Get out in Canberra this weekend and check out the top 10 events on offer.
18th Canberra International Riesling Challenge
Events across Friday 13 and Saturday 14 October
The Riesling Challenge is a wine competition created in Canberra, to highlight the grape that defines the white wine, Riesling. The challenge attracts wines from Riesling-producing countries around the world, showcasing 500 Rieslings from seven countries. Events include a Riedel Riesling masterclass, which will showcase a range of Rieslings from Germany and the Canberra District, awards presentation and a Riesling dinner on Friday 13 October at Hotel Realm. On Saturday 14 October there will be an ActewAGL Trade and Consumer Tasting at Albert Hall, Yarralumla.
Strictly Ballroom: The Musical
Friday 13 to Saturday 28 October
Strictly Ballroom the Musical is the inspiring story of a championship ballroom dancer who defies all the rules to follow his heart. This uplifting and courageous tale originated as a stage play that Baz Luhrmann created as a student at the National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA) in Sydney back in 1984. Featuring songs from the 1992 hit film including “Love is in the Air”, “Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps” and “Time After Time”, as well as new songs from internationally acclaimed artists and composers such as Sia, David Foster and Eddie Perfect. Strictly Ballroom: The Musical is on at Erindale Theatre from October 12 to 28.
Oktoberfest Parklands
12.00pm to 10.00pm Saturday 14 October
Kicks Entertainment, the team behind the hugely successful Spilt Milk music festival and The Commons Street Feast, will be transforming the Patrick White Lawns into the massive Oktoberfest Parklands celebration this Saturday. The Bavarian Food Truck Village has all your mouth-watering German food covered, there will be a huge line-up of musicians and performers to keep you entertained throughout the day, and Oktoberfest Parklands have lined up some quality German and international beers to recreate a classic beer hall experience right here in Canberra.
Dog’s Day Out at Floriade
10.00am to 7.00pm Saturday 14 October
Floriade is opening the gates to all dogs, big and small, on 14 October for the Dog’s Day Out. Commonwealth Park will play host to a range of pooch-related activities to keep your four-legged friend entertained throughout the day.
Snap a picture with your pup in the free photo booth or grab them a tasty treat at the Pooch Café. The Dog’s Day Out Market will have a range of great presents for you to spoil your puppy with, and the park will be dotted with a variety of doggie delights.
Fair Food Long Table Lunch
12.00pm to 2.30pm Sunday 15 October
The Fair Food Long Table Lunch on Sunday, October 15 at Contentious Character Vineyard, Wamboin, 30km east of Canberra, offers a spectacular two-course lunch of locally grown and produced food. The Indigenous-themed dining experience is matched with a glass of Contentious’ cool-climate wine, where the swings in the weather in the hills of Canberra create a character that is in contrast to what many expect from an Australian wine. The Fair Food Long Table Lunch also features two of the region’s Fair Food heroes speaking about their food journeys, a must for anyone thinking of taking up the plow (or building a herb garden on your balcony).
Canberra Light the Night
5.00pm Friday 13 October
Now in its 10th year, the Leukaemia Foundation’s Light the Night is a unique event bringing people together in more than 100 locations across Australia, to raise awareness of blood cancer. You can take part in this inspiring event at Kingston Foreshore on Friday 13 October. The event opens with lantern collection at 5.30pm, while onstage entertainment by Drumassault and Elite Dance Studio kicks off at 6pm. The lantern ceremony and Light the Night walk begins at 7.15pm.
Frock UP Pop UP Canberra
6.00pm to 9.00pm Friday 13 and 10.00am to 4.00pm Saturday 14 October
The Spring Frock Up Pop Up Canberra is on again, with six local and interstate sellers with hundreds of items of antique, retro, vintage and designer label clothing. You’ll find clothing that encompasses over 150 years, with everything from Downton Abbey tea gowns to micro minis from the swinging sixties. In addition to rack after rack of fashion, discover fashion accessories, fashion art, millinery, antique laced textiles and much, much more. Head to the Griffith Neighborhood Hall and check it out.
Australian Stock Horse Society Southern Highlands Branch Show
Saturday 14 to Sunday 15 October
There will be an action packed equine programme at Gunning this weekend that demonstrates the versatility and athleticism of the Australian Stock Horse as well as the skills and horsemanship of the rider. Spectators are welcome to attend to gain knowledge of this unique and exciting sport.
Springfest
10.00am to 5.00pm Saturday 14 October
Celebrate spring at the Strathnairn Arts Association (Holt) on October 14th. In conjunction with the Strathnairn Arts Open Day, Springfest will have a wide range of activities and entertainment such as performing artists, handmade crafts, a puppet show, choir performances, a footy clinic and earth-friendly markets with local makers who use sustainable materials and methods, as well as pre-loved treasures.
Funky City Walking Tour
Ongoing
Canberra Secrets invites you to enjoy their brand new Funky City Walking Tour around the city centre and the fabulous suburb of Braddon. It’s a wonderful experience for locals and tourists alike as participants will uncover some of Canberra’s hidden gems, learn a little history and sample some tasty treats over three fun-filled hours. Bookings essential.
