Canberra Balloon Spectacular – Friday 18 to Sunday 20 March

One of Canberra’s favourite events, the Balloon Spectacular, will see over 25 balloons take flight over Canberra’s skyline during nine days. Launching each morning over Patrick White Lawns at 7am, this is worth the early start to see the colourful array of balloons get ready to fly over the lake and arboretum. Get all the event info through Enlighten.

Enlighten Festival – Friday 18 to Sunday 20 March

Lighting up Canberra every March, the Enlighten Festival is back for 17 days of arts and cultural events and entertainment. From the popular Night Noodle Markets, Canberra iconic buildings lighting up as part of Canberra After Dark and the Canberra Contemporary Arts Space, there is plenty family-friendly events happening this weekend. For the full program, head to Enlighten’s website.

Wine Machine Festival – Saturday 19 March

The Wine Machine festival is back in Canberra this weekend for another stellar day of live music and of course plenty of food and wine. Set on the lake at Commonwealth Park, dance to Aussie singers like Benee, The Presets and Thundamentals, while sipping on wine from some of Australia’s most well-known wine regions. Grab your last-minute tickets here.

Canberra Craft Beer and Cider Festival – Saturday 19 March

Back for another year, the Canberra Craft Beer and Cider Festival is ready to show off 250 crafts beers and ciders from Canberra and around Australia. Hosted once again on the grounds of Mercure Canberra, tour Australia’s best breweries with samples for just $2, plus the perfect street food and entertainment for the whole family. Running with two ticketed sessions throughout the day, grab your tickets online.

National Arboretum Harvest Stall – Saturday 19 March

Sample and take home fresh jams and chutney made with organic produce and fruit from the Arboretum. Selling home-made goodies and seedlings from their Kitchen Garden, visit and get your own inspiration to what you could grow in your own backyard. Read more here.

QT Lounge Balloon Breakfast – Saturday 19 March

Get a perfect view of the hot air balloons floating across the lake for Canberra Balloon Spectacular, in the comfort of the QT Lounge. Hosting an indulgent breakfast from 7am, QT welcomes you to enjoy delicious goods, from Sonoma pasties, toasted granola and coconut yoghurt, avocado toast, smoked trout and potato hash, sausage rolls and of course champagne on arrival. Book your tickets via their website.

Lake Burley Griffin Cider Cruise – Saturday 19 March

Enjoy a sunny afternoon sailing around Lake Burley Griffith, while sampling five different ciders from boutique makers around Australia. The two-hour cruise will feature sparkling and still cider made with apples and other fruits, alongside a gazing box from Nibble and Nourish. Get your tickets here.

EPIC Farmers Market – Saturday 19 March

Join EPIC for great offers on seasonal produce and support local growers. Find a great variety of fruit and vegetables, poultry, seafood, handmade goods and delicious made-to-order foods. The markets will be open from 7:30-11:30am. For further information head to their website.

Two Before Ten Jams & Chutney Workshops – Saturday 19 March

It’s berry season at the Two Before Ten Urban Farm and they want you to help them make use of their excess seasonal fruit. Get hands on and prepare a range of jams and chutneys ready to take home, while enjoying a glass of wine or beer with a cheese platter featuring goods from their farm. Grab your tickets here.

The Pop Inn at Bowen Park – Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 March

Canberra’s favourite pop-up wine bar, The Pop Inn will be at Bowen Park from 2-7pm serving up top notch wines for you to try, along with delicious meat and cheese tasting plates. Get all the latest updates on their website.