Symphony in the Park and International Women’s Day Markets Lead Sunday’s Lineup

A Spectacular Sunday in the Capital

Canberra is buzzing this Sunday, 8 March 2026, as the city celebrates the heart of the Canberra Day long weekend and International Women’s Day. From world-class musical performances under the stars to vibrant community markets and immersive art displays, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy the autumn air today. Whether you are looking for family-friendly outdoor activities or a sophisticated afternoon of theater, the nation’s capital has a packed schedule.

Symphony in the Park and Enlighten Illuminations

The headline event for this evening is Symphony in the Park, held at Stage 88 in Commonwealth Park. This year’s performance features Australian rock legend Mark Seymour of Hunters & Collectors joining forces with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra. Fans can expect unique orchestral arrangements of classic hits like "Holy Grail" and "Throw Your Arms Around Me." Gates open at 5:00 pm for a 7:30 pm start. This is a free event, though pre-registration is required. On-site, you can also explore a range of food and drink stalls curated by the Little Burley Markets.

As the sun sets, the Enlighten Illuminations will continue to transform the Parliamentary Triangle. Witness stunning architectural projections on Canberra’s iconic buildings, including Parliament House and the National Gallery of Australia. The festival hub remains open until 11:00 pm, offering live music, interactive art installations, and a diverse range of street food at the Enlighten Food Park.

Markets and International Women’s Day

Today is International Women’s Day, and the Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston are celebrating with a special themed event from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. This market highlights local women creatives, featuring hand-crafted jewelry, clothing, and unique homewares. For those in the inner north, the Haig Park Village Markets in Braddon offer a relaxed Sunday atmosphere with fresh local produce and artisan crafts until 2:00 pm.

Theater and Public Exhibitions

For theater lovers, the smash-hit musical My Brilliant Career is showing at the Canberra Theatre Centre. This contemporary reimagining of Miles Franklin’s classic novel features a high-energy score blending pop and rock. Meanwhile, today is the final opportunity to catch the Sidney Nolan and the Stage exhibition at the Canberra Museum and Gallery, which showcases five decades of the artist’s costume and set designs. Additionally, the multi-sensory Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius exhibition continues to draw crowds in the National Triangle, offering a deep dive into history’s greatest mind.

Community Meetups

Cyclists can join the Fancy Women’s Ride, which departs from Haig Park at 2:00 pm. This global movement encourages women to reclaim public spaces through a colorful and inclusive bike ride. Registration starts at 1:00 pm, and riders are encouraged to dress up and decorate their bicycles for the occasion.