Enlighten Illuminations and French Film Festival Premiere Today

Illuminating the Capital: Enlighten Festival 2026

Canberra continues its transformation into an after-dark playground today as the Enlighten Festival enters its second week. The city's most iconic buildings will once again serve as canvases for spectacular architectural projections. Starting at dusk, residents and visitors can wander through the National Triangle to see vibrant storytelling cast across the facades of the National Library of Australia, Australian Parliament House, and the National Portrait Gallery. These nightly illuminations are free to the public and run until late, providing a perfect opportunity for a stroll through the heart of the capital.

Gourmet Delights at the Enlighten Food Park

To complement the visual feast, the Enlighten Food Park remains open at John Dunmore Lang Place from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm tonight. This central festival hub offers a rotating selection of international street food, local beverages, and live music. It is the ideal spot to grab a bite before or after exploring the light installations. Expect a lively atmosphere with stalls serving everything from artisan desserts to savory global cuisines under the festival lights.

Opening Night: Alliance Française French Film Festival

For cinema enthusiasts, today marks the highly anticipated opening of the Alliance Française French Film Festival at Palace Electric Cinema. Starting this Thursday, 5 March, the festival showcases the best of contemporary French cinema, featuring a diverse lineup of dramas, comedies, and thrillers. This evening’s screenings provide a sophisticated indoor alternative for those looking to experience the richness of European storytelling in the heart of NewActon.

Unique Afternoon and Evening Experiences

• Laughs on the Lake: For those seeking entertainment on the water, the "Laughs on the Lake" sunset comedy cruise departs from Parkes at 6:30 pm. Enjoy a blend of local comedy and scenic views of Lake Burley Griffin as the sun sets.
• Neon Squiggles at Glassworks: Explore your creative side at the Canberra Glassworks in Kingston. A "Make Your Own Neon Squiggles" workshop is scheduled from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm, allowing participants to work with light and glass.
• International Women’s Day Morning Tea: At the UNSW Canberra campus, a special morning tea is being held in the Building 32 Foyer from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. The event celebrates research and initiatives that advance gender equity.
• Dining and Exhibitions: The Canberra Southern Cross Clubs are hosting a "Feast of Italy" and Petaluma wine pairing events throughout the day. Meanwhile, the National Library of Australia continues its "Treasures Gallery" and Mabo 30th Anniversary exhibitions, which are open to the public from 9:00 am.