Enlighten Festival Dates: 28 February to 10 March 2025
Canberra’s most anticipated festival of lights, art, food, and entertainment is returning in 2025! The Enlighten Festival will illuminate the nation’s capital from 28 February to 10 March 2025, transforming the city into a vibrant celebration of creativity and culture. Immerse yourself in dazzling illuminations, live music, interactive experiences, and gourmet delights—all within easy reach.
What’s On at Enlighten Festival 2025?
Illuminations and Light Installations
Every evening, the city’s most famous landmarks will be bathed in breathtaking light projections, creating a visual feast that transforms the urban landscape into a giant outdoor gallery. Parliament House, the National Library of Australia, and the National Gallery of Australia will be among the key sites hosting these stunning illuminations. Wander through the city’s glowing streets, where interactive light displays and art installations will add a playful touch to the experience.
Live Music and Entertainment: Symphony in the Park and More
Music lovers are in for a treat with various live performances, including the highly anticipated Symphony in the Park on 9 March. This spectacular evening will see the Canberra Symphony Orchestra deliver a spellbinding performance, blending classical compositions with modern hits in an unforgettable open-air setting. Throughout the festival, street performers, dance troupes, and pop-up concerts will keep the atmosphere lively, ensuring there’s always something to see and enjoy.
Festival Hub, Food Market and More
Come and experience the heart of the Enlighten Festival at the Festival Hub, open from 5 pm to 11 pm each night. This lively space is perfect for meeting, gathering, and immersing yourself in the festival atmosphere. With captivating installations, the buzzing Food Park, Bar Berra, and BentSpoke Beer Garden, there's always something exciting happening.
Indulge in a delicious range of regional and international flavours at the Enlighten Food Park (open 5-11 pm each night), from gourmet street food to mouth-watering desserts, ensuring a treat for every taste. For the perfect drink to match, head to Bar Berra or the BentSpoke Beer Garden, where expertly crafted beverages await, all while you soak in the vibrant festival energy.
Enlighten: The Night Shift
When the sun sets, Canberra’s museums and galleries open their doors for Enlighten: The Night Shift—a series of exclusive after-dark experiences. Step into a world of immersive performances, thought-provoking exhibits, and hands-on workshops. From guided night tours to themed interactive experiences, this is a rare opportunity to explore Canberra’s cultural institutions, including the National Archives of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery, in an entirely new light.
Enlighten Beyond
Take the festival experience even further with Enlighten Beyond, which extends the magic beyond the festival’s main precinct. Discover pop-up events, special performances, and unique experiences across the city, showcasing the best of Canberra’s arts and culture scene.
Insider Tips for Festival-Goers
- Best Times to Visit: Arrive early to secure the best spots for viewing the light projections and performances.
- Must-See Attractions: The Canberra Balloon Spectacular (following the festival from 15–23 March) offers breathtaking sunrise views of hot air balloons over Lake Burley Griffin.
- Getting Around: Crowne Plaza Canberra’s central location means most festival attractions are within walking distance. For further exploration, bike rentals are available at the hotel.
Crowne Plaza – The Perfect Festival Stay
Crowne Plaza Canberra offers the perfect base for experiencing the Enlighten Festival 2025. Nestled in the heart of Canberra’s CBD, the hotel is just a short stroll from key festival locations, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the event without the hassle of transport. Secure on-site parking makes getting around the city effortless, and special stay-and-dine packages make the experience even more enjoyable.
Don’t miss out on Enlighten Festival 2025, the ultimate festival experience in Canberra. Book your stay at Crowne Plaza Canberra today for a front-row experience!
