Blog

Mar 05, 2024

Forget March—we think September might just be the biggest month of 2023

A combination of flower festivals, markets, performances and more, just in time for spring the city is blooming with 90+ events. Here’s our curated guide to what’s happening in Canberra this September

A combination of flower festivals, markets, performances and more, just in time for spring the city is blooming with 90+ events. Here’s our curated guide to what’s happening in Canberra this September (because this isn’t all of it).

If your idea of a weekend well spent is with a glass of something delicious (and botanically infused) in hand, you might want to know about Canberra’s newest spirit and food festival—Botanica. Bringing over 20 distillers and crafters together to help you taste, smell, and learn about the botanical, we’re talking four hours of sampling gin and spirits, eating at a variety of food trucks, shopping botanical ingredients, and purchasing plenty of full-sized products to take home.

Saturday 2 until Sunday 3 September | The Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | Book here.

If you’ve been missing your weekly visit to Canberra’s very own bespoke market by the lake, we have some good news—The Little Burley Market is set to return this September. Expect 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.

Every Saturday, 8 am – 1 pm from 2 September | Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | thelittleburleymarket.com.au

There’s a new musical in town this spring and the women of 1918 America are here to make their mark! Join Heart Strings Theatre Co on a 100-year time warp to the US Army frontlines, where the fearless women of America are fighting change within the patriarchal space. Packed with songs of companionship, and sharing the powerful stories of the spirited individuals who led the women’s wartime movement, The Hello Girls is an entertaining thought-provoking piece of theatre.

Thursday 7 until Saturday 9 September | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, Canberra City | Book here.

The theme? Floral Wonderland. Us? Keen. Canberra’s annual festival of spring is back for another year! With the theme of Floral Wonderland, across the month there will be a bouquet (sorry) of spring-y activities, including circus performances and cabaret in the Floriade Wonderland Spiegeltent, a show called Circus Wonderland: A Neverland Adventure and everyone’s favourite pooch bonanza, Dogs’ Day Out. Mark it in your calendar!

Saturday 16 September until Sunday 15 October | Commonwealth Park, Commonwealth Avenue, Parkes | floriadeaustralia.com

Well, pour me a wee dram and call me Nessie—your spring is looking decidedly Scottish. That’s right—the adorable Glenfiddich Whisky Wanderer bus is back after a sell-out 2022 season for another round. Parked outside Canberra’s own whisky wonderland, Molly, in Odgers Lane, the Whisky Wanderer will be open to give you a drinking experience straight out of the Scottish Highlands. And yes—they do private functions.

Until Sunday 24 September | Melbourne Building, Odgers Lane, Canberra City | Book here.

Explore Floriade’s dark side as NightFest returns. Presenting a new and exciting program of after dark entertainment and horticultural illuminations, this nighttime event will put a spring in your step thanks to entertainment and fantastic food celebrating the Floral Wonderland theme.

Thursday 28 September until Sunday 1 October | Commonwealth Park, Commonwealth Avenue, Parkes | Tickets here.

Get down on the dance floor and shake your booty all night long with a non-stop selection of dance floor favourites. From KC and the Sunshine Band, to The Bee Gees, Gloria Gaynor and ABBA, this will be a disco party like no other.

Friday 1 September | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | Book here.

From informative and interactive presentations to a wide range of products and services to help people live their best life, this expo is the place to go if you’re looking for information about living with a disability. There will be government and advocacy organisations, aids and equipment providers, financial and legal services, education, training and employment providers, social and leisure options, transport and vehicles, and more.

Friday 1 and Saturday 2 September | Exhibition Park, Corner of Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell | canberradisabilityexpo.com.au

Attention job seekers—a one-stop shop for local employment opportunities is coming to the Canberra Centre and you might just score your dream job. The Canberra Centre Jobs Fair is bringing together some of your favourite brands (offering a wide range of local job opportunities) for the job fair to end all job fairs. Doing all of the hard work for you (who needs Seek?), the five-day event will give local job seekers the opportunity to access genuine job offers for employment in full-time, part-time and casual roles.

Until Saturday 2 September | Canberra Centre Jobs Fair, located near Nespresso, Canberra City | canberracentre.qicre.com

Haig Park will be transformed into a living, breathing canvas. Building on the concept of National Play Outside Day (held on the first Saturday of every month), Canberra’s very own Paint Outside Day will see a huge canvas weaving around Haig Park north of Lonsdale and Mort Streets. Expect face painting, coffee, food, Teeny-Tiny-Mini Museum, Paint Pablo! and more.

Saturday 2 September | Haig Park, Braddon | facebook.com/events

Corin Forest is throwing a birthday party to commemorate four decades of alpine adventures in Canberra’s backyard, and you’re invited! Expect live music, activities, food and drink, and, of course, snow! There will also be some special guests from the National Zoo & Aquarium, the chance to refresh with local brews from Capital Brewing Co, and prizes to be won. See you there?

