Enlighten Festival

Each autumn, Canberra comes alive after dark as Enlighten Festival transforms the city into a living gallery of light, colour and culture. Across ten nights, iconic national attractions glow with large scale projections, interactive installations and a lively program of music, food and after-hours experiences. The result is a festival that rewards curiosity, invites wandering and turns the city itself into the main stage.

Let the evening unfold at your own pace between illuminated landmarks, delicious street food, live music, and unique ticketed experiences that reveal familiar places in unexpected ways. Enlighten is playful yet thoughtful, vibrant yet relaxed. A festival best enjoyed with plenty of time aside to explore.

Festival Highlights and What to Expect

• Illuminations Large scale projections light up Australia’s iconic national cultural institutions each night, transforming familiar landmarks into moving works of art.
• Festival Hub Artworks Explore interactive installations and performance art using light, sound and technology, to create dynamic displays and immersive experiences throughout the Festival Hub.
• Enlighten Food Park Open from 5pm daily, the Food Park offers a large selection delicious street food and international flavours designed for easy grazing while exploring the events and attractions.
• Enlighten The Night Shift A curated mix of free and ticketed events, including DJ sets at Parliament House, talks, hands on workshops and dinners hosted inside national attractions.
• Enlighten: Beyond Where the festival experiences expand beyond the National Triangle, from guided tours and stargazing to exclusive film screenings, workshops and more.
• Live Music and Entertainment Live performances, roaming acts and pop-up music sets feature throughout the festival, adding rhythm and atmosphere each day.

Our Recommended Events Not to Miss

The Festival Hub
The heart of Enlighten, bringing together food, live entertainment, interactive artworks and spectacular light installations in the National Triangle. Take your time exploring the illuminated landmarks and enjoy the atmosphere as the city comes alive after dark.

Lights, Camera, Action
A favourite of Canberra’s festival calendar, this short film competition celebrates local filmmaking talent, with creative storytelling taking centre stage. Keep an eye out for the announcement of the 2027 theme, screening dates and program.

Symphony in the Park
One of Enlighten’s signature musical events, Symphony in the Park brings live orchestral music to the open air at Commonwealth Park. The 2027 program is yet to be announced, with more details expected closer to the festival.

Planning your visit

Staying in the city makes Enlighten simple. Start by checking into Novotel Canberra right in the City Centre, within perfect reach of the festival’s main highlights. Here you’re within walking distance to Stage 88 and public transport, including the free shuttle service from the city to the Festival Hub. Start every day with a delicious buffet breakfast at First Edition Canberra and finish with a dip in our indoor heated pool. Enjoy spacious accommodation rooms with comfortable amenities to recharge between each adventure.

Book your stay with us for an unforgettable experience at the Enlighten Festival! We can’t wait to welcome you.