As the sun sets over Commonwealth Park, Floriade takes on a whole new glow. From Thursday 2 October to Sunday 5 October, Canberra’s favourite spring festival will light up the Labour Day long weekend with the return of NightFest 2025.
After welcoming more than 250,000 attendees during its record-breaking start, Floriade is already the talk of the season. Now, NightFest promises to be the sparkling highlight of the calendar, four unforgettable evenings of illuminated garden beds, live performances, and immersive entertainment that transform the city’s most loved event into an after-dark spectacle.
A Festival in Full Bloom
Chief Minister Andrew Barr said NightFest continues to elevate Floriade’s reputation as a world-class festival.
“Floriade is a true community celebration, and NightFest adds a new dimension to the experience,” Mr Barr said.
“It’s a chance for locals and visitors alike to see Commonwealth Park illuminated with vibrant colours, with live entertainment and interactive displays that showcase Canberra. This year’s Floriade has been a fantastic success so far, and if the good weather continues, it’s on track to be our biggest yet. If you haven’t made it to the festival yet, grab a ticket to NightFest and experience Floriade in a whole new light.”
Entertainment for Every Taste
NightFest 2025 delivers a diverse line-up of Australian favourites, local talent, and interactive experiences for every age and taste. Highlights include:
- Josh Pyke – the beloved singer-songwriter brings his lyrical storytelling to the stage on Saturday 4 October.
- Ella Hooper – with her dynamic five-piece band, Ella headlines on Sunday 5 October, blending country-tinged rock with powerhouse vocals.
- Kazador Tent – KISS TEASE Cabaret: Canberra’s cheekiest adults-only entertainment, hosted by comedian Peter Berner.
- Live music galore – featuring Bek Jensen, Chloe Parche, Jett Blyton, Sophie Edwards, Sunday Lemonade, Joe Mungovan, and Canberra’s own Rob Aspinall.
- Spectacular performances – fire shows, roving entertainers, and vibrant street acts across the park.
- Family fun – balloon activities, lantern making, and creative play at Floriade Sprouts.
- Art in lights – marvel at Leaf Fall, a floating illuminated installation of larger-than-life leaves on Nerang Pool, and step into the dazzling world of The Grid in the Rhododendron Garden.
Event Details
📅 Dates: Thursday 2 – Sunday 5 October
🕡 Time: 6:30pm – 10:30pm each evening
📍 Location: Commonwealth Park, Canberra
🎟️ Tickets: On sale now via NightFest – Floriade
Why You Can’t Miss It
NightFest is more than an evening out, it’s an experience that blends art, music, food, and community in one of Canberra’s most beautiful settings. Whether you’re coming for the live acts, the luminous installations, or simply the chance to see Floriade in a whole new light, NightFest is the ultimate way to celebrate spring in the capital.
Gather your friends, bring the family, and prepare to be dazzled, NightFest 2025 is waiting to light up your long weekend.
