October is the month when spring is in full bloom and ends with spooky delights – and the Canberra region is packed with events to thrill and fulfill the desires of locals and visitors alike.
The celebration of spring continues with Floriade and the Tulip Top Gardens open until mid month.
Connect with communities of the region through great events such as the Queanbeyan-Palerang Arts Trail occurring over three weekends, the Googong Rural Fire Service Open Day, the Canberra Highland Gathering and more.
Floriade: Australia’s biggest Spring festival continues in Commonwealth Park, until 15 October; floriadeaustralia.com
NightFest: After sunset, Floriade’s dark side comes to life with illuminated colours, live entertainment, stalls, and food. Commonwealth Park, until 1 October. Tickets: floriadeaustralia.com
Networks Australia – Artists at Work: Various mediums feature 2D and 3D works alongside photographs of their creators to give viewers an insight into the life of the artist. ANCA Dickson, until 1 October; anca.net.au
Braidwood Lions Antique Fair: Treasure hunt for antiques, collectibles, bric-a-brac, linen, porcelain, jewellery, clothes and furniture. Braidwood National Theatre, until 1 October.
Murrumbateman Moving Feast: A roving degustation allows you to experience wine and food from the finest makers of the region. Until 1 October; makersofmurrumbateman.org.au
Japanese Film Festival: Experience the rich tapestry of Japanese storytelling at this year’s festival acrass two venues in Canberra. Special series: until 1 October at NFSA; latest releases 11-15 October at Palace Electric; japanesefilmfestival.net/films-schedule
Queanbeyan-Palerang Arts Trail: Celebrate the local artists and makers of the Queanbeyan-Palerang region when studios and galleries open their doors. On 29 September and 1 October, visit creatives in Braidwood; queanbeyanpalerang.com.au
Arboretum Kite Fest: Spend the day in the sun with kites flying high, kite workshops, live entertainment, pop-up food and drink stalls, and more. National Arboretum Canberra, Sunday 1 October 10am–3pm; nationalarboretum.act.gov.au
Silk Road: The one-day-only exhibition showcases a true sense of multiculturalism through written word and visual and performing arts from a number of artists. Cuppacumbalong Homestead, 1 October 10am-1pm; petrajungmanova.com
Travelling with Clouds – Yun You: ANU’s Chinese Classical Musical Ensemble presents a program of beautiful tunes. Cook Community Hub, Sunday 1 October 2pm; trybooking.com
Gulgawarnigu – Thinking of something, someone: A collection of digital works by young artists from Ngarluma country. National Portrait Gallery, until 2 October; portrait.gov.au
The Australian Chopin Festival: A number of events and masterclasses celebrating the works of composer Frédéric Chopin. Various locations, until 2 October; friendsofchopin.org.au
Systems and Sanity: The recent work from Rebus Theatre exploring mental health is back for Mental Health Month for an online streaming season, 3-31 October; rebustheatre.com
Michael Winkler: Discusses his new book Grimmish, the story of Italian-American boxer Joe Grim. National Library of Australia, Tuesday 3 October 6pm; nla.gov.au
Department of Rock: The first heat of Canberra’s very first public service battle of the bands with six bands hoping for a spot in the semi-finals. Smith’s Alternative, City West, Tuesday 3 October 7pm; smithsalternative.com
Suzie Miller: Discusses her new book Prima Facie, drawn from her internationally acclaimed play of the same name exploring the sexual assault justice system in Australia. The Street Theatre, Wednesday 4 October 6pm; thestreet.org.au
Manhattan Short Film Festival: Ten films chosen from over 1,000 submissions from across the globe share stories of how we face diversity in this unique festival for film lovers. The Q – Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, Wednesday 4 October 7pm; theq.net.au
Memoryscapes: A series of new paintings from Katrina Barter exploring the subjective nature of memories. ANCA Gallery, Dickson, 5-22 October; anca.net.au
Sean Coffin: The Aussie jazz scene staple brings his new tour and band, Zoning Laws, to Smith’s Alternative, Thursday 5 October 9.30pm; smithsalternative.com
West Side Story: Dramatic Productions presents the beloved musical telling the enduring story of love and gang rivalry in Manhattan’s Upper West Side. The Gungahlin Theatre, 6-21 October; stagecenta.com
Vinyl Lounge 10th anniversary: Vinyl lovers rejoice! A not-to-be-missed celebration – a complimentary drink on arrival and special live performances with proceeds going towards developing the national sound collection. National Film and Sound Archive, Friday 6 October 5.30pm; nfsa.gov.au
Kindred: Canberra premiere of a powerful documentary about two close friends, both Aboriginal, who were adopted by white families and have connected back with their bloodline families. Post-screening Q&A with co-directors Wodi Wodi woman Gillian Moody and Wonnarua man Adrian Russell Wills. National Film and Sound Archive, Friday 6 October 6pm; nfsa.gov.au
Book Launch: Linda Peek launches her new book Malta: A Childhood Under Siege, a memoir of her mother’s time in Malta during WWII. Griffith Neighbourhood Hall, 6 October 6pm.
