{"id":117389,"date":"2025-09-04T04:38:14","date_gmt":"2025-09-04T04:38:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/117389\/"},"modified":"2025-09-04T04:38:14","modified_gmt":"2025-09-04T04:38:14","slug":"things-to-do-in-canberra-this-week-5-to-11-september","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/117389\/","title":{"rendered":"Things to do in Canberra this week (5 to 11 September)"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/p>\n

Last year\u2019s Canberra Moon Festival 2024 drew more than 35,000 attendees. Photo: CMF.<\/p>\n

The weather is finally getting warmer and you\u2019re probably looking for something to get out and do now that the sun is showing its face. We\u2019ve put together a list of all the best things happening this week, including Father\u2019s Day events.<\/p>\n

Canberra\u2019s Moon Festival is building on the success of last year, bringing live entertainment, cultural showcases, music, dance and so much more across three days of fun, while Dads are spoiled for choice on Sunday, with special deals on buffets, steaks, wine and beer all across Canberra. Cut out the fuss of choosing something for Dad and take him out for a feed!<\/p>\n

The National Library is hosting The Great Debate, bringing academics together to discuss a topical question: Whether or not Australian history unites us. It\u2019s set to be a fascinating exploration of the role of history in our society and how our stories shape us and our sense of self.<\/p>\n

All this, plus heaps of live music, films, festivals, and performances.<\/p>\n

Multiple Days
\n\"Canberra<\/p>\n

The Moon Festival brings more than 10 cultures together to turn the streets into a sea of colour and fun, with live performances and lots to see and do. Photo: Canberra Moon Festival.<\/p>\n

Canberra Moon Festival 2025 at City Walk<\/a><\/p>\n

When: 5 September to 7 September 2025
Where: City Walk and Petrie Plaza, Canberra, ACT
Cost: Free entry. For more information, please visit Canberra Moon Festival<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Canberra Moon Festival 2025 returns to the heart of the city from 5 September to 7 September, transforming City Walk and Petrie Plaza into a dazzling mid-autumn celebration of multicultural heritage, community spirit and festive joy.<\/p>\n

Building on the success of last year\u2019s event, the 2025 festival promises an even bigger program of live entertainment, cultural showcases and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy music, dance and martial arts performances from more than 10 cultural communities, along with giant LED moon and rabbit installations and a spectacular lantern street.<\/p>\n

Hands-on workshops will offer free cultural experiences for all ages, from mooncake making and lantern crafting to mother-of-pearl jewellery and lacquer fan painting. This year\u2019s Local Youth Artist Awards will celebrate the creativity and cultural storytelling of emerging local talent.<\/p>\n

\"Canberra<\/p>\n

Display, buy or sell art. Image: Canberra Art Fair, Facebook.<\/p>\n

Canberra Art Fair <\/a><\/p>\n

When: 5 September, 1 pm to 8 pm, 6 September, 9 am to 5 pm, 7 September, 9 am to 4 pm
Where: Exhibition Park in Canberra, Corner of Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell
Cost: Free entry.<\/p>\n

The inaugural Canberra Art Fair is coming to Exhibition Park, celebrating arts in the ACT. Both professionals and amateurs are coming to EPIC to showcase their art, offer demonstrations and lessons, and bring art to the masses. There will be sales of paintings, sculptures, glassworks, pottery, entertainment, and vendors selling frames and art materials. There will also be an open prize series with sports-related scenes or 3D works, with prizes up to $4000.<\/p>\n

\"still<\/p>\n

Miles Teller and JK Simmons star in 2013\u2019s Whiplash, a high-octane film about ambition, ego and the cost of success. Image: NFSA.<\/p>\n

This week at the NFSA <\/a><\/p>\n

When: 5 September to 11 September
Where: Arc Cinema, 1 McCoy Circuit, Acton
Cost: Tickets from $12 to $16 | Book online<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The NFSA has a packed schedule this week, with heaps of films to suit just about everyone.<\/p>\n

On Friday, a sing-along showing of The Little Mermaid invites kids and their parents to enjoy the classic 1989 musical. Cinemagoers are encouraged to sing their hearts out to one of Disney\u2019s best. For a complete change of pace, Saturday also features a showing of 2013\u2019s Whiplash, telling the story of an obsessed musician pursuing greatness at any cost.<\/p>\n

