From 11 April to 10 May 2026, the Canberra and Region Heritage Festival returns for its 43rd year, centered around the high-energy theme, “Mid-Century: Innovation, Change and Optimism”. 

This year’s festival pulls back the curtain on the pivotal era between 1946 and 1969, offering a time machine throwback to a period when Canberra grew out of its “modest young town” image and transformed into a confident national capital. From the construction of Lake Burley Griffin to Cold War espionage and the city’s role in the historic Moon landing, the program features over 150 events that explore the buildings, big ideas, and people that shaped our city’s identity. 

Canberra is a city of design, and the mid-century period was its most daring era. The festival offers rare access to the architectural gems that define the “Canberra look.” 

  • Manning Clark House: Tour the heritage-listed home of the famed historian. Designed in 1952 by modernist legend Robin Boyd, you can sit at the very desk where Clark penned A History of Australia. 
  • Canberra’s Emerald Tower: Join a walking tour of the MLC Tower, the city’s first multi-storey office building and a 1950s symbol of progress. 
  • Architecture by Bike: For those who like their history with a side of cardio, join a guided cycle tour through Acton, Dickson, or Woden to see the works of Enrico Taglietti and John Andrews. 

 

Mid-century Canberra wasn’t just about bold buildings. Canberra became a hub of national transformation and quiet intrigue. 

  • 100 Years of East Block: Nestled behind Old Parliament House, this building served as the original General Post Office, the Prime Minister’s Department, and even ASIO headquarters. Discover the fascinating stories of espionage that took place within its walls. 
  • Menzies and the Making of Canberra: Learn how the leadership of Sir Robert Menzies and Stanley Bruce accelerated the development of the capital. 
  • Hidden Social History: Explore how innovations like the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and the abolition of the “marriage bar” were quietly planned in the city’s growing office blocks. 

 

While the theme of the festival focuses on the 20th century, the festival honors the fact that Canberra is an ancient cultural landscape. This year features a strong presence of First Nations storytelling and cultural practices. 

  • On Country Boat Tour: Join Ngunnawal man Richie Allan for a tour along Lake Burley Griffin. Learn how the Ngunnawal people utilized the Molonglo River for hunting, fishing, and collecting ochre long before the lake was filled in 1964. 
  • Black Mountain Stories: Elder Wally Bell and researcher Mark Butz bring the mountain’s stories to life, exploring its rich Aboriginal and natural heritage. 
  • Hands-on Tradition: Participate in coolamon weaving workshops or begin learning the Ngunnawal language with the Winanggaay Ngunnawal Language group. 

 

For those who prefer their heritage with a touch of mystery, the program extends well into the night. 

  • Tombstone Tales: Join Tim the Yowie Man for an after-dark wander through St John’s graveyard, Canberra’s first cemetery. Uncover unsolved mysteries and the untold stories of the pioneers who helped build the city. 
  • Wildlife Night Drives: Head deep into Namadgi National Park in a safari vehicle to spot the region’s extraordinary nocturnal inhabitants. 

 

EVENT INFORMATION: 

Various Locations across Canberra & Regional NSW 

11 April – 10 May 2026
Tickets: Prices vary by event, many events are FREE.
Event Program: Available for download online. 

Find out more HERE