Canberra Gig Guide: Picks for the Best Live Music in Canberra
From festivals to one-off shows, here’s our guide to the best live music Canberra has to offer in 2024.
No matter your taste in music, you’re bound to find a gig in Canberra to suit you. The national capital boasts a thriving live music scene that encompasses local and international acts, as well as festivals of all sizes.
To help you plan your 2024 live music calendar, here’s our guide for when and where to catch the best live music in Canberra this year.
Matchbox Twenty
Finally making their long-awaited return to Australian soil, Matchbox Twenty is coming back Down Under for a 10-show tour - and yes, Canberra made the cut!
Famous for giving us some of the most iconic songs of the 90's - including '3am' and 'Push' - you are bound to get up on your feet as you sing along to some of the American rock bands' best hits.
As well as their old-school hits, the tour will also include music from their new album 'Where the Light Goes' - the bands' first new music release in over a decade. Sign us up!
23rd February, 2024
GIO Stadium, Battye Street, Bruce
National Folk Festival
The National Folk Festival is one of our favourite annual events in Canberra, and once you’ve attended, you’ll quickly see why.
The festival brings together a huge range of musical and other acts across all kinds of cultures and genres – with a predominant focus on folk, of course.
There are also workshops, food and craft stalls, bars, dances and more.
The festival takes place over the Easter long weekend, so we recommend booking a camping ticket to make the most of your time there.
28th March - 1st April
EPiC (Exhibition Park in Canberra), Flemington Road, Mitchell
Missy Higgins
One of Australia's most well-known and loved singers, a night with Missy Higgins will be filled with nostalgia and great music.
Taking over the Canberra Theatre Centre for her Second Act Tour, dance and sing along to Missy's old classics and new hits, as the crowd celebrates 20 years since the release of the iconic debut album 'The Sound of White.'
This show may already be sold out (proving just how much we really do love Missy), but you can keep your eyes peeled for resale tickets - something may pop up if you're lucky!
9th - 10th April, 2024
Civic Square, London Circuit, Canberra
Kita Alexandra
Rising in popularity following an epic collaboration with Australian DJ Fisher for their hit song 'Atmosphere,' there's never been a better time to catch Kita Alexandra live in concert.
Her new album is set to be released in March this year, and her 'Young in Love' tour is making its way around the country, with the final show taking place in our very own city at UC Hub.
Dance along to the boppy beats and enjoy the vibes of the more mellow melodies this April - tickets are still available!
April 27th, 2024
UC Hub, Kirinari Street, Bruce
Jessica Mauboy
Another Aussie superstar will be gracing the stage in Canberra this year, with former Australian Idol runner-up Jessica Mauboy set to light up Canberra Theatre Centre in May.
A proud Kuku Yalanji and Wakaman woman, Jessica Mauboy will be sharing her heart and soul along with her phenomenal vocals during her 'Yours Forever Tour' which is an homage to her roots in Australia.
A true talent, this is your chance to be blown away by an incredible singer and songwriter, who puts her all into every performance.
3rd May, 2024
Civic Square, London Circuit, Canberra
Groovin the Moo
Everyone's favourite regional day-fest Groovin the Moo is back for 2024, and the lineup is impressive.
While last year saw the likes of alt-J, Fatboy Slim, Amy Shark and Ball Park Music take over the groovy stage, things have stepped up a notch for 2024, with Hot Dub Time Machine, The Kooks, San Sisco, Alison Wonderland and The Beaches coming in hot.
26th April, 2024
EPiC (Exhibition Park in Canberra), Flemington Road, Mitchell
Spilt Milk
Not much has been announced about Spilt Milk 2024, except for the fact that it’s definitely happening.
The festival is a staple of Canberra’s live music scene and in past years has featured a great line-up of Aussie and international artists, with a leaning towards indie acts.
Head to the Spilt Milk website to sign up for updates on the 2024 festival.
Now that you've got your live music in Canberra sorted, how about some more inspo for 2024 events? Check out our guides to the best museums in Canberra and the best art galleries in Canberra.
