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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

Leila Josefowicz
9 Jul 2026

Leila Josefowicz & John Novacek | Musica Viva Australia | Canberra

Snow Concert Hall, Red Hill
Next on 9 Jul 2026 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Canberra Raiders player Joseph Tapine running the ball.
18 Jul 2026

Double Header | NRL Raiders v Dragons - NRLW Raiders v Roosters

GIO Stadium, Canberra, Bruce
Next on 18 Jul 2026 from 12:45pm to 6:00pm
Canberra Raiders player Jed Stuart celebrating a try.
25 Jul 2026

Double Header | NRL Raiders v Tigers - NRLW Raiders v Sharks

GIO Stadium, Canberra, Bruce
Next on 25 Jul 2026 from 12:45pm to 6:00pm
Canberra Raiders player Sebastian Kris celebrating a try.
21 Aug 2026

Raiders v Broncos - NRL Round 25

GIO Stadium, Canberra, Bruce
Next on 21 Aug 2026 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Learn how to photograph the Milky Way on the 2023 Armidale Masterclass
30 Aug 2026

Canberra Milky Way Editing Masterclass

Gungahlin East Lakes, Gungahlin
Next on 30 Aug 2026 from 9:00am to 4:30pm
Canberra Milky Way Masterclass - how to photograph the Milky Way
31 Aug 2026

Canberra Milky Way Masterclass

Eastlake Cadwell, Calwell
Next on 31 Aug 2026 from 5:30pm to 9:30pm
Photographer: Elli Webb
4 Sep – 7 Nov 2026

Canberra Art Biennial

The festival is multi site, across central Canberra, with a central hub at Lake Burely Griffin., Parkes
Next on 4 Sep 2026
Canberra Raiders NRLW player Madison Bartlett celebrating a try.
6 Sep 2026

Raiders v Eels - NRLW Round 10

GIO Stadium, Canberra, Bruce
Next on 6 Sep 2026 from 6:15pm to 9:15pm
Drag King with tophat
31 Oct – 30 Nov 2026

Canberra SpringOUT Pride Festival

Canberra SpringOUT PRIDE Festival Canberra, Braddon
Next on 31 Oct 2026
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
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