What’s on This Weekend in Canberra: Sitchu’s Top Picks

And just like that, spring has sprung — arguably Canberra’s most magical season with the annual Floriade festival on the horizon, and fresh adventures aplenty. Ready to savour the season? Our what’s on in Canberra this weekend guide has all the best ways to make these sunny spring days truly count.

Consider your weekend effortlessly curated.

Spring Sustainability Market

Beloved local market, Haig Park Village Market, will be serving up a special edition event this September by way of a sustainability market. On top of themed stalls selling the likes of organic produce, slow fashion and low-waste products, the market will be hosting a slew of exciting workshops and activities. Think recycling workshops, kids’ seed planting station and nature storytelling.

Sunday 28th September, 8am to 2pm

Haig Park, Braddon

Harvest Stall

Celebrate the season with a wander around the National Arboretum, followed by a mosey around the Visitors Centre where homemade jams, chutneys, herbs, seedlings and more are up for grabs. All the goodies for sale are made with organic produce from the Arboretum’s kitchen garden and proceeds will all go towards supporting the Friends of the Arboretum projects.

Saturday 29th September, 10am to 2pm

National Arboretum, Canberra

Four Pillars x Leyla

In a welcome springtime celebration, the light-filled bar Leyla is teaming up with Four Pillars Gin to host a new Saturday ritual. Every Saturday in September, Leyla is offering an afternoon experience consisting of four springtime cocktails with paired bites, and, of course, sweeping views of the city.

$95 per person, book here

Every Saturday in September, 3:30pm to 5:30pm

Level 7/1 Burbury Close, Barton

Floriade 2025

Spring has officially sprung when Floriade takes over the city. This year, this renowned floral festival will be celebrating the theme of ‘Science and Nature’ with garden beds themes inspired by everything from ‘Under the Microscope’ to ‘The Human Brain’. Over one million blooms have been planted to create the incredible displays. Be sure to take a peek at the full program here for related events, including Floriade’s NightFest program, Dogs’ Day Out and The Great Big Bulb Dig.

Friday 13th September to Sunday 12th October

Hit Aperitivo Hour at Carlotta

Not ready to give up your late afternoon sips with winter rolling in? Good thing Carlotta is here to keep the vibes sunny with their new Euro-inspired Aperitivo Hour.

Bringing a taste of the Mediterranean warmth to Canberra, daily specials include bolognese arancini, mozzarella and basil flatbread and polenta chips for just $9.50 each. To wash it all down, Limoncello and Aperol Spritzes come in hot at just $15 with specials on wine also available.

5pm to 6pm, Sunday to Thursday, and 4pm to 6pm, Friday to Saturday

Walks-ins available

20 Scotts Crossing, Canberra

Catch a Gig at Fun Time Pony

Live music lovers, this one’s for you. Fun Time Pony doesn’t even open its doors until 8pm, and from then on, it’s rollicking good times. Serving late-night pizza, free pool, and scattered with pinball machines, it’s grungy New York vibes all around. The September lineup of live music is looking rather schmick. Keep across who is playing here.

122 Alinga Street, Canberra City 

Still on the lookout for something to do this weekend? Check out the best dining deals in Canberra this week, or if you’re looking to save some cash, check out our edit of the best free things to do in Canberra.