Start planning the itinerary for your spring getaway to Canberra. There is so much to discover about this city and spring is the perfect time to get outside and smell the flowers in the air, discover something new at an exhibition or cheer yourself hoarse for your favourite team.

1. Floriade
16 September to 15 October 2017

What a better way to bloom into spring then surrounded by over 8,000 square metres of flowers. Canberra’s most iconic tourist attraction, Floriade is so much more than a flower show. In addition to wandering through floral displays that will make your heart feel light and air sing with floral fragrance, there will also be a program of music, culture, food and wine and workshops. NightFest also returns over two key weekends, the parklands will sparkle in lights and sensory overload, a must-do experience.

More Information | NightFest Tickets

2. FASHFEST
28 to 30 September 2017

Over three nights, immerse yourself in fashion at Canberra’s annual and largest fashion event. There are six shows that will feature over 35 designers including local Canberra up and comers as well as designers from across the country and the world. Held within an easy walk next door at the National Convention Centre Canberra, the shows will leave you feeling creatively inspired and energised by the atmospheric sound and lighting as a backdrop for the fashion forward designs.

Book our special two night FASHFEST Package that includes accommodation, Platinum FASHFEST tickets and more.

More Information | FASHFEST Tickets

3. Wallabies V Pumas
16 September 2017

Australia takes on Argentina in the Rugby Championship at GIO Stadium on Saturday 16 September. The Wallabies have not played in Canberra since 2010, so take this chance to see the boys live in action. This round 4 clash comes after the Australians drew with the Springboks in the previous round in Perth and lost to the Kiwis in rounds one and two, so the team will be looking to chalk up a win and turn the tide of the championship.

More Information | Wallabies Tickets

4. Hyper Real Exhibition
20 October 2017 to 18 February  2018

The National Gallery of Australia’s annual summer exhibition is opening early this year. Hyper Real will open its doors on Friday 20 October with an exhibition sure to invigorate curious minds and provoke discussion. The exhibition is touted as ‘humanity amplified’ and will feature the evolution of hyperrealism through exceptionally lifelike figures. The exhibition explores the question ‘what makes us human?’ and showcases work from both local Australian artists such as Patricia Piccinini, Ron Mueck and Sam Jinks as well as international pieces.

More Information | Hyper Real Tickets

We look forward to welcoming you to Canberra this spring. Take advantage of our central location, next door to the NCCC and a short (and pleasant) walk from Floriade at Commonwealth Park. Discover our accommodation packages and get in touch.

Image Credits:
Floriade – ©VisitCanberra.
FASHFEST  – Clarity Communications/FASHFEST. 
Hyper Real – AES+F Inverso mundus 2015, HD video installation © AES+F | ARS New York. Courtesy the artists, MAMM, Anna Schwarz Gallery and Triumph Gallery.

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Weekend 4-6 August

The first weekend of August is a great time to visit Canberra if you love fashion, with two fashion markets being held.

At the Canberra Fashion Market, browse through vintage, new and recycled clothing. Held at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC) 10am – 3pm, Saturday 5 August. Frock Up Pop Up Canberra offers a variety of vintage, antique, retro and designer clothing – you might just come away with a new favourite wardrobe item! 4-5 August atGriffith Neighbourhood Centre.

While you’re in Canberra, check out the Canberra Centre’s new wellness and beauty precinct, featuring Mecca Maxima’s first Australian concept store, along with a range of other retailers including Jurlique, Inglot, Aveda, Lush, Napolean Perdis and many more.

If you enjoy live theatre and dance, see Bangarra Dance Theatre at the Canberra Theatre Centre, with performances from 3-5 August or hear Ed Kuepper live at The Street Theatre on Friday 4 August. Also at the Canberra Theatre Centre is The Ten Tenors performing their 20^th Anniversary Tour on Sunday 6 August.

On Saturday 5 August, sports fans can see the action as Giants v Melbourne at Manuka Oval, with kick-off at 1:45pm.

If you are a fan of pop culture including anime, movies, comics, gaming and collectibles, the GAMMA.CON festival is back on 5 and 6 August from 10am-5pm at the AIS Arena, with a special 18+ event on Saturday 5 August from 6pm.

Celebrate the season with the Winter Festival at the National Portrait Gallery on Sunday 6 August, from 10am – 4pm. Suitable for all ages and abilities and all materials are provided.

