Attractions After Dark
The Perfect Way to Explore Canberra After Dark
The capital’s major attractions are waiting to be explored as they open their doors to host an array of after-dark free and ticketed events.
Check out the Enlighten Festival Program to see what’s on or explore the variety of events being hosted by each venue below.
Australian National Botanic Gardens
Symbiosis
An exclusive after dark walking tour through the Australian National Botanic Gardens with illuminated live dance, music and spoken word. Created by award winning dance company, Australian Dance Party and collaborating artists, this intimate open-air experience explores the volatility of the natural world in the age of the Anthropocene.
Canberra Glassworks
Luminous – Make Your Own – Colour Redemption Edition
Inspired by Scott Chaseling’s exhibition, The Redemption of Colour, make your own colour redemption vessel with the assistance of an experienced teaching artist in this one-on-one workshop in the Hotshop.
Luminous – Neon Bending Sessions
Spark your inner neon creativity in this two and a half hour introduction into the mesmerising world of Neon. Based on a design, learn how to bend glass with the help of an experienced glass artist and take home the results!
Luminous – Lights, Camera, Paint
Create a light drawing using handheld lights and movement and record it on a long exposure photographic session.
Luminous – The Redemption of Colour: Floor Talk & Hotshop Demo
Join artist Scott Chaseling in a gallery floor talk of his current exhibition The Redemption of Colour, followed by a Hotshop demonstration of Chaseling’s Pixel series.
National Zoo & Aquarium
Wild Yoga
Relax with our Rhinos, or stand tall like a giraffe! See our animals from a different point of view whilst you master the art of downward dog during a wild yoga session this Enlighten season! Come into the zoo as the sun rises to work through an easy yoga flow to start your morning. Whether you are a master of relaxation or just a beginner, this session is suitable for guests of all ages and abilities.
National Gallery of Australia
Enlighten Street Party
Open your ears, sing your song and break your way into the future with Joan Ross for the 2021 Enlighten Festival. Hear from hi-vis storytellers as you experience the illuminated projection on the Gallery’s façade, join a chorus of bird songs, or swing a bat to release and restart our collected history.
For one night only, participate in a range of activities along Parkes Place East.
Artist Talk – Joan Ross
Join Artist Joan Ross in conversation with Elspeth Pitt, Curator of Australian Art at the National Gallery of Australia about her illuminated projection ‘Collector’s Paradise’ commissioned for 2021 Enlighten Festival.
Royal Australian Mint
Enlighten Titan
In celebration of Enlighten 2021, join us at the Mint for a morning all about our favourite Robot, Titan. See Titan before you create your own robot artwork.
Australian Parliament House
Degustation at Australian Parliament House
This is an experience like no other. Light up your tastebuds in the heart of Australian Parliament House, and enjoy an exclusive menu designed by Executive Chef David Learmonth. Sit under the iconic flagpole in the Members’ Hall as part of an exclusive Enlighten experience.
High Tea at Queen’s Terrace Café
Treat someone special—and yourself—to a delectable high tea with savoury and sweet selections crafted by our in-house pastry team using the best regional produce of the season.
The Architecture of Parliament House
Come view the design of Parliament House with an in-depth tour that explores the symbolic aspects and vision of the building’s architect. As we explore the design of the Marble Foyer, Great Hall, Members Hall and the Chambers of Parliament, you will experience how each space resonates with certain aspects that upholds the collective symbolic design of Australian Parliament house.
The Art & Furniture Collection of Parliament House
From the commissioning of Australian Parliament House – when 25,000 high-quality furniture pieces were commissioned – and through its 32 year history – both art and furniture have been integrated into the building’s design detailing, symbolism, ethos and philosophy. Join our guides and unravel the rich layers of design, history and meaning behind each piece.
‘Yeribee’ – Indigenous Experiences of Parliament House
Hear the stories of our Indigenous parliamentarians and staff, explore the site history of Parliament House, gain insights into how Australia’s First Peoples are participating in the nation’s democratic processes, and enjoy significant artworks from the Parliament House Art Collection by celebrated Indigenous artists.
Historical Places
Celebrate the Canberra Day weekend by stepping into the fascinating stories of one of Canberra’s premier Historic sites.
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