ACT National Events
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Important Australian or Globally Famous events that occur around ACT Australian Capital Territory and you are invited.
as the author.
Annual Events in the Australian Capital Territory
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is a small territory in Southeast Australia that is entirely surrounded by New South Wales. Even though it's a small territory, it has some of the most popular tourist attractions in Australia, including the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, and the National Gallery of Australia. ACT is home to many national cultural and sporting events, as well as international events that attract thousands of visitors from around the world. Here are some of the most nationally and globally recognised annual events that people might observe in and around the state of ACT.
1. National Multicultural Festival
The National Multicultural Festival is held every year in Canberra during the month of February. It is a celebration of the cultural diversity of Australia, and it attracts around 280,000 visitors each year. The event features live music, food stalls, dance performances, art exhibitions, and cultural demonstrations that showcase the customs and traditions of the various ethnic groups in Australia. The festival is a vibrant and colourful celebration that promotes inclusion and diversity.
2. Enlighten Festival
The Enlighten Festival is one of the most popular events in ACT. It is held annually between February and March, and it attracts thousands of visitors to the city. The festival features vibrant displays of light installations in public spaces like museums, monuments, and heritage buildings. It also includes live music performances, food stalls, and cultural activities. Visitors can take part in guided tours, workshops, and interactive displays. The Enlighten Festival is an excellent opportunity to discover the history and culture of the city of Canberra.
3. Floriade
Floriade is an iconic event in Canberra that celebrates springtime and the beauty of flowers. It is held annually between September and October and draws more than 400,000 visitors. The festival transforms the Commonwealth Park into a stunning flower garden, featuring over a million tulips, daffodils, and other stunning flowers. It also features live music, food and wine stalls, workshops, and guided tours. Floriade is a unique and unforgettable experience that celebrates the beauty of nature.
4. Canberra Balloon Spectacular
The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is a breathtaking event that takes place annually in March. It features hot air balloons taking to the skies of Canberra, creating a stunning display of colour and beauty against the backdrop of the city's skyline. The event is one of the most popular hot air balloon festivals in the world, and it attracts balloonists from around the globe. Visitors can enjoy a hot breakfast while watching the balloons take off, or even take a ride in a hot air balloon to experience the event first-hand.
5. National Folk Festival
The National Folk Festival is an annual celebration of folk music, dance, and culture that takes place during the Easter long weekend. It features over 20 stages where musicians, dancers, and performers showcase their skills and talents. The festival also has a vibrant marketplace, food stalls, and workshops where visitors can learn about traditional crafts, cooking, and other skills. The event attracts around 50,000 visitors each year and is a highlight of the ACT cultural calendar.
6. National Cherry Festival
The National Cherry Festival is an annual event that takes place in Young, a town located in the Hilltops region of NSW, which is just a short drive from Canberra. The festival celebrates the harvest season, and it features plenty of cherry-themed activities, including cherry picking, cherry pie eating contests, and cooking demonstrations. There are also live music performances, local wine tastings, and food stalls featuring local produce. The festival is typically held in December and attracts visitors from all across Australia.
Conclusion
The Australian Capital Territory offers an array of cultural, sporting, and entertainment events that attract visitors from around the world. Whether you're interested in food festivals, music events, or cultural activities, there's something for everyone in ACT. From the National Multicultural Festival to the Cherry Festival, these events showcase the diverse beauty of the ACT region, and they're worth putting on your calendar.