Floriade 2025 in Canberra: A Blooming Travel Guide

Floriade 2025 is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be a must-see celebration of spring, science, and community in Canberra.

This festival offers an incredible mix of blooms, entertainment, and local flavour that keeps people coming back year after year.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a seasoned flower lover, here’s everything you need to know to enjoy Floriade to the fullest.

Highlights and Activities at Floriade 2025

Floriade in Canberra is a stunning celebration of spring, and walking into Commonwealth Park during the festival is like stepping into a vibrant living rainbow.

Over a million flowers bloom, filling the park with a symphony of colours from tulips, daffodils, pansies, and more.

The theme for Floriade 2025, “Science and Nature,” will transform the festival into an outdoor laboratory, where you may find floral designs shaped like DNA strands or planets.

It’s a perfect blend of science and nature, and the whole park practically hums with energy.

If you’re looking for a top tip from experience, jump on the Ferris wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the flower beds—trust me, the patterns and colours from above are nothing short of breathtaking, and they make for the most stunning photos.

But Floriade is more than just flowers. The festival offers entertainment for all ages, and there’s always something to capture your attention.

Live music fills the air, from jazzy tunes floating over the tulips to lively cultural dance performances on the lawn.

If you’ve got kids, there’s plenty to keep them entertained too.

Last year, a bubble show and circus acts took place on Stage 88, and the weekends were packed with family-friendly activities.

There are also roaming performers, art installations, and bustling market stalls where local artisans and producers showcase their work.

You can even take part in workshops and talks throughout the festival. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just curious, you can put on a lab coat and dive into hands-on sessions about plants, sustainability, and the science behind all the blooms.

One of the highlights of Floriade is the magical NightFest. For four nights (2–5 October), Commonwealth Park transforms into an illuminated wonderland.

Picture flower beds lit up with creative light displays, fairy lights twinkling through the trees, and the Ferris wheel glowing against the spring night sky.

NightFest runs from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm and is filled with live bands, quirky entertainers, and a glowing garden trail.

Gourmet food stalls offer dinner under the stars, and you can even enjoy a cheeky cocktail while watching performances.

Note that NightFest requires a separate ticket, and they tend to sell out fast, so it’s worth booking early.

Floriade’s grand finale is always a highlight. On Sunday, 12 October, the Dogs’ Day Out invites pet owners to bring their furry friends along to the park.

It’s a joyful day filled with wagging tails. Just be careful, they might suspect the flower beds were for digging!

The festival wraps up with the Great Big Bulb Dig, where keen gardeners can dig up tulip bulbs to take home in exchange for a charity donation.

It’s a fun way to grab a little piece of the festival for your own garden.

Floriade 2025 promises to be another unforgettable spring celebration, so if you’ve never been, now’s the time to add it to your calendar!

Where to Stay: Accommodation Near Floriade (Budget, Mid-Range, Luxury)

After a day spent soaking in the flowers and festivities, finding a comfortable spot to unwind is essential.

Luckily, Commonwealth Park is just a short walk from Canberra’s city centre (Civic), offering a variety of accommodation options within easy reach of Floriade.

Budget travellers can look to the Canberra City YHA hostel, located in the heart of the CBD.

With both dorms and private rooms, it’s a solid, affordable choice. It’s incredibly convenient—just a 15-minute walk to the festival each morning.

If you’re willing to stay a bit further out to save some money, the Ibis Budget hotel on the city’s outskirts is another good option.

Offering simple, no-frills rooms with free parking, it’s a popular choice for visitors looking to keep costs down.

You’ll need to drive or catch a bus into the city, but it’s a good option for those on a budget.

For those after a bit more comfort without splurging, Canberra has a bunch of great hotels close to the action.

One that stands out is Novotel Canberra, right in the heart of downtown and just a short stroll from Floriade’s main attractions at Commonwealth Park.

The Novotel’s spacious rooms, heated indoor pool, and spa make it perfect for winding down after a busy day.

Another favourite of mine is the Mercure Canberra, an Accor hotel with a bit of old-world charm.

Housed in a historic building (dating back to the 1920s), it blends modern comforts with a touch of history.

It’s around a 10-15 minute walk to Floriade through the picturesque ANZAC Parade area, and the Mercure offers exclusive festival packages.

These packages come with perks like buffet breakfast, late checkout, and even discounted tickets for NightFest.

The on-site pub, Olim’s Bar, is also a winner – nothing beats enjoying a local craft beer in the beer garden after a long day.

If apartment-style accommodation is more your thing, Mantra on Northbourne is a solid pick, with self-contained units just 1.8 km from the park.

For something a bit more boutique, Peppers Gallery Hotel in nearby NewActon is a delight.

Set in a restored heritage building, it’s full of art, with a lovely sculpture garden out front.

For those looking to indulge in a bit of luxury while staying close to the blooms, Canberra has some fantastic options.

The Hyatt Hotel Canberra – A Park Hyatt is the grand dame of the city’s hotels, offering five-star elegance and its own beautiful lakeside gardens.

