28/09/2026
Clear your calendar ๐ท October in Canberra is packed with festivals, flowers, live sport, book lovers' events and unforgettable nights out. Here are six events worth planning a spring getaway around!
NightFest ๐ Experience Floriade after dark as Commonwealth Park transforms with illuminated blooms, fire performances, immersive installations, roving entertainment, fantastic food and major live acts.
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1โ4 October
๐ Find out more: https://visitcanberra.com.au/events/6a1e66b8050a1aa42f80540e/nightfest-2026
Floriade ๐ท There's still time to experience Australia's Biggest Celebration of Spring. Wander among more than one million blooms and enjoy live entertainment, workshops, market stalls, family activities, and plenty of delicious food and drink, all inspired by this year's Feast of Flowers theme.
๐
Until 11 October
๐ Find out more: https://visitcanberra.com.au/events/69ba3c58a681d70f285e8f9d/floriade-2026
Sydney Kings v BNZ Breakers ๐ The Kings are back in the nation's capital for a blockbuster NBL clash. See elite basketball up close as former Kings favourite Kouat Noi returns to Canberra to face his former club.
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14 October
๐ Find out more: https://visitcanberra.com.au/events/6a86945710d6298f2e49cab6/sydney-kings-v-new-zealand-breakers-nbl27
Canberra Writers Festival ๐ Celebrate the festival's 10th anniversary with 110 events and 200 artists across four days. Hear from acclaimed authors, journalists, comedians, illustrators and political thinkers, with plenty of free and ticketed events for children and young adults too.
๐
15โ18 October
๐ Find out more: https://visitcanberra.com.au/events/56b23c75d5f1565045d80ee2/canberra-writers-festival
Wallaroos v Scotland Women ๐ Cheer on the Wallaroos at GIO Stadium Canberra as they close out their 2026 home Test season against Scotland in the WXV Global Series. Expect explosive talent and plenty of action on Friday night under the lights.
๐
23 October
๐ Find out more: https://visitcanberra.com.au/events/6a8f926bc8d13e0b65ee1a78/wxv-global-series-wallaroos-v-scotland-women
Canberra Nara Candle Festival ๐ฎ Thousands of candles will illuminate Canberra Nara Peace Park during this magical celebration of Canberra's sister-city relationship with Nara, Japan. Enjoy Japanese food, music, dance, cultural demonstrations and family-friendly entertainment throughout the evening.
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24 October
๐ Find out more: https://visitcanberra.com.au/events/62d8eed2edcf23c0501e9324/canberra-nara-candle-festival
Which event are you most excited about this October? ๐
ACT Government Australian Institute of Sport Events ACT
