The best of urban Canberra can be enjoyed by the whole family happy these April school holidays with these 5 key events not to be missed.

1: Van Gogh Alive Australia 

Canberra’s Parkes Place Lawns have been transformed into a SENSORY4 Gallery, where you can embrace your favourite paintings, including Van Gogh’s magnum opus, Off the back of Enlighten Festival, Van Gogh Alive Australia will remain on the Parkes Place Lawns until Sunday 10 April, covering the first weekend of the Easter school holidays.

Prepare to transcend time and space as you accompany Van Gogh on a journey through the Netherlands, Arles, Saint Rémy and Auvers-sur-Oise, where he created many of his timeless masterpieces. At the end of it all dine in a recreation of the Café Terrace at night with the family.

Don’t miss out on tickets for this spectacular multi-sensory experience inside the 25,000 square foot immersive gallery. General Admission to the event is costed between $39 – 44 per person.

2: National Portrait Gallery’s Shakespeare to Winehouse exhibition

An exhibition featuring more than 80 portraits usually on display in London’s National Portrait Gallery, has opened in the nations capital, featuring faces who have “shaped British history, identity and culture”.

One of the most significant artworks on display to show the chilren in the exhibition is John Taylor’s portrait of William Shakespeare, painted in the 1600s and thought to be the only portrait the writer ever sat for. Enjoy numerous other portraits of icons from popular culture, scientists and even singing sensation Ed Sheeran.

Shakespeare to Winehouse is an absolutely fantastic opportunity to see these works, some of them for the first time and possibly for the last time, in Australia

To reach the Portrait Gallery from Crowne Plaza, simply take the first exit off Parkey Way, onto Commonwealth Ave/A23.

3: Have fun learning about the world of science

A visit to Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre is a highlight of a family trip to Canberra. This extremely popular attraction is all about making science fun. With regular special exhibitions and over 200 exhibits across eight galleries, there is enough to keep you entertained for hours.

Get innovating these Easter school holidays with the Questacon Maker Project Holiday Program! Held in the custom Maker Space at Deakin, 10 – 15 year olds will spend each session tinkering and designing, guided by Maker facilitators. 

Tickets are essential, and will be available in advance via Ticketek. All participants will need to be signed-in by a parent or guardian 15 minutes prior to workshops commencing.

Questacon is open 7 days a week, with general admission sessions starting every half an hour from 9 am to 3 pm. Pre-booked tickets are essential for all visitors, including infants.

4: Enjoy the entertainment haven at the National Folk Festival

Known as the heart and home of Australian folk culture, the Folkie brings thousands together in a massive celebration of music, storytelling, and more at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC).

With endless entertainment offerings across the five-day event– held from Thursday 14 until Monday 18 April– there will be world-class performers (including performances from 36 ARIA Award winners). The festival program has been recently announced, packing in a family friendly schedule among, workshops, dance, choir & music schedules.

Designed to impress the whole family, the 2022 festival will proudly showcase the very best of homegrown talent with over 200 acts across 12 venues to enjoy.

For the little ones, ABC kid’s favourite Justine Clarke will be taking the stage to perform some of her biggest hits that will have them singing and dancing.

5: Explore the National Arboretum

Active kids? Pick up your map and clue sheet from the Village Centre and head out into the forests and gardens on a letter search to discover which rare bird is nesting at the National Arboretum.

The orienteering is on daily during the school holidays between 9am and 4pm. It is suitable for all ages.

There is a cost of $5 per family. This is a drop-in activity and no bookings are required.

Book a Family Experience at Crowne Plaza

Crowne Plaza is enticing the family to indulge these Easter holidays in some retail therapy with a $100 Canberra Centre voucher and then get ready for hours of fun with the young ones at Kingpin Canberra with a $50 voucher to play the arcades, go bowling, try an escape room and more!

Our ‘Shop, Play, Stay’ family package includes 2-nights accommodation in a twin room or Suite of your choice, plus a $100 Canberra Centre voucher, $50 King Pin Canberra voucher, and a bonus $50 dining credit.

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In light of a new environment, the nations capital is starting to reopen once again. Venture to the nations capital and explore our wonders this spring season. Take a closer look at some of our recommended family activities in Canberra.

Take a well renowned nature walk up Mount Ainslie, grab an amazing hands-on animal experience at The National Zoo & Aquarium or find the perfect hike and spot wildlife living in Tidbinbilla’s diverse sub-alpine habitats. 

Must See and Experience

Reimagine Floriade

Floriade is different this year, but there is plenty to see and do. Families travelling to Canberra this spring will notice the annual celebration transitioning away from the traditional home in Commonwealth Park, to bloom across Canberra’s suburbs, city and screens. This year, Floriade: Reimagined will come alive at the @canberracentre with hundreds of tulips on display for customers to enjoy. ?. In addition families should keep a lookout for mouth-watering feasts of spring-inspired eats at local restaurants as part of a reimagined NightFest vibe on 2 October. The reimagined aspects of one of the nations capitals most prolific events will be on display until 11 October 2020, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Embark on one of our famous nature walks

A family nature walk across a quiet afternoon with the family is the perfect social distancing event. One of the most popular walks among locals, the bush track behind the Australian War Memorial goes to the top of Mt Ainslie. The peak provides an elevation of 843 metres and captures exquisite views over Red Hill to the south and Black Mountain to the west.