Saturday 2 September | Corin Forest, 1268 Corin Road, Paddy’s River | corin.com.au

Googong’s annual kite flying festival KiteFest is set to return for another year at Rockley Oval! Pack your kite and take along the whole family for a picnic. You’ll also be treated to a musical set from the amazing DJ Sue and gourmet burgers!

Sunday 3 September | Rockley Oval, 15 Rockley Parade, Googong | googong.net

Are you a manga and anime lover? A comic collector? A cosplay enthusiast? In exciting news for fans, a Manga Mini-Con is coming to Westfield Woden this September. Running in a special pop-up location in Woden’s Westfield Shopping Centre, across the four days manga fans will have access to popular titles such as Chainsaw Man, Demon Slayer, My Hero Academia, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Spy x Family, with a special ‘buy one get one-half price’ offer available on Viz titles. And to top it off, there will also be plenty of giveaways, gift vouchers, cosplay competitions, manga/anime character standees, and more!

Thursday 7 until Sunday 10 September | Westfield Woden, 160/2, Keltie Street | qbd.com.au/mini-con

The Lifeline Bookfair is back at EPIC baby! Showcasing a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including rare books and collectables, children’s books, textbooks and foreign language books, you’ll find everything from magazines to comics, records and CDs, DVDs, games and more. As always, entry is via gold coin donation or tap-and-go is available.

Friday 8 until Sunday 10 September | Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC) Corner Northbourne Avenue and Flemington Road, Mitchell | lifelinecanberra.org.au

If you love Gaming, Anime, Movies, Manga and Art then GAMMA is the show for you. At this gaming and pop culture event you can meet guests from TV and Movies, see cosplayers, musical performances, attend masterclasses, watch Q&A panels and explore an exhibitor hall full of vendors local and from around Australia. There will also be GAMMA’s largest guest lineup in 10 years!

Saturday 9 until Sunday 10 September | Thoroughbred Park, 1 Randwick Road, Lyneham | Book here.

The Lab is hosting another thrift market to celebrate the end of winter and it’s the perfect opportunity to clear out (or update) your wardrobe. From preloved apparel to leather goods, jewellery, designer fashion, homewares, spiritual books and more, there’s plenty to discover.

Sunday 10 September | Level 1/18-20 Franklin Street, Griffith | the-lab.com.au

Road trip anyone? The Sir George in Jugiong is hosting a market day! The Sir George Markets is all about community, local produce including wineries, distilleries, food, crafts, art. Celebrate the start of spring by exploring the various wares and enjoying live music from Matt Dent (a local musician from Yass). There will be loads to eat, drink, and discover!

Sunday 10 September | 320 Riverside Drive, Jugiong | sirgeorge.com.au

The famous Tharwa Fair cake stall, local flower farmers and artists, raffles, live bands, and much more—the Tharwa Bush Fair is back! Perfect for the whole family, this year they have even more delicious food options, and more wonderful activities for children (including face painting, and a family scavenger hunt hosted by Outward Bound).

Sunday 10 September | Tharwa Preschool, North Street, Tharwa | facebook.com/tharwabushfair

Calling all classic car and motorbike lovers! The Classic Cruise will be driving across Canberra to raise money for Camp Quality this September. Starting at the National Arboretum, the leisurely drive will go past Canberra icons (including the Cotter and Questacon) before ending with a sausage sizzle and ‘Show n Shine.’ Superhero costumes are highly encouraged!

Sunday 10 September | Starting from the National Arboretum, Forest Drive, Molonglo Valley | superheroesact.com.au

This is one for pop culture fans and enthusiasts. The Makers Convention is uniting to bring together stalls and attractions that showcase a range of hobbies—from costume design, steampunk, comic books, leather makers and a whole lot more.

Sunday 10 September | The Old Bus Depot Markets, 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | obdm.com.au

26 hours of indoor cycling, spread across a team where someone must be cycling for every minute of the 26-hour period. Taking place on Saturday 16 September (and into Sunday 17 September), at hiit republic Gungahlin, the HIIT26 Ride for Lifeline event will see teams of cyclists take to the saddle to raise money for our beloved Lifeline Canberra. Colleagues, family, friends—it doesn’t matter who forms your team, just that you’re keen to raise money for a great cause.

Saturday 16 September | hiit republic, Unit 135 Hibberson St, Gungahlin | hiit26.gofundraise.com.au/cms/home

This year, Commonwealth Park isn’t the only place to enjoy the flowers of Floriade—there will be beautiful blooms and events at Lanyon Homestead, one of Canberra’s most significant heritage places. From Weekend Garden Tours, to Grow Your Garden Plant Fair, and a Spring Wonderland Picnic Concert, there’s plenty to see and do.

