Enlighten Projections and Chinese Lantern Festival Lead a Packed Saturday

Illuminating the Capital: Enlighten Festival 2026

Today marks the first full weekend of the iconic Enlighten Festival, transforming the National Triangle into a glowing playground of art and creativity. From 5:00 pm until 11:00 pm, visitors can witness stunning architectural projections on Canberra’s most famous landmarks, including the Australian Parliament House and the National Library of Australia. This year’s illuminations feature dynamic storytelling by leading Australian artists. The Festival Hub, located between Questacon and the National Portrait Gallery, serves as the heart of the action with the Enlighten Food Park offering a rotating selection of international street eats and live music on the main stage.

Year of the Horse: Chinese Lantern Festival

As the sun sets, the celebrations continue at the Beijing Garden in Yarralumla for the annual Chinese Lantern Festival. Hosted by the Australia China Friendship Society, this free community event runs from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm. In honor of the Year of the Horse, the evening features a lively program of Chinese classical music, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional dragon and lion dances. The festivities culminate in a spectacular lantern parade along the edge of Lake Burley Griffin. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lanterns or purchase one on-site to join the procession.

Morning Markets and Fresh Produce

For those starting their day early, the Capital Region Farmers Market is open at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC) from 7:30 am to 11:30 am. As a staple of the local community, the market offers the region’s freshest seasonal produce, handmade baked goods, and gourmet treats. It is the perfect spot to grab breakfast while supporting local growers and artisans from across the ACT and New South Wales.

Theater, Music, and Family Fun

The cultural calendar is bursting with additional options for Saturday afternoon and evening:

• Theater: The final performance of Never Closer takes place at the Canberra Theatre Centre’s Courtyard Studio, offering a haunting drama set against the backdrop of Northern Ireland.
• Live Music: Shananigans Entertainment presents the 90s n 00s Music Festival at The Baso in Belconnen, featuring six tribute acts for an epic night of nostalgia starting at 6:30 pm.
• Family Activities: South.Point Shopping Centre in Tuggeranong is hosting a Lunar New Year celebration from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm with lion dancing and horse-themed craft workshops. Additionally, the National Zoo & Aquarium kicks off its World Wildlife Weekend with special keeper talks and interactive games for all ages.