The Canberra and Region Heritage Festival kicks off tomorrow, Saturday, 11 April, celebrating the places, stories and people that have shaped Canberra and the surrounding region.
Running from 11 April to 10 May 2026, the festival marks its 43rd year with a program of around 150 events delivered by government, community and heritage organisations.
This year's theme, 'Mid-century – innovation, change and optimism', highlights a pivotal period when Canberra evolved from a young capital into a confident national city shaped by bold ideas, creativity and cultural transformation.
The mid-century era was a time of rapid growth and optimism, influencing Canberra's planning, architecture, cultural life and national role in ways that continue to resonate as the city evolves.
Festival events explore this defining period through stories of Modernist architecture, national reform, Cold War history and the region's contribution to scientific achievement, including the Apollo 11 Moon landing.
While the theme focuses on mid-century heritage, the festival also recognises the ACT and region's broader cultural landscape, celebrating First Nations, natural and historic places and stories.
Across the program, visitors can experience heritage through guided walks, rare access tours, exhibitions, talks and hands-on activities that provide deeper insight into how heritage is valued, preserved and shared.
Many events offer access to places, collections and stories not usually open to the public, supporting greater understanding of the people and decisions that shaped Canberra's identity.
The festival also highlights Canberra's strong regional heritage connections, with events taking place in Goulburn, Yass, Gunning, Queanbeyan and Wee Jasper.
Program highlights include the Wee Jasper Heritage Fair, mid-century film screenings at Yass' restored Liberty Theatre, a lively panel and social mingle discussing The Quiet Diplomacy of the Tennis Court' at Canberra Museum and Gallery, and a walking tour led by a Ngunnawal guide in Namadgi National Park.
There are a range of free and low-cost events during the festival, which supports inclusive access for people of different ages, interests and abilities.
The ACT Government thanks and acknowledges the volunteers, community groups, heritage organisations and partners whose ongoing dedication brings the festival to life each year.
