Floriade

Overview

Australia's stunning flower festival Floriade is back for another colourful year. Hosted in Canberra's Commonwealth Park from September 15 to October 14, the festival will this year be themed around 'pop culture'.

Festival-goers will get up-close to an intricate array of retro-inspired flowerbeds showcasing many of our icons from music, film and literature, including Michael Jackson and Marilyn Monroe. And entry is free.

The headline event is NightFest, Floriade's after-dark experience which, for five special nights from September 26–30, sees the park come to life with dazzling illuminated flowerbeds. To match, there's an exciting cultural program with food and drink stalls, an open-air cinema and stand-up comedy from the likes of Arj Barker and Akmal Saleh, not to mention a host of live music performances including Caiti Baker and Bowie Unzipped, featuring Jeff Duff and Kate Miller-Heidke. Tickets to the after-dark event will set you back $31.70 a pop.

For dog-lovers, October 14 sees the return of the popular Dog's Day Out, which this year wants you to deck yourself, and your pup, out like the superhero your furry friend thinks you are.

Meanwhile, green thumbs can refresh their skills at The Greenhouse, which hosts a range of creative gardening workshops, including kokedama and terrarium making classes. And for those looking to just have a tranquil layabout in the park, Sundays are your chance with the 'Jazz in the Park' sessions providing a peaceful soundtrack to the serene surrounds.