Canberra Day
How to Celebrate Canberra Day
Rise and Shine with Balloons
Start the day early with the Canberra Balloon Spectacular. Watch colorful balloons fill the sky. The view is breathtaking.
You can enjoy the display from various spots around the city. Grab a coffee and find a cozy spot to watch the sky show. It’s a sight you won’t forget.
Picnic in the Park
Pack a picnic and head to one of Canberra’s beautiful parks. Commonwealth Park is perfect for this. Enjoy the greenery and relax with family or friends.
Don’t forget a blanket and some snacks. Maybe bring a Frisbee or a ball to toss around. It’s a simple, delightful way to enjoy the day.
Support Local Artists
Explore local markets featuring handmade crafts and delicious street food. Browse stalls at the Local Food and Makers Market.
Find unique items made by talented artisans. Tasting different cuisines is a must. Support small businesses while enjoying the festive atmosphere. It’s a win-win!
Join a Fun Run
Feel sporty? Participate in the Canberra Day Fun Run. Whether you run or walk, it’s all about the fun. Choose your distance: 2km, 5km, or 10km.
Get moving and enjoy the scenic route around Lake Burley Griffin. It’s a great way to get active and support community causes.
Dance to Live Music
Head to Stage 88 in Commonwealth Park for live performances. Local bands and artists will keep you entertained. Bring your dancing shoes. The music ranges from chill tunes to energetic beats. Spend the afternoon soaking in the sounds and enjoying the lively crowd.
Visit Iconic Landmarks
Take a tour of Canberra’s iconic sites. Start at the National Gallery of Australia. Next, visit the Australian War Memorial.
End with a stroll around Parliament House. Each place offers a unique glimpse into the city’s culture and history. It’s an enriching way to spend the holiday.
Craft and Create
Get creative with a DIY Canberra Day craft session. Make festive decorations or souvenirs. Use materials like paper, fabric, and paint.
This activity is perfect for kids and adults. Set up a craft station at home or join a community workshop. It’s fun and adds a personal touch to the celebration.
Canberra Day is a lively celebration of Australia’s capital city, brimming with activities and community spirit. It’s a public holiday in the Australian Capital Territory, where locals and visitors alike come together to honor Canberra’s official naming.
This day is packed with various events, from hot air balloon spectacles to live music and family-friendly entertainment, offering a vibrant atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
This day marks the official naming of the city, highlighting its significance as the heart of Australian governance and culture.
The festivities also include fun runs and markets that support local charities and businesses, reflecting the community’s spirit and togetherness.
Canberra Day is not just about historical remembrance; it’s a tribute to the city’s diverse and dynamic community.
The event honors the achievements and contributions of its citizens through awards and recognitions, celebrating those who have made significant impacts in various fields.
Canberra Day fosters a sense of pride and unity among Canberrans, making it a special occasion to cherish and celebrate the city’s rich heritage and vibrant future.
History of Canberra Day
Canberra Day celebrates the official naming of Australia’s capital city, Canberra, which took place on March 12, 1913. Lady Denman, the wife of then Governor-General Lord Denman, announced the name during a grand ceremony.
This event marked the birth of Canberra as the capital city, chosen to resolve the rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne. The name “Canberra” is believed to originate from an Indigenous word meaning “meeting place”.
Originally, Canberra Day was observed on the third Monday in March. However, in 2007, it was moved to the second Monday to align more closely with the actual date of the naming ceremony.
This change ensured the celebration remained relevant to the city’s history. The day now includes various events, from community festivals to official awards, highlighting Canberra’s cultural and civic pride.
The holiday commemorates the naming and honors the contributions of Canberra’s citizens through awards and recognitions.
Each year, the Canberra Citizen of the Year award is given to individuals who have significantly impacted the community. This tradition began in 1989 and continues to be a focal point of the celebrations, reflecting the city’s appreciation for its residents’ efforts and achievements.
Canberra Day FAQs
Why did Canberra win over Sydney and Melbourne as Australia’s capital?
To ease a fierce rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne, a new capital was chosen as a neutral ground.
The city’s location was a compromise, satisfying the political needs of both major cities and adding a unique touch to Australia’s history.
How did hot air balloons become a part of Canberra Day celebrations?
The Canberra Balloon Spectacular, now a cherished tradition, started as a way to draw more people to the city’s celebrations.
Every year, the skies fill with balloons from around the world, creating a colorful spectacle that symbolizes the city’s festive spirit.
What was the unusual international competition that shaped Canberra’s layout?
In 1911, an international design competition invited architects worldwide to submit plans for Canberra.
American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin won with a design featuring natural landscapes and modern city planning.
This blend of nature and structure remains central to Canberra’s character.
How did the Indigenous meaning of “Canberra” influence its naming?
The name “Canberra” is likely from the Ngunnawal word “Kambera” or “Canberry,” meaning “meeting place.”
This reflects the area’s historical significance as a gathering site for Indigenous tribes, adding depth to the city’s role as a place of unity.
What’s a common misconception about Canberra Day?
Many think Canberra Day celebrates the city’s founding. However, it marks the city’s naming ceremony on March 12, 1913, led by Lady Denman, the then Governor-General’s wife.
How do locals enjoy Canberra Day differently than visitors?
While visitors often attend public festivities, locals may celebrate with family picnics, reflecting a more personal connection to their city.
Community events like cultural festivals and live performances allow residents to showcase Canberra’s diversity and close-knit spirit.
How do the National Sheep Dog Trials connect to Canberra Day?
Held around Canberra Day, the National Sheep Dog Trials celebrate Australia’s agricultural roots.
Competitors and their dogs work together to herd sheep, a nod to rural traditions that adds a uniquely Australian aspect to the holiday.
Has Canberra Day always been this festive?
Originally, Canberra Day was a low-key affair. Over time, it evolved into a larger event with parades, food festivals, and community awards.
This growth reflects Canberra’s development from a modest city to a vibrant capital.
Are there any unique foods or drinks associated with Canberra Day?
While there’s no specific dish tied to Canberra Day, local markets and food stalls offer a variety of Australian delicacies. Visitors can enjoy regional specialties, reflecting the city’s culinary diversity.
How has Canberra Day evolved over the years?
Initially a modest observance, Canberra Day has grown into a major event featuring festivals, award ceremonies, and community activities. The celebrations now reflect the city’s growth and cultural richness.
See what else is happening…
There’s always more going on every month at Days Of The Year. Here are our favorites this month!
Also on ...
View all holidays
National Mario Day
Join this iconic Italian plumber on his adventures through fantastic worlds, battling fierce enemies and saving the Princess!
International Wig Day
Instantly transform your look with versatile hairpieces, offering endless style options for that effortlessly chic and ever-changing vibe.
Commonwealth Day
The Commonwealth is a diverse and vibrant family of nations spanning the globe, united by shared values and a commitment to democracy, justice, and prosperity for all.
We think you may also like...
