra Rock Swap
Jewellery, gemstones, fossils, rocks, mineral specimens and more. The Canberra Rock Swap is back again! Get ready for a fun two days filled with activities for the whole family – including lucky dips, and the chance to sieve for sapphires or pan for gold!
Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 March | Parrot Park, EPIC, Flemington Road, Mitchell | More information here.
Canberra Balloon Spectacular
Held over nine days, in March the Canberra skyline turns into a sea of colour and movement. Marvel at hot air balloons floating across the city as hot air balloons launch each morning from Patrick White Lawns and brave the dawn start for a hot breakfast and stunning views. This event is weather dependent, so keep your eye out for daily announcements if balloons will launch and fly – you can find them on the Enlighten website and via the Enlighten Festival and EventsACT social channels at around 6 am.
Until Sunday 17 March | Patrick White Lawns, Patrick White Lawns, Parkes | More information here.
National Sheep Dog Trial Championships
Is this the cutest event ever? The National Sheep Dog Trial Championships are taking over Hall to showcase a unique, inclusive, heritage sport where three species—sheep, dog and person—endeavour to work together to complete a course of three obstacles in fifteen minutes. It is the ultimate level playing field – it doesn’t matter if you are male, female, young, old or in a mobility scooter. Also….dogs!
Until Sunday 17 March | National Sheep Dog Trial Championships, 21 Gladstone Street, Hall Showground, Hall | More information here.
Dahlicious Festival
A yoga flow class among a field of dahlias, a guided dahlia tour, masterclasses, and more – this beautiful festival is a celebration of design, colour and dahlias. Running for the month of March, check out the program to see what’s happening when.
Until Sunday 31 March | The Commons at Pialligo, 12 Beltana Road, The Potting Shed, Pialligo | Book here.
Taste Local Week
Hungry? This ten day event showcases a range of local businesses as each of Verity Lane’s six vendors curate a special dish featuring a locally grown or produced ingredient. Think Kangaroo Prosciutto Pizza from Pizza Artigiana, crisp Pineapple Fritters from Rasa Rosa, with cinnamon, honey and vanilla ice-cream, and more…
Until Saturday March 23 | 50 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra City | More information here.
Canberra Comedy Festival
The biggest comedy event in Canberra is here to make you laugh through March. Showcasing international, national and local comedians across two big weeks, don’t miss major names like Melanie Bracewell, Akmal, Wil Anderson, and Chris Ryan as they take the stage at various venues.
Until Sunday 24 March | Various venues | Book here.
Alliance Française French Film Festival
The highly anticipated 35th season of the Alliance Française French Film Festival is back at Palace Cinemas for a milestone year of must-see French cinema. Between March and April, the world’s largest showcase of French cinema outside of France returns with a programme set to surprise, provoke and enchant. Expect to see charming period dramas, whimsical comedies, tantalising thrillers, and timeless classics. Starring French cinema legends like Juliette Binoche, Laure Calamy, and beloved Catherine Deneuve it is sure to be an unmissable event!
Until Sunday 7 April | Palace Electric Cinemas, Phillip Law Street, Canberra City | Book here.
Markets and Fairs
The Showroom Canberra 2024
Calling all home and lifestyle lovers, this one is for you! This two-day event brings together Canberra’s most creative, innovative and informative industry professionals all under one roof. Expect to see quality home design, build, garden and lifestyle exhibitors, the popular Speaker Series presentations and unlimited inspiration!
Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 March | Budawang Pavillion Exhibition Park in Canberra, Flemington Rd & Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell | More information here.
Capital Region Farmers Market 20th Birthday Celebrations
Join a day of celebrations as the Capital Region Farmers Market celebrates 20 years! There will be a birthday cake competition, kids activities, exclusive birthday treats, merchandise, live music and more!
Saturday 16 March | Exhibition Park, Mitchell | More information here.
ACT Miniature Show & Dollhouse Fair
Experience the enchanting world of miniatures at the ACT Miniature Show & Dollhouse Fair! You’ll explore meticulously crafted park scenes, featuring charming picnics and architectural wonders while admiring the talents of club members and artisans offering a diverse selection including kits, dolls, furniture, culinary delights, literature, fabrics, and decor essentials. Whether a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, there’s something for everyone!
Saturday 16 March | Weston Creek Community Centre, Whitney Place, Weston | More information here.
AusIndia Fair
Raising inclusiveness and bringing awareness of India’s contribution to the broader Australian society, this fun filled fair has something for everyone. Featuring several stalls and various attractions from the ACT and surrounding areas, there will be live performances, face painting, food stalls, music, poetry, skits, dancing, henna, Indian clothing stalls and more!
