What's on in Canberra?: 2nd - 8th December

Dec 1, 2024

17 min read

There's over 40 things on this week in Canberra! Check out all the details below to find out what's on in Canberra this week for families, including a whole lot of Christmas carols and activities that you won't want to miss!

Gungahlin Homestead Open Day

The Historic Gungahlin Homestead will have its doors open for you to come and explore this wonderful piece of Canberra's history. Take in the serenity of the pines, elms and poplars in the surrounding grounds, and take a tour through the homestead and coach house. Entry is free. Find more details here.

Open Day @ Gungahlin Homestead - 8th December - 10am-2pm - free

Indigenous Art Market

The AIATSIS Indigenous Art Market is the largest Indigenous art market in the Canberra region, and it has also become a popular online event, showcasing a diverse range of paintings, textiles, sculptures, jewellery and much more. Importantly, 100 per cent of sales from the art market goes back to Indigenous art centres, artists and their communities. You can attend the art market in person on the lawns outside the Maraga building at 51 Lawson Crescent, Acton, in the heart of Canberra, from 6-8 December and also purchase online from 6-15 December. Find more info here.

AIATSIS Indigenous Art Market @ Maraga Building, Acton - 6th - 15th December - free

Curious Corner: Family Tour

Bring your family to the National Gallery to celebrate the opening of the Anne Dangar and Ethel Carrick exhibitions with a special gallery experience full of playful activities and lively discussion led by National Gallery Artist Educators. Collect a copy of the Kids & Families Art Trail to complete along the way. Finish the tour in the Ethel Carrick & Anne Dangar Studio, a dedicated interactive space for audiences of all ages and abilities. This is a free event with limited capacity, so make sure you register for the event here.

Curious Corner: Family Tour @ The National Gallery of Australia - 7th December - 10:30am & 12:30pm - free

The Gruffalo

After sell-out seasons across the world, including London’s West End & Broadway, The Gruffalo returns to Australia! Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups. Book tickets here.

The Gruffalo @ the Canberra Theatre Centre - 6th-7th December - $35+

Making Music: International Day of People with Disability

Join in at the National Museum for Making Music in recognition of the United Nations’ International Day of People with Disability. Participate in an instrument-making workshop with Hands On Studio and be part of a playshop with Music for Canberra – suitable for all ages and abilities! Children from birth to 6 years (and their accompanying adults) are welcome to play for free across the day in the Tim & Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre play and learn space. Bookings essential. With free activations for all ages, this will be a welcoming day for everyone. To ensure a comfortable experience, there will be lowered capacity and reduced audiovisual components. More details and bookings here.

Making Music: International Day of People with Disability @ the NMA - 8th December - 10am-2pm - free

McDonald's Stadium Golf at GIO Stadium

GIO Stadium Canberra, home of the ACT Brumbies and Canberra Raiders will be transformed into a golf coliseum. Tee off from elevated platforms and hit onto the field of play. Suitable for the novice or serious golfer. All equipment is supplied. Visit the inner sanctum of the Canberra Raiders and ACT Brumbies change rooms and play shots from the run-out tunnel. There are 9 holes to complete around GIO Stadium. It’s fun, fast and not so serious. 1 adult ticket gets you entry with a junior (5-14 years) as well. Find more details and book tickets here.

McDonald's Stadium Golf @ GIO Stadium - 5-7th December - $131.90+

Science Time: Light

Early Learners can experiment and discover the science of light and shadows. Science Time involves little scientists in a fun and interactive learning experience. Children will solve problems and explore their exciting world. Each session starts with a question. Children and their caregivers work together to investigate, discover, and then share their findings. Hands-on experiments, activities and crafts help children explore the topic further. The session finishes with a demonstration and an activity sheet so you can continue your STEM journey at home. Science Time is suitable for little scientists aged 3 to 5 years (and their caregivers). Everyone wanting to attend a session will need to book a Science Time ticket, which includes entry to Questacon for the same day. Find more info here.

