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This week, Canberra serves up UC Fest, a witches picnic at the Botanic Gardens, Chilean independence celebrations, Circa’s circus take on Swan Lake complete with sequinned flipper-wearing ducks.
And that’s just the beginning! Read on for loads more ideas for making the most of your week.
Don’t miss…
Play Tennis Week – head’s up!
Play Tennis Week is coming next week, and it’s your chance to jump on court!
To celebrate spring, clubs across the ACT and Region are offering FREE court hire all week from Monday 22 to Sunday 28 September! So grab a mate, family member or a colleague and let’s play tennis!
Redeem code: ‘PLAYTENNIS’
Head to play.tennis.com.au to book your free court
University of Canberra Open Day Festival
UC transforms the traditional open day into a full-scale community festival welcoming everyone. This first-ever event combines university showcases with live music headlined by Jack River, Slam! Pro Wrestling League, hands-on faculty activities, free blue doughnuts, food vendors, and a dedicated Kids Zone with jumping castles and face painting.
Saturday 20 September | University of Canberra, 11 Kirinari Street, Bruce | canberra.edu.au
Inferno by Mikaela Stafford at the NFSA
Preview the immersive installation by internationally recognised Australian artist Mikaela Stafford before it opens to the public. This free audiovisual experience blends monumental 3D motion graphics, kinetic sculpture and dynamic lighting with a powerful soundscape by composer Kate Durman.
The sci-fi-infused world explores identity, memory and matter through a hyperreal journey anchored by a large-scale resin sculpture emerging from a 12-metre digital screen.
Until 16 November | NFSA Gallery & Courtyard, McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au
Duck Pond
Circa’s exuberant take on Swan Lake reimagines the romantic ballet as a circus spectacular. Featuring signature physicality, cheeky humour and contemporary energy, this tale sparkles with sequinned flipper-wearing duck armies and burlesque black swans. Sumptuous aerials, jaw-dropping acrobatics and feathers create a touching, funny and utterly entertaining experience about identity and finding your true self.
Thursday 18 until Saturday 20 September | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Floriade 2025
Australia’s Biggest Celebration of Spring returns for its 38th year with the theme ‘Science and Nature’. Transforming Commonwealth Park into a dynamic space of discovery with one million blooms, vibrant garden beds, hands-on workshops, talks and family activities, swap your gardening gloves for a lab coat and dive into nature’s laboratory while wandering through spectacular floral displays.
Until Sunday 12 October | Commonwealth Park, City | floriadeaustralia.com
Spring Film Series at the NFSA
Arc Cinema at the NFSA presents a rich and adventurous film season celebrating cinema’s brightest, darkest, and most unforgettable moments. From lovable heroes and iconic villains to glamorous stars and heartwarming stories, this program offers big-screen moments for everyone with striking cinematography and compelling narratives.
Until Sunday 30 November | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
The Canberra Witches Picnic
Held at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, this is a free ticked event that provides a chance for local witches to meet others in the community and share food, drink and exchange a gift. Symbolising the beginning of change and growth, the picnic will have an Ostara and Spring Equinox theme and dressing for the occasion is encouraged!
Saturday 20 September | Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | Register here.
Shaw Estate Open Day
Shaw Estate opens its doors for an enchanting day showcasing timeless elegance and rustic Mediterranean chic. Wander picturesque grounds, explore the wedding room, and ceremony gardens. Meet expert wedding coordinators, enjoy canapés and refreshments, then experience the curated menu with optional lunch bookings available.
Saturday 20 September | Shaw Estate, 34 Isabel Drive, Murrumbateman | shawestate.com.au
1975: Living in the Seventies
Step back 50 years and immerse yourself in the unforgettable year that was 1975! The National Library of Australia’s fascinating new exhibition explores what it was truly like to live in the seventies, from the dramatic political upheaval of Gough Whitlam’s dismissal to the cultural phenomena that defined the decade.
Discover iconic fashion like flared jeans and platform shoes, relive the magic of Countdown’s glam rockers Skyhooks and ABBA’s infectious pop, and explore groundbreaking Australian films like Picnic at Hanging Rock. This colourful celebration brings together objects exploring politics, conflicts, popular culture, food, fashion, and sport in iconic seventies design, revealing a complex story beyond Baby Boomer nostalgia.
Until Saturday 1 February 2026 | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place, Canberra | library.gov.au
Special Events and Festivals
La Fonda at Cypher Brewing Co.
