Get ready for a busy weekend in Canberra! The massive Skyfire fireworks are on Saturday night, the Balloon Spectacular is filling the mornings, and there are plenty of markets and fun workshops happening across the city on Saturday, March 14th and Sunday, March 15th, 2026.
See our top picks
Skyfire
Lake Burley Griffin (Parkes)
The massive, free fireworks display happening Saturday evening.
Antique and Collectable Fair 2026
Exhibition Park in Canberra (Mitchell)
A large indoor fair on both Saturday and Sunday to explore if the weather turns bad.
50 Years on the Beat: The Legacy of Constable Kenny Koala
National Capital Exhibition (Parkes)
An exhibition celebrating the iconic, child-friendly safety mascot.
· March 14
10FREE : The huge Skyfire fireworks return to Lake Burley Griffin! This free community favourite includes food trucks and entertainment hubs leading up to the massive fireworks display in the evening. Grab a picnic spot early.It is the city's biggest free evening spectacle this weekend.
FREE : Watch the massive hot air balloons inflate and launch from Patrick White Lawns starting around 6 am. It's a magical way to start either Saturday or Sunday morning! Grab a hot breakfast while you watch them drift over the city skyline.It runs both mornings, offering a great early start to the day.
: Take a heritage rail journey pulled by restored steam locomotives, travelling from Canberra to Bungendore and back. The trip goes through tunnels and offers views of the Molonglo Gorge.A unique nostalgic experience running all weekend.
ANTIQUE AND COLLECTABLE FAIR 2026 : Browse a treasure trove of antique furniture, jewellery, and other collectibles across two days at EPIC. It’s a great indoor option if the weather isn't cooperating.It's a large indoor market running both Saturday and Sunday.
: Head to the Arboretum to stock up on homemade jams, chutneys, and seedlings using seasonal organic produce from the Kitchen Garden. All sales support Friends of the Arboretum projects.It's a short, sweet Saturday market focused on healthy, local produce.
FREE : Catch an electrifying outdoor performance fusing live music, professional dancers, and high energy. Bring your sketchpad or camera to spark your own artistic response to the show.It’s a free, high-energy public performance happening Saturday.
: Learn the beginner basics of coil weaving in this three-hour workshop and create a small trinket dish. This is suitable for complete beginners looking for a focused creative activity.A specific, hands-on workshop running Saturday morning.
SUNFLOWER MAZE : Wander through the vibrant sunflower maze at Majura Valley Farm, open from 9 am to 8 pm. The farm also offers lawn games, animal encounters, and a sculpture walk.It is a unique seasonal experience opening this weekend.
: Check out this market in Kingston focused on unique finds, running Saturday morning. Good for browsing pre-loved and unique items.It is a specific market event happening Saturday in Kingston.
CAPITAL REGION FARMERS MARKETFREE : The popular farmers market is running Saturday morning, featuring fresh produce and over 100 stallholders. A great spot to grab breakfast and support local growers.It’s a reliable, delicious Saturday morning outing that works for early risers.
· March 15
5: This is Canberra’s home and lifestyle show, featuring innovative industry professionals covering everything from décor to outdoor spaces. Entry is free if you register online.It's an indoor event running the full weekend at EPIC.
E.T. (FILM SCREENING) : See the Steven Spielberg classic where a boy befriends a stranded alien, screening on the big screen this Sunday afternoon. Note the 13+ recommendation, but great for older kids/teens.A fantastic Sunday afternoon classic film screening.
PAWS N PAINTZ : Combine puppy cuddles with creativity at this session where you paint while surrounded by puppies! It's a short 50-minute session designed to boost wellbeing.Puppies AND painting sounds like a guaranteed winner for kids who love animals.
: See the electric reimagining of Miles Franklin's literary heroine as a singer-songwriter on its final day in Canberra. This feminist triumph received rave reviews in Melbourne.It's the final day of this highly-acclaimed theatrical show.
CANBERRA FASHION MARKETFREE : Browse clothing, shoes, and accessories at this fashion market in Kingston, featuring everything from designer labels to quality pre-loved finds. Entry is free this Sunday.It is a focused Sunday event perfect for older children or teens interested in sustainable fashion or design.
Also On· anytime this weekend
5: Nature-loving kids between 7 and 15 can join ACT Parks Rangers to develop skills in the natural environment. This session runs on the third Sunday of the month.It's a structured, educational outdoor program specifically for older kids on Sunday morning.
FREE : Canberra’s famous Sunday market is back in the industrial building, offering incredible handmade wares, clothing, and food. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed family browse.A beloved Sunday tradition offering unique finds and great atmosphere.
: Celebrate 50 years of the iconic Constable Kenny Koala with this exhibition featuring memorabilia, costumes, and interactive learning tools. It’s a nostalgic and educational stop for younger kids.It’s a charming, specific celebration of a figure familiar to many Australian kids.
FREE : Grab fresh veggies and handmade goods at the Southside village market this Sunday morning. They often have great breakfast rolls to kick off the day.An excellent early Sunday option for fresh produce shopping.
FREE : Enjoy a free afternoon of arts and crafts at this session held every second Sunday at the Strathnairn cafe. A relaxed way to spend a Sunday afternoon indoors.It’s a completely free, low-key creative activity happening Sunday afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Canberra this weekend?
This weekend (Mar 14-15) offers several free options including the spectacular Skyfire fireworks Saturday evening, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular 2026 viewing both mornings, and the Fortnightly Crafternoon @ Strathnairn on Sunday afternoon.
What is there to do with teens or older kids this weekend?
Teens might enjoy the high-energy IMPULSE Woden street performance Saturday, catching the classic film E.T. (Film Screening) Sunday afternoon, or browsing the Canberra Fashion Market Sunday.
Are there any unique outdoor activities available on Saturday?
Yes, you can explore the Sunflower Maze at Majura Valley Farm, take a heritage trip on the Canberra Steam Train Rides, or enjoy the free IMPULSE Woden performance.
