Over one million beautiful flowers will transform Canberra’s Commonwealth Park into a canvas of colour and creativity from Saturday 14 September – Sunday 13 October 2024, as Floriade celebrates its 37th year with the theme “Art in Bloom”.
Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, horticulturalist, flower fanatic, or simply appreciate the splendour of nature, Floriade has something for everyone.
Opener: Floriade’s famous ferris wheel. Image: Floriade.
With art-inspired workshops, fascinating talks and stunning displays, it’s the perfect time to unleash your inner Monet or Kahlo. Visit the gallery on site and be inspired by the work of local and national artists, or join in painting, sketching, photography, floral design and bonsai workshops to create your own masterpiece.
Browse the market stalls, meet local food and wine producers and sample tasty treats as you wander through the beautiful flower beds with designs influenced by interpretations of architecture, painting, music, literature, sculpture, and film.
Enjoy live music performances on two stages or be enthralled by the roving and street entertainers as they delight the crowds. And don’t miss our special guest, celebrated landscape architect Costa Georgiadis, who will be back to delight the audience once again with his passion for gardening and sustainability.
If you’re after something for the smaller members of the family, visit Floriade Sprouts for one of the many art and craft sessions, join in the gnome hunt or head down to Gnome Knoll where you can paint a gnome to take home.
And when the sun goes down, explore Floriade’s dark side as NightFest returns from 3-6 October, featuring after dark entertainment and horticultural illuminations. From 6.30-10.30pm each evening, the park will be aglow with vibrant colours and brimming with entertainment and fantastic food.
Don’t miss Dogs’ Day Out on the final day of Floriade, Sunday 13 October. An annual highlight of the program, this special day allows visitors to bring their furry friends along to enjoy the fun and frolic among the flowers. The Great Big Bulb Dig will also return in 2024 on Monday 14 October, offering visitors the chance to take home a piece of Floriade while supporting local charities.
Beyond the gates of Floriade, look out for vibrant bursts of colour planted by our Floriade Community members throughout Canberra’s suburbs. Over 80 schools, community groups and organisations have planted more than 300,000 bulbs and annuals to spread the colour and joy of Floriade, so keep an eye out for these beautiful displays during your travels. Or head to Historic Lanyon Homestead to visit Floriade’s Satellite Site, featuring a garden celebrating the work of Sidney Nolan and a full program of activities.
And as you’re exploring Canberra, keep an eye out for the local businesses, tourist attractions and the national cultural institutions who are joining in the spirit of Floriade with Floriade-themed food, cocktails, and visitor specials on offer as part of Floriade About Town. Check the website for the full listing of participating businesses.
We look forward to seeing you at Floriade, Australia’s Biggest Celebration of Spring!
Entry to Floriade is free, and gates are open daily from 9.30am-5.30pm. Tickets are required for NightFest, and can be purchased at floriadeaustralia.com
For more awesome festivals and events, check out our Events & Reviews section.
Travel to Floriade
Rex flies to Canberra. Book your tickets here and check out the route map below.