Cypher Brewing transforms into a full Chilean fiesta celebrating La Fonda for Chilean Independence Day. Expect three days of live Latin American bands and DJs, dance performances, authentic Chilean food and drinks, markets and family fun to create one of their biggest cultural weekends. Round up mates and family – come hungry for this epic celebration.
Friday 19 until Sunday 21 September | Cypher Brewing Co., Gungahlin | cypherbrewing.com.au
50 Years on the Beat: The Legacy of Constable Kenny Koala
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Constable Kenny Koala, the AFP Museum presents a major temporary exhibition honouring the iconic community policing mascot held at the National Capital Exhibition, Regatta Point.
Known for educating children about safety since 1975, Kenny Koala is beloved by generations of Canberrans. This exhibition captures his origins, evolution, and ongoing impact on public trust and community engagement. Visitors will experience five decades of memorabilia, puppets, costumes, media, and interactive learning tools that showcase the enduring values of kindness, education, and public service.
Friday 19 September 2025 to Wednesday 18 March 2026 | National Capital Exhibition, Regatta Point | nca.gov.au
French-Australian Preschool Community Fête
This promises to be a delightful community gathering featuring market and food stalls, wine and cheese, cakes, plants, French and English books, kids activities, entertainment and more celebrating French-Australian culture and community connections in the heart of Red Hill.
Saturday 20 September | 31 Astrolabe Street, Red Hill | facebook.com
EPIC Travel Expo
The EPIC Travel Expo returns bigger, bolder and better with next-level deals to inspire your travels. Enjoy food trucks, impressive motorhomes and coaches from Outback Spirit and Langleys. Features presentations from 24 suppliers, over 70 world travel brands, and your chance to win a $4,000 travel voucher.
Saturday 20 September | Coorong Pavilion, EPIC, Corner Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell | eventbrite.com.au
Kambah Spring Sustainable Fair
A community celebration of sustainable living featuring hands-on workshops covering permaculture, composting, soil health, slow food preserving and more. The fair includes a Repair Café pop-up, preloved clothes swap, e-bike ride and try, local craft stalls, and info stalls from sustainable organisations.
Sunday 21 September | Diversity ACT Community Hub, 8 Laidlaw Place, Kambah | facebook.com
Food and Wine
Four the Love of Spring at Leyla Bar
Celebrate spring with four cocktails, four bites and city views between 3.30–5.30 pm every Saturday in September at Leyla Bar. Over two hours, enjoy four distinctive Four Pillars cocktails, each thoughtfully paired with a seasonal small bite to highlight its character–from bright and citrusy to rich and spiced.
Set on the rooftop with sweeping city views, this spring celebration offers a curated experience showcasing the versatility of Four Pillars gin through expertly crafted cocktails designed to capture the essence of the season.
Every Saturday in September, 3.30–5.30 pm | Leyla Bar, Burbury Close, Barton | leylabar.com.au
Markets
Harvest Stall
Nothing beats home-made jam, fresh chutney and garden herbs made with seasonal organic produce from the Arboretum’s Kitchen Garden and forest fruits. Stock up on jams, chutneys, preserves and seedlings made by Arboretum volunteers. Visit the accessible Kitchen Garden for backyard growing inspiration. Cashless event supporting Friends of the Arboretum projects.
Saturday 20 September | National Arboretum, Forest Drive, Canberra | nationalarboretum.act.gov.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
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, pet treats and more.
Sunday 7 am -11.30 am | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip | facebook.com/SouthsideFarmersMarketCanberra
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
Stage and Screen
Peter/Wendy
Ribix Productions presents the Australian premiere of Jeremy Bloom’s hauntingly beautiful reimagining of the classic. Wendy journeys to Neverland, meeting Peter’s crew – a swearing fairy, perennial flower and lost boy. But shadowy beasts roam, mermaids wail, and Hook lurks. Playful and inventive, it explores what it means to grow up when some children never get the chance.
Until Saturday 27 September | Mill Theatre, Building 3.3/1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick | ribixproductions.com.au
Spring into Cinema at the NFSA: A Season of Stars, Stories and Spectacle
Arc Cinema at the NFSA presents a rich and adventurous film season celebrating cinema’s brightest, darkest, and most unforgettable moments. From lovable heroes and iconic villains to glamorous stars and heartwarming stories, this program offers big-screen moments for everyone with striking cinematography and compelling narratives.