Saturday 16 March | Fitzroy Pavillion, EPIC, Exhibition Park (EPIC), Mitchell | More information here.
ACT Seasonal Antique and Collectable Fair
With up to 22 local and interstate dealers presenting a blend of antiques, old-world nostalgia, books, art, jewellery, pottery, silver, bronzes, furniture, linen, glassware, gift ideas and much more, you’re sure to find a treasure here! Proceeds will go towards local beneficiary charities supported by the Rotary Club of Murrumbidgee Canberra, so go support a good cause while indulging yourself with some antique shopping.
Until Sunday 17 March | Albert Hall, 100 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | More information here.
Little Burley Markets
Offering a diverse array of multicultural foods, much-loved beverages and brunchables, beautiful blooms, locally made art, fashion, photography and homewares, artisanal bread, delectable pastries, seafood, smoked charcuterie, truffles, meats, puppy treats, and much more, you’ll be able to find plenty of goodies at this bespoke lakeside market
8 am – 1 pm Saturday | Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.com.au
Haig Park Markets
Moments away from Lonsdale street’s boutiques and cafes, the Haig Park Village Markets will delight your senses with delicious cuisines, tasty treats, beautiful blooms, fresh produce, delectable charcuterie and artisan products. It’s a lovely place to enjoy a picnic whilst feasting your senses on the culinary delights on offer or to browse the fabulous local handmade design stalls.
8:30 am – 2 pm Sunday | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.com.au
Southside Farmers Markets
This village market is located at Canberra College, making it the perfect place to duck in to grab what you need (and maybe a few things you don’t). Order an egg and bacon roll to start the morning as you explore the best of fresh seasonal veggies, handmade pasta and pet treats.
8 am–11.30 am Sunday | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip | facebook.com
Old Bus Depot Markets
With more than 100 stalls (including your old favourites), you’ll have the chance to shop for a brilliant variety of Australian-made, handcrafted and premium products. Sneak a walk around the foreshore while you’re down there.
9.30 am – 2.30 pm Sunday | Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | obdm.com.au
Food and Wine
Feast along the lake at Skyfire
We mentioned the food trucks, right? Along with the beautiful light show, at Skyfire there will be live entertainment, food trucks galore, and more.
Listen to DJ Divito, Dragon, Jazzy K and more as you work your way through Grease Monkey, Mellabella Gelato, Jacko’s Pizza, Doing Donuts, and endless other eats, make sure to go hungry!
Saturday 16 March from 5 pm | Lake Burley Griffin, Parkes | More information here.
Luna Saturdays
Have you been to Luna yet? On Saturdays watch the bar transform for an evening where intrigue and luxury intertwine. There will be Cabaret Dancers, DJs and more! Book online or walk in.
Saturday 16 March | Luna, 99 London Circuit, City | More information here.
Craft Beer & Cider Festival
Featuring over 40 exhibitors from around Australia, this is your chance to try some amazing beer, cider, seltzers, gin, vodka and other premium spirits. Sounds amazing, right? You’ll enjoy live entertainment throughout the day, high-quality food and a range of family-friendly activities!
Saturday 16 March | Mercure Canberra, 39 Limestone Avenue, Braddon | Book here.
Sunday Soirée
Live music, a Bentspoke pop-up bar and gourmet food and drink offers…what’s not to love? Head along to the Hyatt Hotel for a relaxing Sunday afternoon that will have something for the whole family. Perfect for friends, families and couples looking for a chilled Sunday afternoon catch-up, book ahead or walk in on the day!
Sunday 17 March | Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | Book here.
Stage and Screen
A Weekend Of Cabaret & Art
A weekend of shows in Canberra celebrating performance, art and the bygone speakeasy era? Sounds like fun! Featuring award-winning performers from around the country plus some of Canberra’s finest, during this weekend of fun you can take part in life drawing, immerse yourself in a speakeasy experience or party until the sun comes up at the Speakeasy Soiree!
Friday 15 and Saturday 16 March | Aerial Sports, 18 Winchcombe Circuit, Mitchell | Book here.
Stunt Double
Have you ever watched an action movie and thought ‘I could totally be a stunt double?’ Well, now’s your chance to give it a go. Well – not quite. We should actually say that now’s your chance to step inside the filming of a 1970s Aussie action flick and help extraordinary stunt doubles as they cycle through take-after-take of high-octane flips, fights, and more. Basically, it’ll be an unforgettable ride and tongue-in-cheek dive into the absurd power dynamics of the film industry and the human cost of celebrity.
Until Sunday 17 March | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, Canberra City | Book here.