Saturday 16 September until Sunday 15 October | Lanyon Homestead, Tharwa Drive, Tharwa | historicplaces.com.au

Celebrating the traditional Chinese Cultural Festivals “Middle Autumn Festival”, the beautiful Gungahlin Moon Festival is back for another year. Expect performances of singing, dance, martial arts, waist drum dance, recitation, and traditional Chinese musical instruments as well as calligraphy, Chinese painting, and paper cuts.

Saturday 16 September | Gungahlin College Lawn Area, 23 Gozzard Street, Gungahlin | fccci.org.au

Who doesn’t love DJ Sue? At this free event you can dance the night away as she spins the decks at The Durham for the first time. Grab a meal before the show and make a night of it!

Saturday 16 September | Kingston Shops, L1/52 Jardine Street, Kingston | thedurhampub.com.au

At this Spring Garage and Plant Sale you’ll find a variety of high quality plants, bric-a-brac, toys, clothes, homewares, handbags, jewellery and accessories, as well as a HUGE variety of fiction and non-fiction books. No mater your interests, there will be something for you!

Saturday 16 September | 255 Goyder Street Narrabundah | mccg.org.au

Watch as Parliament House comes alive with an array of colourful blossoms during this private walking tour. You’ll explore the layout and planting of these beautiful gardens while discovering inspiring plant combination ideas and gaining insight into the architect’s vision for the precinct. It’s a beautiful way to spend a day.

Friday 22 until Saturday 23 September | Australian Parliament House, 1 Parliament Drive, Canberra City | Book here.

Canberra’s largest collective of multi-disciplinary artists, makers and arts organisations, Gorman House is hosting the ultimate open house and you’re invited. Across two days discover the wealth of talent and creativity of their resident arts community, take part in theatre, dance and maker workshops, unwind with wine-tastings and live music. With a full program to come, keep an eye out!

Friday 22 until Saturday 23 September | Gorman Arts Centre, 55 Ainslie Avenue, Braddon | ainslieandgorman.com.au

Want to kick start your spring garden? Mark this Plant Fair in your diary. The event will include a range of talks, workshops, activities and tours with a combination of ticketed and free events held throughout the day. From plant stalls to a kids zone and picnic spots, for only a gold coin donation it promises to be the perfect way to grow your garden.

Saturday 23 September | Lanyon Homestead, Tharwa Drive, Tharwa | historicplaces.com.au

Trying to plan a wedding? Some of the best wedding industry suppliers in the Canberra region are gathering for a massive expo. You’ll be able to find new products and ideas, listen to live music, see gorgeous displays, and even go in the draw to win great prizes! From cars to beauty, gowns, cakes, photographers, entertainment and much, much more, the wedding expo can help turn your dreams into reality.

Sunday 24 September | Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), Flemington Road, Budawang Pavilion, Mitchell | weddingguide.com.au

In exciting news for Barbie fans, the ultimate Barbie-themed fan party is coming to Canberra to help us step into the fabulous, pink world of the iconic doll. With limited spots available, the event is taking place for one weekend only, giving locals a taste of nostalgia, and endless Barbie-inspired fun.But what are the highlights? Think VIP movie giveaways to themed cocktails, Aqua’s iconic “Barbie Girl” sing-along to thrilling trivia sessions, a media wall for some special selfies and more. And we’re just gettin’ started.

Saturday 2 until Sunday 3 September | 3/21 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | Book here.

Cheer on the NRLW team in their first ever standalone match at GIO Stadium as they take on the Newcastle Knights! If you love women’s sport this should be at the top of your list for the week.

Saturday 2 September | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Book here.

The AFLW returns to Canberra when the GIANTS take on the Demons in a Sunday afternoon thriller at Manuka Oval. There will be plenty of entertainment for the kids with the GIANTS Fan Zone in full action with giveaways, face painting, inflatables and kick 2 kick post game. Afterall, there’s better than enjoying a game of footy on a Sunday afternoon with your family and mates.

Sunday 10 September | Manuka Oval, Manuka Circle, Griffith | Book here.

Get ready for the ultimate NRLW double header at GIO Stadium Canberra, with the Eels taking on the Sharks, before the Raiders meet the Titans. Sunday night footy as never looked so good!

Sunday 17 September | Manuka Oval, Manuka Circle, Griffith | Book here.

Take on this marathon on giant circuit at Stromlo Forest Park to test your bike riding skills. Pick your distance—one cheeky lap, two to catch the racing bug or three for a classic marathon—and let the trail surprise you with its weeping climbs, rocky descents and flowy trails. On your marks, get set…race!

