Curious to discover what’s behind the gates of Canberra’s embassies and high commissions? Find out during October’s Windows to the World events – your chance to glimpse inside the world of international diplomacy.
Across the weekends of 5 - 20 October you can visit embassies, high commissions and residences in Canberra. With many tours already at capacity, we’ve listed the places to visit that don’t require you to book.
Here’s our rundown on where to go to enjoy exploring the world without the long haul flight.
5 October
Floriade, 10.30am to 5.30pm
This taster event features representatives from embassies, high commissions and official residences representing Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kosovo, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia and Singapore along with the United Nations Information Centre. They will be providing information spanning tourism, study and business, with many offering cultural performances as well as samples of traditional foods.
12 October
10am - 3pm, 12 Darwin Ave, Yarralumla
What better way to learn about Finland than with the fun and festivity of the Finnish Crazy Games. Ride a hobbyhorse, throw your old unused mobile phone or participate in the newly titled ‘hän-carrying’ (previously wife-carrying). Other activities include a Finnish sauna experience, Nordic folk dancing workshops and a chance to experience a virtual reality trip to Finland. Top it off with Finnish food, drinks and products all available for purchase.
20 Arkana Street, Yarralumla, 10am to 4pm
Tour the official residence of the Ambassador of Ireland, a modern interpretation of the traditional Irish cottage, and view the spectacular garden. Enjoy a traditional Irish dancing performance and music at 12.30pm and 1.30pm
Dunrossil Drive, Yarralumla, 10am to 2pm
Have you ever wanted to meet the GG? At this annual open day you have a chance to meet Australia’s Governor-General David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and explore the official residence – one of the most historic properties in the country. You can take a guided tour through the gardens and surrounds and meet and learn about the charities and community groups that the Governor-General and Mrs Hurley are patrons.
19 October
Commonwealth Ave, Yarralumla, 10am-1pm
Join in the fun and festivities at the High Commission of Canada. Try your hand at hockey and lacrosse, test your knowledge of Canada through a trivia challenge, and enjoy a range of tasty treats for purchase. Meet the famous mascot, Pierre Polar Bear, view the Haida Totem Pole, and chat to staff about all things Canadian.
7 Perth Ave, Yarralumla, 10am-1pm
Enjoy delicious Malaysian food and cultural performances including a Malay wedding ceremony, martial art, Joget Lambak (traditional Malay dance) and live music. Take a quiz, join in traditional games and childrens’ activities as well as viewing an exhibit of Malaysia-Australia relations.
20 October
4 Beale Cres, Deakin 10am-4pm
Celebrate Afghanistan’s 100 years of independence and 50 years of Afghan-Australian diplomatic relations. Experience Afghanistan’s cultural heritage with clothing displays, sampling of desserts and dried fruits and saffron tea. Cultural activities include traditional kite flying, a photo exhibition showcasing the country’s unique landscape and its relationship with Australia as well as viewing traditional Afghan jewellery, artwork and carpets from different regions. Listen to traditional music and take a photo with ‘Bamiyan Buddha’.
4 Perth Ave, Yarralumla 10am-4pm
Sample traditional food and beverages, enjoy a cultural display and tour the chancery.
38 Guilfoyle St, Yarralumla, 8am-5pm
Discover the rich culture and heritage of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Watch Saudi stage performances, take a tour of the Colours of Saudi Arabia Photography Expo and the embassy’s Museum of Artefacts.
Enjoy Saudi coffee with 27 different types of delicious dates; watch cooking at the live cooking station, get a Henna drawing on your hand and get your kids’ face painted… plus more.
The knowledgable staff and volunteers at the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre know everything there is to see, do, eat and explore in the territory and the surrounding region. A visit to the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre will ensure your holiday to Canberra is full of one good thing after another.