It’s just a short walk through parkland to Floriade, and the added bonus of free weekend parking is a nice touch.

Staying there feels like a special occasion, and I’d highly recommend indulging in afternoon high tea in the tea lounge if you’re after some pampering.

If you’re after a more modern luxe experience, Ovolo Nishi in the NewActon precinct is a great choice, just a 10-minute walk from Commonwealth Park.

It’s a trendy design hotel with artistic flair – think chic rooms, a lively lobby bar, and complimentary loot bags full of snacks (yes, really!).

I loved the quirky style, and they even offer free bicycle hire, which came in handy for a relaxed ride around the lake after a day at Floriade.

Other top-end favourites include the Avenue Hotel in Braddon, with its upscale rooms and suites in the heart of the lively restaurant district, and Hotel Realm in Barton, which offers a day spa and excellent dining.

These are a bit farther out (about 5–10 minutes’ drive), but Canberra’s easy to get around, so it’s not an issue.

No matter your budget, it’s smart to book your accommodation early during Floriade season—hotels do fill up quickly with flower lovers.

Many places offer spring deals, especially Accor hotels, with over a dozen participating properties offering special rates, so keep an eye out for package bargains.

Food and Drink: Floriade Flavours and Local Favourites

All that exploring is bound to work up an appetite, and Floriade has got you covered with its own little food festival.

One of my favourite ways to start the day is with a coffee and a pastry among the blooms.

Floriade features a vintage Kombi van serving up great coffee, and the L’epi French bakery stall, which is a must-visit for fresh croissants and pastries.

The smell of buttery dough in the morning is enough to make you want to stay there all day.

With coffee in one hand and a croissant in the other, I love grabbing a spot on the grass, taking in the sea of tulips, and watching the early sunlight hit the flower beds. It’s pure bliss.

As lunchtime rolls around, the food stalls really come to life. You can lay out a picnic rug by the flowers or sit at one of the communal tables and enjoy local Canberra eats right in the park.

The BentSpoke Brewing beer garden is a perfect place to unwind, with craft beers from the much-loved Braddon microbrewery – there’s nothing like sipping on a cold pale ale or IPA in the sunshine.

Wine lovers can check out the Canberra District Wine Garden & Cellar Door marquee to sample cool-climate wines from local vineyards.

And if you’re after something a bit fancier (after all, it is a holiday), swing by the Underground Spirits Gin Garden for Floriade-themed gin cocktails, served in a stylish lounge.

When hunger strikes, you’ll be spoilt for choice with Floriade’s range of food trucks and stalls.

Craving Italian? Occasioni by Agostinis has wood-fired pizza and hearty pasta, while Papa Deli serves up fresh focaccia sandwiches – the perfect quick lunch.

The creamy carbonara from Bianco is still on my mind; they toss the pasta in a giant wheel of 24-month-aged Parmesan – watching them prepare it is part of the fun, and the taste is even better.

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, take your taste buds on a world tour: Au Lac serves up delicious vegan Vietnamese street food, while other stalls dish out spicy curries, samosas, and gourmet burgers sizzling away on the BBQ.

I love how Floriade champions local vendors and caters to all diets – you’ll find vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal options, so there’s something for everyone.

And save room for dessert! You won’t want to miss the festival treats. From hot cinnamon doughnut puff balls (so addictive!) to creamy gelato from Gelato Messina’s pop-up stand, there’s something sweet for every taste.

At NightFest, grab a glowing cotton-candy stick or a bag of kettle corn to munch on as you wander under the lights – it’s the perfect snack to complement the playful nighttime vibe.

If you need a break from the crowds, you can always step outside the festival for a bite in the city – Civic has plenty of cafes and restaurants just a short walk away.

Braddon’s Lonsdale Street is a food lover’s dream, with everything from trendy brunch spots to Asian eateries and pubs.

But honestly, with so many tempting food options at Floriade, you might just want to stay in the park and graze your way through the whole event.

My advice? Come hungry and enjoy the true foodie adventure amongst the flowers – it’s one of the highlights of the Floriade experience.

Local Tips: Getting Around, Best Times, and Accessibility

Getting Around Canberra

Canberra is a pretty easy city to navigate, and getting to Floriade is a breeze whether you’re staying nearby or coming from out of town.

The festival site at Commonwealth Park is right in the city centre, so walking or cycling is usually the quickest and easiest way to get there.

If you’re staying in a central hotel, you can probably walk to Floriade in about 15 minutes or less – just follow the crowd of people in floral shirts and sunhats heading there every morning!

The route from the City (Alinga Street light rail stop) through City Walk down to Commonwealth Park is a lovely stroll, though bear in mind that construction on Commonwealth Avenue might mean a slight detour.

Biking is another great option, as Canberra has fantastic bike paths. You’ll find bike racks at every entrance to Floriade, so you can lock up your wheels and enjoy the festival.

You can also rent an e-scooter in the city to zip over to Floriade – it’s a fun ride by the lake.

Just remember that you’ll need to park the scooter at the gate since you can’t ride it inside the event grounds.

