Canberra’s Enlighten Festival is back for its 15th year, running from Friday 28 February to Monday 10 March. Over 11 spectacular days, the city will come alive with vibrant light displays, art installations, and immersive experiences, transforming iconic locations into dynamic works of art.

This year’s festival theme, Reflecting Our Story, celebrates Australian stories through multi-sensory experiences, with light, sound, and larger-than-life installations. National institutions will showcase stunning projections created by contemporary artists, blending movement and sound into a captivating display.

The Festival Hub will once again be the heart of Enlighten, offering live music from local and interstate talents such as Jett Blyton, Gia Ransome, and First Nations artists The Stiff Gins and Monica Moore. Visitors can enjoy delicious food and drinks at the Enlighten Food Park, BentSpoke Beer Garden, and Bar Berra.

Don’t miss the short film festival, Lights! Canberra! Action!, on Friday 7 March in the Senate Rose Gardens, featuring local filmmakers’ takes on this year’s theme, Looking Back, Looking Forward. On Sunday 9 March, Symphony in the Park will pair Melbourne’s The Bamboos with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra for an evening of funk, soul, and orchestral magic.

Expanding beyond the National Triangle, Enlighten: Beyond will bring immersive experiences to Glebe Park, Mt Stromlo Observatory, the Australian Botanic Gardens, and more.

Visit enlightencanberra.com for details. The Canberra Balloon Spectacular will follow from 15–23 March, with more information coming soon.