Until Sunday 30 November | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
NFSA Restores Films for Spring
Two landmark Australian films return in pristine digital restorations. The Sentimental Bloke (1919), Raymond Longford’s adaptation of C.J. Dennis’ verse novel with new ARIA-winner Paul Mac score, follows Bill’s romance against real Sydney locations. Plus Jane Campion’s debut Sweetie (1989) in 4K restoration, starring Karen Colston in this darkly comic family drama.
Tuesday 16 September | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
Italian Film Festival
The largest celebration of Italian culture and film outside Italy returns with the best new Italian cinema. Opening with Paolo Genovese’s hit comedy “Somebody to Love,” the festival features acclaimed dramas, box office sensations, and entertaining tales exploring Italian identity and contemporary life across multiple genres.
Wednesday 17 September until Wednesday 15 October | Palace Electric Cinema, New Acton | italianfilmfestival.com.au
Lend Me A Tenor
Free-Rain Theatre presents Ken Ludwig’s award-winning comedy set in 1930s Cleveland Grand Opera. When a world-famous Italian tenor’s performance goes hilariously wrong, expect slamming doors, mistaken identities, miscommunication, and romantic twists in this fast, funny, high-octane farce that charges toward resolution with delicious nonsense.
Wednesday 17 until Saturday 27 September | ACT Hub, 14 Spinifex Street, Kingston | acthub.com.au
Wim Wenders Spotlight at the NFSA
Don’t miss these four landmark films from the acclaimed German filmmaker including Alice in the Cities (1973) and Palme d’Or winner Paris, Texas (1984) screening on 35mm. Plus Tokyo-Ga (1985), Wenders’ personal journey through Japan searching for traces of Yasujirō Ozu, and Wings of Desire (1987). Available as 4-film spotlight pass.
Friday 19 September | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
The Story of the Oars
A hidden thing can’t remain hidden forever. The Street Theatre presents the world premiere of award-winning writer Nigel Featherstone’s bold new theatrical work with spoken-word songs and music by Jay Cameron. Set on Australia’s east coast in the mid-1980s, four teenagers, including three brothers drown on a lake. Thirty years later, with the lake now dry, four strangers gather to commemorate the tragedy and unburden themselves of the truth.
This deeply human play explores Australia’s propensity to tell untruths about its history and the costs of telling the truth. Featuring evocative spoken-word poetry fused with music, the production tackles themes of class, privilege and accountability through striking imagery and powerful performances. Directed by Shelly Higgs with live music and a brilliant four-actor ensemble.
Friday 19 until Sunday 21 September | The Street Theatre, City | thestreet.org.au
Takatapui
Māori shapeshifter Daley Rangi examines queer joy and violence with love and rage in this electrifying storm of story and sound. Armed with microphone and killer heels, this transformative work explores identity complexities through visceral lyricism, cavernous soundscapes, disco outbreaks and macabre humour. A blistering call to action that haunts and heals.
Friday 19 until Sunday 21 September | Canberra Theatre Centre, City | canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Multiple Skit-osis
Canberra’s comedy and theatre scene is about to get a flavour-packed twist with Multiple Skit-osis, a onenight- only showcase of outrageous skits, stand-up, and musical theatre.
Opening the event is the new comedic play Cheetos and Consequences by Kirsty Budding, brought to life by a brilliantly funny local cast: Kath Welling, Jill Young, Kiz Welling and Rosie Welling. Directed by Lily Welling, Cheetos and Consequences is a fast-paced suburban comedy that begins with two mums creeping downstairs in their PJs after hearing a loud noise, convinced there’s been a break-in. Instead of burglars, they find their daughter Rosie – smeared with Cheeto dust and mascara – who has returned early from a disastrous sleepover. What follows is a whirlwind of adolescent melodrama as Rosie recounts tales of Swiftie rivalries, Roblox garden wars, and an accidental broken window. But perhaps Rosie’s version of events isn’t entirely true…
Multiple Skit-osis is more than just cheesy fun. The fundraising event brings together some of Canberra’s most talented performers, all donating their time in support of 12-year-old Rosie Welling’s Kokoda Trail trek to raise awareness and funds for people living with Multiple Sclerosis, a cause close to her family. Audiences can expect an eclectic mix of comedy sketches, stand-up routines, original short plays, and unexpected surprises – and all for a good cause.