Canberra Comedy Festival at Tuggeranong Arts Centre
Head down to the Tuggeranong Arts Centre for two back-to-back shows: Unedjamacated and Laugh Bites. You’ll see some of Canberra’s finest new wave of comedians take the stage for a night of laughs!
Until Sunday 17 March | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Reed Street North, Greenway | Book here.
Music
The Gladflys
Don’t miss these Canberra rock legends take the stage! Supported by The Cashews, The Gladflys will be thrilling audiences with their tribal rhythms and cool bass lines. See you there?
Saturday 16 March | The Theatre, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | Book here.
Ancient Echoes: Jazz Music Meets Classic Chinese Poetry
This will be an extraordinary musical adventure brought to you by the Taipei-based jazz collective Zy the Way 中庸. Using poems from the ancient collection of poetry Book of Songs (Shijing 詩經) as the basis for their compositions, the performance will seamlessly blends 3000-year-old ancient Chinese poetry and original jazz.
Saturday 16 March | Auditorium, Australian Centre on China in the World, Building 188, Fellows Lane, Australian Centre on China in the World, Acton | Book here.
Canberra Blues Society Sunday Pro Jam
Get ready for a fine feast of excellent blues playing from a selection of Canberra’s finest blues musicians. Featuring outstanding musicians from further afield (and sometimes overseas), it’s a fantastic afternoon, with an open bar, restaurant food available to order, and a group of people who love to support the live music scene.
Sunday 17 March | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | Book here.
Exhibitions
A Century of Quilts
This exhibition showcases an often-overlooked art form made almost exclusively by women. Head along to see the National Gallery’s most requested work of art, The Rajah quilt 1841, and other exceptional examples of nineteenth- and early twentieth-century quilts. The exhibition also includes key examples of possum skin cloak designs by leading First Nations artists whose work has revitalised this historically important cultural and artistic tradition.
Saturday 16 March until Sunday 25 August | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here.
Backyard Archaeology
This exhbition at Canberra Museum + Gallery tells the story of thousands of small objects that Steve Brown collected from around an ordinary suburban house and garden. Exploring the history of his property and local area, the exhibition shows how a person can become deeply connected to found objects and how everyday encounters with lost and forgotten things can shape us and give us a ‘sense of place’.
Saturday 16 March until early September | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, Civic Square | More information here.
Narrow your Focus
Smith’s Window of Wonders Gallery is excited to host an exhibition of paintings by Marco Romero. He is resident artist at the Gorman Arts Centre and these works are the result of his transition from performing arts and filmmaking into visual arts. He says that “Narrowing the focus”, as opposed to amplifying it when directing for stage or film, has been one of the main conclusions drawn from this process. On Fridays and during the weekend, you might find him painting inside the shopfront. It might seem like some avant-garde performance act, but it’s just Marco, painting.
Until Friday 26 March | Smith’s Alternative, Melbourne Building, Canberra City | More information here.
Dust Storms Dance: A Landscape Group Show
Grainger Gallery presents a group of artists including Jessica Ashton, Kate Conrick, Greg Ferry, Melinda Giblett, Amanda Hinkelmann, Cate Maddy, Paul McCarthy, Garth Nichol, Rebecca Rath, Vanessa Stockard, Libby Wakefield and Nat Ward, all celebrating their love of the landscape in their own distinct ways. Opening Thursday 14 March at 6 pm
Until Sunday 7 April | Grainger Gallery, Dairy Road, Fyshwick
Rosalind Lemoh Solo Exhibition
Head to the Canberra Glassworks to see this new solo exhbition! Born in Sierra Leone and based in Gundaroo, New South Wales, Rosalind Lemoh’s artistic practice deeply examines identity within the Australian context. Serving as a means to explore her identity as a female artist of colour, engaging in a dialogue between personal identity and broader societal narratives, you’ll see a range of found objects that are meticulously replicated in concrete, bronze, aluminium, and for the first time, glass.
Until Sunday 28 April | Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | More information here.
Ralph Heimans: Portraiture. Power. Influence
This is the first major exhibition of the Sydney-born artist’s work in his home country. Featuring some of the most significant portraits in the artist’s career to date (from early major works such as his painting of HM Queen Mary of Denmark through to his most recent paintings), you’ll see some amazing works that have cemented Ralph Heimans as a internationally sought-after portraitist known for his meticulously realised paintings.
Until Monday 27 May | National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | More information here.