For those looking for a more pram friendly route, the Curtin playing fields walk is a more flat and friendly option and is only takes a short 45 minutes to complete. There are extensive views northeast to the city, Red Hill, Black Mountain and Mount Ainslie, west to the Brindabellas and north to the Canberra Arboretum.  Curtin is a short 15 minute drive from the hotel via the Adelaide Avenue and is a fun afternoon family activity in Canberra.

National Zoo & Aquarium

Offering some of the most amazing hands-on animal experiences in Australia, The National Zoo & Aquarium now features a brand new tour not for the faint hearted. The Awesome Roarsome Tour will have you hand feed a lion, a tiger, a bear and a beautiful hyena. Jake the white lion is a crowd favourite so be sure to please him and keep him in the manor he is accustomed to. With groups of 10 people at any given time, bookings are essential. The minimum age is 12 years costed at $125 per person. Please visit the booking page for more details.

Stomolo Forest Park

Explore the various outdoor trails for cycling, cross country running, equestrian and mountain bike riding right on Canberra’s doorstep. Ride, run and play at Stromolo.

The The Stromlo Leisure Centre’s is also making quite a splash since the official opening on Saturday (15 August) with a centrepiece 50-metre pool. The centre is open from 5:30 am to 9:30 pm Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 7:30 pm Saturday and Sunday, and 8:00 am to 6:00 pm on public holidays.

Save up to 35% when you book 5 nights or more during the school holidays, only 15 minutes away via Parkes Way. – Learn More

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve 

Get up close and personal with our Australian animals in their natural habitats. A fun family activity in Canberra can be marked with undertaking enticing walking trails, taking advantage of the kids playground or taking a breather over a delicious picnic. Tidbinbilla nature Reserve has now officially waived all entry fees for the rest of 2020.

For those looking for an enhanced glamping experience, you can now experience Tidbinbilla like never before with the ultimate family sleepover at the Wildfest Pop Up Family Wilderness Camp in the picturesque ACT Park. Wildfest® at Tidbinbilla is back for the Spring School Holidays in 2020.

Bookings are now open for the Spring School Holidays Friday 25 Sept – Saturday 10 Oct 2020 inclusive and costed at $195 pp per night. Secure your spot today before tickets are sold out.

Secure your family accommodation these school holidays

Crowne Plaza Canberra is a convenient option for your extended stay in Canberra this spring season with the family. Our superior Rooms offer views over Canberra city and are available in either a two double bed or king bed configuration, with the option to add a rollaway bed on request in some rooms to accommodate additional family members.

Stay more than five nights with us and receive up to 35% off your stay, which also includes 20% off dining and laundry facilities, plus a complimentary à la carte breakfast.

– Wake up to a delightful outlook over the city or tranquil park views after a comfortable night’s sleep.

Secure our exclusive offer by 31 October 2020.

The post Family Activities In Canberra this spring appeared first on Crowne Plaza Canberra.

Here are some of our favourites options:             

1. Harvest Festival at Cellar Door
Mount Majura Vineyard
188 Lime Kiln Road, Majura ACT

Enjoy the range of wines, local food and live music at Mount Majura Vineyard on Saturday 28 March as part of Canberra Wine Week for the annual Harvest Festival at Cellar Door. Vineyard Tours, freshly made local produce platters and live music from the local bush band Paverty will feature on the day.

The rustic vineyard were first planted in 1988 and are now hosting tastings in their cellar 7 days a week. The winery is no stranger to recognition with winemaker, Frank van de Loo being nominated as a 2018 finalist in the Winemaker of the Year awards conducted by Gourmet Traveller WINE magazine. Mount Marjura Vineyard is a beautiful sight, green, lush and bursting with life.  Crowne Plaza Canberra is situated a short 20 minutes away via the A23 highway.

2. Grape Stomping Wine Week

Murrumbateman Winery
131 Mcintosh Circuit, 

Partake in a rare form of grape crushing at Murrumbateman Winery this Saturday 21st March 2020.  Stay on at cellar door for live music, wine tasting, and our delicious tasting plates. Admission to the winery if free of charge and all ages are welcome. The Murrumbateman region is approximately 30km north-west of Canberra. Explore up to 20 boutique wineries that surround the gourmet delights of the local Murrumbateman Village market.

3. Canberra Wine Week – Festive Food and Scarecrow Making

Yarrh Wines
440 Greenwood Road, Murrembateman NSW

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the lawn of Yarrh Wines overlooking a picturesque vineyard located in the beautiful Yass River Valley.

For those with little ones, bring the kids for SCARECROW making, all weekend. Kids big and little will have the opportunity to exercise their creativity.