Saturday 20 September, 7 pm | T.B. Millar Hall, Radford College | trybooking.com
Music
Music for Woodwinds: Classics and Curiosities
The Wesley Music Centre Lunchtime Concert series welcomes back the fabulous Woodwinds Group in the Band of the Royal Military College, Duntroon. Their concert will showcase all of the RMC Band’s woodwind ensembles, from the whole group to quintets, quartets, trios and duos, performing a variety of contemporary and classical music.
Wednesday 17 September, 12.40 pm–1.20 pm | Wesley Music Centre, 20 National Circuit, Forrest | trybooking.com
Hank Marvin Gypsy Jazz
Guitar icon Hank Marvin brings his renowned Gypsy Jazz ensemble to the East Coast for one night only. Following Melbourne standing ovations, Marvin joins accordion virtuoso Nunzio Mondia and rhythm guitarist Gary Taylor for an electrifying fusion of swing, soul, and technical brilliance featuring Django Reinhardt tributes and Shadows classics.
Friday 19 September | The Zeppelin Room, Harmonie German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | bit.ly/HankMarvinGypsyJazz
Harmonic Curves Concert Series 2025
This concert series is presented by Alice Giles AM (Harp) and Arnan Wiesel (Piano) with diverse guest artists in the Wesley Music Centre’s beautiful Mansfield Room. From Romantic favourites to newly commissioned works, programs offer wide musical palettes. Features Piano Four-Hands, Penta Harp Ensemble, Romantic Piano, Harp and Flute, Piano and Spoken Word, plus Love Songs performances.
Sunday 21 September | Wesley Music Centre, Forrest | alicegiles.com
Sport and Wellness
Make friends, discover connection, try tango
Forget tango in movies. Tango is a social dance, one that is more interesting and accessible than what is often seen performed or shown on screen. This introductory tango course provides an opportunity for people to connect with themselves and others, and learn to dance tango.
The four-week course is presented by the Tango Social Club of Canberra. It will provide opportunities for people to meet each other, make friends and learn to dance socially together. It’s designed for absolute beginners and best suited to people 35 to 50 years old. No experience or partner needed.
Friday 19 September to Friday 10 October, 6.45–7.45 pm | Balanced Yoga, 39 Jardine Street, Kingston | trybooking.com
Come and Try Dragon Boating
Dragons Abreast Canberra offers people with breast cancer diagnoses the opportunity to try dragon boating – a dynamic water sport blending camaraderie, strength and paddling thrills. This empowering journey brings survivors and supporters together, forming an uplifting community that celebrates resilience and builds lasting connections.
Saturday 20 September | Grevillea Park, Menindee Drive, Morshead Drive, Barton | revolutionise.com.au
The Yoga Big Day Out
Founded in 2012, The Yoga Big Day Out is a Canberra-grown, one day mini wellness festival designed to give you a full-service retreat experience, without having to travel far from home.
This year, gather at the National Museum with gorgeous view of Lake Burley Griffin for a day dedicated to self-care. With connection, community and fun prioritised, you’ll learn from some of Canberra’s most experienced wellness professionals.
Beginning the day with Yoga, followed by Pilates, chatting with a panel of self-care experts over lunch and ending the day with Acupuncture-assisted restorative Yoga and meditation this is a unique healing experience.
Fully catered with delicious, healthy vegetarian food sourced where possible from the local region by the National Museum chefs, the Yoga Big Day out is a great way to seasonally update your diet, deepen your understanding of holistic wellbeing and enjoy some relaxing time out with lovely likeminded people in the stunning surrounds of Lake Burley Griffin.
Saturday 20 September, 9 am–4 pm | National Museum, Lawson Crescent, Acton | YBDOSelfCareSaturday.eventbrite.com.au
Women Only Adventure Race Canberra
More than an event experience – it’s about women prioritizing health and fitness while strengthening bonds with family, friends and colleagues. Teams of two women navigate a secret course by foot (5km), mountain bike (10km) and kayak/SUP (2km). Stable sit-on double kayaks provided. All fitness levels welcome for this weekend of genuine fun and boundary-pushing.
Sunday 21 September | Canberra, 291 Lady Denman Drive, Molonglo Valley | womensadventurerace.com.au
Workshops, Talks and Programs
Defending Australian Territory with Dr Andrew Carr
Honorary Fellow Dr Andrew Carr discusses his research on Australian defence policy history, exploring personal papers of politicians and officials from the 1960s-80s. Learn how Australia’s elite considered continental protection and geography. Senior Lecturer in Strategic and Defence Studies Centre at ANU, author of multiple defence policy publications.