Science Time: Light @ Questacon - 2nd - 14th December - $18.90+

Creative Play

Our Creative Play sessions offer a fun and engaging environment for the little ones, not yet in school. While your little ones explore hands-on activities, experiment with colors, textures, and imaginative play, you can sit back and enjoy a moment of respite. We handle everything, so you can watch your child’s creativity blossom without worry. Book your tickets here!

Creative Play @ Q Gallery, Ainsley - 3rd, 5th, 10th, 12th, 17th & 19th December - $12

Ninja Parc Fyshwick Opening Day

Ninja Parc Fyshwick is finally opening, and we're excited! Experience the thrill of Ninja Parc at Ninja Parc Fyshwick, where adventure meets excitement with their dynamic obstacle courses for all ages. Ninja Parc Fyshwick offers an action-packed adventure like no other, with dynamic obstacle courses, climb walls, and the famous warped wall, the experience is designed to challenge and excite ninjas of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, you'll find plenty of opportunities to push your limits in a safe and supportive environment. With a friendly team ready to guide you every step of the way, Ninja Parc Fyshwick guarantees a thrilling experience that will leave you wanting more. Find all the info here.

Ninja Parc Opening Day @ Whyalla St, Fyshwick - 37th December - $13.95+

Garema Lounge Sessions

Things are heating up in the heart of the City Centre! Garema Place is turning up the vibe with live music, pop-up events, and family-friendly fun every Friday. Expect to be hit with all the feels—whether it's DJs spinning your fave tracks, singers, small bands, dance classes, and interactive games to kick off your weekend on a high note. Each week brings something new and exciting! Bring your family and enjoy a new experience every Friday while you're grabbing a bite, shopping, or preparing for a night out. Find more details here.

Garema Lounge Sessions @ Garema Place - 12pm - 8pm - free

WNBL Round 6

The UC Capitals are back at home on Wednesday after two games taking on the Southside Flyers at the AIS for Round 6. Nicole Munger, Monique Bobongie and Jade Melbourne return to home fans as they take on current WNBL champions. More details and tickets here.

WNBL Round 6 @ AIS Arena - 4th December - 7-9pm - $30+

Sunset Cinema

Head outdoors to watch a movie with the fam this week at the Sunset Cinema. Screenings this week include ‘Venom: The Last Dance', 'Here', 'The Princess Diaries' and 'Gladiator 2'. Find more info here.

Sunset Cinema @ The National Botanic Gardens - 21st November - 22nd Feb - various costs

Murrulangalang story time

Dive into the world of storytelling, imagination, and discovery as The National Archives bring tales to life through free interactive storytelling sessions. Bring your children along for a fun, engaging and educational morning out every Wednesday. Hear a story, act it out, sing a song, and a scavenger hunt to help us find Archie the cat hiding somewhere in our East Block building! This program will run weekly on Wednesdays at 10am, except for ACT school holidays. All learners 0 to 6yrs are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Book your free tickets here.

Murrulangalang story time @ The National Archives - 4th December - 10-11am - free

Christmas Events

Christmas Trivia

What colour is Rudolph's nose? Where does Santa live? Test your holiday knowledge with fun questions about Santa, reindeer, Christmas movies, and more, and you could win a special prize! Enjoy sweet treats, popcorn, glitter tattoos, and more. Find all the deets here.

Christmas Trivia @ Majura Park - 8th December - 10-11am - free

Maggie Moo

Maggie Moo Music Tuggeranong have some special Christmas sessions running this week, including a Mixed Moo session @ 10am and a Baby session @ 11:15am on the 4th, and Messy Moo @ 10:30 on the 5th of December. Find more details here.

Maggie Moo Music Tuggeranong Christmas sessions - 4th & 5th December - $20+

Bauble Decorating Workshop

Add a touch of merry magic to the season with Little Amigos Bauble Decorating Workshop (included with entry ticket)! Watch your little ones create their own festive masterpiece for your Christmas trees. Plus, receive a free gift with any kids meal purchase. Find all the details and book tickets here.

