Canberra in Autumn: A Colourful Season for the Capital
As the leaves begin to turn and a crisp breeze fills the air, Canberra transforms into a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and golds. Autumn in Australia's capital city is truly a sight to behold, and a wonderful time to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Whether you're a long-time local or a curious visitor, this season promises an exciting mix of events, outdoor adventures, and cosy indulgences. From wandering through stunning gardens ablaze with the colours of fall to sipping locally crafted wines overlooking stunning vineyards, there's something for everyone to enjoy during this enchanting season.
Join us as we unveil the best events and activities that make Canberra shine in autumn.
Admire the natural beauty
As the edge of the summer sun subsides, autumn beckons you to bring out your cosy knits and explore the great outdoors without breaking a sweat (or freezing your socks off!). Take a leisurely stroll around Lake Burley Griffin, where the still waters mirror the kaleidoscope of autumn leaves. Or, hop on your bike and cruise along Canberra's generous selection of cycle paths, winding through parks, bushland, and past iconic landmarks. For a bird's-eye view of the city, head to the nearby lookouts at Mount Ainslie or Black Mountain.
Source: AllTrails
Visit bustling weekend markets
Experience Canberra's markets bursting to life with the colours and flavours of autumn. Pop down to the Capital Region Farmers Market on a Saturday morning for an incredible selection of fresh and organic produce. On Sundays, head to the award-winning Old Bus Depot Markets to browse over 200 stalls of locally crafted clothing, accessories, gifts, wares, and everything in between. Or, join the crowds at the Haig Park Village Markets for live music, fresh food, and quirky stalls.
Source: Haig Park Village Markets
Taste the flavours of autumn
Indulge in plates of hearty and wholesome meals as restaurants and cafes rotate their menus to star the freshest local produce for the season. You needn’t travel far to find a satisfying feed - our very own Restaurant Two14 offers exquisite Italian cuisine with a modern Australian twist. Also nearby, the award-winning steakhouse Marble & Grain - located less than a 5-minute drive away - serves a phenomenal selection of succulent, locally sourced steaks and meats with a remarkable wine menu to match.
Autumn is also a fabulous time to visit one of the local wineries in the Canberra District - such as Clonakilla, Brindabella Hills Winery or Four Winds Vineyard - for a relaxed tasting session. If you're a beer enthusiast, check out the capital's craft breweries like BentSpoke or Capital Brewing Co. for some innovative brews. Spirit lovers won’t want to miss a visit to The Canberra Distillery or Underground Spirits for a taste of locally crafted gins, whiskeys, vodkas, and more.
Source: Brindabella Hills Winery
Find festivals for all interests
Canberra’s bustling autumn events lineup is full of exciting festivals and occasions. From mid-April to early May, the Canberra and Region Heritage Festival (18th April - 11th May) celebrates the area's rich history and culture through tours, exhibitions, and special events.
If wine, food, and live music are right up your alley, Stomp Festival beckons. Dedicated to celebrating Canberra’s local wineries and producers, taste and sip the flavours of Canberra at this relaxed autumn festival in early April.
Immerse yourself in the National Folk Festival (17th - 21st April), a beloved family-friendly event over the Easter weekend. With over 350 events, from engaging storytelling to world-class live music, dance, circus, workshops and more, there’s bound to be something for everyone to enjoy. The tunes continue over at the Canberra International Music Festival (30th April - 4th May), showcasing an eclectic mix of performances in unique venues across the city.
For running enthusiasts, The Canberra Times Marathon Festival on April 13th offers various events suitable for all fitness levels, providing a unique and rewarding way to discover the city alongside over 10,000 participants.
Source: Sole Motive
Enjoy family fun in the capital
Autumn also brings about the Easter school holidays and a host of family-friendly activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained. Kick off the season with Easter celebrations, including the special Easter edition of the Old Bus Depot Markets and egg hunts scattered throughout the city.
Beyond the Easter festivities, explore the stunning fall colours in the Australian National Botanic Gardens, where kids can enjoy the Paperbark Treehouse. For hands-on learning, visit Questacon – the National Science and Technology Centre – where interactive exhibits will captivate curious minds of all ages. On sunny days, pack a picnic and head to the National Arboretum for breathtaking views of the city.
If the weather turns cool, indoor attractions like the National Museum of Australia and the National Gallery of Australia offer engaging activities and exhibitions suitable for the whole family.
Visit the Australian War Memorial
The Australian War Memorial takes on a special significance as Anzac Day (25th April) approaches. This day of remembrance is marked by four powerful and moving ceremonies at the memorial throughout the day from dawn to dusk, commemorating those who have served for Australia.
Source: Australian War Memorial
Where to stay in Canberra during autumn
For the perfect autumn stay in Canberra, look no further than Deco Hotel. Our stylish and contemporary hotel offers an ideal base for exploring all that Canberra has to offer during this beautiful season. Located in the heart of Braddon, enjoy the blend of comfort and convenience, placing you just steps away from some of the city's best cafes, restaurants, boutique shops, and top attractions.
Canberra is calling
Whether you're sampling local wines, attending vibrant festivals, having a fun family holiday, or simply soaking up the stunning scenery, you’re bound to fall in love with Canberra in autumn - a season of colour, culture, and endless possibilities in Australia's capital.