Wednesday 17 September | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | library.gov.au
Archaeology of water with Dr Chris Carter
Archaeologist Dr Chris Carter explores how humans have managed water for power and pleasure across diverse landscapes. Journey from Chile’s Atacama Desert to the Arabian Peninsula, Philippine terraces to Andean Peru and Australia’s water management history. Discover positive and negative impacts of water access and control on human lifeways.
Thursday 18 September | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | library.gov.au
An introduction to EV transition for corporate fleets
As Canberra accelerates towards a cleaner transport future, fleet managers and business leaders need the right knowledge to navigate this exciting shift. This comprehensive workshop at CIT Woden brings together industry experts from the National Electric Vehicle Centre of Excellence to demystify the journey from petrol to electric.
Over one full day, participants will dive deep into the practical aspects of fleet electrification using NEVCE’s proven 15-Step Model. Led by electrical engineer Toby Roxburgh and his experienced team, the workshop covers charging infrastructure, vehicle configurations, and finance strategies. With lunch included and early bird pricing available until 5 September, it’s a valuable investment for organisations serious about their sustainability goals.
Thursday, 18 September, 9 am–4 pm | Canberra Institute of Technology, Woden | nevce.au/evshortcourses
Wonder Walks – Venturing into the wetlands | Eggpicnic + Lori Gould
As part of Craft + Design Canberra’s Tracing the Sky exhibition program, we invite you to step outside the gallery and into the living, breathing landscape of the Jerrabomberra Wetlands for Wonder Walks—a guided, immersive experience led by leading ecologist and restoration expert Lori Gould.
Thursday 18 and Sunday 21 September, 10–11:30 am | Jerrabombera Wetlands Nature Reserve | events.humanitix.com
Visual Art + Design for the Stage Full-Day Forum
Expect engaging presentations, panel discussions and performances by leading artists, designers and curators. Discover how Sidney Nolan and Arthur Boyd shaped Australian stage design and contemporary innovation across disciplines. Features live Joy Hester-inspired reading, behind-the-scenes stories, curator-led Nolan Gallery tour and networking reception.
Friday 19 September | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, City | cmag.com.au
Stories from the Wetlands: Australia and Chile Paper Toy Workshop
Celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations between Australia and Chile through wetlands exploration. Discover iconic species from Latham’s Snipe to Atacama Toad through presentations, then create wildlife paper toys. Choose from four Chilean and Australian animals to colour, cut, fold, and take home as biodiversity reminders.
Saturday 20 September | Craft + Design Canberra, 180 London Circuit, City | events.humanitix.com
World Dance Workshop
Folk Dance Australia presents a weekend workshop with internationally renowned teacher Lee Otterholt from Norway. One of the world’s foremost teachers and choreographers of recreational world dancing, Lee teaches throughout Europe, the US and East Asia. This Australian workshop covers a range of dances suitable for beginners and intermediate students in an engaging weekend format.
Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 September | Folk Dance Canberra Hall, Hackett | leeotterholt.com
Folk Dance Workshop with Lee Otterholt
Folk Dance Australia presents a weekend with internationally renowned world dance teacher Lee Otterholt from Norway. This professional dancer, teacher, and choreographer teaches recreational world dancing suitable for beginners and intermediate students, bringing European festival experience to Australia.
Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 September | Folk Dance Canberra Hall, 114 Maitland Street, Hackett | folkdanceaustraliaworkshop@gmail.com
Q&A Screenings at the NFSA
Two special Q&A screenings celebrating Australian stories. See Crocodile Dundee: The Encore Cut, a 4K remastered version, followed by Q&A with Restoration Producers. Then enjoy Harder & Harder (2025), following The Hard-Ons’ comeback journey, with director Jonathan J Sequeira Q&A. Fresh conversations about Australian identity, culture and the music industry’s evolution.
Saturday 20 September until Thursday 6 November | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
Young Rangers Program
This is an ACT Parks Rangers program for nature enthusiasts aged seven to 15 to develop knowledge and skills in natural environments. Join Rangers and special guests exploring nature-based topics, making friends and asking questions. Parents/guardians attend free. Various activities available – check the website for upcoming sessions and pricing.