Yarrh is the gem of Murrumbateman, nestled on a secluded hilltop in the Mundoonen Ranges with glorious views and fabulous wines. Visit https://www.yarrhwines.com.au/ for more information.

4. Pilates in the Vineyard

Entotria Wines
473 Joe Rocks Road, Bungendore NSW

In celebration of Wine Week, Enotria Wines and Lucas Studios will host Pilates in the Vineyard on Saturday 21 March. Enotria Wines is a very small but growing family vineyard located on the rocky Lake George Escarpment, just outside Canberra. This years event will showcase the diversity of a series of cool climate wines, which offer visitors and Canberrans a different experience across each unique variety.

With the vinyards vines coming mainly from clones of the Loire Valley in France, expect brilliant selections of Pinot Noir, Wilder Rosé, Pinot Gris and Blanc de Noir (champagne style) wines. All wines are single variety, handpicked at optimum ripeness and tested for flavour at every stage of the winemaking process to tasting precision. For more information visit https://www.enotria.com.au/.

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Floriade and NightFest

Floriade: Saturday 14 September – Sunday 13 October 2019

NightFest: Thursday 3 – Sunday 6 October 2019

Where: Commonwealth Park

Don’t miss out on Floriade, Australia’s biggest celebration of Spring. This year’s theme is World in Bloom. Over one million bright spring blooms will be on display throughout Commonwealth Park, including tulip varieties and other spring flowers. In addition to the flower beds, there are many activities on offer including floral displays, horticultural and cooking workshops. Not to mention photography workshops, entertainment and family activities. Don’t miss out on a ride on the ferris wheel for great views of the flower beds. Entry to Floriade during the day is FREE. 

Over 5 nights during Floriade from Thursday 3 October until Sunday 6 October,  NightFest enthralls audiences with spectacular light shows, roving entertainers, comedians, night markets, musicians, food and wine. Nightfest is a paid, ticketed event. Visit the Floriade website for ticket information.

For accommodation close to Floriade, choose Crowne Plaza Canberra.  This hotel in Canberra is within walking distance to the event, using the pedestrian bridge over Parkes Way. Click here to find out more about how to get to Floriade.

To book your Canberra hotel close to Floriade 2019, explore our accommodation packages.

Dreamworks Animation: The Exhibition – Journey from Sketch to Screen

When: 12 September 2019 until 2 February 2020 

Where: National Museum of Australia

At this family-friendly exhibition, discover DreamWorks Animation’s collaborative, artistic and visionary approach to animation.  Follow the journey from sketch to screen through more than 400 objects from the studio’s archive. Here you will understand and see original concept art, storyboards and scale-models, plus interactive digital experiences from the studio’s most popular films. Namely Antz, How to Train Your Dragon and Shrek.

The National Museum of Australia is open daily from 9am – 5pm (closed Christmas Day)

Pricing: $20 adult | $12 child | $16 concession | $50 family (2 adults + 2 children)

Tinbinbilla Open Day

When: 29 September 2019, 10am-3pm

Where: Tinbinbilla Nature Reserve

Enjoy a fun family outing and discover nature at the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. The Reserve is home to many native Australian animals including kangaroos, koalas, possums, wombats, echidnas, emus, lyrebirds and many other birds and reptiles. See if you can spot the elusive platypus!

The annual Tidbinbilla Open Day is on again this year with the date set for Sunday 29 September 2019, with free entry to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

Mark this date in your diary for a fun filled day of nature-based experiences based on the theme ‘Explore, Relax, Recharge’. This family friendly event will include kid’s activities, live music, displays, demonstrations and more, all held in the beautiful outdoor surroundings of Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. 

Immerse yourself in the many forms of nature-based activities available or just take some time out to relax and enjoy the festivities.

Game Masters: The Exhibition

When: 27 September 2019 – 9 March 2020

Where: National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA)

Following a six-year international tour and more than 1 million visitors, Game Masters: The Exhibition makes its Canberra debut this spring. Game Masters takes gamers and families on a journey through five decades of video game history, featuring interviews, concept artwork, an amazing display of vintage consoles and collectables. Along with 80 playable games, this exhibition will be hard to leave! An exciting program of events and screenings will run in conjunction with the exhibition.

Pricing: $19 adult | $15 concession | $12 junior (5-17) | kids up to age 4 free | family passes available

The NFSA is open daily 10am–4pm (except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day).

Booking online before your visit is recommended.

Questacon Family Getaway Package

If you are planning a family trip, why not take advantage of Crowne Plaza Canberra’s Questacon Family Getaway package. 

Stay in Canberra’s CBD, within walking distance to restaurants, shops, cinemas and cafes. The best of the city’s attractions and events are only a short drive away. Take the time to see some of Canberra’s key iconic attractions such as Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, the National Museum of Australia and Questacon. 

The Questacon Family Getaway package at Crowne Plaza Canberra includes:

• Accommodation for 2 adults and up to 2 children
• Full buffet breakfast for 2 adults and up to 2 children
• Children dine free with a paying adult
• Family pass to Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre (valued at $70)
• If 2 rooms are booked our team will endeavor to provide adjoining rooms.

