As spring unfurls its colours across Australia, there is one city that blossoms into a breathtaking floral paradise, the nation’s capital. Returning for its 38th year from 12 September to 13 October, Floriade, Australia’s biggest celebration of Spring, transforms Canberra’s beautiful Commonwealth Park into a vibrant canvas of more than one million blooms. For those exploring Australia between September and October, this annual festival deserves a top spot on the bucket list. It invites travellers to slow down and immerse themselves in a month-long celebration where art, nature, and community spirit meet. This year’s theme, Science and Nature, encourages visitors to swap gardening gloves for lab coats with hands on workshops, talks, and interactive exhibits, designed to ignite curiosity.

Beyond the beautiful blooms, Floriade offers a wide range of activities that make it one of Canberra’s most cherished springtime experiences. Set against the backdrop of the city’s thoughtful urban design and unhurried pace, Floriade is the perfect destination for multi-generational families. While younger visitors can dive into Floriade’s interactive exhibits, older family members can wander through garden beds bursting with blooms, enjoy live music performances, or be captivated by the street entertainers. They can also browse market stalls, meet local food and wine producers, and savour local delicacies. From day to night, the festival brims with experiences, so here is a glimpse of what awaits:

• Witness the park come alive after dark with NightFest (2 to 5 October), a special ticketed event. Beyond the breathtaking illuminated displays, the evening offers a unique program of entertainment—live music from Australian artists like Josh Pyke and Ella Hooper, exhilarating fire and circus performances, and a creative lantern workshop that culminates in a parade through the glowing park.
• Embark on a culinary adventure through Commonwealth Park, starting with locally brewed cold beers at the BentSpoke Brewing Beer Garden and bespoke cocktails at the Underground Spirits Gin Garden. Savour the flavours of the region with wine tastings and gourmet picnics at the Contentious Character Urban Winery or indulge in an array of unique food stalls and sweet treats.
• Adding an international flair, Floriade will host Windows to the World on 11 October with select embassies presenting pop-up displays. This event gives visitors a chance to travel the world through traditional performances, authentic cuisine, and cultural exhibits.

With Indian travellers increasingly seeking immersive local experiences, Floriade is a vibrant reason to explore beyond the usual tourist circuit. For those in Sydney, the capital is just a three-hour scenic drive that unfolds through the picturesque Southern Highlands, presenting a perfect opportunity to pause along the way. Travellers can make a day of it by stopping in the charming town of Bowral, where cricket fans can visit the Bradman Museum, a must for any cricket enthusiast. And while Floriade may be the main drawcard, it is also the perfect reason to explore Canberra. Beyond the festival, visitors can unwind in the tranquil landscapes and discover the city’s other iconic attractions – such as Australian Parliament House, find a peaceful moment of reflection at the National Arboretum, or immerse in arts and culture at the National Gallery of Australia. With its unique blend of nature, art, and a thriving food scene, Canberra offers a mindful and immersive cultural experience.