Sunday 17 September | Stromlo Forest Park, Opperman Avenue, Wright | Register here.

Another one for AFLW fans! This Saturday morning get ready for a clash as the Giants take on the Adelaide Crows. As always, there will also be plenty of entertainment for the kids.

Saturday 23 September | Manuka Oval, Manuka Circle, Griffith | Book here.

Elite racer, grom or noob, everyone will have a blast at this event. Ride up untimed with the crew, then pick whatever track you want. Drop in with your buddies, do a reccy lap or pin a race run. It’s about doing party trains, railing berms and racing all in one day! Get ready to have an awesome day out as you smash the Fox Superflow race tracks.

Saturday 23 until Sunday 24 September | Stromlo Forest Park, Uriarra Road, Denman Prospect | rockytrailsuperflow.com

Featuring numerous ex-World Veterans Champions and over 400 athletes from every State/Territory and across the Tasman, this table tennis championship will have you on the edge of your seat. Spectator entry is free so make the most of it!

Saturday 30 September until Saturday 7 October | ACT Netball Stadium, Thurbon Road, Lyneham | nationals.tabletennis.org.au

Head to the Palace Electric Cinema to see an eclectic selection of films from some of the most talented filmmakers in Korea. And worry, every film presented at the Festival screens with English subtitles.

Friday 1 until Sunday 3 September | Palace Electric Cinema, 2 Phillip Law Street, Canberra City | Book here.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to lead a multibillion dollar industry with your siblings? It might be deadly. Lightbulb Improv will keep you guessing until this end as the struggle for power is delivered with a spontaneous twist. Before the show, Lightbulb invites the audience to choose the killer and motive to create an improvised tale with dark deeds, secrets and deadly consequences. See you there?

Until Saturday 2 September | The Canberra Theatre Centre, Canberra City | Book here.

A brilliant and deeply felt exploration of Taiwan’s complicated and often traumatic past, Chen Hui-Ling’s A Letter to A’ma focusses on a series of encounters between school and university art students and their grandparents. A profound and moving meditation on connections between generations, on the unearthing of history, and on the vital importance of individual experience, don’t miss seeing this screening—and the in-conversation between Brian Hioe and Hui-Ling Chen (online) that will precede it.

Wednesday 6 September | RSSS Auditorium, 146 Ellery Crescent, Acton | Book here.

Coming from Broadway and the West End, see Disney’s iconic Winnie the Pooh and Christopher Robin (and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit, Owl and Tigger) come to life in this beautifully crafted, critically acclaimed musical stage adaptation featuring stunning life-size puppetry. This is one the whole family will enjoy.

Thursday 7 until Saturday 9 September | Canberra Theatre, Civic Square, Canberra City | Book here.

Is there a transformative power within us all that can be unlocked through the simple act of riding a bike? This new feature-length documentary from Anthill Films tells the stories of six everyday people from all over the globe who reveal the unique power of the bicycle to change lives and build a better world. Through their stories, the film uncovers the often-overlooked potential of this 200-year-old machine, exploring its impact on a wide range of global issues such as physical and mental health, socioeconomic inequality and climate change.

Thursday 7 September | Arc Cinema, National Film and Sound Archive, 1 McCoy Circuit, Acton | Book here.

Set in country England, 25 years before Pride and Prejudice, Mr Bennet’s Bride is a romantic tragicomedy that reveals a backstory for the greatly-loved, but ill matched, Mr and Mrs Bennet. All we can reveal is Mr James Bennet is determined to choose a wife on his own terms until he finds himself suddenly, irrationally in love with Miss Emily Gardiner. You’ll have to go along to how the story plays out on the stage…

Thursday 7 September until Saturday 23 September | Canberra REP Theatre, 3 Repertory Lane, Acton | Book here.

Award winning stand-up comedian Bron Lewis is bringing her highly acclaimed new show ‘Probably’ home to Canberra. Rich with stories from her Canberra upbringing (including her clumsy and desperate approach to fitting in at a private highschool whilst living in government housing), this hilarious performance is a show you don’t want to miss.

Friday 15 September | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, Canberra City | Book here.

triple j’s Hobba & Hing are saying au revoir and thanks to you, one last time! Wrapping up a stellar innings on triple j Drive, during this victory lap tour they’ll relive some of their greatest moments and say goodbye.

*obviously it’s a tour so there will be several last shows and to be honest they’re also doing a new show together called Silver Bullet so really it’s just the end of the radio show they currently do.

Saturday 16 September | Canberra Playhouse, London Circuit, Canberra City | Book here.

