The Canberra community is invited to celebrate Haig Park's 101st anniversary with a City Renewal Authority party this Saturday (3 February) featuring all-ages activities, market stalls and entertainment.
City Renewal Authority Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Snow said the celebration – which was postponed due to heavy rain in December 2023 – is about honouring the park's rich history and revelling in its exciting present.
"We invite you to come along to enjoy music, dance, food and festivities under Haig Park's beautiful towering trees," Mr Snow said.
"Seven thousand of these trees were planted a century ago to create a 2km protective shelterbelt – a windbreak for the city. In recent years, Haig Park has evolved from an underutilised space into a beloved and accessible public park.
"From the weekly Haig Park Village Markets and regular events to the beautiful Salthouse Community Centre, Haig Park has become a welcoming shared backyard in our City Centre."
The event will reflect Canberra's diverse community and the people who use the park. Activities include:
- A multicultural stage with music and dance presentations
- Inclusive activities for people big and small
- Mini Haig Park Village Markets with food and drinks
- Suitcase Rummage – a market of pre-loved goods by locals
- The launch of Ngala Logs, a new seating area for Braddon
Associate Professor Cathy Hope from the University of Canberra's Faculty of Arts and Design says the 101st birthday party is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the strong community effort to revitalise the park.
"Haig Park has become a place for all Canberrans – whether you are going to the markets, walking your dog, reading under a tree or having a picnic with friends," Dr Hope said.
"This evolution has been achieved through community-led art, music, dance and play activities, which have created immersive experiences and enabled people to see the park in a different way.
"So, this weekend's celebration is not just about the beautiful and peaceful park, but the community that has brought it to life."
Dr Hope led the delivery of the six-month Haig Park Experiments in 2019 – a City Renewal Authority initiative featuring events and installations to improve community attitudes towards the park.
Haig Park Turns 101: Let's Party will take place from 11am-4pm on Saturday 3 February in Haig Park. More event information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2966266226842447