Saturday\u2019s feature is the Jack Nicholson classic, One Flew Over the Cuckoo\u2019s Nest, the story of a man faking insanity who must battle the order and control of his institution, represented in the domineering figure of Nurse Ratched.<\/p>\n

On Sunday, catch On the Beach, based on the Nevil Shute novel. This Australian story sees the northern hemisphere annihilated by nuclear war, with a slowly creeping screen of radiation threatening the few southern havens left. Love and futility prosper in the dwindling days of humankind.<\/p>\n

Saturday
\n\"Inspire<\/p>\n

Join Ginninderry for the Inspire Festival on Saturday, 6 September, from 10 am to 2 pm. Image: Ginninderry.<\/p>\n

Inspire Festival: Art, Nature and Sustainability<\/a><\/p>\n

When: 6 September from 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Strathnairn Arts, 90 Stockdill Dr, Holt
Cost: Free.<\/p>\n

Be inspired by local artists, enjoy talks from special guests, soak up some live music or learn new skills. You\u2019ll have an opportunity to explore Strathnairn Arts artists\u2019 open studios, sample food and products from local artisans and producers, and participate in workshops and activities designed for all ages.<\/p>\n

Whether you want to learn more about a sustainable lifestyle, get closer to nature, enjoy local art or are simply looking to enjoy a fun day out with the family, Ginninderry\u2019s Inspire Festival is an all-ages and free event this Spring, with food, markets and workshops on composting, edible gardens and mindful meal planning.<\/p>\n

\"Australian<\/p>\n

National Portrait Gallery\u2019s director Bree Pickering with Tina Arena AM and Georges Antoni. You can catch Tina and Georges in conversation at the National Portrait Gallery on Saturday, 6 September. Photo: National Portrait Gallery.<\/p>\n

In conversation: Tina Arena and Georges Antoni<\/a><\/p>\n

When: 6 September from 11 am to 11:45 am
Where: National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes
Cost: Free. Bookings essential<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Join Australian music icon Tina Arena in conversation with renowned fashion photographer Georges Antoni as they discuss the newly commissioned portrait, Tina. Facilitated by director Bree Pickering, hear about the process behind the portrait, what it takes to last 50 years in the music industry, and how the artist captured a legacy.<\/p>\n

This new portrait, commissioned to celebrate Arena\u2019s incredible career, will be on view for the first time from 6 September.<\/p>\n

Can\u2019t make it in person? Book a virtual connection ticket and attend the program online.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

What does it mean to apologise to someone? Photo: Lucy Parakhina.<\/p>\n

Sincere Apologies: Say Sorry, Really Mean It!<\/a><\/p>\n

Where: Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street North
When: 6 September, 7 pm (the bar opens at 6 pm)
Tickets: Pay what you can. Click here to book<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Created by award-winning artists Dan Koop, Jamie Lewis and David Williams, Sincere Apologies is a show about how we say sorry. Part theatrical ritual, part social experiment, Sincere Apologies explores what it means to apologise in a world full of broken systems, failed relationships, and bureaucratic disclaimers.<\/p>\n

Funny, moving, and disarmingly sincere, the show creates space for reflection, repair, and shared responsibility.<\/p>\n

Sunday
\n\"Hartley<\/p>\n

The Hartley Markets bring heaps of locally grown food, freshly baked goods, furniture, clothing and more to Hall. Photo: Hartley Hall Markets.<\/p>\n

Hartley Hall Markets<\/a><\/p>\n

When: First Sunday of every month, 9 am to 2 pm
Where: Hall Showgrounds, Gladstone St, Hall
Cost: Gold coin donation on entry.<\/p>\n

The Hartley Hall Markets, organised by Hartley Lifecare, are one of Australia\u2019s largest home-made and home-grown goods markets.<\/p>\n

Held on the first Sunday of the month, the Hartley Hall Markets are open between 9 am and 2 pm. You will find stalls offering a variety of products, including food, locally grown vegetables and fresh produce, baked goods, plants, furniture, clothing, pottery, children\u2019s toys, arts and crafts, unique gifts and more.<\/p>\n

Stroll among the trees, stay for lunch and enjoy the fresh air, live entertainment and activities for the little ones.<\/p>\n

\"Father's<\/p>\n

A mammoth steak or a buffet with a live carvery for Dad this Sunday? Photo: Hyatt Hotel.<\/p>\n

Father\u2019s Day across Canberra<\/p>\n

When: 7 September, various times
Where: Various locations
Cost: Costs vary from free to $250. Check event details for more information.<\/p>\n