Magic, juggling, cavorting and that trademark tongue-in-cheek sense of humour from Mic Conway…what more could you want? This circus of comedy, music and magic will see Mic take to the stage with Robbie Long (multi-instrumentalist and Australian Flat Pick Guitar Champion) to play an hilarious array of idiosyncratic songs that will make your jaw drop, toes tap and sides split.

Sunday 17 September | Smith’s Alternative, 76 Alinga Street, Melbourne Building, Canberra City | Book here.

Part documentary, part confession, part open conversation, Yes Yes Yes is a theatre show created specifically for young adults. Exploring the tricky and necessary topics of healthy relationships, desire and consent, it blends audience interaction with a captivating solo performance. Funny, generous and innovative, this piece of contemporary theatre speaks directly to one of the most pressing issues young people face today by featuring in-depth interviews with teenagers.

Monday 18 until Thursday 21 September | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, Canberra City | Book here.

Mem Fox and Julie Vivas’ beloved picture book Possum Magic is coming to life on the stage. Using a clever, nuanced palette of live action, stage magic, an original soundscape, elements of puppetry and projected animation, the whimsical world of the book has been transformed into a live experience for audiences aged three to eight years (and their families). Book tickets now so you don’t miss out!

Thursday 21 until Saturday 23 September | Canberra Theatre Centre London Circuit, Canberra City | Book here.

He’s the creator, writer and producer of Everybody Loves Raymond, and Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil and now Phil Rosenthal is bringing his live tour: An Evening with Phil Rosenthal to Canberra. Talking about everything from his travels to food (and his new book), you’re guaranteed a laugh.

Friday 22 September | Llewellyn Hall, 100 William Herbert Place, Canberra City | Book here.

Looking to laugh? Malaysian comedian Dr Jason Leong is making a triumphant return to Australia with his highly acclaimed show Brain Drain. Explaining why he will be leaving Malaysia for good, this former medical doctor and Malaysia’s funniest comedian (his words!) will crack you up.

Friday 22 September | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, Canberra City | Book here.

Join Year 11 Legal Studies graduate and university law dropout Tom Ballard as he deploys jokes and funny pictures to blast through the history of Australian referenda and to ask the big questions: What the hell is wrong with us? Why are we so afraid of change? Why does our constitution suck so hard? Should we just start this whole thing again, please? It promises to be unrelenting and uproarious.

Saturday 23 September | Kambri T2, Tangney Road, Acton | Book here.

A homing pigeon with no sense of direction becomes the unlikely saviour of a young girl up against her first encounter with heartbreak. New from the Canberra Youth Theatre, Rosieville is a universal story about backing yourself when faced with heartbreak, and a homage to the instinct, loyalty, stamina and grit of homing pigeons who, despite countless obstacles and long distances, always somehow manage to find their way home. See it for yourself to support some talented performers!

Friday 29 September until Saturday 8 October | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, Canberra City | Book here.

Experience the rich tapestry of Japanese storytelling at the 27th Japanese Film Festival comes to Canberra. From gripping historical dramas to innovative modern tales, you’ll find a a cinematic gem that explores the themes of the enduring link between the past and the present. Keep an eye out, there will also be post-screening talks led by esteemed academics and special performances to help truly immerse you in the Japanese artform!

Saturday 30 September until Sunday 15 October | Palace Electric Cinema, 2 Phillip Law Street, Canberra City | japanesefilmfestival.net

You read that right, Nathan Cavaleri is coming to Canberra. In celebration of his brand new single ‘Broken Lines’, and upcoming album Miracles expect an unforgettable live performance that illustrates the depths of his career through songs and story-telling (whilst powerfully matching the signature themes of overcoming adversity through courage and authenticity).

Friday 1 September | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, Canberra City | Book here.

If Keith Richards and Nico had a lovechild whose god parents were Eno, Ron Asheton, Patti Smith and Chrissy Hynde and said lovechild started a band and they dabbled in a bit of roots music then you’d get a vague idea of the ballpark Joeys Coop play in. Singing about everything from loss, to cats and AI and algorithms, you won’t forget this unique show.

Friday 1 September | Smith’s Alternative, 76 Alinga Street, Melbourne Building | Book here.

The cast is queer. The music is rebellious. The artists will be exploring the idea of rebellion, living authentically and doing the unexpected. Featuring songs that are about rebelling against societal and straight expectations, if that’s not enough, the performances will take place alongside the live music include fire eating, water dance in a giant martini glass, drag, sideshow, feather fan dancing, fan veil dancing, and burlesque.

Saturday 2 September | Gorman Arts Centre, 55 Batman Street, Braddon | Book here.

Love blues, soul and funk? The Canberra Blues Society welcomes the legendary Bondi Cigars back to the Zeppelin Room. Expect a fantastic mix of blues, soul, funk and rhythm as they play live. You’ll quickly see why this award-winning quartet have well and truly worked their way into Australia’s musical heart.