Weekend 11-13 August

Have a weekend of LEGO in Canberra with the Brick Expo held over 3 days 11-13 August, at The Hellenic Club of Canberra. This event features hundreds of interesting creations by local and interstate LEGO collectors and modellers. This event is hugely popular so it is recommended to purchase your tickets in advance online. You can also see the Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO® Bricks exhibition at the National Museum of Australia, opening on 28 July. This travelling exhibition from Sydney Living Museums features 20 amazing skyscraper models. Visitors can have a go at creating their own tower with more than 200,000 loose bricks in the hands-on area. This is a ticketed exhibition and bookings online are recommended.

You never know what interesting treasures you might find at the Old Bus Depot Markets, held each Sunday. On 13 August, the Portobello Road themed market will include an eclectic mix of treasures to browse through, including jewellery, crockery, small homewares and more.

If you enjoy art and culture, there are a number of exhibitions showing over this time, including Dempsey’s People at the National Portrait Gallery – an exhibition featuring 52 rarely-seen portraits of English street people in the first half of the 19^th Century. At the National Gallery of Australia, there are several exhibitions showing, including Defying Empire: National Indigenous Art Triennial, Pipilotti Rist: Worry will vanish revelation, Rodel Tapaya: New art from the Philippines and more.

Weekend 18-20  August

See fun indoor and outdoor activities including dart ball, arcade games and amusement, displays, entertainment, food stalls and more at the Ultimate Playground, presented by Canberra Big Boys Toys, being held on 19 and 20 August at Exhibition Park in Canberra.

On 20 August, see the Canberra Raiders v Panthers in Round 24 of the NRL Telstra Premiership at GIO Stadium, with kick-off at 2pm.

As part of National Science Week, head along to the Geoscience annual Open Day on Sunday 20 August from 9am-2pm, where you can participate in a range of hands-on activities plus science displays and talks.

If you enjoy live music, don’t miss the opportunity to see Pete Murray perform his Camacho album tour at the Canberra Theatre Centre on Saturday 19 August.

Weekend 25-27 August

The Canberra Writers Festival is being held over the weekend of 25-27 August, with the theme ‘Power, Passion, Politics’. This three day festival includes free and ticketed events with panel sessions, workshops, dining events and more. View the program online.

On 25 August, see the Raiders v Knights in Round 25 of the NRL Telstra Premiership at GIO Stadium, with kick-off at 6pm.

At Stromlo Forest Park on 26 August, you can see some of Australia’s best mountain bike endurance racers compete in The Shimano Mountain Bike Grand Prix Round 5. Entry is free for spectators.

Book your Canberra weekend away now with one of our special packages, including the Weekend Special package, or save with our Advance Purchase special offer.

With a great location in Canberra’s CBD, close to shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, Crowne Plaza Canberra is the perfect hotel choice for your weekend getaway to Canberra.

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But with so much on offer in our beautiful National Capital, how can you guarantee that you’ve planned the perfect day out or found the most meaningful gift for your special someone? That’s where we come in …

Whether your love is wild about nature, adores a little pampering or is dreaming of a romantic time for two, we’ve compiled this handy guide of Valentine’s Day gift ideas and experiences to ensure that love is in the air this February in Canberra. Best of all, Valentine’s Day falls over a weekend this year, meaning you can take more time to relax and soak in all that the city has to offer.

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For the Nature Lover

Flowers are synonymous with Valentine’s Day and a beautiful bouquet of roses is an absolutely classic way to say, ‘I love you.’ But why not add a romantic spin to this time-honoured tradition? Treat your love to a sea of blooms with a trip to the National Botanic Garden, which is free to enter and open from 8am – 5:30pm. Or why not take a tour of Cockington Green to marvel at the whimsical miniature village displays set into beautifully manicured gardens?

If a day of adventure is more your love’s speed, see our range of accommodation packages that includes accommodation for two and various experiences that will be sure to delight. Or why not pack a picnic and enjoy a romantic bike ride for two around the city? Hire bikes are available onsite for guests of Crowne Plaza Canberra. Please see our Concierge for recommended bike routes.

For the Flavour Lover

Redsalt Restaurant will be hosting a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner for two for just $89 per person or $99 with matching wines. You and your special someone will get to indulge in a selection of special dishes, featuring fresh, local, regional and seasonal produce. Arrive to a complimentary glass of Mumm Champagne and enjoy being pampered by our friendly staff. Click here to view our Valentine’s Weekend Special Menu.

To make a reservation, please call Redsalt on (02) 6274 5506.

For the Film Lover

Pack your picnic blanket and treat your love to an evening under the stars at Ben & Jerry’s Open Air Cinema. Arrive early to enjoy live music in the open air and relax into the evening, watching the famous romantic film ‘The Notebook’ – an all time favourite. For all the details and to book your tickets, please click here.

