Australia’s Biggest Celebration of Spring is back. This year, Floriade marks its 38th year with the theme Science and Nature, turning Commonwealth Park into a dynamic space of colour, creativity, and curiosity. From 13 September to 12 October 2025, visitors will wander through spectacular garden beds inspired by physics, chemistry, astronomy, biology, and botany. Its the perfect mix of science & horticulture.
Thinking about how to make the most of Floriade this spring? Here’s a guide to the standout experiences and new features worth adding to your list.
Festival Highlights
NightFest
When the sun goes down, NightFest comes to life for all those who dare to dabble in Floriade’s dark side. Experience the floral fest turn into an illuminated playground. Explore all the after-dark magic as this year’s Floriade theme, Science and Nature, infiltrates all aspects of the festival from roving entertainment through to foodie experiences and market stalls. Don’t miss headliners Josh Pyke and Ella Hooper as well as the adults only Kiss Tease Cabaret.
Lighting up nightly, 2–5 Oct, 6:30pm–10:30pm. Tickets are available here.
Floriade About Town
Canberra’s favourite restaurants, bars, retailers, and cultural institutions are also joining the fun. From Floriade-inspired menus and cocktails to spring shopping specials, the city is buzzing with ways to celebrate beyond Commonwealth Park. Find out more about participating venues here.
Find Floyd’s Family Competition
The citywide hunt to find Floriade’s favourite garden gnomes is back. From Saturday 23 August to Saturday 27 September, keep your eyes peeled for 38 gnomes hidden around Canberra. Spot them all and you’ll go into the draw for the grand prize. Find out how to play and get the clues here.
Food and Drink
This year you can wander between food trucks and dining pop-ups, from the Floriade Café with seasonal classics and indulgent High Tea, to BentSpoke’s Beer Garden and the blooming Underground Spirits x Contentious Character Gin & Wine Garden. Street food favourites include Asian Delight’s Spring Flora Bento Box and Gourmet Bao Buns, plus Hamsa Hummus Bar’s vegan shawarma. And for a sweet finish? Try flower-themed fairy floss or the floral bouquet lookalike Swirle tanghulu skewers. Read the full list of vendors here.
Children are Stinky
The Kazador Tent comes alive these school holidays with the award-winning circus hit Children are Stinky. Blending acrobatics, sharp comedy and clever audience participation, the show turns the old “kids are stinky” joke on its head, instead championing their courage, creativity and sense of fun. It’s a laugh-out-loud experience that delights both children and adults, making it a must-see for families during Floriade. Tickets are available here.
Dogs’ Day Out
On Sunday 12 October, Floriade welcomes its four-legged visitors for Dogs’ Day Out. This annual favourite sees furry friends of all shapes and sizes join their humans for a springtime stroll among the blooms. Get all the information here.
The Great Big Bulb Dig
After the festival draws to a close, visitors can take a little piece of Floriade home with them at The Great Big Bulb Dig on Monday 13 October. Beyond being a fun hands-on activity, the Dig also supports a good cause, with proceeds going to YWCA Canberra, the charity partner selected by Presenting Partner Allhomes. Learn more about participating here.
Explore the full program and plan your visit at the Floriade Website.
And keep an eye out for our guide to NightFest.
For more to do in Canberra, visit our entertainment page.