Sunday 21 September | Jerrabomberra Wetlands Office, 2 Dairy Road, Fyshwick | actparks.bookeasy.com
Middle-Earth Muses | Lord of the Rings Life Drawing
Blend sipping, snacking and sketching Middle-earth style at this hobbit-friendly life drawing session. All skill levels welcome for this 2-hour quest featuring timed poses from 2-25 minutes, with breaks for drinks and sharing sketches. Drawing materials provided or bring your own. Gather your fellowship for this magical mix of creativity and laughter.
Sunday 21 September | PJs in the City, 52 Alinga Street, City | tipsysketching.club
Seasonal Ayurveda Cooking Workshop
This is an interactive workshop guiding you through understanding, preparing and eating a delicious, balanced Ayurvedic meal. Learn traditional principles, make seasonal dishes including dhal, spiced rice, aromatic vegetables and stovetop bread. Includes recipe handbook, ghee-making tutorial and understanding of six Ayurvedic tastes for balance and satiation.
Sunday 21 September | Flow and Food Yoga & Ayurveda, Lyneham | flowandfood.com.au
Lights, Camera, Book Club | In partnership with Canberra Writers Festival
Screening of The Joy Luck Club followed by discussion with special guest Alice Pung OAM and Beejay Silcox. Explore Amy Tan’s adaptation of her bestselling novel about Chinese American mothers reflecting on traumatic history and daughters grappling with American life. An emotionally powerful film experience with expert literary discussion.
Sunday 21 September | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton | tickets.nfsa.gov.au
Exhibitions
The Essence of Canberra
On 11 September 1945, a meeting was held in the then 2CA Theatrette in Civic. It decided to form the Canberra Photographic Society. To celebrate the Society’s 80th anniversary, an exhibition of members’ images on the theme of The Essence of Canberra. There will be 40 framed prints by current members and a video showing historical images of Canberra by current and past members.
The exhibition will be officially opened by ACT Chief Minister, Andrew Barr at 2 pm on Thursday 11 September (exactly 80 years from the society’s first meeting). All are welcome to attend. Free admission. No tickets required.
Until Saturday 11 October | Civic Library, Civic Square, London Circuit, Canberra City | cpsgallery.smugmug.com
Elliot Fox’s Saint Grey
When art meets advocacy, something truly special happens – and that’s exactly what Canberrans will experience at the highly anticipated opening of Elliott Fox’s ‘Saint Grey’ exhibition. Following a spectacular sold-out Sydney debut that drew over 100 people and 11 greyhounds, this powerful collection arrives at Q Gallery in Ainslie, showcasing greyhounds as the sentient, loving family members they truly are.
Local artist Elliott Fox, who lives in Canberra with his rescue greyhound and artistic muse Adam Barker, has created something far beyond pretty pictures. His sculptures, paintings and screen prints use layered, multi-dimensional techniques to engage audiences emotionally and intellectually, transforming how we see these gentle giants. The exhibition’s centrepiece – the awe-inspiring ‘Saint Grey’ sculpture – serves as both artistic triumph and beacon of hope for greyhounds worldwide.
Until Thursday 25 September | Q Gallery, Ainslie | q-gallery.com.au
Back to Burgmann Artist Residency Exhibition
Celebrated visual artist Julian Twigg returns to Burgmann College this September, bringing his distinctive style back to where his artistic journey began. Known for capturing the ever-changing moods of Port Philip Bay through simplified forms, bold colour palettes, and gestural brush techniques, Twigg used his artist residency at Burgmann College earlier this year to explore more tranquil scenes and sights around Canberra, the ANU, and Burgmann College, using blocking compositions in watercolour pencil on-site and painting in the studio with the impression still fresh on his mind.
This intimate exhibition offers Canberrans a rare opportunity to experience Twigg’s work up close, showcasing his art residency at Burgmann College that stretched and expanded his technique repertoire beyond his familiar maritime themes and plein air paintings. His technique of building up paint in thick, expressive layers creates a sculptural quality that photographs cannot capture.
The afternoon promises genuine insights into Twigg’s creative process, plus the chance to enjoy traditional afternoon tea while discussing art with fellow enthusiasts.
Monday 15 September, 3–4 pm | Burgmann College AR Main Room, 52 Daley Road, Acton | Register at burgmann.anu.edu.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
Tracing the Sky: Celebrating the Wetlands of Chile and Australia
Art, ecology and cultural connection celebrating wetlands through sculpture, paintings, audiovisual works and augmented reality. This exhibition explores the shared importance of wetland ecosystems and migratory journeys, marking 80th anniversary of Chile-Australia diplomatic relations and highlighting the interdependence between nature, culture and movement across landscapes.
