Summer comes alive in Canberra with so many exhibitions and activities to engage all senses during the warmer months.
Versailles: Treasures from the Palace exhibition is coming to the National Gallery of Canberra. A once in a lifetime chance to witness extravagant French history here in Australia. Engage in a glimpse of power, passion and luxury with over 130 treasures from inside the Palace of Versailles. Paintings, sculptures, interior decorations and tapestries will be on show, featuring Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette. Envisage the day to day lives of those living in the royal chateau during the seventeenth century, the politics, the drama, the romance. Tickets are on sale now.
9 Dec 2016 - 17 Apr 2017
National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place, Parkes
Canberra’s Sunset Cinema kicks off on 11 November making it the perfect place to spend your summer evenings. Set in the National Botanic Gardens, you can enjoy the serene surroundings whilst watching a new release film with your friends. With family friendly movies on offer, this is a great night out everyone can enjoy. Book in advance to secure a spot on the lawn.
Begins 11 Nov 2016
Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton
Discover 2 million years of human history in the one room with A History of the World in 100 Objects from the British Museum. From the 2,600 year old sarcophagus of ancient Egyptian Shepenmehyt, to the bronze head of Augustus, immerse yourself in the intricate artefacts that have been frozen in time.
On now until 29 January 2017
National Museum of Australia, Lawson Cres, Acton
Get your tennis shoes on and head down to watch international pros at The Canberra Challenger tennis tournament. Part of the Australian Pro Tour, the 2017 event will be the second time Canberra has hosted the competition with over 50 players from 20 countries around the world. Italian Paolo Lorenzi took out the champion title last year and went on to compete in the Australian Open. Introduce the kids to tennis and inspire the next Rod Laver or Samantha Stosur.
7-14 January 2017
Canberra Tennis Centre, 3 Riggall Pl, Lyneham
For award winning markets, The Old Bus Depot Markets are some of the best in the country. As well as hosting Christmas markets every Sunday in December, they will be kicking off 2017 with a local favourite, the Portobello Road event. Here you will find a mix of eclectic treasures, antiques, and restored pieces - the fun is in the hunt! All that fossicking will work up your appetite, take a break at their multicultural food hall where you can find the best in Spanish, French and Indian cuisine.
Every Sunday 10am-4pm
21 Wentworth Ave, Kingston
No plans to bring in the New Year? Plan a low-key night in Canberra and skip the noisy bars and uncomfortable crowds. Set yourself up at a park along Lake Burley Griffin for picture perfect views of the city and the fireworks display - BYO picnic blanket and NYE kiss! Our picks are Weston Park, Lennox Gardens or Regatta Point for a laid back evening.