Saturday 2 September | Harmonie German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | Book here.

Celebrate spring with Maruki Community Orchestra’s concert. The program will comprise Symphony No.1 in C Minor, Op.11 by Felix Mendelssohn, Suite Modale for flute and strings by Ernest Bloch, featuring soloist James Gibson and Symphony No.5 in E Minor, Op.64 by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Sunday 3 September | Albert Hall, Commonwealth Avenue, Canberra City | Book here.

Songs for Freedom is an uplifting concert of original songs created by a group of intercultural artists in the Pilbara town of Ieramugadu. Guided by Ngarluma and Yinjibarndi Elders, during the concert a stunning inter-cultural band joins local musicians, family, and friends to pay tribute to John Pat in the fortieth anniversary year of his passing in custody (fulfilling the Pat family’s vision of a community and country united in peace). Capturing the soul, blues, and unique country sounds of West Australia’s vast Pilbara, everyone is welcome.

Saturday 9 September | Llewellyn Hall ANU, William Herbert Place, School of Music Building #100, Canberra City | Book here.

In conjunction with the Dust Collectors exhibition at Tuggeranong Arts Centre, head along for an afternoon of rockin’ good tunes by Dirt Bag, the Lonely One from Captains Flat. This one-man rock-n-roll band is guaranteed to make you shake your money maker and blow your top!

Saturday 9 September | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Reed Street North, Greenway | tuggeranongarts.com

Experience an afternoon of song (with hits of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Rogers and Hammerstein, Lerner and Loewe, Stephen Sondheim and more) at this Showtunes Classic Concert. Proceeds from Showtunes Classics will go to Marymead CatholicCare Canberra & Goulburn to support children, young people and their families in the ACT and regional areas and there will also be raffle entries and goodies available for purchase after the concert.

Sunday 10 September | St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 108 Sternberg Crescent, Wanniassa | Book here.

Come join the Craic in Yass! There will be over 60 performers and bands in many venues all around the town. And from music, singing, sessions, poetry, a junior fleadh, dancing, Celtic Markets, workshops and more, expect to see some old favourites and discover new performers.

Friday 15 until Sunday 17 September | Various locations | Book here.

Australian music royalty, Kate Ceberano, is coming to Canberra to celebrate her four-decade career. From her own pop hits ‘Brave’ and ‘Pash’ to the iconic songs she has interpreted along the way (including ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’ ‘Mirror Ball’ and more), she will be performing her personal favourites with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra. From rousing anthems to soulful ballads, witness the voice of a generation as she celebrates 40 years of music.

Friday 15 September | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, Canberra City | Book here.

Australia’s most recognisable and loved female country music artists Tania Kernaghan and chart topper Jason Owen are coming together live in concert for stellar night of superb entertainment. So what should you expect? They will take you on a musical journey, performing their hit songs coupled with those evergreen country classics we all know and love.

Friday 15 September | The Zeppelin Room, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | Book here.

Adore the Beatles? The most successful Beatles event ever staged in Australia is on it’s way! Starting with Back in the U.S.S.R and closing with Good Night, Chris Cheney (The Living End), Phil Jamieson (Grinspoon), Tim Rogers (You Am I), and ARIA Award-winning solo artist Josh Pyke are reuniting to pay tribute to this very special (and iconic) album.

Saturday 16 September | Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square, London Circuit, Canberra City | Book here.

Using influences from post-rock, minimalism and neo-classical musical styles to create their live, genre-bending soundtrack, Spirograph Studies are best described as ‘cinematic and dream-like’. Celebrating the release of their second album, Lowlights, this is one for jazz lovers not to miss.

Saturday 16 September | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, Canberra City | Book here.

Showcasing the wonderful choral and instrumental talents at work in the Canberra community, this concert presents ‘Immortal Bach’, a program of Bach’s heavenly choral music. Taking place in the intimate and historic setting of All Saints Anglican Church in Ainslie, expect to be transported by the motets Lobet Dem Herrn; Jesu Meine Freude; Komm, Jesu, Komm, and Der Geist Hilft, and the exquisitely moving final double chorus from Bach’s St Matthew Passion.

Saturday 16 September | All Saints Anglican Church, Cowper Street, Ainslie | Book here.

Groove along to the jazz beats performed by the ANU Jazz Orchestra and the School of Music Recording Ensemble at this fun and funky evening. Make sure to grab a glass of something cold as you enjoy a delightful night of live jazz music and great company.

Thursday 21 September | Big Band Room, ANU School of Music61 Marcus Clarke Street, 100, Canberra City | Book here.

