September is one of the best times of year to be in Canberra. The city is waking up from its long winter hibernation, the wind tunnels of Northbourne Avenue are starting to lose their icy bite, the sun is staying up past 5pm, and the first yellow bursts of wattle are appearing across the bush capital. 

From Floriade and spring markets to outdoor adventures, film screenings and big festival days, there is plenty worth getting in the calendar. 

Here are a few things worth making time for this month.

 

See Floriade in Full Bloom 

Let’s start with the obvious one. Floriade is back in Commonwealth Park from Saturday 12 September, bringing garden beds, entertainment, food, workshops and plenty of spring colour to the city. 

This year’s theme, Feast of Flowers, also brings a food-focused program to the park, with chef demonstrations, local drinks, produce, workshops and flower-inspired experiences. 

And if you prefer your flowers after dark, NightFest returns from 1 to 4 October with illuminated garden beds, live music, roving performers and plenty to eat and drink. 

 

Scones, Spirits and a Little Romance 

The team at Underground Spirits is hosting a high tea that swaps the usual English Breakfast for locally distilled gin cocktails. Expect sweet treats, savoury bites and some of the best botanical spirits the region has to offer. 

For something a little more romantic, QT Canberra is hosting a dedicated Pride and Prejudice High Tea on Saturdays throughout September. Channel your inner Elizabeth Bennet, dust off your best vintage outfit and settle in for a very civilised afternoon of scones, cucumber sandwiches and polite gossip. 

 

Films, Finds and Fresh Threads 

The National Film and Sound Archive is running its Spring Film Series throughout the season, with classic films, special screenings and big-screen favourites taking over Arc Cinema. It’s the perfect excuse to grab some popcorn, sink into those comfy heritage seats and catch a classic the way it was meant to be seen.  

If shopping is more your thing, Three Sixty Fashion Market is also a good one to have on your radar. Head to the historic Fitters Workshop in Kingston, browse pre-loved fashion, vintage finds and local accessories, then reward yourself with a coffee afterwards. 

 

Get Back Outside  

After a long Canberra winter, September is your chance to get back outside and remember how good it feels to sit in the sun. 

At the National Zoo & Aquarium, ‘Zoo in Bloom’ brings spring florals and extra colour to the zoo experience, while Tuff Nutterz returns with a giant inflatable obstacle course for kids, families and anyone willing to risk their dignity in public. 

The Arboretum Kite Fest will also bring colour to the sky, making it a good excuse to pack a picnic and claim a patch of grass. 

For something more active, the Shimano 100 Mountain Bike Marathon returns to Stromlo, while the Women Only Adventure Race will test teams across navigation, mountain biking and kayaking. 

 

Big Days Out 

Need an escape without going all the way to Sydney? Dragon Dreaming Festival returns to Lake Burrinjuck from 25 to 28 September, bringing music, art and a few days of bushland escapism. 

Closer to town, Hops & Hooves Festival Race Day at Thoroughbred Park brings together racing, local drinks, food and live entertainment for a spring day trackside. 

And while the NRL Grand Final lands just outside September, finals season is still a great excuse to find a sunny beer garden, grab a cold schooner and settle in for the afternoon. 

 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: 

  • Location: Various venues across Canberra, including Commonwealth Park, Kingston, and the National Arboretum. 
  • Dates/Times: Throughout September 2026. 
  • Ticketing/Booking: Check individual event websites for ticket prices, session times, and registrations.