National Folk Festival Finale and Open-Air Theatre Highlight Easter Monday in Canberra

National Folk Festival Finale and Open-Air Theatre Highlight Easter Monday in Canberra

Easter Monday in the capital offers a diverse blend of tradition, high drama, and contemporary culture. As the final day of the long weekend, Monday, 6 April 2026, serves as the grand conclusion for several major festivals while providing unique opportunities to explore world-class exhibitions and outdoor performances across the city.

The Grand Finale of the National Folk Festival

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the closing celebrations of the National Folk Festival at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC). Known affectionately as 'The Folkie,' this iconic event concludes its five-day run today. Monday’s program focuses on community connection and final showcase performances across multiple stages. Visitors can enjoy a mix of acoustic sets, traditional folk dance, and participatory workshops. The festival marketplace remains open for those looking for handmade crafts and local artisan products, while the food stalls continue to serve a global array of cuisines. It is the last chance for locals and visitors alike to soak in the warm, inclusive atmosphere that has defined this Canberra institution for nearly 60 years.

Classic Drama at the Botanic Gardens

For those seeking theatrical immersion in a natural setting, the Burbidge Amphitheatre at the Australian National Botanic Gardens hosts the final performance of Sophocles' Oedipus the King. This open-air production by Greek Theatre Now brings the ancient tragedy to life against the stunning backdrop of Canberra’s native flora. The matinee performance, scheduled for 2:30 pm, offers a powerful experience under the autumn sun. Attendees are encouraged to bring cushions or low-backed chairs to enjoy this storied piece of world literature in one of the city’s most serene and picturesque environments.

Exhibitions and Cultural Highlights

Canberra’s national institutions are open for the public holiday, featuring several significant exhibitions that are perfect for a final holiday outing:

• Hallyu! The Korean Wave: Located at the National Museum of Australia, this vibrant exhibition explores the global impact of South Korean culture. Highlights include K-Pop idol costumes, film props from award-winning cinema, and interactive dance displays.
• Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius: This immersive gallery experience continues to draw crowds with its large-scale projections and detailed recreations of Da Vinci’s most famous inventions and artworks.
• 5th National Indigenous Art Triennial: After the Rain: Now in its final weeks at the National Gallery of Australia, this exhibition showcases the strength and diversity of contemporary First Nations art through immersive, large-scale projects.
• Alliance Française French Film Festival: Cinema enthusiasts can head to Palace Electric for the latest screenings of contemporary French cinema, with the festival program continuing through the afternoon and evening.

Whether you are ending your long weekend with a dance at EPIC, a dramatic matinee at the gardens, or a quiet stroll through a world-class gallery, Canberra provides a rich tapestry of activities to mark the end of the 2026 Easter season.