Enlighten Festival
Over 17 days in March the nation’s capital shines bright with culture and creativity.
There’s so much to eat, see and explore at the Enlighten Festival. The Parliamentary Zone and city are transformed into a vibrant arts precinct with free performances and exclusive free and ticketed events.
Snap the perfect picture of stunning architectural projections at the Illumination before exploring the national attractions as they open their doors after-dark. Brighten your morning with a sky full of colourful hot air balloons and watch the sunset to the perfect soundtrack at Symphony in the Park. Enjoy a flourish of fireworks at Hit 104.7 Skyfire and be mesmerised as a spotlight shines on Canberra’s talented film-makers at Lights! Canberra! Action!
Fast facts
- Where: Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
- When: 26 February - 14 March 2021
- Price: Free and ticketed events
How to get there
Events are located in the Parliamentary Zone and throughout the city. Singapore Airlines and Qatar both offer international flights to the nation's capital. Domestic carriers offer flights to and from Canberra from capital cities in Australia. Alternatively, Canberra is a scenic 3.5-hour drive from Sydney and a very easy city to drive around.
Things to do at Enlighten Festival
Enlighten Festival, Parliament House, Canberra, Australia Capital Territory © Martin Ollman
Illuminations are at the heart of Enlighten Festival
See Canberra come to life after dark as the Enlighten Illuminations are projected onto some of the capital's most loved and iconic buildings (including Australian Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Portrait Gallery, National Library of Australia, National Gallery of Australia, Questacon and more). Step behind the scenes and explore the attractions after-hours, be enchanted by live music, and take a selfie with roving entertainers and art installations.
Enlighten Night Noodle Markets, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © VisitCanberra
Feast at the Night Noodle Markets
Foodies will love the sizzling, bustling Enlighten Night Noodle Markets on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. From pho to waffles and everything in between, entice your appetite and tempt your tastebuds. Head to Enlighten Alley to indulge in local street food and make a memory with family-fun activities.
Enlighten Festival, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Enlighten Festival
Enjoy unique Canberra experiences
Under a sea of fairy lights you’ll find hidden gems in the city’s nooks and crannies. Keep your eye out for interactive installations and find unexpected ways to experience the festival. Local favourites include late night exhibitions, dinner under the stars and Insta-worthy art. Other unique ways to explore the festival are photography workshops, dawn stand up paddle boarding at the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, and electronic bicycle tours of the precincts.
Sunrise at Canberra Balloon Spectacular, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Enlighten Festival
Don't miss these signature events
In addition to the illuminations, the Enlighten Festival has been extended to include some of Canberra’s most popular autumn events – the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, Lights! Canberra! Action! film festival, Symphony in the Park, Canberra Day and Hit 104.7 Skyfire fireworks. With this wide range of free events there’s something for everyone.
