The cold snap is over and that’s our cue to get out and about this weekend!

Meet the Chef Dinner at National Press Club – Fri 16 Aug

The first Meet the Chef dinner in the club will feature award-winning Chef and TV presenter Maria De los Angeles. Executive Chef Daren and Chef Maria have combined to create a dinner menu showcasing the influences of Panamanian cuisine: from Afro-Caribbean, to Chinese and Spanish; combined with the authenticity of local flavours that celebrate the cultural diversity and vibrancy of its people and the warmth of its tropical surroundings. Bookings www.npc.org.au or phone 6121 2199.

Questacon After Dark: Tequila! The Science of Mezcal – Fri 16 Aug

As part of National Science Week, Questacon’s amateur drink enthusiasts are back with an adults-only exploration of tequila! Enjoy a selection of tastings while we explore agave-based spirits, and try to separate the fact from the fiction. What is the difference between mezcal and tequila? What does tequila have to do with asparagus? Is it really a stimulant? And who put a worm in here and why? Event kicks off at 7pm and is strictly 18+ and bookings are essential! Purchase here.

A Science Cocktail – Fri 16 Aug

Take a sip of science and see what goes on behind your favourite ethanol-based drink. A fun adult’s night out to learn about the science of alcohol, including taste testers, hands-on experiments and public talks. Ticket includes two free drinks per person. This event promotes a responsible consumption of alcohol. This event is for over-18s only so ensure to bring ID. This event will run from 6pm – 8.30pm. Buy tickets here.

The Slow Fashion Market Canberra – Sat 17 Aug

This special event is a sustainable and ethical fashion market for new clothing for people who care about how their fashion is made and who made it. It will be located at stunning Albert Hall with 30+ independent Australian brands. The stallholders are those that produce fashion and accessories (mostly women’s, with some men’s and children’s) with an emphasis on quality and durability, and who use materials that are sustainable and non-toxic, and who either make the fashion themselves or pay their workers fair wages. Taking place from 10am – 3pm with a $2 donation for entry for 12+ year olds. See here for more details.

TraXion Plays the Polo – Sat 17 Aug

TraXion Big Band is one of Canberra’s finest jazz ensembles, playing a range of big band standards from classic swing to modern funk, and plenty in-between. This concert will explore the full range of TraXion’s repertoire and will also feature local favourite Lucy Ridge on vocals.
The White Eagle Polish Club has a wonderful licensed bar and restaurant so grab some Peirogi and a pint and settle in for a night of jazz. Seating for this event is not allocated, although groups of 6 may reserve a table. Contact [email protected] with any further enquiries. Purchase tickets here. 

Australian Ceramics Open Studios – Sat 17 & Sun 18 Aug

Australian Ceramics Open Studios (ACOS) is an annual nationwide weekend held event that celebrates clay, community and creativity. Hosted by The Australian Ceramics Association located at Strathnairn Arts, 90 Stockdill Drive, Holt, they open their doors to offer insight, practical demonstrations and the chance to take home a handmade piece. See inside three working ceramic studios, meet the artists and get a glimpse into their working process, as well as finding one off ceramic sculptures, jewellery and tableware for sale. Explore the Woolshed and Homestead galleries and cafe, and relax in the wide open spaces of this beautifully located arts centre at the edge of the city. For more information see here.

Rutherglen in the City – Sun 18 Aug

Popular Melbourne wine festival, Rutherglen in the City, is expanding and hitting the road to Pialligo Estate to give Canberrans the opportunity to taste the warm personalities and iconic wines that the Rutherglen region is famous for. Rutherglen in the City invites all Canberra wine enthusiasts to immerse themselves in more than 100 rare and boutique wines from a broad range of unique and undiscovered varietals from the Rutherglen region. Fourteen of the region’s famous wineries will be there, including the likes of All Saints Estate, Campbells of Rutherglen, Buller Wines and Pfeiffer Wines. Two tasting sessions will be held at 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm. Tickets are $35 pre-purchased or $40 at the door and includes a Spieglau tasting glass to keep plus unlimited tastings over one session. For more ticketing information and to book, click here.

Free Foodie Fair at the Canberra Wedding Fair – Sun 18 Aug

The free entry Foodie Fair at the Canberra Wedding Fair is co-hosted with Eat Canberra and Eat Canberra Food Tours. From 10am – 3pm, there will be a line-up of tasty food trucks and food stalls with live entertainment and a big white jumping castle! All food trucks, food stalls and entertainment at the Canberra Wedding Fair can be booked for weddings and events to create your ultimate foodie experience. The Foodie Fair is free to enter and you can purchase your tickets the Canberra Wedding Fair online here.