Making the most of a National Folk Festival weekend in Canberra
Updated 5 May 2026
From unique hot air balloon rides and kangaroo spotting to delicious food and warm hospitality, here’s how three performing artists visiting Canberra made the most of their visit.
Every year performance artists from across the nation and the world descend on Canberra for the National Folk Festival, a stand-out musical and cultural event on the capital's calendar. The artists reflect the diverse offerings of the festival, from folk music and comedy to community arts, culture and poetry. With something on offer for everyone, three visiting acts – The Tuckshop Ladies, Natalie and Brittany Haas, and Elias Alexander – discovered the delights of Canberra while in town for the weekend.
Elias Alexander (United States – bagpipes, electronic music)
Mixing bagpipes, guitar, keyboard and electronica into healing, pop-influenced sounds, Elias Alexander’s performance art calls on both his Scottish and American roots. In between performances at EPIC (Exhibition Park in Canberra), Elias made sure he had time for a hot air balloon ride and even took his bagpipes along for the ride.
“Seeing the layout of the city was really cool from the air, you could see how the planners had designed the whole place. It’s beautiful! We saw a whole herd (posse? band?) of kangaroos from the air, maybe 60 of them hopping! At one point we skimmed over the forest low enough that I could almost touch the trees, and we flew directly over the parliament building, a truly unique experience. I brought my bagpipes on board and that’ll be a sweet memory – soaring through the sky with the bagpipes going.”
Elias also praised the National Folk Festival and highlighted why it’s an event to add to everyone’s list.
“It has a combination of three things: a wealth of artists representing the highest calibre of traditional music from around the world, an energetic crowd that wants to jump up and down, and a strong queer presence that makes it feel free, open and extra silly. It does an amazing job expanding people's minds about what 'folk music' can be. The music on offer ranged in all sorts of cool directions you might not expect.”
The Tuckshop Ladies (Australia – comedy duo)
This Australian comedy duo, known for their ukeleles, sharp wits and comedic folk songs, ventured into the city centre for dinner at fusion restaurant Akiba. As soon as they arrived, they were excited to see the city abuzz on a Saturday night. “People were out enjoying themselves and the atmosphere was full of fairy lights and fun. Groups sat at tables outside, and friends, families and couples sat in intimate twos, threes and fours at long tables inside,” shared Rosie, one half of the comedy team.
“We loved that the maitre d’ introduced himself and then let us know who would be looking after us for the evening. We all exchanged names, took a selfie and immediately felt like we’d made new friends. A hack: let the staff guide you with the food recommendations, it was a super fun way to surrender to what the evening would bring and a perfect amount of food. The agadashi tofu was incredible - soft, delicate, and delicious. The eggplant bao was standout - crispy, salty goodness in a cloud of bao.”
The local experience capped off a memorable stay. “We returned to our campsite at 'the Nash' with full bellies and happy hearts!”
Natalie and Brittany Haas (United States – cello and fiddle)
The queens of folk cello and fiddle headed to Lonsdale St in Braddon for dinner at Corella Restaurant and Bar. “It was one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time!” shared Natalie. “An intimate and classy dining experience featuring local Aussie ingredients - everything was absolutely delicious, but for me the stand-out was the oyster with lemon myrtle vinegar and finger lime.”
Dinner was followed up the next morning with an unmissable hot air balloon ride over the capital, giving them the chance to get up close with the city’s stunning natural surrounds. “A truly unique experience we will hold with us for the rest of our lives! Sunrise over Canberra was beautiful, and the movement of the balloon was so smooth and tranquil - a very special way to wake up! The pilot and crew were wonderful, and a highlight was getting to see how kangaroos move from the air.”
The pair praised the National Folk Festival itself, noting why the vibrant event is always a highlight on Canberra’s calendar of major events.
“Five days in utopia for folkies! Truly a favourite festival; and I have been to a lot! From great music to circus, family fun, community art, music and dance workshops, sessions ‘til all hours, and one of the friendliest crowds we could ask for as performers. It’s an experience not to be missed that leaves you feeling fulfilled and full of hope for the future of humankind!”
Tickets for the National Folk Festival 2027 will go on sale mid year so mark your calendars and start planning your own Canberra adventure.