Bauble Decorating Workshops @ Little Amigos Canberra Outlet Centre - 3rd, 5th, 10th, 12th, 17th & 19th December - $25

A Very Tipsy Christmas Life Drawing

In need of a fun night out without the kids? The Tipsy Sketching Club provides the perfect opportunity to do something creative while getting a little silly. The life drawing session runs for approximately two hours with a range of timed poses from 2-30 minutes from the models, plus breaks for drinks, food, sharing and laughing. Drawing materials can be supplied, however if you have your own - bring them! All mediums and artistic abilities welcome. Book tickets here.

A Very Tipsy Christmas Life Drawing @ Verity Lane Market - 4th December - 6:30-9pm - $34.50

A Very Canberra Comedy Festival Christmas

Join the festival’s best comedians as they get you into the festive spirit with an amazing show packed with comedy superstars. This 2-hour comedy gala event features some of the very best acts from the upcoming festival line-up in one massive show! Grab your tickets here.

A Very Canberra Comedy Festival Christmas @ Canberra Theatre Centre - 6th December - $54.90

Lollipop’s Playland Christmas Party

It's Christmas time again and what better way to celebrate than Lollipop’s annual Christmas party! You can expect a disco, unlimited play, party games and prizes from 5pm until 8pm. Family friendly and suitable for all ages! Santa will be visiting from 6.30pm until 7.30pm with FREE meet and greet, photo opportunities and a treat for the kids! Facepainting will be available for $5. Buy your tickets here.

Lollipop’s Playland Christmas Party @ Majura Park - 6th December - $10+

Christmas in Woden

Join Tuggeranong Arts Centre and Woden Valley Community Council for an evening of celebration in Woden Town Square. Enjoy live music by Gugan Gulwan’s students, Sing with Toby Choir, The South Canberra Wind Orchestra and Latin American Music Ensemble Pachamama. Explore your creative side in a puppet making workshop with Eleanor & Giovanni or decorate a star mobile with paint pens. A free BBQ will be provided by Woden Valley Community Council and Helping ACT. Find more details here.

Christmas in Woden @ Woden Town Square - 4th December - free

Canberra Potters Christmas Fair

Looking for unique Christmas gifts? Look no further than the Canberra Potters 2024 Christmas Fair where local potters and ceramicists showcase a curated selection of ceramic art and pottery. Find more info here.

Canberra Potters Christmas Fair @ Canberra Potters Society - 6th - 15th December - free

City Centre Christmas Party

Kick off the holiday season at Canberra’s Christmas Party! A festive celebration for families, young adults, and everyone visiting Canberra—this is the place to be. With something for all ages, enjoy a fantastic lineup of entertainment, kids’ workshops at CMAG, and the Canberra Centre’s Festive Lane Markets. There will be food and beverages to savour while kids enjoy fun activities like the merry-go-round and more. Join us in bringing Canberra together for a magical day filled with holiday cheer! More info here.

City Centre Christmas Party @ City Walk - 7th December - free

Battle of the Big Bands Christmas Ball

Prepare for a dazzling spectacle with the Savoy-style Battle of the Big Bands, featuring the enthralling sounds of Connexion Big Band and Blamey St Big Band! Canberra Swing Katz and Connexion Big Band proudly present a tribute to the legendary Count Basie, Chick Webb, and the epic 1937 Battle of the Big Bands at the iconic Savoy Ballroom. Deck yourself out in your festive best, and bring your favourite festive dishes to share. Join us for a night of swing, rhythm, and unforgettable memories. Seize the opportunity to step into the holiday season with unmatched style! Secure your tickets now for an evening of pure swing bliss.

Battle of the Big Bands Christmas Ball @ Albert Hall Canberra - 7th December - 7:30pm

Canberra Carols by Candlelight

It’s not Christmas in Canberra without a visit to the Canberra Times Carols by Candlelight! Held at Stage 88 in Commonwealth Park, these are Canberra’s biggest community carols. Proudly presented by the Woden Valley Youth Choir. Head along and show them some support! Find more details here.

