There is something genuinely special about eating street food under the glow of lanterns while the streets come alive with music. The Moon Festival is officially returning this September, and it is bringing a massive dose of color, energy, and flavor with it. 

 

The Main Event 

Taking over City Walk and Petrie Plaza from September 4 to 6, the festival is set to transform the pavement into a bustling celebration of food, art, and community. Run by the non-profit team at Fun Canberra, this grassroots festival has been running since 2016 with a simple goal: to bring people together, share great stories, and prove that there is always something exciting happening if you know where to look. This year’s theme is “Light Up the World,” and they are taking it quite literally with glowing lantern installations and non-stop entertainment. 

Come Hungry 

Let’s talk about the real crowd-pleaser: the Food Village. If your usual dinner routine is feeling a bit tired, this is your chance to break out of the rut. We are talking authentic street food, crowd favorites, sweet desserts, and a massive lineup of multicultural flavors. It’s the kind of setup where you will want to graze your way through multiple stalls, so bring friends who do not mind sharing their plates.

On The Stage 

The entertainment lineup is massive and incredibly varied. You can expect everything from traditional cultural dances and live music to high-energy contemporary sets—yes, that includes plenty of K-pop and hip-hop. There will also be martial arts demonstrations showing off incredible discipline and movement, alongside local community groups and school ensembles getting their moment in the spotlight. It is fast-paced, loud, and impossible to look away from.

Beyond The Performance 

It is not just about sitting back and watching, either. The festival is packed with interactive workshops, cultural activities, and family-friendly games designed to get everyone involved. You can admire the glowing lantern displays, try your hand at a new craft, or let the kids run wild with creative games. It is the perfect excuse to wander, explore, and stay out late.

FESTIVAL INFORMATION: 

Location: City Walk & Petrie Plaza, Civic  

Dates/Times: Friday 4 September to Sunday 6 September 2026  

Ticketing/Booking: Free entry 

Find out more HERE