Markets, Masterpieces, and Magic Skies: Your Canberra Sunday Guide

A Spectacular Finale in the Skies

Early risers are in for a treat this morning as the Canberra Balloon Spectacular reaches its grand finale. For the last day of the festival, a fleet of hot air balloons is scheduled to inflate and launch from the Patrick White Lawns starting around 6:00 am. It is a magical sight to see the giants drift across the lake and the city skyline. If you missed the earlier days of the festival, today is your final opportunity to grab a hot coffee and breakfast from the onsite vendors while watching the colorful display before the balloons pack away for the year.

Canberra’s Market Trifecta

Sunday is officially market day in the capital, and today offers an incredible selection for every type of shopper. The Handmade Market returns to Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC) for its second day, running from 10:00 am to 4:00 am. With over 260 Australian designers and producers, it is the premier destination for unique homewares, fashion, and gourmet food. For those who prefer a more sensory shopping experience, the market offers a Low Sensory Shopping Hour from 9:00 am to 10:00 am today.

Down at the Kingston Foreshore, the Old Bus Depot Markets are hosting a "Super Sunday." This means the venue is packed with the best of their multicultural, designer, and collectable themes all in one place from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. Meanwhile, in Braddon, the Haig Park Village Markets are in full swing until 2:00 pm, offering fresh local produce, artisan breads, and a lively dog-friendly atmosphere under the leafy trees.

Immersive Arts and Unique Exhibitions

For those seeking a cultural fix, the National Museum of Australia is hosting the vibrant "Hallyu! The Korean Wave" exhibition. Visitors can explore the global impact of Korean culture through film, fashion, and music. If you are interested in local history and design, the museum is also running a Building and Architecture Tour at 10:00 am, providing a deep dive into the stories behind its unique structures.

Additionally, today is the final chance to navigate the Sunflower Maze, which has been a seasonal highlight at the Patrick White Lawns alongside the balloon festival. For automotive enthusiasts, Ollies' Garage in Fyshwick is celebrating 100 Years of Ford in Australia with a special showroom display open from 9:00 am until noon.

Community Meetups

Collectors and hobbyists should head back to EPIC for the Canberra Rock Swap. Running from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at Parrot Park, this event features a massive array of gemstones, minerals, and crystals from across the country. Whether you are a serious geologist or just looking for a unique piece of jewelry, it is a fascinating community gathering to explore before the weekend wraps up.