Until Saturday 20 September | Craft + Design Canberra, North Building, 1, 180 London Circuit, City | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Rendezvous: Notes from the Botanic Gardens
This is a group exhibition by Michael Desmond, Peta Jones, Bryn Desmond-Jones and Ossian Desmond-Jones exploring the Botanic Gardens as a meeting ground for plants and people. Four artists inspired by botanical diversity explore the rich architecture of forms, powerful symbolism and community memories found in this unique locale.
Until Sunday 28 September | M16 Artspace, Griffith | m16artspace.com.au
See What I See
The annual NatureArt Lab tutor exhibition showcasing the creative work and talent of their teaching team. Discover how educators observe, engage with and are inspired by nature. Opens alongside ‘Rendezvous: Notes from the Botanic Gardens’ offering fresh perspectives on seeing the world differently.
Until Sunday 28 September | M16 Artspace, Griffith | m16artspace.com.au
Paradox of Control by Maddie Hepner
Maddie Hepner’s personal exploration of trichotillomania draws parallels between the compulsive hair-pulling disorder and modern anxieties surrounding rapidly evolving emergent technologies. The exhibition examines digital fatigue and personal health in the digital age, using the artist’s lived experience to illuminate broader questions about control, compulsion, and contemporary technological life.
Until Sunday 21 September | Platform, Canberra Contemporary | canberracontemporary.com.au
Quiet Witnesses: Nature in a time of change
Acclaimed botanical artist Sharon Field presents new works inviting us into an intimate world of leaves, lichens and insects–organisms often overlooked yet increasingly vulnerable to ecological disruption. With signature precision and sensitivity, Field’s finely detailed drawings and paintings compel us to look more closely, feel more deeply and reflect on what is quietly vanishing around us.
As climate change accelerates, Quiet Witnesses offers a visual archive of ecological memory and loss, resisting the abstraction of data by reasserting human-scale connection to environmental change. Field’s work asks a quietly urgent question: in a rapidly changing world, what can we still see–and what might we already be losing sight of?
Until Sunday 5 October | Suki & Hugh Gallery, Bungendore | sukihugh.com.au
holy arm gauntlet
Tom Campbell’s recent work positions embroidery as a location for disagreement, exploring how the act of disagreeing both forges and fractures connection. Through textiles and poetry, the Kadazan/Scottish artist traces muscle memories across his lineages, investigating how poetry might navigate the bodily sensation of being ‘in disagreement.’
Until Wednesday 20 September | Craft + Design Canberra, 180 London Circuit, Level 1, North Building | craftanddesigncanberra.org
Material Transformations
Emma Bingham, Svenja Kratz and Sarah Stubbs explore how the body holds and sheds material memories through making. Working with paper, clay, thread, cell and surface, they investigate how physical matter can highlight emotional residues and deeply personal utterances, asking what transformation means to our physical and emotional bodies.
Until Wednesday 20 September | Craft + Design Canberra, 180 London Circuit, Level 1, North Building | craftanddesigncanberra.org
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
Four New Exhibitions at Tuggeranong Arts Centre
Discover four compelling exhibitions exploring art, mental health, and creative expression opening at Tuggeranong Arts Centre. “Patternmakers” features Vivienne Binns, Richard Blackwell, Ham Darroch, and Al Munro investigating pattern as visual phenomena and cognitive tool for processing complex problems. EASS Award winner Melanie Olde presents “Forest Growth,” woven artworks exploring emergence through plant growth algorithms and human-technology connections. Hank Reynolds’ debut solo show “Remedies” (curated by Christian Sirois) showcases his creative process as catharsis and mental health management tool. Vijaya Sen’s “Presence of Mind” features therapeutic works on paper including poetry, watercolour, and drawings from memory and dreams supporting her mental health recovery journey.
Until Saturday 11 October | Tuggeranong Arts Centre | tuggeranongarts.com
Whirlygig and the Book by Heidi Smith
This is an experimental project consolidating multiple aspects of Smith’s art making, generating interconnected textiles, drawings and sculptural objects. The exhibition resembles an uncanny loom weaving ideas, tatterdemalion costumes and expressing the experience of advanced illness and disability. Viewers consider creative pursuits’ benefits for wellbeing, mental health support and regenerative interactions through multidisciplinary making.