Travel to Mexico with Victor Valdes with his Big Mariachi Band, as they play all the Mexican favourites Mariachi, Boleros, Banda, Son Jarocho, Mexican cumbia. He’s shared the stage with everyone from Angus & Julia, Stone, Aloe Blacc, to Los Lobos, Mirusia, Jimmy Barnes and The Wiggles, so you know you’re in for a good time.

Saturday 23 September | The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, Canberra City | Book here.

Travel to Italy—a destination rich with art, music and life that has cultivated and inspired generations of composers and musicians—without leaving Canberra. In this beautiful concert Giovanni Sollima, will invoke a dazzling, infectious energy with his Viaggio in Italia, a musical embodiment of the great luminaries in Italian art, music and literature. Who needs a passport?

Tuesday 26 September | Llewellyn Hall, William Herbert Place, Canberra City | Book here.

Love Chopin? This exciting program of events includes concerts, masterclasses, and a very special interactive live-stream tour of the Chopin Museum in Warsaw, finishing with a recital of Chopin’s music direct from the Museum’s concert space.

Thursday 28 September until Monday 2 October | Embassy of the Republic of Poland, 7 Turrana Street, Yarralumla | Book here.

Canberra Hard Rock favourites, The Black Souls, are finally recorded and bringing you a special single release party for their new single, Live Planet Die. Supported by Upper Body Denim and Useful Industriousness, this will be a spectacular night to remember.

Friday 29 September | Pot Belly Bar, 26 Weedon Close, Belconnen | facebook.com

The Band of the Royal Military College is returning to Llewellyn Hall for its Masterworks for Winds concert series! Featuring engaging works composed for wind ensemble,  the Band promises to provide a sensory experience like no other.

Saturday 30 September | Llewellyn Hall, ANU School of Music, William Herbert Place, Canberra City | Book here.

Desert, Sea, Moon is a textile exhibition honouring cloth and slow-stitch (as well as the simplicity and patience that goes into it). Invoking forms found in the natural world, such as landscapes, the sky, and the water, it offers a collection of simple yet intricate pieces that intend to call in feelings of both reverence and delight.

Friday 1 September until Sunday 24 September | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | m16artspace.com

This group of artists seek to grapple with a tide of excessive mass consumption and an ever intensifying globalisation by readdressing its residues. Including works by Robert Bittenbender, Isabella Darcy, George Egerton-Warburton, Sarah Goffman, Spencer Lai, Marian Tubbs, and Philadelphia Wireman, these artists are also attuned to the poetic plasticity of their materials and seek to break the trajectory of waste by addressing its abject beauty.

Friday 1 September until Sunday 22 October | Drill Hall Gallery, Kingsley Street, off Barry Drive, Acton | dhg.anu.edu.au

With a background as an artist and printmaker in this exhbition Hilary Warren uses her practice to explore the concepts of light and shade. Beginning with an observation captured as a digital image, she then processes it and translates it into an etched plate. The result is stunning.

Saturday 2 September until Sunday 1 October | Humble House Gallery, 93 Wollongong Street, Fyshwick | humblehouse.com.au

This is a nationally touring group exhibition exploring the use of contemporary jewellery as a gesture of welcome. Seeking to bring attention to asylum seeker issues, each artist has made a neckpiece, lei, or garland interpreting the theme of welcome whilst considering current Australian immigration policies.

Friday 8 September until Saturday 21 October | Craft + Design Canberra, North Building, 1, 180 London Circuit, Canberra City | craftanddesigncanberra.org

N’zassa, like all patchwork traditions, is borne of necessity, seeking to make the best of what is available. In this exhibition, Peter McCarthy seeks to inspire positive social transformation by subverting familiar traditional forms related to identify, power and prestige re-imaging them through his own personal material symbolism.

Friday 8 September until Saturday 21 October | Craft + Design Canberra, North Building, 1, 180 London Circuit, Canberra City | craftanddesigncanberra.org

Through contemporary woven tapestry, in this exhbition ten artists explore their associations with interests in and memories of particular plants, state and national floral symbols. Using drawings, collages, prints, and paints from observation and imagination to develop designs for weaving in tapestry, wefts of wool, cotton, silk and other materials bring their final vision to life.

Wednesday 20 September until Sunday 29 October | Australian National Botanic Gardens, Visitor Centre Gallery, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | parksaustralia.gov.au

Driven by the desire to understand the current ecological crisis, this exhibition from Naarm/Melbourne-based artist Melody Spangaro evokes memories of environmental tragedy. Using drawings to reflect on our humancentric relationship to nature and exposing the imaginative and cultural failures at the foundation of this super-wicked global climate crisis, you’ll leave with the realisation that both the drawings and our existence can be wiped from the surface at any moment.

