From festive lights and Christmas markets to summer sport, exhibitions and New Year’s Eve fireworks, Canberra has plenty happening in the lead-up to Christmas and right through to the start of 2026. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings, something to do between meals, or a reason to get out and explore the city during the school holidays, here’s what’s on around Canberra for Christmas and New Year’s.
Christmas lights across Canberra: One of the most-loved festive traditions returns as suburbs across Canberra light up for the Christmas season. Perfect for evening walks, short drives and post-dinner adventures, many displays are best enjoyed after dark and make for great photo opportunities along the way. Highly recommend Harry Hopkins Circuit in Gordon and Huddy Street in Forde, but there are other great locations; click here to check the full list.
A season of celebration at Water’s Edge Canberra: Water’s Edge Canberra is embracing the festive season in full swing, opening seven days a week, including nights and Public Holidays, throughout the holiday period. The only closure is Christmas Day dinner on 25 December. From Christmas and Boxing Day through to New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, the team will be serving up festive favourites with waterfront views to match, making it an easy choice for end-of-year celebrations. Phone: 6273 5066 | Book: watersedgecanberra.com.au | Instagram: @watersedge_canberra
Capital Region Farmer Market on Christmas Eve: Skip the supermarket rush and stock up for the big day at the special Christmas Eve edition of the Capital Region Farmers Market. From fresh fruit and vegetables to premium local meats, seafood, berries for pavlova and artisan treats, it’s your last chance to shop local and support regional growers before Christmas Day. EPIC Canberra, Wednesday 24 December, 7–11:30am; capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au
Christmas in the City: Celebrate the festive season in the heart of Canberra with shopping, dining and Christmas cheer across the City Centre. Discover unique gifts, enjoy long lunches and dinners with loved ones, and soak up the family-friendly festivities along the way. Civic, until Wednesday 24 December; inthecity.com.au/christmasinthecity
Summer holiday fun at the National Zoo: Celebrate the start of the summer holidays with a weekend of family fun at the National Zoo & Aquarium. The zoo will come alive with festive entertainment, live music and free lawn games for kids and adults alike. Visitors can relax in the Viewing Park, enjoy a friendly game on the lawns, or follow the aromas to wagyu sausages, burgers and fresh baked goods from NZACT volunteers. All activities are free for members and included with general admission, making it an easy holiday outing for families and friends. Events are weather dependent. National Zoo & Aquarium, Yarralumla, Friday 26 December and Saturday 27 December, 10am–3pm; nationalzoo.com.au
UC Capitals v Sydney Flames: Canberra’s WNBL side returns to home court as the UC Capitals take on long-time rivals the Sydney Flames. Expect fast-paced action, big plays and plenty of atmosphere as the Capitals chase a strong result in front of a home crowd. A great night out for basketball fans and families alike. Saturday 27 Decemer, AIS Arena; tickets at premier.ticketek.com.au
BBL Melbourne Stars v Sydney Thunder: Big Bash cricket returns to Canberra as the Melbourne Stars face off against the Sydney Thunder in a fast-paced summer showdown. Expect explosive batting, crowd-friendly entertainment and a lively match-day atmosphere, making it an easy pick for school holiday fun or a night out with friends. Sunday 28 December, Manuka Oval; tickets at premier.ticketek.com.au
New Year’s Eve on Lake Burley Griffin: Canberra will welcome 2026 with fireworks, music and food along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. Four lakeside locations will host local DJs from 6pm, alongside food trucks and picnic-friendly spaces. Fireworks over Central Basin will run twice, with a family-friendly display at 9pm and a midnight show set to a synchronised soundtrack on Mix 106.3. Public transport across buses and light rail will be free all day and night. Various lakeside locations, Wednesday 31 December from 6pm; maps and details at nye.events.canberra.com.au
Workday Canberra International 2026: The world’s next tennis stars return to Canberra as elite ATP 125 and WTA 125 competition takes over the city. With a strong track record of launching future global champions, the tournament offers a rare chance to see rising players compete for a major prize pool before they hit the world stage. Free entry is available for kids on most days, making it a great summer school holiday outing. 4–10 January 2026, from 10am, Canberra Tennis Centre, Lyneham; tennis.com.au
Hallyu! The Korean Wave: Step into the global phenomenon that has propelled Korean culture onto the world stage. From K-pop and K-drama to film, fashion and beauty, this major exhibition explores the creativity and cultural energy shaping contemporary Korea, with familiar touchstones including Squid Game and modern music icons. Until Sunday 10 May 2026, National Museum of Australia, Acton; nma.gov.au
In real life: inventors, innovators and opportunists: Discover the story of Australian invention at the National Archives of Australia’s new exhibition in Canberra. Explore more than 150 years of patents, designs and trademarks with original drawings and real-world examples of everyday innovations — from the Victa lawnmower and Hills Hoist to spray-on skin, the baby capsule and even dual-flush toilets — and meet the creative minds behind them. Until 17 May 2026 at the National Archives of Australia, Parkes; naa.gov.au
Behind the Lines: A sharp and timely look at Australian politics through the eyes of the nation’s best cartoonists. This annual exhibition brings together biting satire, humour and insight, capturing the moments, personalities and debates that have shaped the political year. From laugh-out-loud observations to pointed commentary, it’s a popular snapshot of life and leadership in Australia. On now at Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, Parkes; moadoph.gov.au