Canberra Carols by Candlelight @ Commonwealth Park - 7th December - free

Carols @ Franklin 2024

The Carols at Franklin are on again this year! Head along for a fun Christmas carols evening for the whole family. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a free BBQ and kids activities, showbags, and of course, Christmas carols! Find more info here.

Carols @ Franklin 2024 - Franklin School - 7th December - free

Christmas Workshops

Join in on the fun at Majura Park for two Christmas workshops this week, including Christmas Tote Bag Decorating on the 2nd @ 10:30am, 11.15am & 12pm, or DIY Christmas Baubles on the 6th @ 10:30am, 11.15am & 12pm. Both are free, but registrations are required. Register here.

Christmas Workshops @ Majura Park - various dates - free

Christmas in the Park

Put Saturday, 7 December in your diary as Paddys Park plays host to the fourth annual Ginninderry Christmas in the Park. The annual celebration has become a much-anticipated event, as the Canberra community gathers to enjoy a balmy night under the stars. Paddys Park will once come alive with the sounds of live music and carols, family activities, a delicious host of food and drink vendors and much more! Settle in from 5–9 pm and enjoy tunes from homegrown talent, while tucking into tasty fare from local foodies. Get a snap with the big guy in red at the Santa photo booth, and keep the kids busy with a host of games and craft activities. Name a better way to spend a Saturday evening (for free)?! Find more information here.

Christmas in the Park @ Paddys Park, Ginninderry - 7th December - free

Bungendore Community Christmas Party

Head along to Bungendore’s 2024 Community Christmas Party on Friday 6 December. There will be entertainment from homegrown stars, delicious food and free family activities, traditional carols and speciality acts, plus a visit from Santa. This event is for all ages and free to attend. Find more info here.

Bungendore Community Christmas Party @ Mick Sherd Oval - 6th December - free

Christmas Photos with Spiderman

It's that time of year to get family photos with the jolly fellow in red... Spider-Man! Come along to Impact Comics and get a photo with Spider-Man to remember Christmas 2024. Bring your own camera or use your phone camera, there is no charge, and everyone is welcome! More details here.

Christmas Photos with Spiderman @ Impact Comics - 7th December - 3-5pm - free

Christmas Sparkle Market

The Christmas Sparkle Market is a fabulous way to buy thoughtful handcrafted gifts and items made by crafters and artisans. Held on 10 to 3pm Saturday and 10 to 1pm Sunday. Find more information here.

Christmas Sparkle Market @ Pearce Crafters Market - 7th-8th December - free

Holy Spirit Christmas Market

Holy Spirit Parish is holding a family-friendly Christmas Market on the 7th of December. With a great line up children's activities, food stalls, craft stalls, ice cream and much more. Bring your picnic rug! Find more information here.

Christmas Market @ Holy Spirit Parish, Amaroo - 7th December - free

Little Burley Month of Merry

The Little Burley Market is delighted to announce that we will be celebrating Christmas lakeside with our ‘Month of Merry’ throughout December. This year’s market will as always feature an incredible lineup of local creators and artisans, so you can purchase the perfect gift for your loved ones, all whilst supporting small businesses this holiday season! Featuring all your favourite artisan delights, from culinary creations to handcrafted jewellery, artwork, candles, and even puppy couture. The fun doesn’t stop once you’ve completed your shopping list! Grab a free photo with Santa, enjoy the lakeside view whilst you sample some authentic Italian Pizza and be entertained by Christmas themed choirs, bands and dancers. Find more info here.

Month of Merry @ the Little Burley Markets - 7th, 14th & 21st December - free

Xmas Market

Head to the Fitters Workshop in Kingston for the CBR woman’s Xmas market! Their markets are a celebration of Canberra’s creative and entrepreneurial women, and an opportunity to elevate women and their businesses within the local community. This is a free community event with incredible vendors featuring specialty gifts, jewellery, fashion, sweet treats, hot food, coffee, home goods, and much more, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to come along to get your Xmas shopping done! Find more details here.