Top off your evening with dinner in Redsalt, a nightcap in Binara one, or just enjoy time to relax together with an in-room movie. You’ll awake refreshed the next morning and ready to enjoy breakfast for two delivered to your room, or in Redsalt Restaurant.

For the Culture Lover

Canberra is renowned for its world-class museums and stunning art galleries, so what better setting could there be to soak in some culture whilst hand in hand with the history or art lover in your life?

The National Portrait Gallery has many stunning exhibitions on throughout February, from the much talked about Sideshow Alley to a breathtaking collection of Australian Portraits, the Portrait Gallery is definitely worth a visit and is open Monday – Sunday 10am – 5pm.

Your love may also enjoy a trip to the National Museum of Australia (open from 9am – 5pm on Valentine’s Day), which offers stimulating exhibitions covering the land, nation and people of Australia. Entry to the permanent exhibitions at the National Portrait Gallery and National Museum of Australia is free.

For the True Romantic

For a truly romantic Valentine’s celebration that will be full of special moments and quality time together, why not go all the way out and treat your love to a weekend away at Crowne Plaza Canberra and see Canberra in a different light on a hot air balloon? Click Balloon Aloft Canberra to find out more.

With so much to see and do in Canberra, you and your loved one get to kick back, unwind and spend quality time together. Crowne Plaza Canberra’s location in the heart of Canberra’s CBD means you will be within easy walking distance to Canberra Centre where shopping, bars and restaurants are easily accessible, and local attractions are just a few minutes drive away. The hotel offers a secure car park on site, making travel even easier.

To book your Valentine’s Day at Crowne Plaza Canberra, contact our friendly team on +61 2 6247 8999.

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“Quidam according to the Cirque de Soleil literature means a nameless passer-by, a solitary figure lingering on a street corner, a person rushing past and swallowed by the crowd”.

Cirque du Soleil are world renowned for creating theatrical and awe inspiring circus experiences, showcasing the talents of acrobats, musicians, singers and actors.

Quidam is showing at AIS Arena, Canberra from 11 December until 20 December. Click here to learn more.

Why not make the most of your Quidam experience and stay with Crowne Plaza Canberra?

For a limited time only, book your accommodation in advance and save up to 30% off.

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*Clicking the BOOK NOW links above will direct you to the Crowne Plaza Canberra booking portal. Your package will be pre-populated when you enter your dates of stay.

Binara One bar and Redsalt Restaurant

Pop in to Binara One bar for a pre-show drink and light bar snacks before the show or dine overlooking sweeping views of Glebe Park at Redsalt Restaurant. You can use your $100 credit at Binara One or Redsalt if you stay for a minimum of two nights.

Indulge in a wide selection of healthy and locally sourced produce and wines prepared by our award-winning chef and be spoilt by the service at Redsalt.

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Floriade and NightFest

Floriade: 12 September – 11 October, 2015

NightFest: 23 September – 27 September, 2015

Where: Commonwealth Park

Don’t miss out on Australia’s biggest celebration of Spring at Floriade. This year’s theme is ‘Reflection’, which commemorates the ANZAC centenary.  Explore the breathtaking flower beds during the day and watch Floriade turn into an amazing light show and concert venue on selected evenings during NightFest. Don’t miss out on the much talked about Ferris wheel, as the kids are sure to love this ride.

Perception Deception at Questacon

When: Open daily from 9am – 5pm

Where: Questacon

This family-friendly exhibition reveals how our brains process information to form our perception of the world around us. Both educational and experimental, the kids are sure to be intrigued at this exhibition. This hands-on and multimedia exhibition features a perceptual test and illusions. Sometimes all is not as it seems!

Ticket prices:

• Adult: $23
• Child: $17.50 – Under 4s free
• Concession: $17.50
• Family: $70.00 – 2 adults and 3 children. $8.00 each for additional children

Tinbinbilla Extravaganza

When: Sunday 10am – 4pm

Where: Tinbinbilla Nature Reserve

Enjoy a fun family outing and discover nature at the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. It is home to a wide range of Australian animals including kangaroos, platypus, potoroos, wallaroos, possums, wombats, echidnas, emus, lyrebirds and many other birds and reptiles.

Stay with us at Crowne Plaza Canberra

If you are planning a family trip, why not take advantage of Crowne Plaza Canberra’s Family Getaway package?

Stay close to restaurants, the best of the city’s attractions and shopping all only minutes walk away. Explore the nation’s capital at its best. – take the time to see some of Canberra’s key iconic attractions such as the Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial and Galleries all within short distance from the hotel.