Brindabella Views: This 40-year-old garden commands great views. Features include rose plantings and many unusual plants, arbours, a gazebo, paths, mosaic pavers, an entertainment area, and a large production area with poultry. There are great ideas for producing your own food, dealing with steep sites and creating places to explore. Refreshments. No wheelchair or pram access. Open Gardens Canberra, 11 Appel Crescent, Fadden, 7-8 October 10am-4pm; opengardenscanberra.org.au
Arts Trail: Celebrate the local artists and makers of the Queanbeyan-Palerang region with studios and galleries opening their doors. On 7-8 October, the second of three weekends of the trail, visit creatives in Bungendore; queanbeyanpalerang.com.au
Canberra Psychic Fair: Your one-stop location for all jewellery, homeware, clothes, and goods for everything psychic, Wicca and witchy. Vikings Club, Tuggeranong, 7-8 October; canberrapsychicfair.com.au
Canberra Bonsai Society: Presents their annual show with an incredible collection of 80 uniquely crafted bonsai, vendors, and information. Canberra High School, 7-8 October 9am-4pm.
TEDxCanberra: The ideas festival celebrates up-and-coming change makers, innovators and artists both local and from across the country. Canberra Theatre Centre, 7 October 9am; canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Googong’s RFS Open Day: Googong’s Rural Fire Service Open Day is a fascinating adventure for the young and the young-at-heart. Climb the big red fire trucks, try the emergency gear on for size, or have a go at the hoses under the watchful eye of our firies. If you’ve dreamed of being a firefighter, don’t miss your chance to have a go. Everyone is invited – and it’s free!Bunyip Park, Wellsvale Drive, Googong, Saturday 7 October 10am-2pm; googong.net/news-and-events/events
The Beanies: The ABC Kids TV sensation is live on stage as Laura, Mim and Michael need your help to save EGGbert in the Egg-Straordinary Day. The Q – Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, Saturday 7 October 10am and 12.30pm; theq.net.au
Canberra Highland Gathering: A day of feel-good, free Scottish fun with highland dancing, kilted warriors, military re-enactment group, music, food, and more. Kambah Oval, 7 October 10am-5pm; canberragathering.com.au
Harden Kite Festival: A fun day not far from Canberra with circus classes, competitions, petting zoo, activities, entertainment and more. Harden, 7 October 10am-4pm.
La Fiesta: An all-ages celebration of the vibrant Latin American culture with an abundance of food, music, art, culture and dance. Latin American Plaza, City Centre, 7 October 3pm-9pm; act.gov.au/cityrenewal
Saturday Afternoon Tunes: Bring your families, your friends and your picnics and enjoy free live music from Rob Aspinall Trio and New Orleans Recital Hall under the Rotary Rotunda, Yerrabi Pond District Park, Gungahlin, 7 October 3pm; belcoarts.com.au
Stonefest: The music festival returns with another great lineup including Bakar, Ball Park Music, Dune Rats and more. University of Canberra, 7 October 3:30pm; stonefest.com.au
Picnic Concert: A musical journey through the season of rebirth from the Canberra Symphony Orchestra String Quintet and Rachel Thoms. Lanyon Homestead, 7 October 4:30pm; historicplaces.com.au
Disney Princess The Concert: The international fairytale sensation brings that special Disney magic to Canberra with an acclaimed cast performing more than 30 favourite princess tunes. Llewellyn Hall, ANU, Saturday 7 October 7pm; ticketek.com.au
Ben Lee: The beloved performer brings his Ben Lee vs The Collapse of the Music Industry Tour to Tallagandra Hill Winery, Gundaroo, 7 October 7pm; tallagandrahill.com.au
Daniel Röhn & Simon Tedeschi: An evening journeying through the golden era of the 1920s and 30 through storytelling, virtuosity and striking music. Snow Concert Hall, Saturday 7 October 7pm; snowconcerthall.com
Jack Biilmann: The blues meets roots-country and rock n roll singer launches his new album, Divided Mind. The Street Theatre, 7 October 7.30pm; thestreet.org.au
Ngura Pulk-Epic Country: One of the largest First Nations community art projects, created and directed by the Anangu people. National Gallery of Australia, until 8 October; nga.gov.au
Making it Modern: The latest part in the Know My Name project celebrating the world of pioneering women artists who shaped art in modern Australia, featuring works by Ethel Spowers, Olive Cotton and more. National Gallery of Australia, until 8 October; nga.gov.au
Canberra Glassworks: Presents two new solo exhibitions – a circular logic by Lisa Sammut, and What Gave You That Idea by Zoe Brand. Canberra Glassworks, Kingston, until 8 October; canberraglassworks.com
Slow Looking: A solo exhibition from Elisa Crossing invites the viewer to contemplate the present through colourful paintings. Nancy Sever Gallery, until 8 October; nancysevergallery.com.au