* Clicking the BOOK NOW button above will direct you to the Crowne Plaza Canberra booking engine. Your Family Getaway package rates will be pre-populated when you have entered your dates of stay.

School Holiday Breakfast at Redsalt

Who doesn’t love a hotel buffet breakfast! Enjoy the extensive breakfast selection at Redsalt, including barista coffee freshly made to order and eggs cooked the way you like them. Redsalt Restaurant at Crowne Plaza Canberra is open for breakfast daily from 6.30am – 10am and until 11am on weekends and public holidays.

Pricing:

• Full breakfast buffet $29 per adult
• Continental breakfast $25 per adult
• Children aged 6 – 12 $14 per child (order from our Kids menu)
• Kids 5 years and under can enjoy breakfast for free

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Arts and Culture

Enjoy unmissable arts and culture experiences including The Popular Pet Show at the National Portrait Gallery.  This exhibition express the joy and warmth that many of us derive from our animal companions and includes work from contemporary artists, including a series by Ken Done. 

Versailles: Treasures from the Palace is exclusive to the National Gallery of Australia from 9 December. More than 130 paintings, intricate tapestries, gilded furniture, monumental statues and other objects from the Royal gardens, and personal items from Louis XIV to Marie-Antoinette, will bring to life the reigns of three kings, their queens and mistresses in a fascinating and tumultuous period of French history.

A History of the World in 100 Objects from the British Museum is your chance to see two million years of history in one room at the National Museum of Australia until 29 January. With well over 50,000 visitors to this exhibition since opening in September, this is an exhibition not to be missed.

At the National Library of Australia, see The Sell: Australian Advertising 1790s to 1990s. This free exhibition explores how advertising in Australia has evolved with changing society and technology through the decades. With so many tumultous events in 2016, the Behind the Lines 2016: The year’s best political cartoons exhibition at the Museum of Australia Democracy at Old Parliament House is sure to be an interesting exhibition to add to your itinerary.

The Great Outdoors

Ben & Jerry’s Openair Cinemas are on their way back to Canberra! Catch a movie under the stars on Patrick White Lawns alongside Lake Burley Griffin between 12 January and 19 February. Enjoy a drink from the licensed bar and fresh pizzas cooked onsite before a hot new release or cult classic lights up the big screen. Tickets can be purchased online and capacity is limited.

As Accommodation Partner for Ben & Jerry’s Openair Cinemas in Canberra, we are excited to offer an exclusive ticket discount to our friends and guests for the Canberra shows. When booking, simply enter the code ‘crowneplaza’ when prompted during the booking process. Capacity is limited so book your tickets online now!

If you enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, you will find many exciting options to choose from in Canberra such as hiking sections of the Centenary Trail, viewing the sunset from Mount Ainslie, taking a segway tour around Lake Burley Griffin or keeping cool in the Rainforest Gully at the Australian National Botanic Gardens – and all easily accessible from the city centre. Or hire a bicycle from the front of the hotel and explore Canberra with its extensive network of cycling paths.

Within a 40 minute drive from Canberra city, you’ll find Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. There’s a great Discovery Playground for kids, along with a visitor’s centre and cafe. Join a ranger-guided tour, learn about the breeding programs for endangered animals and try to spot platypus and koalas as you wander through the reserve. Tidbinbilla has Advanced Ecotourism Certification.

For an interesting and educational experience, consider a twilight tour at Mulligan’s Flat Woodland Sanctuary, located around a 25 minute drive from Crowne Plaza Canberra. Suitable for people aged 10 years and up, this tour gives participants the opportunity to learn about endangered woodlands and see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat at night.

Food and Wine

Food and wine lovers will also be spoilt with a range of fantastic restaurants and cafes to try. With more than 30 wineries within 40 minutes from the city, Canberra is the perfect base to explore the Canberra District wine region.

For a smorgasbord of local produce, visit the Capital Region Farmer’s Markets in Canberra, held on regular Saturday mornings throughout the year at Exhibition Park in Canberra. Sip a coffee from a local coffee roaster and enjoy a freshly baked muffin, while browsing the many stalls stocking everything from plants, to smallgoods, locally grown vegetables, local olive oil, honey and more.

From 17-19 February 2017, foodies will enjoy tasting cuisines from around the world at the 21st annual National Multicutural Festival, held in the city centre. On the same weekend, the Canberra Food & Wine Expo is back for its 6th year at the National Convention Centre. See cooking demonstrations from Masterchef and My Kitchen Rules celebrities and sample food from gourmet exhibitors. Stay at Crowne Plaza Canberra and be only steps away from these events.

Coffee Culture

Canberra has made a name for itself with its coffee scene, with a number of local roasters, such as Lonsdale Street Roasters and Ona Coffee, creating outstanding blends and also offering single origin coffee. Sasa Sestic, founder of Ona Coffee, won the World Barista Championships in 2015 and you can sample some of the best coffee in Canberra at his new venture with Michael Rose of Espresso Room – Greenhouse Coffee & Co – or at The Cupping Room, both located only a short walk from Crowne Plaza Canberra. Check out VisitCanberrafor more Canberra coffee inspiration.

