Canberra Entertainment
Canberra offers a healthy bar scene, with several popular pubs modelled on the traditional British pub as well as a number of nightclubs, dance halls and live music venues. In addition, the Canberra Casino adds another dimension to the entertainment options in the city.
Nightlife
Canberra is much like any other Australian city when it comes to nightlife; based as it is firmly on pub culture. There are several quality pubs in town including the British-style Wig & Pen, which is located on Limestone Street. There are also a couple of authentic-looking Irish pubs, while Moosehead's in the south of the city is another popular watering hole.
If youre not into the pub scene, there is also a casino in here - Casino Canberra, which is located in Glebe Park. This older-style casino has the usual card games and a casual set up, although dress regulations do apply.
Music
The Phoenix on Row Street is a regular pub which has live music upstairs, while several discos and nightclubs are also in town. Bobby McGee's Entertainment Lounge, located in the Rydges Canberra Hotel on the London Circuit, is very popular with the younger crowd with its dance sounds and is open every night except Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
Festivals
Canberra offers several colourful festivals and events throughout the year including many cultural, sporting and musical events. The Royal Canberra Show, the Tuggeranong Festival and the Floriade are among the more popular festivals, although there is something on the calendar every month. The following is a shortlist of the more popular festivals in Canberra:
- National Multicultural Festival Canberra: one of Canberras most popular festivals featuring theatre performances, gourmet food, a parade and a spectacular balloon fiesta (February).
- Royal Canberra Show: one for the animal lover, the Royal Canberra Show offers show jumping and sheep shearing demonstrations as well as a grand parade and several other exhibits (February).
- Floriade: this spring celebration is held in Commonwealth Park where one million bulbs bloom to display their full colours. Food, entertainment and craft displays also feature (mid-September to mid-October).
- Tuggeranong Festival: is the liveliest festival of the year with its live music, masked ball, amusement rides, arts festival, childrens concert, heritage walks, model yacht club races and street parade. A grand firework display finishes off the event (November).