You, as a train station: Through the medium of oil paint, Brennan O’Brien shares a journey of acknowledging powerlessness and the acceptance of letting things travel through you. CCAS Manuka, until 8 October; ccas.com.au
Rosieville: Canberra Youth Theatre presents the unlikely story of a homing pigeon becoming a saving grace for a young girl experiencing heartbreak. Canberra Theatre Centre, until 8 October; canberrayouththeatre.com.au
How Cities Work: The exciting interactive exhibition explores the mystery, mayhem and magic of cities, with hands-on construction sites, a futuristic design station and more. Canberra Museum and Gallery, until 8 October; cmag.com.au
Belconnen Arts Centre: Presents four exhibitions – Sally Blake’s Wise Parliament, Shani Nottingham’s Plasticus Organicus, Dr Noriko Tanaka’s End Point of the Silk Road, and We Need to Talk by the Faculty of Arts and Design at the University of Canberra. Until 8 October; belcoarts.com.au
Australian Parliament House Open Day: Celebrating 35 years as the heart of Aussie democracy with a day of live entertainment, food, demonstrations, arts and lots more. Sunday 8 October, 9am-5pm; aph.gov.au/openday
Sense & Sensibility: A fast-paced comic reimagining of the classic work with eight actors and a single prop – a door! Pulp Book Café, Nicholls, Monday 9 October 7pm; eventbrite.com.au
Canberra Men’s Choir: Host a come-and-try open night ahead of the Christmas season. Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah, 9 October 7.30pm; canberramenschoir.weebly.com
World Mental Health Day: Join Capital Region Community Services and boost your well-being with a number of activities, an exhibition and a free screening of Rocketman. Belconnen Community Centre, Tuesday 10 October 10:30am; crcs.com.au/events/free-movie-screening-rocketman
Dept of Rock: The second heat of Canberra’s very first public service battle of the bands with six bands hoping for a spot in the semi-finals. Smith’s Alternative, Tuesday 10 October 7pm; smithsalternative.com
Rockspeare Henry VI Part 1: This is Shakespeare’s Henry VI Part 1 as you’ve never seen it, or heard it. Welcome to the Rockspeare universe where the history plays are recast as political plays and epic text is combined with an epic soundscape. Previews: 11-14 October; season: 18 October–4 November. Show times: Wednesday-Saturday 7.30pm, Saturday 2.30pm, and Sunday 4pm. Mill Theatre at Dairy Road, Building 3.3, 1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick, 11 October–4 November; milltheatreatdairyroad.com
Debrah Conway: The singer-songwriter, writer, actor, guitarist and record producer discusses her new book, Book of Life. The Street Theatre, Wednesday 11 October 6pm; thestreet.org.au
Natasha Lester: Shares her inspirations and storytelling secrets while promoting her new book, The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard, accompanied by a beautiful soundtrack and cocktails. Big River Distillery, Dairy Road, Fyshwick, Thursday 12 October 6pm; bigriverdistilling.com.au
Melissa Lucashenko: Discusses her new novel Edenglassie an exploration of Queensland’s colonial myths in an imagined Australian future. Kambri Cultural Centre, ANU, 12 October 6pm; .anu.edu.au/events
Total Recall: The next instalment in the popular and free Science. Art. Film. series explores provocative questions about technology with this science-fiction classic and post screening discussion. National Film and Sound Archive, 12 October 6pm; nfsa.gov.au
Liz Stringer: Brings her First Time … For the Last Time solo tour to Smith’s Alternative, 12 October 7pm; smithsalternative.com
The Teachers Pet Live: Hedley Thomas takes audiences behind the scenes of one of Australia’s most intriguing murder mysteries. Canberra Theatre Centre, 12 October 7.30pm; canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Redd Volkaert & Bill Kirchen: The Country Hall of Famers have cemented themselves as an integral part of American music history and now bring their tunes to The Street Theatre, Thursday 12 October 7.30pm; thestreet.org.au
Oklahoma!: Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’ opens Rodgers & Hammerstein’s first musical collaboration, the beloved Broadway classic: Oklahoma!Set at the turn of the 20th century and based on the play Green Grow the Lilacs by Lynn Riggs, Oklahoma’s story is backdropped by the passionate rivalry between the farmers and the cowmen. Don’t miss this beloved classic musical! The Q – Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, 13-29 October; queanbeyanplayers.com
Twelfth Night: Bell Shakespeare bring their production of the classic tale of hidden identities and unrequited love to Canberra Theatre Centre, 13-21 October; bellshakespeare.com.au
