What's On in Canberra This December & Beyond
The only guide you need to what's on in Canberra this December and beyond.
It's the most wonderful time of year, and our capital city always embraces the festive season with open arms. The sun is shining as we countdown to Christmas, and our event calendars are filling up—just how we like it!
This December, we challenge you to get out and make the most of the silly season. The city is bursting with fun events, from festive markets to outdoor cinema sessions and carols.
Listen to Interesting Chats at the First Ever Cheek Live Show
Join Hannah Ferguson and Sarah-Jane Adams for the inaugural Cheek Live tour at Canberra Theatre Centre. Presented by Cheek Media Co., this not-to-be-missed event will see candid discussions on contemporary issues, politics and media coverage, offering fresh perspectives on often-taboo topics.
Cheek Media Co. is a media sensation that promotes real voices, stories, and ideas. Now, they’re bringing their fresh take on today’s world to stages around Australia.
December 11, 2024, 7:30pm to 9:40pm
Tickets range from $45 to $65, with the show running from 7:30 pm to 9:40 pm, book here
Catch a Movie at the Botanic Gardens Sunset Cinema Sessions
With the warmer weather, what better excuse to see a classic rom-com or blockbuster at the Botanic Gardens? This weekend. On Friday, December 6, you can watch The Princess Diaries, and on Saturday, December 7, they'll be playing Gladiator. Throughout December, you can expect festive-themed flicks like Home Alone and Elf.
Children $14, students $20, adults $26
Throughout December, check out the full schedule here
Clunies Ross Street, Acton
Go on a Tour of the Best Christmas Lights in Canberra
Come December, Canberra lights up. And we've found the best Christmas tree lights in the nation's capital just for you. From the city centre to the suburbs, here's exactly where you can find the best displays in town.
Feel Festive at the Weekly Haig Park Village Markets
Find Unique Gifts at the Canberra Christmas Market
Keeping the festive vibes going, the Canberra Christmas Markets is a free two-day event that will bring together the best gifts, one-of-a-kind finds, decorations, homewares, festive food, and so much more. There'll be carols, Santa meet-and-greets, and gingerbread house-making!
FREE
Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 December, 10 am–3 pm
Exhibition Park, Corner Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell
Candlelight Christmas Special: Christmas Classics
Experience the magic of the season with the Candlelight Christmas Special: Christmas Classics at Canberra's James Fairfax Theatre, National Gallery of Australia. This enchanting concert features the Phoenix Collective String Quartet performing timeless holiday favourites like Hark the Herald, Jingle Bells, and selections from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker ballet suite, all illuminated by the gentle glow of candlelight. A festive musical celebration for all ages.
$91.50 per person, book here
Friday, December 20, 6:30pm
James Fairfax Theatre, National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes
Experience Lindy Lee's Ouroboros Sculpture at The National Gallery
Australian artist Lindy Lee’s Ouroboros, which has just been completed, will be a stunning addition to the public sculpture garden and is now open to visitors in the National Gallery forecourt.
Inspired by the ancient symbol of a snake eating its own tail, this sculpture invites visitors to walk into its curved space, where beams of light filter through hundreds of perforations.
Parkes Place East, Parkes
Free, open 24 hours and illuminated at night
Enjoy a Stellar Lineup of Jazz on the Rocks at Molly’s
Immerse yourself in a night of smooth jazz every Tuesday at Molly, a popular speakeasy-style bar in Canberra. From 7pm, local artists create a laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying cocktails and classic tunes. The lineup changes weekly, showcasing talented musicians. Bookings are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome, and entry is free.
Every Tuesday, free entry
Melbourne Building, Wooden Door, Odgers Lane
Ring in the New Year in Style
Canberra is set to welcome 2025 with a dazzling bang, and the city is brimming with a variety of New Year's Eve celebrations. At 9 p.m., the city will host a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Burley Griffin, with prime viewing spots at Regatta Point, Patrick White, Rond Terrace, and Bowen Park.
There is also a paella party at Cabo, a Carnavalè-themed event at Highball, and an 80s retro night at 88mph. For more inspo, check out our full edit of the best New Year's events in Canberra.
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.
