Enlighten Festival 2026

Canberra’s signature celebration of light, art and culture returns in 2026, transforming Australia’s capital into a glowing playground of creativity. Over 11 spectacular nights, Enlighten Festival invites locals and visitors to experience the National Triangle and beyond in an entirely new light.

A City Illuminated

Each evening, Canberra’s most iconic cultural institutions light up with dynamic architectural projections created by leading Australian artists. Wander the National Triangle to see vibrant storytelling projected across the National Library of Australia, Parliament House, the National Portrait Gallery, the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon and more.

Festival Hub – Eat, Play, Explore

Nestled between Questacon and the National Portrait Gallery, the Festival Hub is your go‑to space for food, music, installations and late‑night fun. Enjoy international flavours, indulgent desserts, live entertainment and interactive artworks under the festival lights.

Signature Events You Won’t Want to Miss

• Symphony in the Park – 8 March
  Mark Seymour of Hunters & Collectors joins the Canberra Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable free concert under the stars.
• Lights! Canberra! Action! – 6 March
  Celebrate local filmmakers at this much‑loved short film festival in the beautiful Senate Rose Gardens.
• Leonardo da Vinci: 500 Years of Genius
  A multi‑sensory exhibition that brings the mind of one of history’s greatest innovators to life.
• Enlighten BEYOND
  Explore installations, events and activations across the city in this expanded city‑wide program.

Make It a Weekend to Remember

Whether you're strolling through late‑night galleries, discovering pop‑up performances, tasting your way through the Food Park, or enjoying Canberra’s bars and dining scene before the lights switch on, Enlighten Festival offers the perfect reason to plan a getaway—or a few magical nights out.