Book your Canberra getaway now with our Advance Purchase offer

Our Canberra city hotel is located in a tranquil park setting, close to restaurants, shops and major attractions.

Save on your accommodation with our Advance Purchase special, when you book direct.Plus, IHG® Rewards Club Members may receive additional savings! Book either accommodation only, or a room and breakfast package. Don’t forget about our best price guarantee too – if you find a cheaper price your first night is free.

Click here to find out more about our special offers and packages.

Image: A segway tour around Lake Burley Griffin, courtesy of SegGlideRide.  For more information about segway tours, visit SegGlideRide: www.segglideride.com.au

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Cartier: The Exhibition
National Gallery of Australia (NGA)
30 March to 22 July 2018

The NGA brings exquisite Cartier jewellery, timepieces and precious objects to Australia for Cartier: The Exhibition. Be dazzled by more than 300 design masterpieces, charting the rise of the prestigious jewellery house throughout the 20^th century. Cartier: The Exhibition offers a glimpse into the intimate world of Cartier’s famous international clientele from Hollywood superstars to royalty, revealing fascinating stories about the history of the stunning jewellery and the inimitable icons of style associated with them. Exclusive to Canberra, Cartier: The Exhibition is not to be missed.

Image: Naomi Watts wears Cartier Magicien Collection necklace and earrings, Cartier Royal Collection ring and Panthère de Cartier clutch bag with Preen dress and Aquazzura shoes. (Photo by Cole Bennetts/Getty Images)

National Photographic Portrait Prize 2018
National Portrait Gallery
24 March to 17 June 2018

This annual event is one of the highlights of the National Portrait Gallery’s exhibition calendar. Each year, Australian portraiture photographers present their best work. The 2018 winner is Lee Grant with her portrait of Charlie, a young man living in social housing in Canberra. Highly Commended went to Filomena Rizzo’s My Olivia and Art Handlers’ Award went to Stephanie Simcox’s Joey. But there is still time for you to be involved! The People’s Choice Award is your chance to vote for your favourite photograph plus win some great prizes, including an accommodation package at Crowne Plaza Canberra valued at $2,000. Voting is open until the 4^th of June. Click here to vote.   

The Art of Science
National Museum of Australia
30 March to 24 June 2018

Take a trip back to 1800 and Nicolas Baudin’s expedition from France to Australia to map the coastline of what was then called New Holland. The exhibition showcases illustrations of nature and local people and rare documents and maps.

1968: Changing Time
National Library of Australia
1 March to 12 August 2018

Now start travelling back towards the present day, but pause at 1968. This was the year the National Library’s building opened, so to celebrate 50 years, visit this exhibition and relive what was making headlines and changing the world.

Celebration: 20 years of collecting visual art at CMAG
Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG)
24 March to 14 June 2018

CMAG is also celebrating an anniversary and this exhibition is a tribute to 20 years of visual art. Focusing particularly on how art has influenced the local area of Canberra and its surrounds, the exhibition ranges from painting to sculpture to jewellery.

Start planning a getaway throughout autumn to visit these great exhibitions before they close. View our accommodation packages here including the Cartier: The Exhibition package which includes breakfast and tickets.

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1. Eco Elves Night Market

The annual Eco Elves Night Market is held by the Canberra Environment Centre and is perfect for shoppers looking for eco-friendly, handmade, fair trade, local and upcycled Christmas gifts.  Enjoy live music and sunset views of Lake Burley Griffin while you browse the stalls set amongst the gumtrees. Food is available for purchase and a wine bar will offer local wines. The Eco Elves Night Market is a family friendly event with a kids play area and a craft section with DIY gift wrapping.

When: 5pm – 9pm, Friday 1 December 2017
Where: Canberra Environment Centre, Cnr Lennox Crossing and Lawson Crescent, Acton (a 7 minute drive from Crowne Plaza Canberra)

2. A Very Canberra Comedy Festival Christmas 2017

If the busyness of the festive season is starting to feel a little stressful, laugh it off with some of the Canberra Comedy Festival’s great comedians for A Very Canberra Comedy Festival Christmas.  This two hour event features a great line up of comedy stars including Joel Creasey, Fiona O’Loughlin, James Smith, Maddy Weeks, Anthony Tomic and more.

When: 7:30pm, Saturday 2 December 2017
Where: Llewellyn Hall, Building 100, William Herbert Place, Canberra (a 20 minute walk – 1.5km – or 7 minute drive from Crowne Plaza Canberra)

3. Christmas at the Old Bus Depot Markets

Canberra’s Old Bus Depot Markets started in 1994 and are still a hugely popular part of the city’s Sunday culture after 23 years in operation. During December the markets will be open on both Saturdays and Sundays, with special Christmas themed market days during the month.

