Each spring, just over the border, Canberra awakens to longer days and warmer air, Commonwealth Park becomes a spectacular showcase of the wonder of nature.
Running from Saturday 13 September to Sunday 12 October, Floriade returns in 2025 with more than one million blooms and new experiences, transforming the heart of the city into a dazzling month-long celebration of flowers and fun with this year’s theme; Science and Nature. And how lucky are we, to have this spectacular festival so close to home. Read on to make some plans to soak it all up.
Inside nature’s laboratory
The 2025 theme invites visitors to look closer, think deeper, and connect with the natural world in new and exciting ways.
Showcasing galaxies of colour, explore clever garden beds themed around physics, chemistry and biology, as this year’s program encourages you to trade in gardening gloves for lab coats.
Whether you’re a green thumb, a science lover, or just someone who loves a good day out, there’s plenty to keep your curiosity blooming. Think hands-on workshops, fascinating presentations, interactive exhibits, live music, market stalls, wine tastings and roving performers bringing new experiences to every corner of the park.
A standout date in the calendar? Saturday 4 October, when beloved Aussie science communicator Dr Karl Kruszelnicki will take the stage for some great moments in science. Expect mind-expanding facts, quirky questions and infectious enthusiasm.
And if you’re keen to inspire the next generation of nature lovers and mini-scientists, Floriade Sprouts is the place to be – packed with crafts, learning activities and fun for families.
A starry atmosphere at NightFest
When the sun sets, Floriade doesn’t go to sleep. Instead, it glows. From Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 October, NightFest returns – transforming the park into a glowing playground of light, music and wonder.
Stroll among illuminated garden beds, sip and nibble something delicious from a local food and drink stall, and soak in the ambience with live performances each night.
This year’s line-up includes the soulful sounds of Josh Pyke on Saturday 4 October, and a powerhouse performance by Ella Hooper on Sunday 5 October. With a program of live music each evening, NightFest is set to be a sensory feast. Tickets are on sale now.
NightFest is ticketed, and gates open nightly from 6:30pm to 10:30pm.
A [light] bulb moment
The final weekend of Floriade 2025 has a myriad of activities to look forward to. On Saturday 11 October, take a journey around the globe without leaving Canberra at Windows to the World, a cultural showcase of colour, craft, and connection. Then, on Sunday 12 October, Dogs’ Day Out returns for you to bring your four-legged friend for a final frolic among the flowers.
On Monday 13 October, come along to The Great Big Bulb Dig, where visitors can take home a little piece of Floriade. It’s a feel-good way to end the season, with proceeds supporting local charity YWCA Canberra, through our presenting partner Allhomes.
Beyond the park: a seasonal chain reaction
Beyond Commonwealth Park, colour will spill into the suburbs through the Floriade Community program. Local schools and community groups will be sharing the springtime magic in their own neighbourhoods.
Floriade About Town will also see local businesses and organisations get creative with themed offerings, and for a charming day trip, the Historic Lanyon Homestead will host Floriade’s Satellite Site, complete with its own floral displays and family-friendly activities.
A blossoming hypothesis
Floriade has long held a special place in the hearts of Canberrans, locals in the neighbouring Queanbeyan region, and for visitors from around Australia. It’s a festival that continues to evolve while staying rooted in its original charm: a love of nature and the simple joy of flowers in bloom.
With free entry to the main event and something for all ages and interests, Floriade 2025 promises to celebrate spring as nature gets nerdy, in the most beautiful way. Come for the tulips, stay for the science, and leave with your curiosity well and truly awakened.
Visit floriadeaustralia.com for program highlights, travel tips and all the details you need to plan your visit
