Canberra Water Lantern Festival – A Lighting Event You Must See

DATE	TIME	ADDRESS
To Be Announced	5:00 PM to 9:00 PM	Commonwealth Park, Commonwealth Ave, Canberra, ACT, 2601

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Last Update January 6, 2026

Welcome to the Canberra Water Lantern Festival, where glowing lanterns transform the water into a stunning display of illumination. In this article, I’ll share everything you need to enjoy this magical evening to the fullest.

About the Canberra Water Lantern Festival

The Canberra Water Lantern Festival is a lighting event that celebrates the spirit of hope, dreams, and community. This festival features floating lanterns that are set adrift on the water, each carrying messages of love, remembrance, or aspirations. It’s a beautiful way for people from all backgrounds to come together and share a meaningful experience.

Beyond the lanterns, the festival offers live music, food trucks offering delicious meals and snacks, and activities that keep the atmosphere lively. It’s not just a night to admire the water lanterns, but also a chance to enjoy good food, great entertainment, and a little bit of fun along the way.

The mix of calm reflection and lively energy makes the Canberra Water Lantern Festival something special. If you’re looking for an event that’s both uplifting and full of joy, this one’s not to be missed.

When is the Canberra Water Lantern Festival

Canberra Water Lantern Festival took place last March 1, 2025. This one-day celebration offered attendees the perfect way to spend an evening with their loved ones and friends.

For the next edition, organizers are yet to announce the specific dates, so stay tuned or visit the festival’s official website for the latest updates.

Where It’s Located and How to Get There

Nestled in the heart of Canberra, Commonwealth Park was the setting for the Canberra Water Lantern Festival. Located along Commonwealth Avenue, this picturesque park offers stunning views of Lake Burley Griffin and provides a serene yet vibrant backdrop for the glowing lanterns. With its wide open spaces and convenient location, it’s a spot that captures the magic and tranquility of the festival.

For the next edition, location details are yet to be announced by the organizers, so stay tuned for the latest updates.

For those flying in, the closest airport is Canberra Airport, which is just a short distance from the festival site. There are plenty of easy ways to get from the airport to Commonwealth Park:

Taxi or Rideshare: A quick taxi or rideshare ride gets you to the park in about 15–20 minutes, making it the fastest option.
Public Bus: Route R3 connects the airport to the city center, with stops near Commonwealth Avenue. It’s affordable and takes around 30 minutes.
Car Rentals: If you prefer driving, car rentals are available at the airport, giving you the freedom to explore. Just keep in mind that parking near the park may fill up quickly during the festival.

Coming by train? Here’s how to make your way to the festival from other cities:

From Sydney: Take the train to Canberra Railway Station, a scenic ride of about 4.5 hours. Once in Canberra, grab a local bus or taxi for the short trip to Commonwealth Park.
From Melbourne: While there’s no direct train, you can travel to Albury by train and switch to a coach bound for Canberra. From there, it’s easy to reach the park using local transport.
From Regional Areas: Many nearby towns have direct coach or train services to Canberra Railway Station. Once you arrive, it’s a quick bus or rideshare ride to the festival location.

If you liked this festival, you can also check out these other captivating lantern festivals:

Full Moon Lantern Festival

Pingxi Lantern Festival

Festival Hours

For those planning to attend, the Canberra Water Lantern Festival runs from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The gates open at 5, welcoming you into a lively scene buzzing with music, food trucks, and activities to keep you entertained. It’s the perfect time to wander, grab a bite, and soak up the festive atmosphere as the evening settles in.

At 7:30 PM, creativity takes center stage as attendees design and personalize their lanterns. Whether you write a wish, draw something meaningful, or simply leave it as a blank canvas, it’s a moment to make your lantern uniquely yours. Between 8 and 9 PM, the magic unfolds as the glowing lanterns float across the water, creating a breathtaking finale to an unforgettable evening.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Canberra Water Lantern Festival

Ticket details for the next Canberra Water Lantern Festival are yet to be announced by the organizers.

Here are the ticket details from the 2025 edition:

Adult – Regular: $45.75
Adult – Late: $55.75
Adult – At Event: $65.75
VIP Ticket: $85.10 (includes a general admission ticket, T-shirt, VIP tent access, and exclusive deals)
Date Night Special: $91.10 (includes 2 general admission tickets, a flower crown and a shared blanket or mandala throw)
Kids (Under 8): Free Admission

For the latest updates on ticket prices, stay tuned or visit the festival’s official website.