CBR woman’s Xmas market @ the Fitters Workshop - 7th December - free

2024 Andante Andante ABBA Choir Christmas Fundraiser

The Dainere’s Rainbow team are extremely humbled and honoured to announce that on Sunday 8th December 2024, at Saint Columba’s Uniting Church Braddon ACT 5pm to 7pm, the truly extraordinary and talented Andante Andante (ABBA) Choir are hosting their annual Christmas Fundraiser. One hundred percent of all funds raised at this event are going to Dainere’s Rainbow to help bring hope and a future to children in Canberra and around Australia diagnosed with brain cancer. Cost is only $15 per head which includes a spectacular evening of incredible ABBA songs to delight, plus light refreshments (light snack food, juice and soft drinks) and the chance to win one of the fabulous lucky door prizes. There will also be raffle tickets to purchase for some sensational raffle prizes as part of this splendiferous event. Find more details here.

2024 Andante Andante ABBA Choir Christmas Fundraiser - 8th December - 5-7pm - $15

Carols in the Park

Carols In the Park is a free family friendly event, to help our community celebrate the joy of Christmas. Come along with a picnic rug, family and friends to celebrate Christmas with your local community. Enjoy the carnival from 5pm, with food trucks, market stalls and carnival activities, and Christmas carols from 7pm. Find all the details here.

Carols in the Park @ Dickson oval - 8th December - free

Seasonal Christmas Market

The SEASONAL Christmas Markets at the Old Coach Stables on Sunday, 8th December 2024, from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm, will be a festive celebration set in a charming historic location. Visitors can explore a variety of stalls featuring handmade crafts, locally sourced produce, and unique holiday gifts, perfect for Christmas shopping. The Old Coach Stables provide a picturesque backdrop, adding to the warm and traditional Christmas atmosphere. With food vendors, entertainment, and holiday treats, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the season and support local artisans and businesses. Find more information here.

The SEASONAL Christmas Markets @ the Old Coach Stables - 8th December - 9:30am - 2pm - free

Sutton Village Country Markets – Christmas in the Country

The Sutton Village Country Markets invite you to celebrate the festive season. A family event with live entertainment, a visit from Santa, Market and Food stalls, a Christmas Giving Tree as well as Camel Rides. Find all the details here.

Sutton Village Country Markets – Christmas in the Country - 8th December - free

North Pole Lane

North Pole Lane is a theatre lead, immersive walk-through Christmas story like no other. Walk through a forest theatre set and meet the North Pole animals and characters along the lane in this reimagined Christmas adventure. Not just for children - if you have a timeless love of Christmas, this adventure is for you. Come experience Canberra's own Christmas story! Find more info and book tix here.

North Pole Lane @ South.Point Tuggeranong - 30th November - 24th December - $27.06+

RSPCA Christmas Market

Celebrate the festive season with us on Friday, December 6th, at RSPCA ACT Christmas Markets! There’ll be retail stalls with pet items, candles, jewellery, crafts, and Christmas goodies, plus delicious food and drink options, fun activities for kids and dogs, real Christmas trees, dog and Santa photo sessions, and adorable animals available for adoption. Find all the info here.

RSPCA ACT Christmas Market - Weston Creek - 6th December - 4-8pm - free

Make a Lolly Skewer

Head to Gungahlin Marketplace for a December full of delightful holiday activities your little ones will love in Centre! From the 2nd - 6th of December, kids can join in making their own lolly skewers. Activities are free, but bookings are required. Find more info here.

Make a Lolly Skewer @ Gungahlin Marketplace - 2nd - 6th December - free

Holiday Card Making Workshop

The Canberra Museum & Gallery are holding a holiday card-making workshop suitable for the whole family. Participants will have the opportunity to draw inspiration from the Christmas cards in CMAG’s current exhibition Hiroe and Cornel Swen: Making a Creative Life. All materials provided, just bring your creativity! Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Find more information here.

