By Rama Gaind.
In 2019, Floriade’s patterns and programming explores a floral feast that’s inspired by a ‘World in Bloom’. Floriade, in Commonwealth Park, Canberra, ends on 13 October.
Australia’s biggest celebration of spring is underway in Canberra as you explore the world when you visit Floriade, in Commonwealth Park, until 13 October.
Each year Floriade’s floral patterns and programming explores a different theme. In 2019, this floral feast is inspired by a ‘World in Bloom’. All corners of the world are represented in vibrant flowerbeds grouped by continent. You’ll find designs from across Oceania, America, Asia, Europe and Africa. Each display has been carefully curated to portray an aspect of a country or region’s cultural history, religion or art – from Indian tribal patterns to the Egyptian pyramids.
Look for the World in Bloom Hands flowerbed behind Stage 88, which is a stunning pattern of open, waving hands to demonstrate our international connectedness.
Floriade is a diverse, ever-expanding program of music, cultural celebrations, food and wine, horticultural workshops, market traders, artistic displays, entertainment and recreational activities. With over one million blooms on display, Floriade is the perfect place to experience the beauty of spring.
It’s the 32nd year of Floriade in the nation’s capital and it is bursting out of Commonwealth Park and heading to local town centres around Canberra. A little bit of Floriade flavour will be seen in Gungahlin, Belconnen, Tuggeranong, Coombs and Woden.
Learn something new
One of the best ways to view the internationally inspired brilliance of Floriade is from above. Climb aboard the ferris wheel and take in the panoramic view of mass plantings – all expertly blended into a medley of colour.
Floriade’s program of workshops and artistic displays provide insights into a variety of horticultural and creative pursuits. Check the schedule to plan your learning journey.
Throughout the park, you’ll be able to visit many market traders. You’ll find spices, organic tea, honey, chilli, nuts, gluten-free options, as well as soaps, jewellery, leather goods and even henna tattoos.
The locale of gnomes is always a hit with the little (and big) kids. Come along on the weekend or during school holidays to paint your own gnome to join the display (or take home). Plus see the artistic talents of local community groups and schools, who create masterpieces for an impressive gnome knoll. Take your time looking at the details adorning these gorgeous sprights. All money raised goes to the Rotary Club of Canberra East.
Ferris wheel
One of the best ways to view the internationally inspired brilliance is from above. Climb aboard the ferris wheel and take in the panoramic view of mass plantings of tulips, starflowers, muscari, viola, ranunculus, daffodils and more – all expertly blended into a medley of colour.
Dabble in Floriade’s dark side at NightFest from 3 to 6 October. Floriade under lights is quite an entertainment mecca.
Take time out to tempt your tastebuds. Other than the springtime aromas of tulips, daffodils and daisies, mouth-watering food scents may just trigger your appetite. There are options ranging from warm honey doughnuts from Clayridge Honey, chicken tikka from the Tikka Stand and sensational Greek street food wraps from Sacred Seed Co., Pialligo Estate is returning for its second year with a fresh, delicious menu at the Pialligo Urban Café. Why not simply grab a Streets Ice Cream before you explore the park on a sunny spring day?
Libraries ACT will also host fun events for kids throughout Floriade, including bilingual storytime. Plus, Kidz Klub returns with daily art and craft activities over the school holidays and on weekends. There was the Ultimate Storytelling Battle at the weekend where two best-selling Australian authors Mick Elliott and Oliver Phommavanh spent an hour creating an instant story. This improvised storytelling battle was perfect for kids who love to laugh.
Floriade is your taster for all things Canberra. Shop CBR stocks local and regional produce, purchase official Floriade and CBR merchandise or find some more inspiring locations to visit around the region (this time or next). Stock up on cool climate wines, award-winning Jasper and Myrtle chocolate, BentSpoke brews or locally produced vegan fudge from Fudgemental. With product tastings on weekends, you can try before you buy.
The Canberra and Region Visitors Centre, located at Regatta Point next to Floriade, is also a treasure trove of local produce and hand-crafted gifts.
NightFest fun
All corners of the world are represented in vibrant flowerbeds grouped by continent at the 2019 Floriade in Commonwealth Park.
Dabble in Floriade’s dark side at NightFest, under lights and it’s an entertainment mecca. See the flowers sparkle under lights, catch a comedy show featuring Dave Hughes or groove along to some tunes from The Veronicas, Busby Marou and Electric Fields. Plus, market stalls, roaming entertainment and pop up bars from local favourites Capital Brewing Co., Underground Spirits and Contentious Character.
NightFest is open daily from 3-6 October 2019, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, weather permitting.
As the sun sets over Commonwealth Park, Floriade becomes an illuminated wonderland as NightFest returns with nights of entertainment, food and more.
Come early and grab some dinner as the flowerbeds across Floriade light up the night. Take a wander through before heading to the stage for the nightly entertainment. Get there early and grab some dinner
Now is the time to gather your friends and family and secure your NightFest tickets.
DETAILS BOX
2019 Floriade in Commonwealth Park until 13 October.
NightFest is open daily from 3-6 October 2019, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, weather permitting.
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