On Saturday 2 December, the markets will hold a ‘Christmas Kids’ event with pony and donkey rides, face painting, a jumping castle and more. Santa will be at the markets for Christmas Kids from 10am to 4pm. Then again on 3, 9, 10, 16 and 17 December from 12.00 – 3.00pm.

Browse through a diverse range of stalls to find everything you will need for Christmas including gifts, homewares and edible Christmas treats.

When: throughout December, check website for times and details
Where: 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston (approx 10 minute drive from Crowne Plaza Canberra)

Christmas fruit pies at the Old Bus Depot Markets. Image ©VisitCanberra

4. The 12 Barks of Christmas

Head along to Glebe Park on Sunday 3 December for RSPCA ACT’s 12 Barks of Christmas carols event. Kick off the festive season at a fun event where the whole family is welcome, even your four legged pooch!

There will be music, dog activities, market stalls and more, with all proceeds going to the RSPCA ACT shelter. Entry fee applies. See the website for details and tickets.

When: 4pm – 7pm, Sunday 3 December 2017
Where: Glebe Park, Canberra City

4. Christmas in Canberra City

This year, Canberra city is putting on a different kind of Christmas celebration. Instead of the giant Christmas tree that is usually installed in Garema Place, this year 65 real Christmas trees will transform Glebe Park (adjacent to Crowne Plaza Canberra) into a ‘festive forest’ complete with an overhead canopy of lights. There will also be entertainment, food for purchase and visits from Santa. Red Nose is the charity partner for the Christmas event in Glebe Park and is hosting a special Garden of Light, where families can place a candle in memory of a loved one.

When: from Friday 8 December until Saturday 23 December 2017
Lights: from 5pm nightly until Christmas Eve
Entertainment: from 5pm Thursday and Friday nights, and from noon-10pm on weekends
Where: Glebe Park, Canberra CBD

5. Handmade Christmas and Twilight Markets

On the weekend of Friday 8 to Sunday 10 December, Canberra’s Handmade Market brings a fantastic Christmas shopping opportunity with stalls from over 260 Australian designers and makers so you can shop to your heart’s content. In December, the markets will be Christmas themed.  Find some delicious festive treats for your Christmas table in the gourmet food hall, tick off your Christmas gift list with some unique purchases or buy yourself a special something. All products on sale, including fashion, jewellery, homewares, toys, artwork and more, are Australian made and designed.

When: Friday 8 – Sunday 10 December 2017
Friday 5-9pm
Saturday and Sunday 10am-4pm
Where: Exhibition Park in Canberra, Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell (approx 12-15 minute drive from Crowne Plaza Canberra)

 6. 73rd Annual Canberra Carols by Candlelight

Christmas isn’t complete without carols by candlelight. Enjoy an evening of music presented by the Woden Valley Youth Choir and led by the Canberra City Band. Pre-order a picnic hamper and enjoy an al-fresco dinner in the picturesque surrounds of Commonwealth Park. Battery candles will be available for sale on the night with proceeds going to the Canberra Carols by Candlelight charity partner, Parkinson’s ACT.

When: 7pm, Wednesday 13 December

Where: Stage 88, Commonwealth Park, Canberra

7. Christmas Day Lunch

This year why not leave the Christmas lunch cooking to us and book a table at Redsalt Restaurant for the Christmas lunch buffet. There will be entertainment and a visit from Santa, plus a gourmet feast including fresh seafood, a wide variety of hot dishes, seasonal salads and cold platters, a carvery station, fresh bread and more. Be tempted by a selection of delicious desserts, including traditional fruit pudding. Bookings essential.

When: 12 noon – 3pm, Monday 25 December 2017
Where: Redsalt Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Canberra

8. Christmas Accommodation in Canberra

Whether you need to accommodate friends and family visiting from out of town, or you are booking a Christmas holiday in Canberra, Crowne Plaza Canberra’s city accommodation is a convenient choice, only a short walk from shops – perfect for the Boxing Day sales! If you book by 29 November 2017, you can save with our Advance Purchase offer with rooms from $125 per room per night. Click here to find out more.

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“We are delighted to be partnering with the UC Capitals again this season,” said Tim Bruen, Director of Sales, Marketing and Revenue at Crowne Plaza Canberra. “We highly value our partnerships with community and sporting organisations and are pleased to be supporting our local team in the 2017-18 Women’s National Basketball League″.

The University of Canberra Capitals have played in the WNBL since 1984 and have won seven Championships in that time.

As one of Canberra’s most recognisable sporting brands, the UC Capitals have a proud history of success on and off the court and are committed to establishing an elite program of continuous improvement.

“Partnering with such an established and admired brand as Crowne Plaza Canberra fits nicely with the values of the University of Canberra Capitals” said Matthew Phelps, General Manager, UC Capitals.

“We both take great pride in supporting the ACT region and providing a great experience to our customers. The UC Capitals are excited to work with the Crowne Plaza Canberra team and see a great future for our partnership.”