Sustainable Canberra Expo: Discover how to live a more sustainable life, test drive an EV, get expert advice on how to reduce energy bills, and more. Thoroughbred Park, 13-14 October; climatechoices.act.gov.au
Belconnen Arts Centre: Welcomes five new exhibitions- Kaleidoscope II, Shiver by Michelle Day, Remnants by Isobel Kennedy, The Future Unfolds by Faith Kerehona and Zero Waste: Doing It Imperfectly by Nancy Lane. 13 October-26 November; belcoarts.com.au
Thelma Plum: The beloved musician and creator treats shoppers to a free concert, meet and greet, and Q&A with fans at Westfield Belconnen, Friday 13 October 5pm; westfield.com.au
St Kilda to St Moritz: The NFSA and ANU School of Music present a unique program of home movies from the national collection, screened with original scores by student composers. Join curator Heather Gill and composers for a post-screening discussion about film composition and silent films in the modern age. National Film and Sound Archive, Friday 13 October 6pm; nfsa.gov.au
Yummy: QL2 present their Chaos Project 2023 with 50 dancers exploring five tastes – salty, bitter, sweet, sour and umami – which will you choose? Canberra College, 13 October 6pm; events.humanitix.com
Designing a Legacy Live: Tim Ross brings his acclaimed TV series to venues across the county, telling stories anchored by his passion for Australian architecture and design. National Library of Australia, 13 October 7pm; nla.gov.au
Graeme Connors: Spend an evening with a prolific songwriter as he shares tunes from his 25-plus albums in My Lyrical Life. The Street Theatre, Friday 13 October 7.30pm; thestreet.org.au
Steampunk Victoriana Fair: It’s time to dust off your top hats and restring your corsets in preparation for Goulburn’s Steampunk Victoriana Fair. Featuring a range of retro-futuristic clothing, art, music, games, and entertainment, it’s your chance to travel through time as it never was. Goulburn Historic Waterworks, 14-15 October; steampunkvictorianafair.com.au
Floriade: Windows to the World: Launching at Floriade on Saturday 14 October and running across the weekend of 21-22 October, Windows to the World is a rare opportunity to see behind the gates of Canberra’s embassies and high commissions. From 10am on 14 October, experience a taste of the culture and traditions of over 15 countries who will be exhibiting on site at Commonwealth Park.
Madonna40: A Celebration: Experience this incredible homage to the Queen of Pop, as one Canberra fan shares their collection of Madonna memorabilia. Canberra Museum and Gallery, 14 October–3 March; cmag.com.au
Arts Trail: Celebrate the local artists and makers of the Queanbeyan-Palerang region with studios and galleries opening their doors. On the trail’s final weekend, visit creatives in Queanbeyan, 14-15 October; queanbeyanpalerang.com.au
Serendipity: This 40-year-old, very large garden on a moderate slope has much detail to entice each visitor to keep moving to the next zone. Features include mature trees, dogwoods, maples and eucalypts. Plantings include many exotic and native shrubs. Extensive paths make it easy to move to each planted zone. Refreshments, no wheelchair or pram access. 29 Fitzalan Place, Kambah, 14-15 October; opengardenscanberra.org.au
Canberra Contemporary Photographic Prize: Images that capture the essence of the contemporary in an ever-changing world. PhotoAccess, Manuka Arts Centre, until 14 October; photoaccess.org.au
Canberra Contemporary Art Space: Presents two exhibitions – Sad State by Dean Cross, and Signal to Noise by Anna Madeleine Raupach. CCAS Lakeside, Parkes, until 14 October; ccas.com.au
St John’s Community Fair: Join in the fun at Canberra’s oldest church at the St John’s Community Fair, with a Kids’ Zone, things to buy, things to see, and plenty of great activities for the whole family. St John’s Anglican Church, Reid, Saturday 14 October 9am-2pm; stjohnscanberra.org/fair
Wake in Fright: The next instalment in the NFSA’s Australian New Wave series features Ted Kotcheff’s pivotal 1971 thriller, presented in collaboration with Umbrella Entertainment. National Film and Sound Archive, Saturday 14 October 1pm; nfsa.gov.au
Kill Bill: 20th anniversary double feature: Experience both volumes of Quentin Tarantino’s martial arts revenge classic, presented on 35mm film. National Film and Sound Archive, 14 October 6pm; nfsa.gov.au
Jennifer Wong: The comedy show Jennifer Wong Has No Peripheral Vision present stories of minds, bodies and the way we see the world. The Street Theatre, Saturday 14 October 8pm; thestreet.org.au
Floriade Dogs’ Day Out: This is a special day when visitors can bring their furry friends along to frolic amongst the flowers, on the final day of Floriade, Sunday 15 October, Commonwealth Park.
ACT Historic Places Art Prize: Features 29 works from 26 artists. Locals are invited to come along and vote for their favourite piece. Lanyon Homestead, Tharwa, until 15 October.
Tulip Top Gardens: Spend a day soaking up spring at this stunning display of tulips, blossoms and other flowers along with birds, live entertainment, food and wine. Tulip Top Gardens, Sutton NSW, until 15 October; tuliptopgardens.com.au
River Country Community Day: A day of art, music, performance, storytelling and conversation to celebrate the launch of Living on the Edge: Caring for Australia’s Threatened Places. National Museum of Australia, Sunday 15 October 11am- 3pm; nma.gov.au
Halloween Burlesque Brunch: A special edition of the beloved performance event with games, dressed competition and delicious snacks. Flazeda Hub, Belconnen, Sunday 15 October 11am; humanitix.com
The Mysterious Forest: Art Song Canberra presents soprano Susannah Laergren and pianist Bernadette Harvey with a program about the mystery of nature. Wesley Music Centre, Forrest, Sunday 15 October 3pm; trybooking.com
Mahalia Barnes & the Soul Mates: Cover the full range of the soul music spectrum in this raw, exciting and intimate show. Tallagandra Hill Winery, Gundaroo NSW, 15 October 6.30pm; tallagandrahill.com.au
Floriade The Great Big Bulb Dig: Take home a little piece of the magic by taking part in The Great Big Bulb Dig on Monday 16 October 10am-6pm, the day after Floriade closes its gates for 2023. Buy your Great Big Bulb Dig bag (or bags!) from the Floriade Shop or the CRVC shop on site at Floriade during the event. Your bag is your entry ticket to the Bulb Dig. You can only collect bulbs in 2023 Floral Wonderland Great Big Bulb Dig bags. All funds raised from the sale of the bags go to two local charities: Roundabout Canberra and the Indigenous Marathon Foundation; The Great Big Bulb Dig – Floriade (floriadeaustralia.com)
Music at Midday: The Royal Military College Band performs an outstanding concert for gold coin entry with all proceeds going to Veterans Support Centre Belconnen. Canberra Theatre Centre, Tuesday 17 October 12pm; canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Dept of Rock: The third heat of Canberra’s very first public service battle of the bands with six bands hoping for a spot in the semi-finals. Smith’s Alternative, Tuesday 17 October 7pm; smithsalternative.com
ST. ALi Italian Film Festival: A stunning selection of the best in contemporary Italian cinema – award-winning drama, comedies and documentaries. Palace Electric until 18 October; italianfilmfestival.com.au
Youth Dance Festival: Presented by Ausdance ACT, the exciting live dance and film extravaganza showcases secondary students from around the Canberra region. Canberra Theatre Centre, 18-19 October; canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Meet the Makers: Hear from first time photo exhibitionists Andrew Rankine and Justin Flynn as they discuss their process and works with refreshments served. Tuggeranong 55 Plus Club, Thursday 19 October 11.30am; 55plusclub.org.au
Martie Lowenstein: Presents her lecture on her 2023 National Folk Fellowship research in What Wendy Found: The story of the 1969 outback ‘Australian Folklore Expedition’. National Library of Australia, Thursday 19 October 5.30pm; nla.gov.au
Kaja-warnu-jangka/ From the bush: Stories of resilience, connection and life from the remote Warliri communities of the Northern Territory. The Street Theatre, Thursday 19 October 5.30pm; thestreet.org.au
Archie 100: A Century of the Archibald Prize: Nearly 100 works share the rich history of the competition and arrive at the final destination of its three-year tour. National Portrait Gallery, 20 October 2023 – 28 January 2024; portrait.gov.au
Canberra International Film Festival: This year presents a celebration of depression-era comedies and Australian documentaries. National Film and Sound Archive, 20-22 October; ciff.com.au
Trophy Eyes: Celebrate their latest album Suicide and Sunshine with special guests Dear Seattle at UC Hub, University of Canberra, Friday 20 October 7.30pm; moshtix.com.au
Country Vistas: A solo exhibition from Isla Patterson capturing beautiful landscapes and wildlife. More than 40 paintings detail landscapes in beautiful realism from the countryside around Canberra, Hall and Lanyon Homestead, to moments of adventure in the Antarctic, The Kimberlys, and Akaroola in South Australia. History is captured in large scale in the Towrang Bridge, while miniatures show feathered friends like blue wrens, kookaburras, magpies and willy wagtails. Capital Wines and Kyeema Art Gallery, Hall, until 21 October; capitalwines.com.au/kyeema-gallery
Windows to the World: Discover a world within the ACT as a number of Canberra’s embassies and high commissions open their doors to the public. See exhibits of traditional clothing, music and dance performances and taste traditional foods. Entry free but bookings required. Some events are already ‘sold out’. 21-22 October, More details at events.canberra.com.au/windows-to-the-world
Els’ Garden: Els’ gently sloping block features a series of zones with a wide variety of ornamentals. Visitors will find a rich mix of native plants including Isopogons, Myoporum, Solanum, Prostanthera, Phyla, Westringia, Micrantheum and multiple Banksias and Grevilleas. The back garden features a creek and pond, and a pleasant setting for refreshments and plant sale. No wheelchair or pram access. 3 Ramge Place, Flynn, 21-22 October 10am; opengardenscanberra.org.au
Tuggeranong Arts Centre: Presents three new exhibitions – Georgia Claridge’s Open Home, Yamile Tafur and Carlos Sanchez’s In the Warmth of the Kitchen, and group collaboration Dust Collectors. Tuggeranong Arts Centre, until 21 October; tuggeranongarts.com
Rusten House Art Centre: Presents two new exhibitions – David Smith’s Tales from the late Anthropocene: Rise of marine megafauna, and Cartography of Now by The Canberra Printmaking Group 5 Ink. Until 21 October; qprc.nsw.gov.au
Murrumbateman Field Days: A weekend of fun for the whole family with shopping, entertainment, helicopter rides, markets and more and a special guest appearance from George the Farmer and Dave Graham. Murrumbateman, 21-22 October; mfdays.com
The Colours I Feel: This solo exhibition by Andy Sumner is inspired by this year’s autumn and winter in Canberra, hiking through hills and green space pathways. All welcome to the opening on Saturday 21 October 2pm and Artist Talk Sunday 22 October 12 noon. Humble House Gallery, Fyshwick, 21 October–19 November; humblehouse.com.au
A Taste of Ireland: A Taste of Ireland – The Irish Music & Dance Sensation returns to Canberra, bringing a fusion of Irish tunes, live tap battles, and world-class dancing that’s ‘Celtic-for this decade’. Experience the raw passion of the Celtic motherland featuring World Champions from Lord of the Dance in a show that’s entertained thousands worldwide. Don’t miss out – secure your seats now! Canberra Theatre, Saturday 21 October 7.30pm; canberratheatrecentre.com.au/show/taste-of-ireland-2023
My Cousin Vlad: The comedian brings his new show Catastropha! to Canberra Theatre Centre, Saturday 21 October 7.30pm; canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Canberra Big Band Collective: A performance from two of Canberra’s big bands- Connexion and In Full Swing ranging from the classic hits to more modern tunes. Crotation Club, O’Connor, 21 October 7:30pm; trybooking.com
A Taste of Ireland: The Irish music and dance sensation shares acclaimed dancers, folk musicians and vocalists in this raw passionate show. Canberra Theatre Centre, 21 October 7.30pm; canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Canberra Potters: Presents Emerging from the Earth: Clay & Flowers, a group exhibition challenging the idea of floral designs being relegated to flowers in vases. Canberra Potters Gallery, Watson, until 22 October; canberrapotters.com.au
2023 Braddon Busking Festival: Enjoy live music on the streets of Braddon, with talented buskers competing for prizes and entry into the Australian National Busking Championships. Free event. Support our local talent with tips, and vote for your favourite buskers with busking coins available to purchase at the festival. Lonsdale & Elouera Streets and Haig Park, Braddon, Sunday 22 October 10am-4pm; braddoncollective.com
Piaf and Aznavour: A journey through the world of French popular music in Back in Time. The Street Theatre, Sunday 22 October 4pm; thestreet.org.au
The Bentley Effect: Get ready to be inspired by The Bentley Effect. You are warmly invited to a screening of this epic doco that captures the essence of community power against the fossil fuel industry. There’ll be some food and a cuppa too! 22 October 6.15pm for a 7pm start. The Polish Club, 38 David St, Turner, Sunday 22 October 6.15pm. Bookings: risingtide.org.au/canberra-film-night
The Wharf Revue: Returns with another political satire in the laugh-out-loud Pride in Prejudice. Canberra Theatre Centre, 24 October-5 November; canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Queensland Ballet: Presents a whimsical retelling of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Canberra Theatre Centre, 25-28 October; canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Speaking in Tongues: A study of love, marriage, infidelity and betrayal as nine lives interconnect and overlap. ACT Hub, 25 October-4 November; acthub.com.au
Friends of Ukraine Canberra-Queanbeyan: Hosts a pop-up exhibition to poignantly and respectfully explain the war on Ukraine by Russia with plaques by Lithuanian-Australian artist Peter Kabaila. International Flag Display, Commonwealth Place, Wednesday 25 October 12.30pm.
