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The best live music bars in Canberra
Updated 31 Oct 2024
Canberra’s live music hotspots: where to go for brews and tunes
Canberra boasts a strong live music scene, with venues that welcome music fans of all tastes. Whether you’re into underground jazz and craft cocktails or sour beers and up-and-coming musos - find your perfect music spot in Canberra with these recommendations.
Gang Gang Cafe
Food, drinks, and music really say it all for Gang Gang. This café serves as a community hub in the Inner North suburb of Downer, welcoming tourists and locals alike. Head here for food and coffee early in the week, and stay late for gigs, food, and tunes Wednesday through the weekend.
Stop into Gang Gang for a bevvy, a hang, and an inside look into the local music scene.
King O’Malley’s
King O’Malley’s Irish Pub was named after a colourful politician and former insurance salesman. The irony? This same man advocated for an alcohol ban across Canberra in the early 1900s.
Head on into this unpretentious drinking hole for a pint of lager and pub grub, and some authentic Irish charm.
Smith's Alternative
The grungy jewel in Canberra’s artistic crown, Smith’s Alternative is the beating heart of the city’s cultural scene.
From live music to poetry readings, book launches and anything experimental, here is a place that accepts all with open arms. Frankly, there is nothing else quite like it.
Transit Bar
A favourite spot for both local and touring bands, Transit Bar offers an incredibly diverse music lineup, featuring everything from Australian artists to emo, metal, and punk. Situated in the heart of the city, Transit Bar is one of Canberra's most popular bars and live entertainment venues.
PJs in the City
PJs in the City has long been a place to relax and unwind, either outside in their beer garden or inside in The Olde Bailey Room or the Harp Bar.
Head on down for a cheeky pint or a meal or settle in for some sport. On Friday afternoons PJs welcomes the weekend with Friday Night Grooves and live tunes, every week.
Blackbird
A local favourite, find Blackbird‘s nondescript door in the Sydney Building and descend down the wood-panelled stairs to find this dimly-lit hideaway.
With photos of jazz legends adorning the walls, a ‘70s vibe, and plenty of cosy corners to tuck yourself into, Blackbird is made for intimate drinks with live-music-lovers.
Molly
If jazz is your scene, then a dignified cocktail at Molly is the place for you. Hidden behind an unassuming door lies a cosy spot that will take you back in time with expertly mixed drinks, live jazz, and a cool, nostalgic vibe.
She’s a tricky lady to find but guided by GPS coordinates, you’ll soon find yourself in a perfect oasis of fresh music and even fresher drinks.
Brew Nation
With 70+ beers on tap and in tins, as well as a curated range of spirits and wines, the chances are Brew Nation will have the perfect drink for you.
This inner-city bar is the most specialised craft beer supplier in Canberra and boasts a handy building connection to all the food offerings of Verity Lane Market.
Fun Time Pony
Descend underground to Fun Time Pony where an electric energy buzzes through the New York-style pizza joint.
Delivering cheesy slices on demand, Fun Time Pony is your go-to for late nights and a grungy vibe right in the heart of Canberra.
Comedy acts and gigs are regular occurrences, so clear your calendar for a night or two.
Assembly
With such a diverse range of offerings—breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, wine, a tinny bar and live sports—it’s no surprise Lonsdale Street superpub Assembly also boasts live music, hosting everyone from international names to local acoustic heroes across any given week.
The Jetty
Head to The Jetty beer garden, located right on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, for stunning views, groovy tunes, great beer, and good times. Enjoy a sunset over the water with a breathtaking backdrop of the capital city.
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About the author
HerCanberra is one of Canberra’s most influential media brands. Since 2011, the website has been a vital resource for local women, providing an essential guide to life in the Canberra region. From what’s on, places to eat and drink, fashion, beauty, health, fitness and more, if it’s part of ‘her’ life you’ll find it on hercanberra.com.au