Family activities are also included in this package so you get to relax and enjoy time with your family – find out more about the ‘3 in Fun’ family pass. Full package inclusions:

• Accommodation for 2 adults and up to 2 children
• Full buffet breakfast for 2 adults and up to 2 children
• Children dine free with a paying adult
• 3 in fun tickets to Questacon, Cockington Green Gardens & the Australian Institute of Sport.
• If 2 rooms are booked our team will endeavor to provide adjoining rooms.

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* Clicking the BOOK NOW button above will direct you to the Crowne Plaza Canberra booking engine. Your Family Getaway package rates will be pre-populated when you have entered your dates of stay.

Kids Corner

Crowne Plaza Canberra also has a kids corner set up during school holidays to keep the kids entertained. There are toys and movies available for kids to enjoy. Please ask one of our friendly staff for further information. Note: Our complimentary kids club is ideal for children aged 8 years and under. Parental supervision is required at all times.

School Holiday Breakfast at Redsalt

Let us take care of your family breakfast at Redsalt. Our restaurant is open for Breakfast daily from 6:30am – 10:00am and until 10:30am on weekends and public holidays.

Kick start your morning with fresh fruit juice, eggs made to your liking, warm foods, fresh fruit and salads, delicious pancakes, cereal assortment and much more. Ask one of our friendly staff for our Redsalt’s kids menu available for only $15 per child.

Pricing:

• Full breakfast buffet $32 per adult
• Continental breakfast $25 per adult
• Children aged 7 – 12 $15 per child (order from our Kids menu)
• Kids under 6 eat for free

Call Redsalt on +61 2 6274  5506 to book your spot today.

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From here, you can easily plan a road trip or a weekend getaway with your family, loved ones or friends and experience winter at its best. Enjoy a relaxing scenic drive from Canberra to the Snowy Mountains and take time to stop and visit:

• Cooma: headquarters of the Snowy Mountains Scheme. Learn about Australia’s largest engineering scheme built to provide hydroelectricity and irrigation to South Eastern Australia
• Snowy River: Continue your journey over the famous Snowy River which forms Lake Jindabyne
• Experience Ski-tube train: from Bullocks Flat take the famous Skitube train through the Snowy Mountains to Perisher Valley Ski Resort and be mesmerised by the view of Mt Kosciuszko
• Discover a region alive with winter activities: ski or snowboard at famous resorts such as Thredbo, Perisher Blue and Mt Selwyn resorts
• Take a break and have lunch at the highest ski resort in Australia, Mt Blue Cow.
• Corin Forest is the perfect first snow experience for all ages, located only 45 minutes from Canberra’s CBD. Build a snowman, throw a snowball and then go tobogganing. Enjoy the Snowplay area which runs three 2.5 hour sessions daily.

Spend a Weekend in the Heart of Canberra

Canberra is an excellent location for a weekend break, with culture, great food and wine, shopping and historical experiences all on the doorstep of Crowne Plaza Canberra. Our hotel is located just 2 minutes walk from the city’s best shopping precinct and it’s just a five minute drive to Parliament House, The Australian War Memorial and the Australia Museum, each a must-see attraction.

What’s on in Canberra – the 2015 Truffle Festival

Travelling in July or August 2015? This is perfect timing to experience Canberra’s famous Truffle Festival, an eight week event full of truffle tasting, hunting and experiences that are sure to delight your tastebuds.

Concierge Tip: We recommend that our guests take a short 15 – 20 minutes drive to Mount Majura and experience truffle hunting, cheese and wine tasting. Canberra’s French Black Truffle farm showcases some of the region’s best Perigord truffle, and the vineyard next door offers a cosy cellar door and delicious range of wines.

Another 5 minutes away is Pod Cafe where you get to unwind in a garden style cafe and enjoy delicious fresh local produce, including a Truffle infused lunch. Retire in the evening at Redsalt Restaurant overlooking Glebe Park and tantalise your taste buds with our fresh regional produce or alternatively, our 2 or 3 course truffle dinner menu during the Truffle season.

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Saturday April 25 2015 marks the 100th Anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War. The spirit of ANZAC goes beyond the landing on Gallipoli in 1915 – it is about celebrating courage, mateship, and sacrifice. These values continue to bring meaning and relevance to our community and shape Australia’s national identity even up to this day.

The Australian War Memorial will be commemorating the 100th anniversary of the National ANZAC ceremony – this year, the Centenary commemoration is expected to be the largest to date held at the Memorial and the focal point of Australia’s ANZAC Day commemoration.