Charles Huang in Recital: The young pianist returns to perform works from Beethoven, Bach and Rachmaninoff. Wesley Music Centre, Wednesday 25 October 12:40pm; wesleycanberra.org.au
Dark Matter 2023: A showcase of the works created throughout the 2023 Dark Matter Residency. PhotoAccess, 26 October- 2 December; photoaccess.org.au
Press Club: The Melbourne four-piece return to Canberra for their first headline show after the release of album Endless Motion. The Basement, Belconnen, Thursday 26 October 7pm; thebasementcanberra.oztix.com.au
The Data Imaginary: Fears and Fantasies: A group exhibition from artists and designers exploring how creative applications of data technology are crucial for an inclusive and sustainable future. ANU School of Art & Design Gallery, until 27 October; soad.cass.anu.edu.au
Mental Health Guitar Festival: Canberra resident Duncan n. Sargeant presents Eelworks Guitar Mental Health Guitar Festival 2023. Solo concert on Friday 27 October 7pm at Pulp Book Café, Gold Creek;. Three-guitar recital on Sunday 29 October 2.30pm at All Saints, Ainslie; tickets $20. More info: eelworks.com
Halloween double feature: Strap in for a double feature of terror with Ti West’s horror cult classics, Pearl and X, with star-making performances by Mia Goth. National Film and Sound Archive, Friday 27 October 7pm; nfsa.gov.au
Genevieve Lacey in concert with James Crabb: Join the National Museum of Australia for a compelling program of music curated by musician Genevieve Lacey, composer of the Museum’s permanent sound installation Breathing Space. Lacey’s incomparable skill with the recorder combine with Crabb’s mastery of the classical accordion in this special fundraising concert for the Museum’s Annual Appeal. NMA, Friday 27 October 7.30–9pm. Doors open at 7pm with drinks and light snacks available from the pay bar. Tickets: $65-$75 via Eventbrite
The Overwintering Project: The newest iteration of this continuing exhibition explores the plight and habitat of migratory shorebirds at ‘Jerrabomberra Wetlands’. Megalo Print Studio, Kingston, until 28 October; megalo.org
Aggregate – Perspectives in Recycled Glass: A group exhibition from local artists and makers utilising recycled glass in beautiful and utilitarian ways. Thor’s Hammer, Griffith, until 28 October; thors.com.au
Canberra Brick Show: An incredible display of LEGO creations with more than 120 local and interstate builders, stalls, food trucks and all proceeds going to local charities and specialty schools. Thoroughbred Park, 28-29 October; canberra.brickshow.au
Gunning Arts Festival: The picturesque town opens its doors to art enthusiasts, culture seekers and families with exhibitions, live performances, workshops and more. Gunning, 28-29 October; gunningartsfestival.com
On the Move: This new child and family exhibition takes you on a journey through different modes of transport in an interactive space. Canberra Museum and Gallery, 28 October- 28 January; cmag.com.au
Rusten House Art Centre: The Queanbeyan art centre presents three new exhibitions- Creative Curiosities, Alison’s Wonderful Life by Alison Archbold, Trees and Other Treasures by Judith Tokley and Belonging by Jo Parsons (continuing until 16 Decmber). 28 October- 18 November; qprc.nsw.gov.au
Goulburn Farmers Markets: The inaugural GFM will be held at Peden Pavilion, Goulburn Recreation Area on Saturday 28 October 8-11am. The markets will continue on the last Saturday of each month until 23 March 2024. More info: goulburnaustralia.com.au
Geek Markets: Join us at this fantastic FREE event and experience a pop culture extravaganza that’s perfect for the whole family! 200+ trading tables, cosplay, community groups, tabletop gaming, video gaming and more. For the traders, there will be action figures, comics, pops, trading cards (Pokemon, sporting, movies and more), bricks, artists, authors, plus a whole lot more geekiness. Free entry. Old Bus Depot, Kingston, Saturday 28 October from 9am; canberrageekmarkets.com.au
Celebrating Hackett’s 60th birthday: The Hackett Community Association is partnering with local churches to celebrate Hackett’s 60th birthday in the grounds of the Holy Cross Anglican and St Margaret’s Uniting Churches on Saturday 28 October 3-8pm. There will be stalls, displays, music, food, attractions for children and the Hackett Squares Artshow. A birthday cake will be cut at 4pm by some of the original residents of Hackett who still live here. More info: hackett.asn.au
M16 Artspace Open Day: An opportunity for the community to connect with resident artists, join workshops, hear from artists and enjoy refreshments. Griffith, ACT, 28 October 10am- 4pm; m16artspace.com.au
Halloween Party: The Gold St. Movie Club celebrates the spookiest time of year with interactive screening of cult classic The Craft, movie games, food, drink, costume party, market stalls and special guest author Maria Lewis. Squeaky Clean Bar, 28 October 4pm; events.humanitix.com
Halloween at Luna Bar: A haunting and sophisticated degustation menu curated by AHA Chef of the Year Adrianne Davo who has created a spooky-themed six or eight-course dinner menu. Luna Bar, 28 October from 6pm; lunabar.com.au
Halloween double feature: A Halloween special edition of Fright Night: Cult Cinema Classics, hosted by local drag artist Venus Mantrap. National Film and Sound Archive, Saturday 28 October 7pm; nfsa.gov.au
