Folk Festival Beats and Good Friday Feasts: What's On in Canberra Today

Celebrate the Easter Long Weekend in the Capital

Today is Friday, 3 April 2026, marking the start of the Easter long weekend in Canberra. Whether you are a local or visiting for the holidays, the city is buzzing with a diverse range of cultural festivals, world-class exhibitions, and unique community gatherings. From the melodic sounds of the National Folk Festival to immersive digital art, here is your guide to the best verified events happening across the capital today.

The National Folk Festival at Exhibition Park

The flagship event for the weekend is the National Folk Festival, which is currently in full swing at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC). Today’s program features an extensive lineup of world-class music, community workshops, and folk dance performances across multiple stages. Beyond the music, attendees can explore a variety of craft markets and international food stalls. It is a participatory experience that brings together thousands of music lovers in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The festival continues through the weekend, but Friday is traditionally one of the most vibrant days for live performances and impromptu sessions.

Immersive Art and Global Culture

For those seeking a more contemplative start to the holiday, Canberra’s national institutions are hosting several must-see exhibitions today:

• Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius: Located at the National Gallery of Australia, this immersive exhibition uses large-scale projections to bring the master’s work to life. It is a stunning visual experience that allows visitors to walk through the mind of one of history's greatest innovators.
• Hallyu! The Korean Wave: The National Museum of Australia is hosting this vibrant exhibition celebrating the global impact of South Korean culture. From K-pop costumes to film props from Parasite, it is an energetic look at modern music, fashion, and cinema.
• John Brack x Noel McKenna: The National Portrait Gallery features a major exhibition exploring the work of these two significant Australian artists, providing a deep dive into the human condition and everyday life.

Good Friday Experiences and Heritage Rides

Special holiday activities are available for families and foodies alike. The Picnic Train is operating heritage steam rail journeys today, departing from Canberra Railway Station in Kingston. These nostalgic trips to Bungendore and back offer a rare chance to experience the sights and sounds of a restored steam locomotive. For dining, Bar Beirut is hosting a Good Friday Feast featuring Mediterranean-inspired seafood specials, while the Southern Cross Club in Woden begins its Mother’s Day Bubbly & Brunch series with holiday-themed offerings.

Local Community and Creative Meetups

If you prefer a smaller, local vibe, head to Smith’s Alternative in the City West. Their weekly "Smith’s Scribblers" lunchtime life drawing session takes place today at 12:30 pm. It is a relaxed, open-access environment for artists of all skill levels to practice their craft in a community setting. Additionally, families can head to Corin Forest for their "Easter Egg-citement" event, which includes alpine slides and pre-season snow play activities starting today.