ANZAC Day Service and Events

The Australian War Memorial in close cooperation with the Returned and Services League of Australia ACT will be hosting the following events over the ANZAC Day weekend:

1) The Dawn Service
Australian War Memorial

The Dawn Service is a standing ceremony conducted in the dark prior to sunrise and accordingly the weather is likely to be cold. As there will be a significant number of visitors expected, patrons are encouraged to leave plenty of time and travel safely to the memorial.

Schedule

4:30am: Three 15 minute excerpts read from letters and diaries of Australians who experienced war firsthand

5:15am: Silence before the Dawn Service commences in darkness

5:30am: Dawn Service commences

6:00am (approx): Dawn Service concludes

6:15am: Commemorative area opens

8:00am: Commemorative area and the Hall of Memory closes

For further information on the Dawn Service, please click here.

2) The National Ceremony
Australian War Memorial

The National Ceremony commences with the National Anthem, Commemorative Address, laying of wreaths, hymns, sounding of The Last Post and observance of one minute’s silence. The Commemorative Address will be delivered by the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Ret’d).

Schedule

9:00am: Ticket holders admitted to seating

10:15am: National Ceremony commences

10:45am: Veteran’s march commences

11:45am (approx): Veterans’ march concludes

12:30pm (approx): National Ceremony concludes

12:45pm (approx): Memorial Opens

Due to the increased demand, all reserved seats for the ANZAC Day National Ceremony have been allocated, however members of the public are still welcome to attend the ceremony and view it from outside the reserved seating or on one of the many large screens around the memorial grounds. For further information on the National Ceremony, please click here.

3) Last Post Ceremony
Australian War Memorial

To wrap up the day, the Memorial farewells visitors with its moving Last Post Ceremony, commencing at 4:55pm AEDT. The ceremony begins with the singing of the Australian National Anthem, followed by the poignant strains of a Lament, played by a piper. Visitors are welcome to lay wreaths and floral tributes beside the Pool of Reflection. For more information on the Last Post Ceremony, please click here.

Discover the National Portrait Gallery over ANZAC Weekend

As the proud hotel sponsor of the National Portrait Gallery, Crowne Plaza Canberra are pleased to support the Galley’s upcoming exhibition, All that Fall: Sacrifice, Life and Loss in the First World War.

This poignant exhibition presents a moving look into life during the First World War from the perspective of the Australian home front. Visitors will marvel at artworks, embroidery, artifacts and more, capturing the mood of Australians during wartime and the birth of the ANZAC legend.

Click here to find out more, and to enjoy a special accommodation offer for National Portrait Gallery patrons.

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The annual Balloon Spectacular is a highlight on Canberra’s autumn event calendar. This year marks the festival’s 29th year. It is a regarded as one of the world’s best hot air balloon events. The sight of the balloons rising into the early morning sky creates a spectacular backdrop to Canberra’s iconic attractions. This year specially shaped balloons from all over the world will be included each day. Spectators will be treated to an experience of the senses with a display of sound, movement and colour.

When and Where?
The festival runs over nine days from 7^th through to the 15^th of March 2015 and takes place on the lawns of Old Parliament House, King Edward Terrace and Parkes. The Balloons will start inflating from 6:15am and launch between 6:30am – 7am so make sure you get down there early to avoid missing out.

What else should you know?

• It is free to be a spectator.
• If you’re feeling adventurous you can book a spot on a balloon flight.
• Arrive early before dawn to watch balloons inflate and take shape.
• Canberra mornings can get quite chilly so bring warm clothing.
• Bring your camera to capture the spectacular sight.
• You can BYO food or breakfast is available to purchase each morning.

Where to stay? 

Make the most of your time in Canberra with our City Escapes package. You’ll enjoy accommodation, breakfast for two in Redsalt Restaurant, car parking, and late check-out on a Sunday. Crowne Plaza Canberra is located less than a 10 minute drive from Old Parliament House and a short stroll from many national attractions.

How to spend the rest of your day

Looking for ideas on how to spend the rest of your day after a morning of hot air ballooning? For the foodie’s, why not trial some of Canberra’s stylish restaurants and trendy bars or savour some of the best flavours with local and regional wine tastings. If you’re an art or history buff then uncover some of our nation’s best-kept secrets and treasures at Parliament House, the National Museum of Australia or the Australian War Memorial.  Looking for something to inspire the whole family? The Questacon features over 200 fascinating and interactive exhibits, live demonstration and hands-on activities. Our team will share with you their favourite places and tips to help you make the most of your time in the city and ensure it is a memorable visit.

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