What’s on in Canberra this summer

The city’s dining scene is constantly evolving, and summer is the perfect time to discover its newest culinary stars. Vice has quickly become the go-to destination for steak lovers, offering perfectly cooked cuts paired with fine wines in a stylish setting. Over at Canberra Centre, Carlotta is making waves with its Mediterranean-inspired menu—a distinctly Australian celebration of bold flavours and warm hospitality.

Or, if casual eats are more your style, check out these no-fuss restaurants worth travelling for in Canberra. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed indoor dining experience or looking for the perfect outdoor spot to enjoy a memorable lunch or dinner, Canberra has got it all during the summer months.

This summer, Canberra isn’t just Australia’s capital—it’s a canvas of stories. From desert pop art to global cultural waves, the city’s galleries and museums are curating exhibitions that speak to identity, transformation, and connection. Whether you’re drawn to bold contemporary works, or immersive cultural experiences, Canberra’s exhibition scene offers a journey through many worlds—all within one city. Find out more in this guide.

Flying over Indulkana, 2022 Kaylene Whiskey. © Kaylene Whiskey. AIATSIS Collection.

Few traditions capture the essence of summer quite like an outdoor movie. Sunset Cinema, nestled in the Australian National Botanic Gardens, runs from November through February and offers the perfect setting for a magical evening. Picture this: balmy weather, a blanket under the stars, and the gentle hum of nature as the backdrop to your favourite films. Gather your friends, pack your snacks, and let the night unfold in one of Canberra’s most iconic locations.

For those who crave adrenaline, Canberra delivers. Canberra Festival of Speed (31 January and 1 February) at Thoroughbred Park promises an electrifying showcase of over 200 exotic cars, immersive audiovisual experiences, live music, and a European food village. The highlight? Watching automotive heroes race under the lights on Saturday night and again on Sunday in a thrilling daytime showdown.Witness an exhilarating showcase of over 200 exotic cars, immersive AV experiences, exhibitors, music, and a European food village.

And then there’s Street Machine Summernats 38 (8-10 January) roaring back into town at Exhibition Park in Canberra. This legendary event is a celebration of modified cars, featuring the National Burnout Master finals, high-energy competitions, trade shows, exhibitions, and live concerts. It’s loud, it’s bold, and it’s one of the biggest automotive festivals in the country.

Canberra’s iconic lake is the perfect backdrop for summer adventures. Hire a bike from the  Canberra and Region Visitors Centre and cycle the scenic trails that hug the water’s edge. Or take to the lake itself aboard an electric GoBoat or Love Boat for a leisurely cruise. Pack a picnic, bring your favourite playlist, and enjoy the serenity of the water.

When the day winds down, watch the sunset with a side of fish and chips at casual outdoor eatery,  Snapper & Co. Or perhaps try one of the many cafes, restaurants, and bars along the Kingston Foreshore.

Cheer on Australia's best batters and bowlers during the summer of cricket in Canberra. Don’t miss your chance to catch the Big Bash action in Canberra at Sydney Thunder v Brisbane Heat (22 December) and Melbourne Stars v Sydney Thunder (28 December). The action continues at Manuka Oval with Canberra to host the second T20I cricket match when the Australian women go up against India. Don't miss a moment of the action!

Tennis fans will be treated to world-class competition at the Workday Canberra International 2026, where some of many of the world’s best tennis players and future stars, making it an exciting day out for the whole family (4-10 January).

There'll be three days of performances, culture, entertainment, food, and community spirit within the city centre at the National Multicultural Festival (7-9 February). Wander through streets alive with music and dance, sample flavours from around the globe, and marvel at the iconic parade that brings together 170 nationalities in a kaleidoscope of colour. Whether you’re watching a cooking demonstration, joining a cultural workshop, or dancing the night away at one of the festival’s many stages, this is Canberra at its most vibrant.

If you’re seeking thrills, head to  Treetops Adventure for an exhilarating high ropes course where you can zip, climb, and balance your way through a series of challenges set among the treetops. If you’d prefer a quieter way to immerse yourself in the region's stunning landscapes, head to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, where you can hike through lush bushland and spot native wildlife like kangaroos and koalas.