For the 2017-18 season, the UC Capitals will be playing in 10 home games in Canberra, at their new home court at the National Convention Centre, Canberra. The National Convention Centre is located only a two minute walk from Crowne Plaza Canberra. Basketball fans can now watch live basketball games in Canberra’s city centre at the Royal Theatre, with premium seating, a climate controlled environment and free wifi.

Head Coach Paul Goriss is leading the team for the second year. Seven-time WNBL championship winner Natalie Hurst is captain of the University of Canberra Capitals during the 2017/18 WNBL competition, with Kate Gaze as Vice Captain.

The UC Capitals look forward to continuing to develop and enhance meaningful engagement opportunities with the University community, the basketball community and the people of Canberra to promote women’s sport.

The UC Capitals look forward to continuing to develop and enhance meaningful engagement opportunities with the University community, the basketball community and the people of Canberra to promote women’s sport.

The first home game of the season was played on 6 October 2017. Click here for the fixture.

For premium accommodation close to the home court of the UC Capitals, choose to stay at Crowne Plaza Canberra.

The post University of Canberra Capitals Partnership 2017-18 appeared first on Crowne Plaza Canberra.

Weekend 4-6 August

The first weekend of August is a great time to visit Canberra if you love fashion, with two fashion markets being held.

At the Canberra Fashion Market, browse through vintage, new and recycled clothing. Held at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC) 10am – 3pm, Saturday 5 August. Frock Up Pop Up Canberra offers a variety of vintage, antique, retro and designer clothing – you might just come away with a new favourite wardrobe item! 4-5 August atGriffith Neighbourhood Centre.

While you’re in Canberra, check out the Canberra Centre’s new wellness and beauty precinct, featuring Mecca Maxima’s first Australian concept store, along with a range of other retailers including Jurlique, Inglot, Aveda, Lush, Napolean Perdis and many more.

If you enjoy live theatre and dance, see Bangarra Dance Theatre at the Canberra Theatre Centre, with performances from 3-5 August or hear Ed Kuepper live at The Street Theatre on Friday 4 August. Also at the Canberra Theatre Centre is The Ten Tenors performing their 20^thAnniversary Tour on Sunday 6 August.

On Saturday 5 August, sports fans can see the action as Giants v Melbourne at Manuka Oval, with kick-off at 1:45pm.

If you are a fan of pop culture including anime, movies, comics, gaming and collectibles, the GAMMA.CON festival is back on 5 and 6 August from 10am-5pm at the AIS Arena, with a special 18+ event on Saturday 5 August from 6pm.

Celebrate the season with the Winter Festival at the National Portrait Gallery on Sunday 6 August, from 10am – 4pm. Suitable for all ages and abilities and all materials are provided.

Weekend 11-13 August

Have a weekend of LEGO in Canberra with the Brick Expo held over 3 days 11-13 August, at The Hellenic Club of Canberra. This event features hundreds of interesting creations by local and interstate LEGO collectors and modellers. This event is hugely popular so it is recommended to purchase your tickets in advance online. You can also see the Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO® Bricks exhibition at the National Museum of Australia, opening on 28 July. This travelling exhibition from Sydney Living Museums features 20 amazing skyscraper models. Visitors can have a go at creating their own tower with more than 200,000 loose bricks in the hands-on area. This is a ticketed exhibition and bookings online are recommended.

You never know what interesting treasures you might find at the Old Bus Depot Markets, held each Sunday. On 13 August, the Portobello Road themed market will include an eclectic mix of treasures to browse through, including jewellery, crockery, small homewares and more.

If you enjoy art and culture, there are a number of exhibitions showing over this time, including Dempsey’s People at the National Portrait Gallery – an exhibition featuring 52 rarely-seen portraits of English street people in the first half of the 19^th Century. At the National Gallery of Australia, there are several exhibitions showing, including Defying Empire: National Indigenous Art Triennial, Pipilotti Rist: Worry will vanish revelation, Rodel Tapaya: New art from the Philippines and more.

Weekend 18-20  August

See fun indoor and outdoor activities including dart ball, arcade games and amusement, displays, entertainment, food stalls and more at the Ultimate Playground, presented by Canberra Big Boys Toys, being held on 19 and 20 August at Exhibition Park in Canberra.

On 20 August, see the Canberra Raiders v Panthers in Round 24 of the NRL Telstra Premiership at GIO Stadium, with kick-off at 2pm.

As part of National Science Week, head along to the Geoscience annual Open Day on Sunday 20 August from 9am-2pm, where you can participate in a range of hands-on activities plus science displays and talks.

If you enjoy live music, don’t miss the opportunity to see Pete Murray perform his Camacho album tour at the Canberra Theatre Centre on Saturday 19 August.

Weekend 25-27 August

The Canberra Writers Festival is being held over the weekend of 25-27 August, with the theme ‘Power, Passion, Politics’. This three day festival includes free and ticketed events with panel sessions, workshops, dining events and more. View the program online.

On 25 August, see the Raiders v Knights in Round 25 of the NRL Telstra Premiership at GIO Stadium, with kick-off at 6pm.