Until Sunday 24 September | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | m16artspace.com

Hundreds of thousands of bread tags turned into sculptures—it’s an unexpected but powerful combination. Created by Shani Nottingham (a multi-disciplinary artist that lives and works in Central West New South Wales) this exhibition presents an artificial world made entirely of bread tags that mimic our natural and built environments.

Visually stunning and thought-provoking, it highlights the issues surrounding mass production and how all our actions have impacts on the natural world.

Until Sunday 8 October | Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen | More information here.

Materialism and consumerism are the main focus of contemporary jeweller and artist Zoe Brand. Working with repurposed plastic and reclaim materials, in this special exhibition at the Canberra Glassworks, you’ll be able to see how she uses text (and smart wordplay) to draw your attention to some of the important issues we’re facing in the world.

Until Sunday 8 October | Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | More information here.

Building on the iconic Know My Name initiative by the National Gallery of Australia, this new major exhibition is drawn from the national collection—celebrating pioneering women artists who changed the course of modern art in Australia.

Showcasing the work of Ethel Spowers and Eveline Syme, Margaret Preston, Grace Cossington Smith, Clarice Beckett, and Olive Cotton, each artist explores what it meant to be a modern woman in their times. Perfect for anyone interested in history, art, and feminism, don’t miss out on seeing this.

Until Sunday 8 October | National Gallery, Parkes Place East, Parkes | Book here.

Join first time authors Naomi Hart, Wil Patterson and Toby Robert from Bad Apple Publishing as they discuss their memoirs and the stories within. These three authors know how to have a good time, so join in over wine and cheese as they tell about taking dead dogs on the New York subway, reactions of Chrisian neighbours to girlfriends and first nights in jail.

Friday 1 September | Pulp Bookcafe, Federation Square, Nicholls | Register by emailing [email protected]

This event is for the little ones. Fly into the Mint and discover the feathered friends featured on Australian coins over the years. There’ll be story time, craft and a tour of the gallery and factory! Just a note: all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Friday 1 September | Royal Australian Mint, 62-114 Denison Street, Deakin | Book here.

Join the Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP and Emeritus Professor David Rowe alongside podcast host and journalist Ginger Gorman as they take the stage to explore the power of sport to bring us together or push us apart. It promises to be a thought-provoking and entertaining event (and yes, there will be opportunities for audience participation and engagement)!

Tuesday 5 September | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Book here.

Delivered by Professor Chris Wallace (the author of Political Lives: Australian Prime Ministers and Their Biographers , How To Win An Election, The Private Don, Greer: Untamed Shrew, and  Hewson, A Portrait ) this lecture will provide the opportunity to explore the business and craft of biography, autobiography or memoir. Don’t skip the complimentary drinks and canapes!

Thursday 7 September | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Book here.

Exploring the subject of his fascinating book Overgrown: practices between landscape architecture and gardening, in this lecture at the National Library of Australia, Dr Julian Raxworthy will explore the intersection between landscape design and garden maintenance.

Thursday 14 September | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Book here.

Love Shakespeare? This is for you. Dr Kate Flaherty, senior Lecturer in English and Drama at the Australian National University will be joined by Bell Shakespeare actors to examine Shakespeare’s influences and explore the link between the books that inspired Shakespeare and Shakespeare’s own work. A mix of lecture and performance, it will be educational and entertaining.

Friday 22 September | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Book here.

The first person to paddle non-stop, solo and unassisted from Australia to New Zealand, multi-disciplinary paddler Richard Barnes captured the hearts of paddlers across the globe as they tracked his 2,000km journey across the Tasman in early 2023. Coming to Canberra for the first time, enjoy a meal from BrodBurger or a bevvie from Capital Brewery as he talks about his journey.

Saturday 23 September | Capital Brewing Co, 1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick | Book here.

In this panel discussion, you’ll hear how designers are working with nature to develop new materials in response to the pressing global challenges of environmental degradation and resource depletion. Led by Penny Craswell, the panel will also examine the impact of materials on the environment and how we can use renewable resources and learn from biology.

Wednesday 27 September | National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton | Book here.

With special guests Nick Richardson and Melanie Dinjaski, join Dr Guy Hansen, National Library Director of Exhibitions, as he discusses memorable AFL and NRL finals, and what makes a great grand final

Thursday 28 September | National Library of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes | Book here.

To celebrate the arrival of spring, Midnight Bar is hosting a flower workshop with local florist, Braddon Flowers! The Braddon Flowers x Midnight Bar Flower Workshop will see florists guiding the afternoon, leading guests to create their very own vase arrangement, thoughtfully curated with Braddon Flowers’ unique style in mind. Expect bottomless sparkling wine, spritzes, and mimosas, and small plates of delicious canapés for the afternoon.

Saturday 30 September | 1 Elouera Street, Canberra City | Book here.

Feature image: Courtesy Events ACT