Enlighten Festival
27 February – 9 March 2026
Enlighten Festival is back for 2026 and will once again light up the nation’s capital over 11 days of culture and creativity between
Friday 27 February – Monday 9 March
Enlighten is the moment where the iconic institutions of the National Triangle unite to present original major architectural projections and creative collaborations. It provides a unique opportunity to explore Australia’s celebrated cultural institutions in a whole new light, with stunning projections, exclusive public programs, art installations, and unique experiences curated for the festival.
Expect world premieres and Canberra-firsts that transform familiar spaces into playful, thought-provoking experiences.
Enlighten Illuminations
Friday 27 February – Monday 9 March
The 2026 Enlighten Illuminations will feature a dynamic line-up of Australian artists whose work will light up the National Cultural Institutions in a captivating display of light, sound and movement, with projections showcasing Australian culture and storytelling on some of Canberra’s most iconic buildings. Meet the artists behind the 2026 Illuminations here.
Enlighten: Beyond
27 February – 9 March
Enlighten: Beyond takes the sense of excitement and discovery of the Enlighten Festival beyond the National Triangle and entices audiences to explore the wealth of experiences on offer across Canberra’s arts organisations, institutions and businesses during the Festival period.
Symphony in the Park
Sunday March 8
Mark Seymour of Hunters & Collectors brings the band’s iconic sounds to life with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra. Visitors will enjoy the world premiere of orchestral arrangements paired with classics like Holy Grail and Throw Your Arms Around Me.
Lights! Canberra! Action!
Friday March 6
Lights! Canberra! Action! shines a spotlight on local filmmaking talent with this short film festival.
Luminous Ideas at Canberra Theatre Centre
28 February – 1 March
Step into a weekend of illuminating conversation, laughter and discovery as Luminous Ideas lights up Canberra Theatre Centre during the opening weekend of Enlighten Festival.
Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius
Opening 27 February
An immersive experience created in collaboration with the Museo Leonardo da Vinci in Rome. Featuring interactive digital displays, life-sized replicas, and multisensory galleries
Start planning your trip to Canberra
Enlighten Festival is the perfect reason to experience the nation’s capital at its most vibrant, where culture, creativity and connection come together under the stars.
With architectural projections that can only be seen during this event, exclusive exhibitions, and free outdoor concerts, March in Canberra offers something truly unforgettable.
Check out highlights from Enlighten 2025
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.
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