Tomorrow, Commonwealth Park will open its gates for Floriade 2026, welcoming visitors to a month-long celebration of spring in the heart of Canberra.
This year's event, Feast of Flowers, celebrates the connection between flowers, food, harvests and the traditions that bring people together.
Across the festival, visitors will experience more than one million blooms alongside a packed program of entertainment, workshops, markets, food experiences and family-friendly activities. Highlights include a book talk with renowned cook, author and educator Stephanie Alexander, as well as demonstrations and appearances from celebrated chefs Karen Martini, Mindy Woods, Justine Schofield and Simon Bryant.
NightFest returns from 1 to 4 October, transforming Commonwealth Park with illuminated gardens, live music and after-dark entertainment. The Temper Trap, Tim Finn, Pacific Avenue, Busby Marou and Christine Anu will headline this year's event.
Chief Minister Andrew Barr said Floriade remained one of Canberra's most loved events and an important drawcard for visitors to the capital.
"Tomorrow marks the beginning of another Floriade, one of Canberra's favourite traditions and a highlight of spring in our city," the Chief Minister said.
"This year's theme brings together two of the best things about spring in Canberra, beautiful gardens and great local food.
"Floriade is much more than a flower festival. It brings people together, supports local businesses, attracts visitors to Canberra and helps showcase our city to Australia and the world.
"More than half a million people visited Floriade last year, making it the biggest festival in the event's history, and we're looking forward to welcoming another great crowd this spring.
"Whether you're coming for the flowers, the food, NightFest or a day out with family and friends, there's something for everyone to enjoy."
Floriade runs from 12 September to 11 October at Commonwealth Park. Entry is free.
Getting to Floriade
With large crowds expected over the next month and construction continuing around the city centre, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead before travelling to Commonwealth Park.
Additional transport services will operate throughout the event, providing convenient connections from key locations across Canberra. With changes to pedestrian and cyclist access on Commonwealth Avenue, new Floriade maps are available to help visitors find the best route to the festival.
Public transport is recommended, with free daily Floriade Shuttle Buses, operated by CDC Canberra, running within the City and National Triangle, and weekend Floriade Express buses from Tuggeranong, Woden and Belconnen bus interchanges.
For those who prefer to drive, plan ahead and familiarise yourself with nearby parking options.
For shuttle bus information, parking updates, accessibility details and the full event program, visit Getting to Floriade.
Public transport information, including bus and light rail services, can be found at Transport Canberra.
Information on travel impacts is available at Built for CBR travel impacts.
