The 43rd Canberra and Region Heritage Festival (11 April to 10 May) celebrates Mid Century: Innovation, Change and Optimism. It shines a spotlight on the defining era that transformed Canberra: bold Modernist architecture, national reforms, Cold War intrigue, and the region’s surprising connections to the Moon landing.
More than 150 events across the ACT and surrounding region include guided walks, tours of iconic buildings, exhibitions, food, and even dancing in the dark.
Events in Goulburn, Yass, Gunning and Queanbeyan reveal rich regional connections to Canberra’s history.
Highlights include a night of espionage and intrigue at the Hyatt Hotel; testing bush skills and traditional trades at the Wee Jasper Heritage Fair; and exploring Namadgi National Park and the reopened Yankee Hat Aboriginal rock art site with a Ngunnawal guide.
“The Heritage Festival is a great opportunity to discover the stories and designs that have shaped our city and to explore our regional heritage connections,” heritage minister Chris Steel said.
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/16yb7NbEtk
“This year’s theme celebrates the visionary planning, creative ambition and cultural transformation of the mid‑century period. It was a time of innovation, optimism and progress that transformed our city and left a rich legacy of modernist architecture.”
To register for the 2026 Canberra and Region Heritage Festival and view the full program, visit the Heritage Festival homepage.
“I encourage the community to plan activities for the school holidays and take this wonderful opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s history and culture,” Mr Steel said.