Weather and What to Wear

March in Canberra brings lovely early autumn weather, making it ideal for an evening under the stars. During the day, temperatures can reach a comfortable 22°C (72°F), but as the sun sets, it cools down to around 12°C (54°F). Dressing in layers is key to staying cozy and enjoying the night.

Here are some clothing suggestions to help you enjoy the festival comfortably:

A light jacket or sweater: Essential for keeping warm as the evening temperatures dip, without feeling too bulky or restrictive.
Comfortable shoes: Whether you’re strolling through the festival or standing to watch the lanterns, sturdy footwear will keep your feet happy.
A scarf or shawl: Lightweight but effective, it’s great for adding a touch of warmth if the breeze picks up by the water.
Casual, weather-friendly clothes: Opt for breathable fabrics during the warmer part of the evening, but make sure they’re easy to layer for when it cools down.
A small blanket: Perfect if you plan to sit by the water and enjoy the glowing lanterns in comfort.

Best Hotels to Stay Nearby

If you’re looking for a cozy, convenient, or even luxurious place to stay near the Canberra Water Lantern Festival, these nearby hotels have you covered.

Crowne Plaza Canberra, an IHG Hotel: This 4-star hotel offers the perfect mix of comfort and convenience, with spacious, air-conditioned rooms and free Wi-Fi to make your stay stress-free. After a full evening at the festival, you can relax by the outdoor pool or take a short walk to explore nearby sights.

The Village Canberra: Ideal for travelers on a budget, this 2-star spot keeps things simple but satisfying. With air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant, it has everything you need for a relaxed and easy stay in the city center.

Ovolo Nishi: If you’re after something stylish and upscale, this 5-star hotel delivers a unique and artistic experience. From beautifully designed rooms to a fitness center and free Wi-Fi, it’s a trendy retreat in the heart of Canberra’s vibrant NewActon Precinct.

Where to Eat

For food lovers heading to the Canberra Water Lantern Festival, these nearby restaurants serve up everything from bold Japanese flavors to elegant Australian dining, giving you plenty of delicious options to enjoy before or after the event.

Wilma: This vibrant spot is the perfect mix of great cocktails and creative dishes that keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re digging into roast duck pancakes, savoring smoked kingfish sashimi, or finishing with a caramelized white chocolate brownie, every bite feels like a treat.

Courgette Restaurant: For a more refined dining experience, Courgette delivers on both taste and atmosphere with its modern Australian menu and peaceful garden views. Indulge in dishes like perfectly seared Atlantic salmon, rich wagyu beef cheek, or a warm smoked potato sabayon, all paired beautifully with their fine wine selection.

Raku: If Japanese cuisine is what you’re craving, Raku offers an unforgettable mix of fresh, local ingredients and modern sushi bar charm. From seared beef striploin and crispy spicy tofu to the decadent Japanese whisky chocolate fondant, every dish is crafted to impress.

More Things to Do in the Area

Beyond the Canberra Water Lantern Festival, there’s plenty to see and do in the area, offering a mix of wildlife, art, and unique experiences that are perfect for making the most of your visit.

National Zoo & Aquarium: Animal lovers will be right at home here, with 19 hectares of exhibits showcasing creatures from land and sea. Located next to Scrivener Dam, this zoo offers everything from up-close encounters with big cats to peaceful strolls through open-range habitats teeming with wildlife.

National Gallery of Australia: For a dose of culture, the National Gallery of Australia is a must-visit, boasting a vast collection of over 166,000 works of art. From Indigenous masterpieces to contemporary installations, every gallery offers something inspiring, making it an ideal stop for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Cockington Green Gardens: Cockington Green Gardens is a delightful escape where miniature villages and meticulously landscaped gardens bring a playful charm to life. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon, this family-run attraction combines whimsical details with picnic spots, making it a fun outing for all ages.

An Illuminating Conclusion: Final Words on the Canberra Water Lantern Festival

The Canberra Water Lantern Festival offers a perfect mix of creativity, connection, and pure enjoyment. It’s a chance to slow down, take in the beauty of lanterns floating across the water, and share a meaningful moment with those around you.

From personalizing your lantern to watching it drift into the night, every part of the evening feels special and memorable. With delicious food, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere, the festival creates an experience that’s both relaxing and full of life.

If you’re searching for a night that feels unique and unforgettable, this is the place to be. Make sure to experience it for yourself—you won’t regret it.