Floriade

Nothing says spring in Canberra like Floriade. In 2020, Floriade is reimagined, with the event moving from its traditional home in Commonwealth Park. Instead, Floriade will bloom across Canberra’s city and suburbs. Visitors will be welcomed to follow the Tulip Trail and participate in both virtual and in-person experiences.

Fast facts

• Where: Canberra
• When: 2021 dates to be released
• Price: $

How to get there

Canberra is a 55-minute flight or three-hour drive from Sydney; from Melbourne, it’s a one-hour flight. During the festival, free shuttle buses take visitors to Floriade from the city centre. Three ferry operators also drop passengers nearby. The park is an easy stroll or bicycle ride from the city centre.

Things to do at Floriade

Learn the tricks of the trade

Floriade inspires novice and professional gardeners alike with its stunning floral displays. From insightful horticulture workshops to expert tips on permaculture and ecological gardening, visitors will leave with plenty of ideas for their own backyards.

Head to NightFest

NightFest is an after-dark extravaganza that unfolds with activities like night markets, music and light installations for the whole family. In 2020, Nightfest will return for one night only on Friday 2 October. Check the event website for updates on tickets and programming.

Go on a gnome hunt

Intricately painted garden gnomes traditionally feature at Floriade as a competition of creativity. In 2020, children and adults alike will be able to embark on a ‘gnome hunt,’ searching for gnomes hidden all around Canberra.

Take part in the activities

Floriade’s major focus is flowers, but lots of other activities take place around the stunning floral displays. Meet local producers and enjoy a taste of Canberra, sample some local beer brews or cool climate wines and shop your way through an array of local and national market stalls. Not forgetting the littlest members of the family, Floriade offers a range of daily activities for children of all ages. Try your hand at one of Floriade’s many workshops or stroll past the main stage to catch some live music. Programming information is available on the Floriade website.

See the flowers from a new perspective

Make like royalty and take a boat ride across ornamental Lake Burley Griffin. In 2011, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip took a stately open-air boat ride from Government House to visit Floriade. Book a ferry cruise to spot both flowers and the city’s famous attractions. Or take in the spectacular blooms from 300 metres (984 feet) above ground on a scenic helicopter flight. Flights depart from nearby Lennox Park before soaring above Floriade.