What’s On in Canberra This March & Beyond

And just like that, summer is officially over. Canberra comes alive in autumn and is jam-packed with activities from not-to-be-missed gigs, plays, fun runs, second-hand markets and plenty of adventures. 

Stuck for things to do? Search our what’s on in Canberra this March guide and consider yourself sorted. 

Find One-Off Treasures at Handmade Canberra

Love fossicking through trinkets for a special find? The Handmade Canberra Markets showcase over 260 local designers and producers. From fashion and jewellery to ceramics and handcrafted furniture, the markets are a great chance to shop for cool, one-off Australian-made items while supporting small businesses.

Saturday 29th March to Sunday 30th March, 10am to 4pm

Exhibition Park Canberra

Marvel at the floating Balloon Spectacular

Canberra’s most magical event is back for another year. The Canberra Balloon Festival lights up the sky with the spectacular sight of hot air balloons floating in the morning sun. This annual and free event (which is weather dependent), held at various city vantage points, is a visual feast for the eyes as colourful balloons drift peacefully above the stunning Canberra skyline.

Saturday 15th March to Sunday 23rd March

John Dunmore Lang Place, National Triangle, Parkes

Catch a Classic Movie at this Charming Cinema

Experience the magic of classic cinema at Elsie’s Film House, a pop-up lounge in Canberra’s city centre. Enjoy retro movie nights with nostalgic films from the 70s, 80s, and 90s in a cosy setting. Running until July at Civic Square Hub, they also do a happy hour from 5pm to 6pm on Fridays with $7 beers and $9 wines.

Runs until July 4th

Buy tickets here

Civic Square Hub (between CMAG and The Canberra Theatre)

Have a Giggle at the Canberra Comedy Festival

There’s nothing better than sitting in a room full of strangers and belly-laughing. And the Canberra Comedy Festival promises to do just that. With a stellar line-up of local and international comedians, including Sara Pascoe, Michael Hing and Michelle Brasier, there’ll also be the Gala event with Wil Anderson’s Watchu Talkin’ Bout Wil headline show. Snap up a ticket and get ready to chortle!

Wednesday 12th March to Sunday 23rd March

Purchase tickets here

Multiple venues across Canberra

Find a Designer Bargain at the Second Life Markets

Who doesn’t love snapping up designer goodies for a fraction of the price? The Second Life Markets will be popping up in Canberra this month, with over 60 stalls of vintage and preloved fashion, with local sellers and sellers travelling from Sydney and Melbourne. The vibes will be high with DJs, tattoos and toothgems in the mix.

Sunday 9th March,  9:30am to 3pm

Tickets from $8, purchase here

UC Refectory, 11 Kirinari Street, Bruce

See the Nation’s Capital Come to Life for the Annual Enlighten Festival

Every year, the Enlighten Festival lights up Canberra over 11 days, bringing a huge dose of culture, creativity and shining lights to the city. The annual outdoor event boasts a stellar line-up of illuminating light installations and projections on landmarks, performances, a short film festival and the Canberra Balloon Spectacular. 

Runs until Monday 10th March

Free; suitable for all ages. See the full schedule here

Various locations around Canberra

Celebrate Canberra Day with a Fun Run & Festivities

Join the community at Commonwealth Park to celebrate Canberra Day with the Canberra Day Appeal Fun Run around Lake Burley Griffin, offering 2.5km, 5km, and 10km routes suitable for all fitness levels.

Post-run, enjoy a morning of entertainment, markets, and food. All the proceeds from the fun run support the Hands Across Canberra Day Appeal, helping local charities.

Monday 10th March, 7:30am to 11:30am

Tickets and registration here

Commonwealth Park, Parkes

Soak Up the Autumnal Vibes at the Weekly Haig Park Village Markets

Embrace the summer season at the Haig Park Village Markets in Braddon, happening every Sunday in February. Indulge in delicious food, shop from local stallholders, and soak up live entertainment, including live music, kids’ activities, face painting, and workshops. It’s the perfect spot for brunch, browsing, and relaxing with family and friends.

Open every Sunday from 8am to 2pm

Haig Park, Braddon

Watch the Leaves Change at the National Arboretum

Head to the National Arboretum to enjoy breathtaking autumn colours set against Canberra’s panoramic views. Wander through 44,000 rare trees and discover scenic walking paths, kids’ playgrounds, and cosy cafes. For more autumn leaves, visit nearby spots like Black Mountain and Mount Ainslie for stunning vistas.

Forest Drive, Australian Capital Territory

Sip Your Way Through Canberra’s Cool-Climate Wine Region

Take in the beautiful autumn views of the Canberra Wine Region while sampling cool-climate Shiraz and discovering charming cellar doors. If time’s short, join the Canberra Cellar Door tour every Saturday at the Canberra Visitors Centre to explore the best of the region’s wineries and its rich wine culture.

Watch Natalie Bassingthwaighte Perform in Shirley Valentine at Canberra Theatre Centre

Theatre lovers, this one’s for you! Wat ch the award-winning comedy Shirley Valentine at the Canberra Theatre Centre this March. Starring beloved Aussie actor Natalie Bassingthwaighte as she takes on the lead role in this heartwarming one-woman play about self-discovery and second chances.

Nat dazzles in this powerhouse solo performance, which will have you laughing, crying, and cheering for Shirley’s exciting new chapter.

Wednesday March 19th to Sunday 23rd March

Tickets from $54.90, purchase here

Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square, London Circuit, Canberra 

Step Into History at the Immersive Pompeii Exhibition

Calling all history buffs, this one’s for you! Step back in time to explore the ancient city of Pompeii through artifacts, artworks, and interactive displays at the National Museum of Australia. Learn all about the daily life and tragic end of this historic site.

Running until May 4

Tickets from $25, purchase here

National Museum Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton

Watch the Epic Fireworks Display for Skyfire

Canberra’s iconic Skyfire event is set to dazzle once again! The evening will feature a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Burley Griffin. Attendees can also enjoy markets, food vans, and live entertainment throughout the day.

Saturday 15th March, fireworks at 8:30pm

Lake Burley Griffin, Parkes

Need more ideas on what to do in Canberra this month? Here’s our guide to the best weekend activities in Canberra and, if you’re heading to Sydney for the weekend, here are our tops picks.