Holiday Card Making Workshop @ Canberra Museum & Gallery - 7th December - $10

Free Christmas Workshops for Kids

Get ready for fun-filled workshops for kids this Christmas at the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets. On the 7th of December, kids can build their own mini wooden sleigh. They’ll get creative with paints, sparkles, and festive craft supplies to make a unique sleigh that’s perfect for holding Christmas treats or displaying as a holiday decoration. A memorable, magical keepsake they’ll be proud to take home! On the 14th of December, kids can decorate their very own reindeer jar! They’ll use glitter, markers, and craft supplies to bring the reindeer to life, then fill it with yummy lollies and chocolates to create the perfect “reindeer snack.” A creative, sweet treat that’s all their own! Find more information here.

Free Christmas Workshops @ Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets - 7th & 14th December - free

Christmas at Dusk

Save the date for Awaken Church's Annual Christmas Carols event Christmas at Dusk! Come along on Saturday December 7th on the lawns of Awaken for a family fun filled night with Christmas carols, games, fun activities, food, Santa and more! All are welcome. More info here.

Christmas at Dusk @ Awaken Church, Kambah - 7th December - free

Molonglo Valley Carols

Get ready to immerse yourself in the festive spirit with your local community! Join us for an enchanting evening filled with Christmas cheer, live music, and delightful entertainment from Duffy Primary School and Stromlo Christian Church. This year, we’re thrilled to feature an array of food and beverage vendors, including Adobo Filipino, The Chameleon Ice Creamery, Plunge and Co Coffee Van, Popcorn, Snow Cones, and Fairy Floss. Find all the details here.

Molonglo Valley Carols @ Charles Weston School in Coombs - 7th December - free

Dirty Dick’s Christmas Party Unplugged

If you’re looking for a naughty night out without the kids, then Dirty Dick’s is the place to go! Fabulous fables, lusty legends and titillating tales from around the times of Robin Hood and his Merry Band ….. In tights!! There’ll be new songs, new performance material, new games together with all the traditional madness and mayhem! It’s a hoot! Get your tickets here.

Dirty Dick’s Christmas Party Unplugged @ the Zeppelin Room - 6th December - $78

Thomas & Friends Christmas Event

This December, Bounce Canberra is excited to invite you and your miniBOUNCER to a special holiday-themed Play Date with Thomas, Percy, and Diesel! You can expect:

Over 100 Thomas & Friends engines to giveaway!
A special letterbox for miniBOUNCERs to send letters to Santa.
Christmas-themed colouring activities.
Dedicated time for your miniBOUNCER to connect with friends, play, and make new buddies in a safe and fun-filled environment, with our fantastic Hosts joining in on the festivities!

Find all the details here.

Thomas & Friends Christmas Event @ Bounce Canberra - 6th December - 9am - 12pm - $12

Bauble Decorating Workshop

Bauble Decorating Workshops @ Little Amigos Canberra Outlet Centre - 3rd, 5th, 10th, 12th, 17th & 19th December - $25

Pet friendly photo with Santa

Gather your friends and family (including the furry ones!) for a free photo with Santa and Mrs Claus. Capture and share the holiday spirit with loved ones or keep this memento for yourself. Get your free pet-friendly photos on Friday the 6th, 13th & 20th December from 4-6 pm, or on Saturday the 7th or 21st December from 10 am - 12 pm. Find all the details here.

Pet friendly photo with Santa @ Dickson Shops - various dates - free

Handmade Glass Ornaments

Add a bit of magic to your Christmas decorations this year with your very own handmade glass ornaments. With help from professional glass artists, you'll learn how to cut and fuse three timeless glass decorations. After the class, all designs will be fired in a kiln over the course of a few days to fuse the cut pieces together. Suitable for ages 8 years and over who are confident in independently working. Or for 5-8 years and over, with parent/guardian supervision and assistance at all times.

Handmade Glass Ornaments @ Canberra Glassworks - 7th December - $100