Anniversary Market Celebrations and the Canberra Festival of Speed Today

A Sunday of Community Spirit and High-Octane Style

Canberra is buzzing this Sunday, February 1, 2026, as the city hosts a unique combination of milestone community celebrations and prestigious public exhibitions. From the leafy surrounds of Braddon to the wide spaces of Thoroughbred Park, today offers a diverse program of events for locals and visitors alike.

Double the Markets: Anniversaries and Artisans

Today marks a major milestone for one of the city's favorite weekend rituals. The Haig Park Village Markets in Braddon are celebrating their fifth anniversary. Since starting as a community initiative, these markets have become a staple of the inner-north social scene. Today's birthday celebrations feature live music from local performers Fynn and Kidz These Days, a special reptile display from Canberra Snake Rescue, and the distribution of complimentary birthday cake for visitors. You can browse over 100 stalls offering fresh regional produce, multicultural street food, and unique handmade crafts from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.

In addition to the festivities in Braddon, the Hartley Hall Markets return today for their first event of the year. Held on the first Sunday of every month, this market is one of the region’s largest, featuring over 200 stalls at the historic Hartley Hall site. It is a treasure hunter's paradise, offering everything from locally grown vegetables and baked goods to handmade furniture, children’s toys, and plants.

The Canberra Festival of Speed

Thoroughbred Park is transformed today for the final day of the Canberra Festival of Speed. Described as motorsport’s ultimate garden party, this exhibition showcases some of the world’s most exotic two- and four-wheeled vehicles. Visitors can watch live demonstrations on the exhibition circuit every 15 minutes, featuring everything from classic motoring icons to modern supercars. The event also hosts a vibrant European food village, making it as much a culinary experience as a mechanical one.

Art and Exploration

The city’s major cultural institutions are open today with significant exhibitions that are well worth a Sunday visit. The National Gallery of Australia continues to host the 5th National Indigenous Art Triennial: After the Rain, a major showcase of contemporary First Nations creativity. At the National Portrait Gallery, you can explore Super Kaylene Whiskey, a vibrant exhibition celebrating the 15-year career of the renowned Yankunytjatjara artist.

• Hallyu! The Korean Wave: Experience the global phenomenon of South Korean pop culture at the National Museum of Australia, featuring costumes, props, and interactive displays.
• Canberra Cellar Door: Sample the region's finest wines at the Canberra and Region Visitors' Centre from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
• Sunset Cinema: Enjoy a movie under the stars this evening at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, with gates opening at 6:00 pm for a relaxed outdoor screening.