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What’s On in Canberra This May & Beyond
The only guide you need to what's on in Canberra this month and beyond.
Autumn is well and truly here, and Canberra has come alive. From wine festivals to second-hand markets and plenty of outdoor adventures, the city brimming with activities to make the most of the chillier, milder weather.
Check out our what’s on guide below and consider your social plans sorted.
What’s On: Coming Soon
National Wine Festival Returns for its 50th Anniversary
Raise a glass this June as Canberra transforms into the heart of Australia’s wine scene with the National Wine Festival of Australia. Running from 12–15 June 2025, this four-day celebration marks the 50th anniversary of the National Wine Show and promises a cracker of a time for wine lovers. Get set to swirl, sniff and sip your way through more than 900 award-winning Aussie wines, plus enjoy immersive masterclasses, themed dinners and special events — all conveniently under one roof.
Just beyond the city, the Canberra District Wine Region offers the ultimate wine country escape, boasting 140 vineyards and 50 boutique wineries. Sample cool-climate classics like Riesling, Pinot Noir and Shiraz, as well as adventurous varieties such as Tempranillo and Grüner Veltliner. Take your time at renowned cellar doors like Clonakilla and Mount Majura, dine alfresco at Shaw Estate Restaurant or explore Murrumbateman’s wine trails by e-bike. Back in town, sip your way through trendy wine bars like Dear Prudence and Amici, indulge in top-notch dining at places like Italian and Sons, and stock up on local drops from boutique bottle shops.
It’s the perfect wine-filled escape — cheers to that!
From 12–15 June 2025
Head here for more information
What’s On: May 2025
Check Out Go-To’s Powder Room Pop-Up
This month, Go-To skincare are teaming up with MECCA with a special pamper pop-up at the Canberra Centre. The Powder Room will be open to the public for one weekend only, inviting visitors to test out Go-To’s iconic products including the viral ‘Face Hero’, all while soaking in the signature peach vibes.
Visitors will also get the chance to chat with skin experts to find out which product best suits your skin. Plus, there’ll be limited access to merch across the weekend and the chance to snag some free skin goodies.
Friday 23rd May and Saturday 24th May, 9am to 5pm
Level G, Canberra Centre, Bunda Street, Canberra
A Warming Winter Pop-Up Worth the Drive to Orange
If your idea of a perfect winter escape involves a scenic road trip and a steaming bowl of soul-warming soup, then Loop de Loop in Orange is calling your name. Back for its second season, this 12-week pop-up by ex-Porteno chef Richard Learmonth is serving up a rotating menu of globally inspired soups that are as comforting as they are creative.
Operating out of a humble demountable in the heart of Orange, Loop de Loop offers two soups daily — one vegetarian and one meaty — crafted fresh each morning. Expect to find everything from gruyere-topped French onion and Balkan-style chicken noodle to spicy Korean beef vermicelli and sweet potato miso. And don’t miss the “soup-specific croutons” designed to elevate every spoonful.
Whether you’re a local or planning a weekend getaway, this is one culinary stop that’s truly worth the trip.
Weekdays, 11am–2pm, until late August
43 McNamara Street, Orange
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 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
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. 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
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.
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