Will Todd’s Mass in Blue and Jazz Missa Brevis: The Llewellyn Choir presents Will Todd’s Mass in Blue and Jazz Missa Brevis, two exciting jazz-choral works. Featuring the Llewellyn Jazz Combo and soloist Sonia Anfiloff. Yarralumla Uniting Church, Saturday 28 October 7.30pm; llewellynchoir.org.au
The Coal Miner’s Daughter: The story and hits of Loretta Lynn live on stage, joined by Patsy Cline and Conway Twitty – a tribute show not be missed. The Q – Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, 28 October 8pm; theq.net.au
Spring Garden Event: Would you like inspiration and tips for designing a multi-functional garden? Or just enjoy sweet treats with your friends in a beautiful garden? Events are hosted by a local landscape designer in her Braddon garden. Braddon, 29 October, 10 and 19 November; bookings and details: hgardenswithfleur.com.au
All that Glitters: The CSO Chamber ensemble presents a concert that discovers one of fair Portia’s suitors in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice. Albert Hall, 29 October 2pm; cso.org.au
Cox Gallery: Showcases selection from the C. Nikolakopoulos collection Derek F. Wrigley Furniture as functional art. Kingston, 30 October- 1 December; coxarchitecture.com.au
Life Uncut: Laura Byrne and Brittany Hockley talk life, lust, love and everything in between in the live and unfiltered version of the sensational podcast. Canberra Theatre Centre, Monday 30 October 7.30pm; canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Continuing
Threatened Species Open Photographic Exhibition: Photographers from around Australia share their works to shine a light on our at-risk native plants and animals and celebrate the conservation practices that are supporting their plight. Wild Bark at Mulligans Flat, until 13 December; belcoarts.com.au
Grit & Gold: Tales from a Sporting Nation: Relive the highs and lows of Australia’s rich sporting history at National Library of Australia, until 5 November; nla.gov.au
Flights of Fancy Feathers: Bungendore Wood Works Gallery presents an exhibition of works by South Coast sculptor Ian Bell along with prominent Australian artists, Helen Fitzgerald, Helen Cottle, Ebony Bennett, and Lyn Cooke. Bungendore Wood Works Gallery, until 30 November; bwoodworks.com.au
White Out: From sheets to shirts, this refreshing exhibition from CIT Fashion School features upcycled garments to challenge fashion industry norms. Canberra Museum and Gallery, until 14 January; cmag.com.au
Capturing Canberra: A display of Canberra Museum and Gallery’s recently acquired Press Photography Collection with over 3,500 images telling the story of our region. Canberra Museum and Gallery, Civic Square, until 28 January; cmag.com.au
The ballad of sexual dependency: Nan Goldin’s career-defining work captures the intimate lives of a community of friends in the 1970s-1980s in these raw and captivating shots. Viewer discretion advised. National Gallery of Australia, until 28 January; nga.gov.au
MoAD: Home to a host of exhibitions, such as Behind the Lines 2022, Blueprint, and Statement: Jack Green’s Paintings at Old Parliament House, free entry. Bookings encouraged; moadoph.gov.au
Canberra/Kamberri, Place & People: Discover the story of Canberra as the place where nationhood found a home – the people, places and history that make up this city and region. Canberra Museum and Gallery; cmag.com.au
Recurring
Smith’s Alternative: Ukulele players perform Lunchulele every Monday 12.30-1.30pm; Irish Jam each Friday from 4pm; Comedy Open Mic, first Sunday of the month 7pm; smithsalternative.com
Behind-the-Scenes History Tour: Go behind the scenes of Canberra’s oldest public building and see its evolution. Canberra Glassworks, Kingston, every Wednesday and Friday 10.30am-2pm. Bookings: canberraglassworks.com
Sing Australia: Weekly sessions at: Belconnen, Thursday 9.30am; Duntroon, Monday 7.30pm; Greenway, Monday 1pm. Costs apply; singaustralia.com.au
Mt Ainslie Music Club: The community ensemble meets for improvisation every first Thursday of the month 8-10pm, Ainslie Arts Centre; ainslieandgorman.com.au
ANU Classics Museum: Voluntary guides conduct free tours on the second Friday of each month at 11am in the A D Hope Building, ANU; call 0438 883 373.
Night Markets: The community-run event is on Fridays 4-8pm at Anketell Street, Tuggeranong.
Capital Region Farmers Market: Fresh seasonal produce and gourmet goods at EPIC, Saturdays 7-11.30am; capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au
Kippax Marketplace: Indoor market at Kippax Uniting Church Community Centre on the 3rd Saturday of the month 8am-12pm; free entry.
Community Market: Monthly market at Calwell shopping centre on the 3rd Saturday of the month 9am-3pm, and Queanbeyan Park on the 3rd Sunday 9am-2pm.
Old Bus Depot Markets: The much-loved markets continue at the Old Bus Depot in Kingston, Sundays 9.30am-2.30pm; obdm.com.au
Bric-a-Brac Rummage: Hunt for second-hand treasure in front of South.Point, Tuggeranong, Sundays 9am-3pm.
Trash and Treasure: Hunt for second-hand goods, fresh produce and homewares every Sunday at the Jamison Centre, 7am-12.30pm; trashandtreasuremarketjamison.com.au
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