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Young couple dances in the coloured lights of a live music performance at Smith's Alternative.

Canberra After Dark

As the sun sets and the stars illuminate the sky, Canberra's vibrant atmosphere and endless after-dark possibilities come to life. Whether you're drawn to the popular family-friendly festivals, intimate gigs featuring emerging artists or renowned classical musicians performing in grand concert halls, our vibrant capital offers a plethora of unforgettable night-time activities that cater to all ages.

For those seeking a night of entertainment, Canberra's live music and performance scene is not to be missed. See electrifying gigs and performances at popular pubs and bars like Transit Bar and Smiths Alternative serving more than good tunes. Be sure to secure your ticket to blockbuster musicals, comedy festivals, and year-round concerts at the Canberra Theatre Centre. For a classical experience, head to Llewelyn Hall at the Australian National University School of Music Building with regular performances from the Canberra Symphony Orchestra, Australian Chamber Orchestra and Musica Viva. 

Experience the thrill of Canberra's iconic annual festivals and events. Step into a world of enchantment at Illuminations @ Enlighten Festival during autumn where the iconic cultural attractions become vibrant canvases for stunning artworks. And make sure to mark your calendar for Floriade's NightFest, an extraordinary after-dark twist on Australia's largest celebration of spring filled with dazzling light installations, live music, and delicious food stalls.

Explore this selection of Canberra's best night-time events to elevate your after-dark plans and ensure a fun-filled evening.

Art installation in front of National Portrait Gallery at Enlighten Illuminations
Enlighten Festival
A live performance from Lights! Canberra! Action! 2021, a short film festival that takes place on the lawns outside Old Parliament House.
Lights, Canberra, Action
Floriade Nightfest

Browse Canberra after dark

Australian Cricket Players
2 Dec 2026

Men's T20 Series vs England | 5th T20

Manuka Oval, Griffith
Next on 2 Dec 2026 from 7:15pm to 10:00pm
Slam! Pro Wrestling League
12 Dec 2026

Slam! Pro Wrestling League

Royal Theatre, Canberra
Next on 12 Dec 2026 from 6:30pm to 10:00pm
Spilt Milk Festival
12 Dec 2026

Spilt Milk

EPIC Canberra, Lyneham
Next on 12 Dec 2026 from 12:00pm to 11:00pm
people sitting on a grass field watching Carols in Town Park Canberra
14 Dec 2025 – 13 Dec 2026

Carols in Town Park

Tuggeranong Town Park, Greenway
Next on 13 Dec 2026 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm
Burnouts at Summernats
7–10 Jan 2027

Summernats 39

Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), Mitchell
Next on 7 Jan 2027
Questacon illuminated with Chines dragon dancers
26 Feb – 8 Mar 2027

Enlighten Festival

Various venues, Canberra
Next on 26 Feb 2027
Cyclonats logo and cyclists
27 Feb 2026 – 7 Mar 2027

Cyclonats Festival of Cycling Culture

Haig Park and venues across Canberra, Braddon
Next on 5 Mar 2027
The Australian Women's Cricket Team celebrates a wicket in a One-Day International Match
6 Mar 2027

Women's ODI Series - Australia vs New Zealand - First ODI

Manuka Oval, Griffith
Next on 6 Mar 2027 from 2:50pm to 9:00pm
6 Morris Dancers perform in Traditional Costume with a big-top tent in the background
25–29 Mar 2027

National Folk Festival

Exhibition Park in Canberra, Lyneham
Next on 25 Mar 2027 from 5:00pm to 11:59pm
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