At Stromlo Forest Park on 26 August, you can see some of Australia’s best mountain bike endurance racers compete in The Shimano Mountain Bike Grand Prix Round 5. Entry is free for spectators.

Book your Canberra weekend away now with one of our special packages, including the Weekend Special package, or save with our Advance Purchase special offer.

With a great location in Canberra’s CBD, close to shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, Crowne Plaza Canberra is the perfect hotel choice for your weekend getaway to Canberra.

The post Great Reasons to Book an August Weekend Escape to Canberra appeared first on Crowne Plaza Canberra.

Weekend 4-6 August

The first weekend of August is a great time to visit Canberra if you love fashion, with two fashion markets being held.

At the Canberra Fashion Market, browse through vintage, new and recycled clothing. Held at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC) 10am – 3pm, Saturday 5 August. Frock Up Pop Up Canberra offers a variety of vintage, antique, retro and designer clothing – you might just come away with a new favourite wardrobe item! 4-5 August atGriffith Neighbourhood Centre.

While you’re in Canberra, check out the Canberra Centre’s new wellness and beauty precinct, featuring Mecca Maxima’s first Australian concept store, along with a range of other retailers including Jurlique, Inglot, Aveda, Lush, Napolean Perdis and many more.

If you enjoy live theatre and dance, see Bangarra Dance Theatre at the Canberra Theatre Centre, with performances from 3-5 August or hear Ed Kuepper live at The Street Theatre on Friday 4 August. Also at the Canberra Theatre Centre is The Ten Tenors performing their 20^th Anniversary Tour on Sunday 6 August.

On Saturday 5 August, sports fans can see the action as Giants v Melbourne at Manuka Oval, with kick-off at 1:45pm.

If you are a fan of pop culture including anime, movies, comics, gaming and collectibles, the GAMMA.CON festival is back on 5 and 6 August from 10am-5pm at the AIS Arena, with a special 18+ event on Saturday 5 August from 6pm.

Celebrate the season with the Winter Festival at the National Portrait Gallery on Sunday 6 August, from 10am – 4pm. Suitable for all ages and abilities and all materials are provided.

Weekend 11-13 August

Have a weekend of LEGO in Canberra with the Brick Expo held over 3 days 11-13 August, at The Hellenic Club of Canberra. This event features hundreds of interesting creations by local and interstate LEGO collectors and modellers. This event is hugely popular so it is recommended to purchase your tickets in advance online. You can also see the Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO® Bricks exhibition at the National Museum of Australia, opening on 28 July. This travelling exhibition from Sydney Living Museums features 20 amazing skyscraper models. Visitors can have a go at creating their own tower with more than 200,000 loose bricks in the hands-on area. This is a ticketed exhibition and bookings online are recommended.

You never know what interesting treasures you might find at the Old Bus Depot Markets, held each Sunday. On 13 August, the Portobello Road themed market will include an eclectic mix of treasures to browse through, including jewellery, crockery, small homewares and more.

If you enjoy art and culture, there are a number of exhibitions showing over this time, including Dempsey’s People at the National Portrait Gallery – an exhibition featuring 52 rarely-seen portraits of English street people in the first half of the 19^th Century. At the National Gallery of Australia, there are several exhibitions showing, including Defying Empire: National Indigenous Art Triennial, Pipilotti Rist: Worry will vanish revelation, Rodel Tapaya: New art from the Philippines and more.

Weekend 18-20  August

See fun indoor and outdoor activities including dart ball, arcade games and amusement, displays, entertainment, food stalls and more at the Ultimate Playground, presented by Canberra Big Boys Toys, being held on 19 and 20 August at Exhibition Park in Canberra.

On 20 August, see the Canberra Raiders v Panthers in Round 24 of the NRL Telstra Premiership at GIO Stadium, with kick-off at 2pm.

As part of National Science Week, head along to the Geoscience annual Open Day on Sunday 20 August from 9am-2pm, where you can participate in a range of hands-on activities plus science displays and talks.

If you enjoy live music, don’t miss the opportunity to see Pete Murray perform his Camacho album tour at the Canberra Theatre Centre on Saturday 19 August.

Weekend 25-27 August

The Canberra Writers Festival is being held over the weekend of 25-27 August, with the theme ‘Power, Passion, Politics’. This three day festival includes free and ticketed events with panel sessions, workshops, dining events and more. View the program online.

On 25 August, see the Raiders v Knights in Round 25 of the NRL Telstra Premiership at GIO Stadium, with kick-off at 6pm.

At Stromlo Forest Park on 26 August, you can see some of Australia’s best mountain bike endurance racers compete in The Shimano Mountain Bike Grand Prix Round 5. Entry is free for spectators.

Book your Canberra weekend away now with one of our special packages, including the Weekend Special package, or save with our Advance Purchase special offer.

With a great location in Canberra’s CBD, close to shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, Crowne Plaza Canberra is the perfect hotel choice for your weekend getaway to Canberra.

The post Great Reasons to Book an August Weekend Escape to Canberra appeared first on Crowne Plaza Canberra.