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Major events 2023

Produced by the ACT Government

The ACT Government is committed to delivering a range of events that provide Canberrans with memorable experiences, all year round.

See below the 2023 calendar of major events. You can also download this 2023 calendar.

February

17-19

Multicultural Festival 25th anniversary

The 25th anniversary of the National Multicultural Festival is nearly here! The festival is one of the most successful multicultural events in Australia – a kaleidoscope of colours, sights, sounds and tastes.

Find out more

March

3–13

Illuminations @ Enlighten Festival

Illuminations @ Enlighten Festival will light up the National Attractions in a stunning display of light, sound and movement.

10

Lights! Canberra! Action! @ Enlighten Festival

Located in the open-air surrounds of the Senate Rose Garden, this short film festival shines the spotlight on local filmmaking talent.

11–19

Canberra Balloon Spectacular @ Enlighten Festival

Marvel at hot air balloons floating across the city. Held over nine days, the Canberra skyline turns into a sea of colour and movement.

12

Symphony in the Park @ Enlighten Festival

The Canberra Symphony Orchestra will take to the stage to perform modern and classical pieces.

13

Canberra Day @ Enlighten Festival

The exciting program includes performances celebrating cultural diversity and vibrancy, local community group activities, kids games and roving and family entertainment, making it a great day out for the whole family.

Find out more about Enlighten Festival

April

11–30

Canberra and Region Heritage Festival

Celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Canberra and Region Heritage Festival through the theme Sharing Stories.

May

29

Reconciliation Day

From panel discussions, to art and crafts and storytelling, to live entertainment, stalls and exhibitions. Be part of the conversation and work towards a deeper understanding of our national story and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

July

7–16

Uncharted Territory

Uncharted Territory is Canberra's new arts and innovation festival celebrating creativity, experimentation and ground-breaking ideas. 

Find out more

September

16 Sep – 15 Oct

Floriade

Experience a diverse program of music, cultural celebrations, and more as Floriade celebrates all things flowers, food and gardens.

Find out more

28 Sep – 1 Oct

Floriade NightFest

Experience magical nights as this floral feast is transformed into an illuminated playground.

Find out more

October

21-22

Windows to the World

Canberra's iconic embassies and high commissions open their gates for you to discover a world within our city.

November

4

Canberra Nara Candle Festival

The Canberra Nara Candle Festival is a celebration of the sister-city relationship between Canberra and Nara, Japan.

December

31

New Year’s Eve

Welcome in the New Year in the Nation’s capital with a variety of options across the city.