Until Sunday 12 October | The Window Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
Rescue by Lisa Jose
Go along to see sensitive portraits celebrating the compassion of rescue organisations and individuals caring for vulnerable animals. Lisa’s lifelong experience with rescue dogs and cats informs this exploration of the complexities in human-animal relationships. The exhibition invites contemplation of animal resilience and enduring trust while honouring the generosity embodying humanity’s best qualities.
Until Sunday 12 October | The Nook, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
Aware by Savanna Storm
In this exhibition, you’ll see unique jewellery telling environmental stories and the imperative to repair our Earth. It will inspire you to move beyond gemstones as mere aesthetics to consider layered meanings inviting social, political and ethical dialogue. Each piece carries titles evoking positive connotations while revealing deeper backstories. Acquiring a piece makes you a custodian – passing the story on honours our Earth.
Until Sunday 12 October | West Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
Around the Shimmering Lake by Rowena Evans
EASS Award recipient Evans investigates Lake Ginninderra’s shore and parkland, sharing place through sounds, sights, ambiences and impressions. Her research involves walking the lakeshore, observing, listening, drawing and collecting. The artwork considers relationships between theories, observations, distant hills and the physical satisfaction of making art, using materials from sites to link artwork to places.
Until Sunday 12 October | Generator Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.
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.
Until 13 October | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton | nma.gov.au
Light Source
Phenomenological experience of expanded cinema meets the immersive possibilities of light projection. The utopian opportunities opened up by Len Lye’s 1935 hand-painted film A Colour Box are taken up with gusto by a multi-generational pool of artists including Len Lye, Dirk de Bruyn, Mike Leggett, Joan Brassil, Taree Mackenzie, Deirdre Feeney, Ellis D Fogg, Pia van Gelder, Hannah Gason, Ross Manning, Nicci Haynes and Teaching and Learning Cinema.
Together these artists celebrate the role of light, projection and performance in connection to the history and continuity of abstract and expanded cinema.
Curated by Associate Professor Martyn Jolly and Tony Oates.
Until Sunday 19 October | Drill Hall Gallery, Kingsley Street, Acton | dhg.anu.edu.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
rising tide (marea crescent)
In conjunction with Light Source, the Riverbend Room will feature rising tide (marea crescente), by NOT.
In his 2025 installation rising tide (marea crescente), the coloured glass that has made Murano famous since the Renaissance is infused with uranium. When lit with blacklight, the work glows with a petrochemical luminosity suggesting something toxic at play beneath its watery surface.
The city of Venice is famously sinking. In its fluctuating lagoons is a world of human debris linking to the earliest examples of human settlement in the region – all forming the basis of rising tide. In blown fluorescent aqua vessels swirled with specks of bronze and Italian marble clinging to ancient forms, the artist dredges up memory and plumes of hope.
Until Sunday 19 October | Riverbend Room, Drill Hall Gallery, Kingsley Street, Acton | dhg.anu.edu.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.
Australia’s Home Front: 1939-1945
Explore everyday Australians’ vital role during WWII on the home front, from “make do and mend” to war bonds and women’s auxiliary work. Features unique objects and stories from Canberra and beyond, including the city’s surprising Manhattan Project connection. Presents resilience, innovation, and quiet heroism of those who supported the war effort, marking 80 years since the conflict’s end.
Until 1 February 2026 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, Canberra | cmag.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.
Until Sunday 22 February 2026 | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, City | cmag.com.au
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 .
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.
Until Sunday 19 April 2026 | National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | portrait.gov.au
Gurindji Freedom Banners
A powerful new exhibition commemorating the pivotal 1966 Wave Hill Walk-off opens at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Gurindji Freedom Banners: Mumkurla-nginyi-ma parrngalinyparla–From the darkness into the light unites all ten hand-painted banners for the first time in years, telling the story of when Gurindji and neighbouring peoples, led by Vincent Lingiari AM, walked off Wave Hill Station on 23 August 1966.
Their demands for fair working conditions and return of traditional lands sparked landmark change, leading to the first handback of Aboriginal land in 1975 and paving the way for the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976. The textile banners were created in 2000 by 35 Gurindji people, many walk-off participants, with one recently recreated after going missing.
Now showing until late 2026 | Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House | moadoph.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
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
