Released 06/02/2020
A visit to the Enlighten Festival which starts at the end of this month is the perfect way to support Canberra’s tourism industry which has been impacted by bushfires and smoke haze.
‘Holiday Here’ is the message behind a VisitCanberra social media campaign #holidayhereCBR to encourage locals to explore their city and support local businesses who have been feeling a downturn due to this summer’s conditions.
With about one in 20 Canberrans employed by a tourism business, most of our community is feeling the impact of this devastating fire season in some way.
Canberrans can help by exploring sides to the city they’ve never come across before, ticking off a bucket list item, booking a staycation or visiting a local attraction or event.
This starts with the Enlighten Festival which returns from Friday 28 February until Sunday 15 March.
Proudly presented by Singapore Airlines, the Enlighten Festival brings together some of Canberra’s premier events including the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, Lights! Canberra! Action!, Symphony in the Park, Canberra Day and of course, the ever popular Enlighten Illuminations.
Some of the capital’s most loved and iconic buildings will come to life as the Illuminations (28 February – 9 March) light up after dark on the National Portrait Gallery, National Library of Australia, National Gallery of Australia, Australian Parliament House, Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, and Questacon. The Parliamentary Triangle becomes a vibrant canvas showcasing Australian talent, roving entertainers, art installations and live music with free and ticketed events taking place across many of the national attractions.
For nine mornings, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular (7-15 March) will fill our skyline as more than 20 hot air balloons take to the skies. Also returning in 2020 is the Canberra Night Noodle Markets (28 February – 9 March), a fan favourite, will bring tastes from across the world to Reconciliation Place, and has been extended this year to include Canberra Day. Canberrans can look forward to enjoying local food and beverages as Enlighten Alley and the Bentspoke Beer Garden return to serve up some favourites on the local hospitality scene.
Rounding out the comprehensive program of activities are Canberra’s beloved community events, including Lights! Canberra! Action (6 March), Symphony in the Park (8 March) and Canberra Day (9 March) which will have a new base in the Parliamentary Triangle.
Across the city, Canberra’s attractions will be participating in the festivities with a range of fun and informative initiatives at the Canberra Glassworks, National Archives of Australia, National Electoral Education Centre, National Zoo & Aquarium and the National Film and Sound Archive.
Enlighten Festival 2020 program and ticketing information can be found at enlightencanberra.com
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Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases