What's on in Canberra: 5th - 11th May

4 days ago

14 min read

It's a BIG week in Canberra this week! Check out our round up of family-friendly special events, playgroups & classes, and Mother's Day events.

Special Events

Oz Feline Fair & Catstravaganza

The Oz Feline Fair is a spectacular cat pop culture event showcasing cats of all breeds, from fancy show felines to adorable rescue kitties! Featuring a huge variety of exclusive and artisan stalls offering everything cat related including treats, toys and cat-themed merchandise. Check out artisan marketplace Purr-Creations Alley, explore the vast stores in Vendor Village, participate or watch the Cosplay Competition, pat a cat (or many cats!) or simply just sit back and watch all the CATstravaganza action! The Oz Feline Fair will be paradise for cat loving humans. Find more info and book your tickets here.

Oz Feline Fair & Catstravaganza - 10th May - 9:00am to 4:30pm - $25+

The Great Lego Sale

Love LEGO? Join Roundabout Canberra for an epic day of brick-filled fun at The Great Lego Sale of 2025 – and support a great cause while you're at it! With free entry, you can expect to find Box sets, Minifigures, Duplo, Technic, Vintage, Mindstorms, and even mystery bags. There'll also be a BBQ, bake sale, music, build your own minifigure stall, and heaps more family fun! Every dollar raised goes directly to Roundabout Canberra, helping provide essential baby and children's items to families in need. Find all the event details here.

Roundabout Canberra's Great Lego Sale - 10th May - free

PERKS Parent Workshops

PERKS workshops are free parenting workshops run by Southside Initiative. Each school term, they offer workshops that help support Southside families. Head along for the 'Early Childhood Development' workshop this Monday the 5th of May, where you'll learn more about developmental milestones for children aged 0-5. Supper is provided, plus there will be adjunct care provided for any children who may attend. Register for your free spot here.

Early Childhood Development Workshop - 5th May - 5:30 - 7pm - free

Trivia Night & Dinner @ Let's Play

Get ready to flex those brain muscles and show off your smarts at Trivia! Whether you’re a pop culture pro, a history buff, or just really good at guessing, this is your time to shine. Gather your squad and compete for the title of trivia royalty. Plus, enjoy a delicious dinner while the kids entertain themselves in the play area.

Trivia Night & Dinner @ Let's Play - 10th May - 5:00 - 8:00 pm - $6+

Fantasia Film Screening @ the NFSA

Don't miss your chance to see family-favourite Fantasia on the big screen at the beautiful Arc cinema inside the National Film and Sound Archive. Get your tickets here.

Fantasia @ the NFSA - 11th May - 1pm - $10+

Trivia Night @ Wildbark

Embark on an unforgettable evening of trivia, dinner, and drinks at Wildbark. Quizmaster Michael will be throwing down the gauntlet for general knowledge, science and nature, geography, and sports and entertainment. Whether it's a night out with colleagues, friends, or the whole family, they've got you covered. Enjoy delicious dinner and drinks while putting your knowledge to the test. Plus, keep the little ones entertained with Ranger Matt’s Kids Club available onsite. Get all the info here.

Trivia Night @ Wildbark - 9th May - 5pm onwards - $10+

Autumn Picnic @ Mona Farm

Gather your family and friends for a vibrant autumn day at Mona Farm! Soak in the stunning surroundings while enjoying live music by The Hip Replacements, paddock-to-plate pizzas, and a selection of refreshing drinks and local wines. Bring your picnic blanket along and enjoy a Charcuterie Hamper, featuring fresh strawberries, local smoked ham, DOJO Braidwood bread, cheese and more (must be pre-ordered). For the little ones, there's face painting, lawn games and farm tours (subject to availability) and more! Book your spots here.

Autumn Picnic @ Mona Farm - 10th May - 12:00 - 5:00 pm - $30 p.p. (children 12 and under free)

Animal Encounter Sessions @ South Canberra Community Market

Let the kids get up close and personal with beloved farm animals! These interactive sessions give kids the chance to feed, pet, and learn about alpacas, sheep, goats, chickens, and other animals. The animal encounters are part of the South Canberra Community Market day. Browse the market stalls, grab a bite to eat, relax in the outdoor shady food court, enjoy live music, and check out the display of vintage farm tractors and machinery - all in a beautiful rural location. Get your tickets for the Animal Encounter here.

Animal Encounter Sessions - 10th May - 10am - 1pm - $5

Canberra Museum & Gallery Open Day

Discover a day full of art, history, and creativity at the CMAG Open Day. The Open Day marks the 50th anniversary of the Sidney Nolan Collection, gifted to the nation and proudly displayed at CMAG. Whether you're new to Nolan or already a fan, there's something on offer for everyone. There'll also be family-friendly events on offer, including the 'Where's Ned?' treasure hunt, a painting station, Nolan-inspired chalk art, free Ned Kelly cupcakes (for the first 50 visitors to the cafe), and enjoy the spectacular lyre bird costume designed by Sidney Nolan for the Display Ballet. Find all the details here.

CMAG Open Day - 10th May - 10:00am - 4:00pm - free

Stargazing at Lanyon Homestead

Look up and explore the wonders of the Milky Way at Lanyon Homestead — one of Canberra's best dark sky locations. Join astronomers from Mt. Stromlo Observatory for an unforgettable night of stargazing. The experience begins with a captivating presentation about our skies, followed by guided telescope viewing of the stars, planets and the Milky Way. Get your tickets here.

Stargazing @ Lanyon Homestead - 9th May - 7:30pm - 9pm - $50+

The Cottage Markets

Explore The Cottage Markets on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month at South.Point Shopping Centre in Tuggeranong. Explore a variety of stalls featuring handmade crafts, beautiful jewellery, cozy knits & crochet, unique cards & homemade treats, candles, soaps, and more! Bring your family and friends and make a day of it.

The Cottage Markets @ South.Point Tuggeranong - 10th May - 9:00am - 3pm - free

Playgroups, Classes & Regular Activities

Play & Explore @ Westfield Belconnen

Formerly known as Loose Parts Playgroup, Play & Explore is a free playgroup designed for kids aged 0-5 years, to help develop their physical health, creativity, communication skills, and emotional developments through engaging activities and play. Run by Capital Region Community Services, Play & Explore is a great early learning and play opportunity for Canberra kids. Throughout the year, kids will engage in various activities with a different theme each month, while parents have an opportunity to connect with each other. Running weekly on Tuesdays from 9:30am - 11:30am. Find more info here.

Play & Explore - 6th May - 9:30am - 11:30am - free

Wildbark Nature Play with Parents & Carers Group

Bring your toddlers to a free playgroup at Wildbark on Friday mornings, with a variety of activities and crafts to enjoy! Their Parents and Carers Group, which runs alongside the Nature Play playgroup, is a supportive community that is focused on holistic health and wellness. It offers a welcoming space for members to engage in group or self directed activities, and strategies that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being for both parents and their families. Find more info here.

Wildbark Nature Play & Parents/Carers Group - Every Friday during school terms - 9:30am - 11am - free

Murrulangalang Story Time

Dive into the world of storytelling, imagination, and discovery as stories are brought to life through interactive storytelling sessions. Bring your children along for a free, fun, engaging and educational morning out every Wednesday. Hear a story, act it out, sing a song, and participate in a scavenger hunt. This program runs weekly on Wednesdays during the school term. All learners 0 to 6yrs are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Reserve your spot here.

Murrulangalang Story Time @ the National Archives of Australia - 30th April - 10:15 - 11am - free

Mother's Day

Scent & Sip Experience at QTea High Tea

This Mother’s Day, spoil your mum with a decadent experience for the senses. In partnership with Château La Gordonne rosé, QT Hotel is hosting an exclusive sensory journey guided by a fragrance expert. Sip on the delicate notes of this renowned rosé as you enter a curated experience to create your own, personalised scent. Let their expert guide you to create a signature scent, inspired by the same delicate notes from Château La Gordonne’s rosé, creating a bespoke fragrance that’s uniquely yours to take home. All of this, plus a gorgeous high tea that will have mum singing your praises for a long time coming! $115 adult, $55 children (5-17 years). Get more details and book here.

Mother’s Day Morning Tea or Luncheon at Blackwattle Alpaca Farm

Blackwattle Alpaca Farm is the perfect place to provide your mum with a unique and heartfelt experience that goes beyond the ordinary! Their Mother’s Day Luncheon includes a 45-minute guided farm tour, 30 minutes of hand-feeding alpacas and llamas, and a simple yet delicious lunch and refreshing drink. Or, why not treat mum to a special morning tea, where she can enjoy a guided farm tour and hand-feeding the alpacas and llamas, plus indulge in a tray of assorted sweet treats plus a tea, coffee, hot chocolate or glass of Prosecco. $60 adult, $50 children (3-9 years), $20 toddler (1-2 years). Get your tickets to this special event here.

Mother's Day Breakfast & Pilates at Rosa's

Rosa’s is calling to celebrate Mother’s Day in the way she deserves. Surrounded by the beauty of the National Rose Gardens, warm up with a mat Pilates session hosted by Eighty8 Health Performance, and then indulge in a grazing style breakfast in full bloom. From $50 per person. Book your spots here!

The Mother’s Day Classic

Get the special women in your life together to walk or run for breast and ovarian cancer research this Mother's Day. On Sunday the 11th of May, the Mother’s Day Classic will be starting at Rond Terrace at Lake Burley Griffin, with 5km & 10km runs and 5km walks happening. Register for the event here.

Canberra Theatre Centre Open Day

If you’re after something a little different, the Canberra Theatre Centre is opening its doors to give viewers rare and exclusive backstage access as the Centre celebrates 60 sensational years in 2025. As you wander the halls of the iconic venue, you’ll be able to experience what it’s like to stand on The Playhouse stage, learn about how your favourite productions come to life, and make your way through the dressing rooms. There’ll be plenty of other fun activities throughout the day to keep the whole family entertained, plus there’ll be food trucks on site as well as some sweet treats to choose from. This is truly a special way to celebrate Mother's Day in Canberra! Register for this free event here.

Mother’s Day Photo Session

Celebrate being a mother (or grandmother) at Mel Hill Photography with a Mother’s Day photo session with the family. Their beautifully styled studio setting is perfect for giggles, snuggles, and plenty of natural fun! All ages are catered for, including expecting mothers. 15 minute session is $295.00. Get more details here.

Mother’s Day Cruise

Treat mum to a cruise along the water of Canberra's Lake Burley Griffin this Mother’s Day, in a relaxing 2-hour cruise where mum can take a well-deserved break. BYO food and drinks, or add on a delicious grazing box to indulge in filled with an assortment of savoury and sweet goodies, perfect for snacking as you enjoy the stunning views of Canberra’s landmarks. $65+. Book your spots here.

Mother’s Day Pilates & Pastries

Celebrate Mum with the perfect Mother's Day morning. Held at the Canberra Nara Peace Park (Lennox Gardens), join in on a 45-minute Mat Pilates flow, followed by a relaxed picnic-style spread of pastries and nibbles. $20 per person, $30 Mum & Daughter combo. Find more info here.

The TEN Tenors: 30th Anniversary World Tour

Marking 30 years since their very first performance in Brisbane in 1995, Australia’s favourite tenor ensemble The TEN Tenors will embark on the Australian leg of their massive world tour. Hitting Canberra on the 11th of May with both daytime and evening shows, this is the perfect opportunity to treat Mum to dinner and a show. Tickets from $99. Get them here.

Mother's Day Bliss Restorative Yoga & Sound Bath

Receive space and serenity this Mother's Day at this blissful Restorative Yoga and Sound Experience at Flow and Food Yoga & Ayurveda. Run by experienced practitioners, this healing and blissful experience will explore themes of the womb, the heart and the divine feminine. With holistic intention, be guided to settle and soften into a supportive, nurturing and Restorative Yoga practice complimented by the harmonic vibrations of crystal bowl sound healing instruments to support profound inner calm. $65 per person, and if you’re a mum, use the discount code BLISS4MUM at checkout for a half-price ticket! Get more details here.

Lunch at Beltana Farm

Treat Mum to a special lunch at Beltana Farm. Enjoy their shared feast Unearthed Tasting Menu, while overlooking the trees and enjoying the fresh air. They also have a two-course meal for the little ones, so everyone can join in the celebration! Book your spots here.

Lunch or Brunch at Med

Celebrate Mum with a decadent Mediterranean lunch or brunch banquet at Med, featuring a carefully crafted selection of dishes designed to be shared and savoured. Indulge in vibrant flavours, fresh ingredients, and a warm, inviting atmosphere—perfect for making Mum’s day truly special. Find more info here.

Brunch at Hotel Kurrajong

Create a memorable Mother’s Day celebration in Canberra with a delightful brunch experience that’s perfect for the whole family at Chifley’s Bar and Grill. Indulge in a mouthwatering spread, live music, and fun activities for the kids. Part high tea, part brunch, this celebration promises to celebrate mum in style. $109 adult, $59 children (12 and under). Get your tickets here.

Mother’s Day Lunch at First Edition

Located in the heart of the city, First Edition offers a warm and relaxed setting perfect for celebrating all mothers. Their table share menu combines rich flavours and comforting dishes ideal for a memorable family gathering, like slow-cooked pork belly, Moroccan spiced chicken breast, and Cowra lamb rump, with plenty of sides and something sweet to finish. $89 adults, $45 children (14 and under). Book your spot here.

Mother’s Day Lunch at The Atrium

Experience Mother's Day under the Atrium roof, where you can sit amongst the garden whilst you enjoy a delicious 2 course lunch menu (mains & dessert) and sip on a complimentary house beverage on arrival. $65.00 adults, $15 children (5-12 years). Book your spot here.

Mother’s Day Lunch at Marble & Grain

Treat your mum this Mother’s Day to a beautifully crafted 3-course lunch at Marble & Grain, plus a glass of sparkling when you arrive. Including Tuna tartare tartlet, cold smoked trout herb crème fraiche, crispy skin chicken, local lamb, pan roasted snapper, a Marble & Grain Chocolate mousse and much more, you won’t want to miss this if you (or mum!) are a foodie! $112.49 adults, $43.66 children (12 and under). Book here.

Mother’s Day at Contentious Character

Head along to Contentious Character this Mother’s Day, where wine, dine, and family time come together! Spoil Mum with a day full of delicious food, great wine, and quality family time at this stunning urban winery. No cooking, no cleaning - just good times and even better memories! Plus, all Mums will enjoy a complimentary glass of prosecco upon arrival. Cheers to that! 3-course menu $85 per person (or $125 with paired wines),

kids menu $35 per child. Book your spots here.

Mother's Day Bottomless Brunch at the Mercure

Treat Mum to a special brunch at Mercure’s Courtyard Restaurant this Mother’s Day, with bottomless Mimosas and Aperol Spritz! Choose from a special menu of sweet and savoury brunch items and enjoy a two-hour beverage package, while looking over the Courtyard Gardens. What a way to celebrate Mother's Day in Canberra! Adult $69, $52 teen (13-17 years), $29 children (12 and under). Don’t miss out on booking your spot here.

Mother’s Day Lunch at The Yacht Club

Spoil Mum with a memorable Mother’s Day Lunch at Canberra's gorgeous Yacht Club, filled with great food, drinks, and beautiful surroundings. Enjoy the lakeside views while savouring a delicious 3-course menu featuring fresh Australian seafood. All Mothers will enjoy bottomless Prosecco, adding a finishing touch to the experience. A perfect way to show your appreciation! $110 (members), $130 (non members). Book your place here.

Mother’s Day Lunch at Poachers Pantry

Treat Mum to lunch in the countryside this Mother’s Day weekend at Poachers, Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 May. Enjoy Poachers Pantry’s chef’s autumn tasting menu for $85pp with an optional additions menu available on the day. $85 adults, $30 children (12 years and under). Make your booking here.

The Hyatt - Tea Lounge

For close to a century, The Tea Lounge has been a revered place for special occasions, including the Hyatt’s beloved Mother’s Day High Tea. Indulge in their famed three-tier High Tea stands with a delectable array of finger sandwiches, savoury items, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of house-made pastries and cakes. $110 adult, $55 children (6-12 years). Book your place here.

Mother’s Day Takeaway High Tea from Hotel Kurrajong

Spoil Mum this Mother’s Day with a High Tea and indulge where and when you please! This takeaway high tea includes a stand with sweet and savoury options, including salmon sandwiches, sliders, macarons, cupcakes, scones and more, plus 2 Pug coffee pouches and 4 premium Tea Drop selections. $159 per High Tea package. Book yours here.

Gin High Tea Mother’s Day Celebration

Celebrate the Mother's Day weekend at Big River Distilling Co, and enjoy cocktails and high tea treats. Relax and sample Canberra's best gin with mum, including a Mandarin Gin Tom Collins or Syrah Gin sour, and a selection of high tea classics. Alcohol free cocktails also available. $70 per person. Find out more info here.

High Tea at Adore Tea

Let the tea experts handle the high tea this year! Adore Tea’s refined high tea features a carefully curated three-course menu, including a selection of premium teas, savoury starters, and indulgent sweet treats. This is one of our favourite Mother's Day High Tea spots in Canberra. $79 per person. Grab your spot here.

Louis

Show mum how much you care with a sophisticated high tea at louis. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with cream and jam, and an exquisite selection of pastries and desserts. $85 adult, $45 children. Make your booking here.

The Marion

Sip your champagne, look out over Lake Burley Griffin, and enjoy an assortment of freshly baked scones with cream and preserve followed by finely cut sandwiches, savoury pastries and delectable petit cakes (all created on site by the Marion’s highly skilled team of chefs). $90 adults, $60 children (5 -12 years). Don’t miss your spot - book here.

Mother’s Day High Tea at Redsalt Restaurant

Celebrate the extraordinary women in your life with an elegant and indulgent High Tea at Redsalt Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Canberra. Treat Mum to a thoughtfully curated menu featuring a selection of savoury bites and sweet treats, premium teas, and optional bubbly. $70 adult, $35 children (4-12 years). Don’t miss out on booking your spot!

Mother’s Day High Tea at Canberra Southern Cross Club Woden

Celebrate Mother’s Day in style with High Tea at CSCC’s Orion Room in Woden. Indulge in bottomless mimosas, traditional finger sandwiches, a selection of sweets, and freshly baked scones served with fresh cream and house-made preserves. $95 adult, $65 young adult (13-17 years), $45 children (up to 12 years). Book your spot for a relaxing day filled with delicious treats and sparkling drinks.

Mother's Day High Tea at Capitol Bar & Grill

This Mother’s Day, forget breakfast in bed and treat your number one cheerleader to QT Canberra’s lavish, love-soaked high tea. Settle into Capitol Bar & Grill, the award-winning signature restaurant, for a high tea that is stacked with savoury elegance and sweet indulgence. $91.31 per person. Get your tickets here.

Mumfest at Haig Park Village Markets

Haig Park knows the right way to celebrate mum… with her own festival! Returning for its fourth year, Canberra's Haig Park will transform into a Mother’s Day spectacular that you won’t want to miss. This free family-friendly event is the perfect opportunity to shout mum to some local products or services, while being part of a celebration of mums everywhere. Get more details here.

Super Sunday for Mother’s Day at the Old Bus Depot Markets

Take mum out for a day at the Markets. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and see some of the best handcrafts and high-quality items on offer, taste a wide selection of delicious food, see an array of fine jewellery, try on the latest styles from your local designers, and much more. It’s a celebration of the best that the Old Bus Depot Markets have to offer – You don’t wanna’ miss it! Find out more here.