Top things not to miss at Floriade
Updated 20 Sep 2024
Australia’s biggest celebration of spring returns to Canberra
Commonwealth Park will come to life with more than one million blooms creating a stunning display during the month-long festival. Featuring Insta-worthy floral displays, horticultural workshops, live music, a popular market, plus the region’s best food and wine, no spring is complete without a trip to Floriade (14 September-13 October).
Immerse yourself in Art in Bloom
Dive into this year’s theme, Art in Bloom, as Commonwealth Park transforms into a vibrant canvas of colour and creativity. The garden bed designs will draw inspiration from major art forms and will take visitors on an artistic journey with floral displays and interpretations of painting, sculpture, architecture, literature, music, theatre, and cinema. The program will also offer the opportunity for visitors to create art through workshops, activities, and interactive experiences.
Pro tip: for the best view of the uniquely designed garden beds, take a ride on the Ferris Wheel to see them from above.
Check out the festival program
Costa Georgiadis
Visit Floriade on 28 September for a special appearance by Costa Georgiadis, beloved host of Gardening Australia Junior. Catch him on Stage 88 for one day only as he shares his passion for nature and the joy of gardening. Plus, take advantage of a unique meet-and-greet opportunity with the man himself.
Live music
Immerse yourself in a variety of live music every weekend, celebrating amongst the blooming flowers. As you explore the spectacular displays, expect to see jazz ensembles, a multi-country dancing troupe, or even anenergetic samba performance, all welcoming the arrival of spring to the capital.
Family shows
Experience a variety of family-friendly shows, including "A Kind of Magic", "Circus Extravaganza", and "Dr. Hubble’s Bubble Show". Choose your favourites and secure your seats for these ticketed events.
Unique market stalls
Browse market stalls to meet food and wine producers behind some of the region’s best products.
Workshops
Attend workshops and talks by leading horticulturalists, florists, and Floriade’s gardeners.
Browse the full program for more and plan your perfect day at Floriade.
Feast at food stalls and quench on local drinks
Take a culinary journey through Floriade, with an impressive array of food trucks and stalls on offer. Start your day with coffee from Synergy Group Kombi and a French pastry from L’epi Bakery. Relax with a picnic rug and enjoy local beers at the BentSpoke Brewing Beer Garden, or sample fine wines at Canberra District Wines’ Wine Garden and Cellar Door. Don’t miss the Floriade-themed cocktails at the Underground Spirits Gin Garden.
For Italian cuisine, visit Occasioni by Agostinis or Papa Deli for freshly made focaccia. For a special treat, Bianco offers pasta tossed in a 50kg wheel of 24-month-aged Grana Padano Parmesan Cheese. For bold flavours, check out the Au Lac Food Truck’s vegan Vietnamese street food.
See this list for the full range of food and drink options.
Experience NightFest
Discover Floriade’s nighttime allure at NightFest (3 - 6 October). From 6:30pm to 10:30pm, the park will be illuminated with vibrant colours, offering a captivating blend of live music, cabaret, and roving entertainment. The new Kazador Tent will feature the adults-only Kiss Bang Cabaret, a risqué and hilarious show combining comedy, circus, burlesque, and cabaret.
Join Dogs' Day Out
On Sunday 13 October, bring your furry friends to Dogs' Day Out. With dog-friendly programming, retail vendors, and activities, this special day welcomes dogs of all sizes to enjoy the floral festivities.
Get great accommodation deals
Plan your stay with exclusive offers from Floriade’s accommodation partner, Accor. With 12 participating hotels, you can find convenient and comfortable lodging for your visit. Book now to take advantage of these special deals.
Accessibility and inclusivity
Floriade is committed to being accessible and inclusive. The event is wheelchair and stroller friendly, with services such as accessible parking, drop-off zones, and a Mobility Marquee for equipment rentals. A Sensory Hour, held on weekdays from 9:30am to 10:30am (excluding ACT public holidays and 2 October), provides a sensory-friendly experience for visitors with sensory processing challenges.
For more information on accessibility and to plan your visit, check out Floriade’s Accessibility Page.
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