The spectacular colours of flying drones will return to Lake Burley Griffin this Australia Day weekend, Friday 24 to Sunday 26 January, for FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow.

Back for three unforgettable nights, Canberra’s skies will once again be transformed into a canvas of lights as 600 drones tell spellbinding stories across two shows.

Recognising the depth and beauty of Indigenous heritage, the mesmerising showcase will begin with a moving tribute to the land’s original custodians, featuring the totem Maliyan, the wedge-tailed eagle, representing a powerful symbol of leadership and renewal.

Each show brings to life the pride, ingenuity, and heart of Australia, honouring the past while lighting the way for future generations.

FLIGHT is an unforgettable evening for families, friends, and visitors, featuring new three-dimensional designs, immersive music and themes.

It is a tribute to what makes Australia both familiar and extraordinary – our heritage, our people, and our remarkable contributions to the world.

Whether you’re witnessing it for the first time or returning for more, prepare to be amazed as the team behind the drone show, AGB Creative, elevates the entertainment to new heights.

FLIGHT will be split across two sessions telling different stories that reflect the Australian story:

Show 1: Through the Lens explores the evolving story of what it means to be Australian.

It will open with a powerful Welcome to Country, recognising the First Nations people’s enduring connection to this land.

Through vibrant scenes that pay homage to Australia’s shared love of sport, art, and community, spectators are invited to reflect on the diversity and unity that underpin the Australian identity.

Show 2: Into the Mind makes a shift to showcase Australia’s spirit of ingenuity and creativity.

From world-first medical advances to everyday innovations, this segment highlights how Australians have consistently redefined boundaries with humour, curiosity, and resourcefulness.

Bring a speaker and scan the QR code to access the accompanying soundtrack.

The drone show spectacular will be accompanied by night markets, running from 5-10pm.

Explore the bustling stalls featuring an array of local vendors, mouthwatering cuisines, unique crafts, and roaming entertainment.

Mouthwatering foods from around the world will be on offer, which includes Spanish paella, Turkish gozleme, African curries, Italian pizza and pasta and so much more!

Take in the sights of the lion and dragon performers, samba dancers and roaming magicians, keeping the whole family entertained while you wait for the sun to go down and the drones to take flight.

Entry is free for the evenings, but spectators are encouraged to register via Eventbrite to receive updates which will be provided closer to the date at eventbrite.com.au/e/flight-2025-tickets-1088360558729

For more information, you can also visit nca.gov.au/events/flight-drone-skyshow-night-markets-2025

Show times

• 9pm: Show one – Through the Lens
• 10pm: Show two – Into the Mind

Pick your location

There will be two event hubs: – one at Commonwealth Park and another at Regatta Point.

The 3D experience will be visible from other locations around the centre of the lake, but be aware that your perspective of the drone show will be altered and may appear differently from each location.

How to get there (and get home)

Large crowds are expected, so planning ahead is encouraged to avoid travel delays.

To ensure you stay updated with the event details and transport arrangements, register your interest via Eventbrite.

Thanks to the ACT Government, there will be free public transport from 5pm and shuttle buses from the City and Woden interchanges from 7pm.

See the map for road closures and public parking options. The map can be found on this webpage.

Accessible parking will be available at the Questacon Carpark and Regatta Point Carpark.

People must ensure that a valid Australian disability parking permit is displayed.

For anyone travelling to the event on an e-scooter, Commonwealth Place is a no-ride zone so there will be designated e-scooter parking on either side of the event areas.

The night markets

Explore the bustling stalls at both hubs featuring an array of local vendors, mouthwatering cuisines, unique crafts, and roaming entertainment from 5-10pm.

FLIGHT Drone SkyShow + Night Markets has been made possible through the support of the National Capital Authority and the National Australia Day Council.