Join us for an unparalleled spectacle as 600 drones soar over Lake Burley Griffin and, in an Australian first, present a trilogy of stories each night.
Welcome, Yumalundi | Part 1, 8:30pm | Rejoice | Part 2, 9:30pm | One and Many | Part 3, 10:30pm
Audiences can expect breathtaking displays of Australian native flora, fauna and history laid out on the canvas of the night sky.
In addition to the skyshow, explore our vibrant night markets, from 5:00PM each night. Feast on a variety of multicultural cuisines, browse locally made arts and crafts, and engage with live performances from musicians and roving entertainers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this event promises a unique and inclusive experience for all ages.
No tickets are required for this free community event however, registration via Eventbrite will give you important event updates ahead of your visit.
Whether you want to immerse yourself in the crowd at Commonwealth Place or watch from a quieter spot along the central basin shoreline, there’s a perfect view for everyone.
The Drone SkyShow Trilogy will be visible from multiple locations around the central basin of Lake Burley Griffin.
The main event hub will be at Commonwealth Place on Lake Burley Griffin.
There is a smaller secondary hub at Regatta Point.
Rond Terrace is closed.
Activities associated with the event will start at 5pm on Thursday 25, Friday 26, and Saturday 27 January 2024.
The three-part Drone Skyshow Trilogy, a first for Canberra, starts at 8:30pm when it gets dark.
The second and third parts are at 9:30pm and 10:30pm
Markets and food stalls at Commonwealth Place and food stalls at Regatta Place open at 5pm and close at 10:30pm.
FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow Trilogy runs for 12 minutes every hour from sundown. At this time of year this is approximately:
At the end of each segment the drones return to their docking stations to recharge for the next exciting part of the Australian story they are telling.
600 drones will take to the skies over Lake Burley Griffin and, in an Australian first, present a trilogy of stories each night.
Welcome, Yumalundi | Part 1, 8:30pm
Rejoice | Part 2, 9:30pm
One and Many | Part 3, 10:30pm
Ngunnawal Elder, Dr Caroline Hughes has worked with the NCA and AGB Creative to contribute key cultural and narrative elements to the story of FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow and Night Markets.
Audiences can expect breathtaking displays of Australian native flora, fauna and history laid out on the canvas of the night sky.
No, entry to the event is free and no bookings are required.
Signing up for Eventbrite means that you’ll be the first to know about event updates.
In the event of bad weather, the NCA will use Eventbrite to distribute information about rescheduling and/or cancellation.
FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow Trilogy will be visible from locations around Central Basin and beyond. Check the map for amenities on the night to find a place that suits you.
Members of the public looking to experience the event from a location with toilets, food, and other amenities close by should plan to join the festivities at Commonwealth Place or Regatta Point.
Of course, everyone is welcome to bring a picnic and find a great spot beside Lake Burley Griffin. Perspectives of the Drone SkyShow Trilogy will vary around the lake.
Please note that Rond Terrace is closed.
Thanks to the ACT Government, free public transport across the entire Transport Canberra network will be available for travel to FLIGHT from 5pm on 25-27 January.
Park & Ride Bus Options: Park at one of Transport Canberra’s many Park & Ride facilities across Canberra and jump on a bus or light rail.
City Shuttles: Free shuttle buses will run from Woden Interchange platform 6 and City Interchange from 7:00pm onwards.
Return Transport Canberra shuttle buses will operate from Langton Crescent bus stop 1777 opposite the Treasury Building.
Due to the public holiday timetable on Friday 26 January, return shuttles will take passengers to Tuggeranong, Woden, Belconnen, and City Interchanges. A Sunday timetable will be in place for all other bus services. Full details are available on the Transport Canberra website: https://www.transport.act.gov.au/
Bus Routes: The following bus services connect major interchanges with stops either side of Lake Burley Griffin.
🚍 R2, R4, R5, R6, R7, R10 and free shuttles from City Interchange
🚍 R2 and R4 from Belconnen Interchange
🚍 R4, 57, 58 and free shuttles from Woden Interchange
🚍 R4 from Tuggeranong Interchange
Parking is limited. Arrive early and allow plenty of time to find a park and depart after the event. If you want to avoid the crowds at the main hub, make use of the alternative viewing points. Check the map on NCA website.
Questacon carpark will be made available for patrons in cars displaying a valid Disability Parking Permit only.
Accessible Parking facilities will also be available at Regatta Point car park.
While Commonwealth Place is a no-ride zone during FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow Trilogy, Beam and Neuron will have designated e-scooter parking on either side of the event area.
Patrons are encouraged to park and ride using Beam and Neuron to avoid delays. The Beam and Neuron apps are available for download from the App Store or Google Play store.
You may want to bring a picnic blanket to sit on, as well as any snacks or beverages you'd like to enjoy during the event.
FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow Trilogy & Night Markets is an outdoor event with main viewing area in open space - please wear appropriate footwear and clothing.
Yes, there will be night markets featuring food, drinks, and crafts available at the event.
The Jetty, Waters Edge and The Margot will be operating at Commonwealth Place, as well as ample food and drink options at the market.
Food vendors will also be at Barrine Drive near Regatta Point in Commonwealth Park.
Yes, the event is suitable for all ages and is a great opportunity for families and friends to come together and enjoy the beautiful setting of Lake Burley Griffin.
For the latest event information, updates and reminders please check Eventbrite and the NCA Social Media.
Yes, live music will be playing at the Markets.
The drone show will be accompanied by a live soundtrack. Patrons visiting the show at Commonwealth Place will hear the soundtrack via speakers. Anyone viewing the show from an alternative location is encouraged to bring a small speaker.
Links to the soundtrack will be posted lakeside.
First aid tents will be located at Commonwealth Place and Regatta Point.
Yes, roving security will monitor crowds and alcohol consumption at both event hubs.
Drone operators advise that FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow Trilogy will be unable to proceed in rain, high winds, thunderstorms, and/or lightning. They can however look for windows of clear skies through the night to make the drones fly.
The NCA will use social media and email to notify the community of any delays or cancellations. To guarantee that you receive event updates and notifications of this type, visitors should sign up to Eventbrite or follow the NCA and/or the National Triangle on social media.
In the event of cancellation or delay, the NCA will work with the Drone SkyShow supplier to attempt (where possible) to reschedule the event.
Due to the large crowds expected at FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow & Night Markets, it is not advisable to bring a pet to this event.
Service animals are excepted.
There are no current COVID-19 restrictions for events in the ACT, we recommend you practice good hand hygiene and stay at home if you have any COVID-19 symptoms.
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region.
We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.