Vincent Namatjira: Australia in Colour
This exhibition of acclaimed Western Aranda artist Vincent Namatjira, Vincent Namatjira: Australia in Colour, charts the artist’s career, revealing the power of his painting and the potency of his words. Showcasing Namatjira’s burgeoning artistic practice, this major exhibition brings together paintings, works on paper and moving image from public and private collections nationwide, the exhibition will also feature a selection of watercolours from the national collection by the artist’s great-grandfather and critically acclaimed Western Arranda artist, Albert Namatjira.
Until Sunday 21 July | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here.
Duntoon Estate: Work With All Your Might
Nearly 200 years ago, merchant, philanthropist and politician Robert Campbell was granted 4,000 acres of land – advised by James Ainslie, he established a sheep station on the banks of the Molonglo River. Now, you can see never-before-seen objects and images from the house, families, woolshed and dairy that made up this extensive early estate thanks to this amazing exhibition.
Until Sunday 21 July | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, Civic Square | More information here.
Materiality…But Not As We Know It
Featuring new and recent works by ten artists and designers, who each have an association with the Canberra region, this exhibition explores what happens when ancient geology becomes a wall treatment – when acid transforms smooth shiny copper into organic dripping furniture – and when rich coloured glass formed into a coolamon holds the cultural knowledge of the flow of water on this Country.
Until late October | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, Civic Square | More information here.
Sport
Dragons Abreast Canberra – Come and Try Day
If you’ve had a breast cancer diagnosis or if you’re a supporter looking for a way to embrace life, celebrate resilience and build lasting connections, you might want to try dragon boating. Dragon boating can be an incredible source of physical and emotional healing for breast cancer survivors. It’s an empowering journey where survivors and supporters come together, forming a community that uplifts and inspires. Certified coaches will guide you through the basics before some easy paddling followed by a delicious morning tea, just make sure to dress in comfortable clothing that can get a little wet and wear covered shoes with a soft rubber sole!
Saturday 16 March | Grevillea Park, Menindee Drive, Barton (look for the pink marquee) | More information here.
Raiders v West Tigers
Feel GIO Stadium Canberra come alive as the Canberra Raiders take on the Wests Tigers in their exhilarating first home game of the 2024 NRL season! With a family-friendly afternoon kick-off, brace yourself for an action-packed Saturday of gripping footy.
Saturday 16 March | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Book here.
38th Weston Creek Half Marathon and 10km Community Fun Run
This iconic event is a must-attend event for runners and walkers. Known for its challenging and undulating terrain, there will also be lots of lucky draw prizes, heaps of food (including four varieties of hot cross buns), drinks, plus watermelon and bananas after the race. Enjoy the picturesque journey with stunning views of Lake Burley Griffin and get sweaty!
Sunday 17 March | Black Mountain Peninsula, Gary Owen Drive, Acton | More information here.
Ramsay Health Care Triathlon Pink
This isn’t your average triathlon – it’s all about the ladies and fun (and maybe a little fitness). Featuring a pool swim, closed roads and more pink than you saw at the Barbie movie premier, once you’ve had a taste, you’ll be hooked. All adult triathlon distances can be done in a relay team or as an individual, perfect for all fitness levels!
Sunday 17 March | Stromlo Forest Park and Leisure Centre, Dave McInnes Road, Wright | More information here.
Workshops, webinars and more
Floral Design Workshop
Learn from a qualified floral designer, and build your confidence to create with flowers! Miss Moss is hosting a hands-on Floral Design Workshop held in a beautiful garden setting, catering for all levels of experience. You’ll use seasonal locally grown flowers to create a beautiful arrangement to take home.
Saturday 16 March | Miss Moss Florals Home Studio, 19 Derwent Street, Lyons | Book here.
Opening Event & Gallery Floor Talk with Rosalind Lemoh
Head along to the Opening and Gallery Floor Talk Talk of Rosalind Lemoh’s latest exhibition! You’ll hear how her artistic practice deeply examines identity within the Australian context. Influenced by distinct and varied art history, concrete poetry, and natural history collections, her art serves as a means to explore her identity as a female artist of colour, engaging in a dialogue between personal identity and broader societal narratives.
Saturday 16 March | Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | Book here.
Know My Name: Wikipedia Edit-A-Thon
Did you know that just over 19% of biographies on Wikipedia are about women? And when it comes to women artists and creators, that number is even lower. Join Alice Woods, Education and Projects Officer, Wikimedia Australia and the National Gallery’s Research Library staff for a free interactive workshop where you will have the opportunity to work on Wikipedia entries for women artists. Presented in partnership with Wikimedia Australia as part of the National Gallery’s Know My Name initiative to increase representation of women and gender diverse artists, learn how to create and edit Wikipedia entries and help increase information about women artists.
Saturday 16 March | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | Book here.
Source: hercanberra.com.au
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