If you’re relying on public transport, Canberra’s buses can get you pretty close to Floriade.

Several bus routes (including the rapid buses) stop along Commonwealth Avenue near Regatta Point, which is right by one of the main entrances.

On weekends during Floriade, there’s usually a free shuttle bus running from the CBD to the park – keep an eye on Transport Canberra’s announcements for the schedule.

It’s a great hop-on, hop-off option if it’s running. Visitors from the Gungahlin light rail terminus can connect to a shuttle or rapid bus into the city or follow the signposted Floriade Walking Trail from the city interchange.

Driving is possible too, though you might not need your car much once you’re here.

Canberra’s roads are easy to get around, and it’s about a 3-hour drive from Sydney or 8 hours from Melbourne if you’re road-tripping.

Once you’re close to Floriade, parking can be tricky, as it’s in such a central spot (plus ongoing light rail construction has reduced nearby parking).

There’s a small public car park at Regatta Point, but it fills up quickly. You might have luck finding street parking in the City or around Acton, then just walking over.

If you do decide to drive, make sure you’ve got the EasyPark app for metered spots, and try to arrive early when parking is a little easier to find.

A handy tip: on weekends, the Parliamentary Zone near the National Library and National Gallery (across the lake) offers free parking.

From there, it’s a scenic 20–30 minute walk over the Commonwealth Bridge to Floriade.

If you don’t want to deal with parking, rideshares or taxis are a great option. Drivers can drop you off at Regatta Place right by the Floriade entrance, which makes life a whole lot easier. No parking hassle at all!

Best Times To Visit

Timing your visit to Floriade can really shape your experience. Weekday mornings tend to be the most peaceful time at the festival.

If you arrive around the 9:30 am opening, you’ll get there ahead of most of the crowds and have the blooms mostly to yourself for a while.

Floriade even offers a special “Sensory Hour” on weekdays from 9:30–10:30 am, where there is no loud music or announcements, creating a calm atmosphere that’s perfect for those who prefer a quieter experience.

It’s ideal for visitors with sensory sensitivities, or honestly, anyone who wants to enjoy the flowers in peace with just the sounds of birds chirping.

By late morning and into the afternoon, especially on weekends, Floriade gets much livelier and more crowded.

Weekends come with the added bonus of more performances and a buzzing atmosphere, but if you’re not a fan of squeezing through crowds, weekdays or early hours are your best bet.

A quick heads-up: Canberra’s spring weather can be a bit unpredictable. Mornings can be chilly (sometimes even close to freezing in mid-September), but the days warm up nicely under the sun.

My advice is to dress in layers so you’re ready for both a cold breeze by the lake and a sudden warm spell by midday.

Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking a lot, on both paved paths and some gravel spots in the park.

After rain, parts of the ground can get muddy, so closed-toe shoes or boots are a good idea if it looks damp.

And don’t forget a hat and sunscreen – the Aussie spring sun can be pretty harsh, and there’s not a whole lot of shade as you wander through the tulips.

Accessibility

The best part about Floriade? It’s completely free to enter. No need for a ticket for general admission—just walk right in between 9:30 am and 5:30 pm and enjoy the festival.

This makes it easy to pop by multiple times during your stay in Canberra. You can swing by each morning for a quick stroll and coffee, then head off to other museums or activities in the afternoon.

There’s no pressure to “get your money’s worth” since it’s free, though trust me, you’ll end up spending hours there anyway!

That said, it’s worth bringing some spending money for the delicious food stalls, market goodies, or a cute souvenir from the official Floriade shop (who can resist a tulip-themed tea towel or a few bulbs to take home?).

While entry to the daytime festival is free, NightFest is ticketed, as are a few select workshops and shows.

If there’s something specific you want to attend, like a floral arrangement class or a comedy show in the big marquee, make sure to check the Floriade program online.

Some events require either a small fee or free registration to secure a spot. Most of the grounds and performances, however, are open to all.

Floriade is also incredibly accessible. The paths are wide and step-free, so visitors with wheelchairs or strollers can navigate easily.

There are also plenty of accessible toilets on-site. If you’ve got tired legs or mobility issues, you can hire a wheelchair or mobility scooter at the Mobility Marquee near the entrance.

It’s a great option to help everyone enjoy the festival. They also offer an adult changing facility and a quiet room for those who need it – they’ve thought of everything.

And keep an eye out for the Floriade mini train, which chugs around the park offering rides.

It’s a cute open-air train on rubber wheels and a charming way to rest your feet while getting an overview of the displays.

Getting around Floriade and Canberra is easy. The staff and volunteers are all super friendly, and if you need any help or local tips, don’t hesitate to ask.

The Wrap-Up

Floriade 2025 is set to be a memorable celebration of spring, science, and community.

I can tell you that each year brings something new and exciting, making it easy to fall in love with it all over again.

So, grab your camera, pack your sense of adventure, and don’t forget the hay fever meds (just in case!).

Get ready to experience spring in Canberra like never before. The flowers are waiting, and they’re more stunning than ever—see you there, surrounded by all that colour and beauty!