Father\u2019s Day is almost here, just in case you\u2019ve forgotten, and there are plenty of things to get up to for Dad\u2019s special day. It\u2019s always hard figuring out what to do for dads, but we\u2019ve put together a list of the best deals and events across the capital.<\/p>\n

The Old Canberra Inn, Southern Cross Clubs, Dickson Taphouse, Hyatt Hotel, Steampacket Hotel, The Tradies Dickson and Capitol Bar and Grill are hosting special celebrations, with beer, buffets, steaks, slow-roasted lamb and everything in between. Need we say more?<\/p>\n

Tuesday
\n\"Anne<\/p>\n

Female Founders panellist Anne Moore has mastered the skill of reinvention. Photo: CBRIN.<\/p>\n

Female Founders Event<\/p>\n

When: 9 September, 12:15 pm to 1:30 pm
Where: Canberra Innovation Network, Level 4, 1 Moore Street, Canberra
Cost: Tickets are $15 | Book online<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Canberra\u2019s Innovation Network is partnering up with Women With Altitude to deliver a special event focusing on giving professional women the advice and information they need to make career transitions. This event helps women explore career pivots, skill shifts and entrepreneurial skills with practical advice and real stories from professional women, such as panellist Anne Moore.<\/p>\n

Moore has made a life of constantly evolving and sharpening her skills. Starting a company at 57, she revamped her professional trajectory and at 70 she began a PhD, showing all of us that it\u2019s never too late to completely change gears.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve been seeking information on the practical steps needed to switch tracks, this is the opportunity.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

This performance featuring Debussy, Puccini and Beethoven celebrates the lunar eclipse. Photo: Tuggeranong Arts Centre.<\/p>\n

Music Appreciation: Heavenly Music: Moon, Sun and Stars<\/a><\/p>\n

When: 9 September, 4 pm
Where: Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street North
Cost: Pay what you can. Book tickets now<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Explore different musical themes with musician Robert Harris in a relaxed conversational setting at Tuggeranong Arts Centre. New in 2025, this series of music appreciation gatherings kicks off with a celebration of the lunar eclipse in the appropriately named Space room.<\/p>\n

His repertoire includes Debussy, both Strausses, Puccini, Beethoven, Dvorak and Holst.<\/p>\n

Discover music for moonlight and starry nights, from Beethoven to movie themes. Robert Harris is a renowned viola player with a career in orchestras, opera, ballet, stage and screen.<\/p>\n

\"Headshot<\/p>\n

The NLA hosts a debate for the times, with academics pitted against each other to answer an important question. Image: National Library of Australia.<\/p>\n

The Great Debate 2025: That Australian history unites us<\/a><\/p>\n

When: 9 September from 4 pm to 7 pm
Where: National Library of Australia, Parkes Pl W, Canberra
Cost: $20 general | $10 concession | Discount for Friends members. Buy tickets<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Join the National Library for an evening of compelling debate as six of Australia\u2019s premier academics tackle the complex question of whether Australia\u2019s history unites us.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t miss this thought-provoking event, packed with engaging discussions and opportunities for audience participation. Proudly presented by the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia and the National Library of Australia, the Great Debate promises an evening that will challenge your perspectives and ignite your curiosity.<\/p>\n

The question of the night is whether or not Australian history unites us.<\/p>\n

The affirmative team is Georgina Downer GAICD, CEO of the Robert Menzies Institute; Professor Jakelin Troy FASSA, Director, Indigenous Research at the University of Sydney; and Professor Frank Bongiorno AM FASSA, Professor of History at the Australian National University.<\/p>\n

The opposing team is Professor Michelle Arrow FASSA, president of the Australian Historical Association; Vonda Malone, former CEO of the Torres Strait Regional Authority, and first female Mayor of the Torres Shire Council; and Professor Dan Woodman FASSA, TR Ashworth Professor in Sociology at the University of Melbourne.<\/p>\n

Upcoming events<\/p>\n

Submit your event here<\/a> to be considered for our weekly events guide.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Last year\u2019s Canberra Moon Festival 2024 drew more than 35,000 attendees. Photo: CMF. The weather is finally getting…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":117390,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22],"tags":[64,63,75,128],"class_list":["post-117389","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-environment","tag-au","tag-australia","tag-environment","tag-science"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/117389","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=117389"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/117389\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/117390"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=117389"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=117389"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=117389"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}