Canberra’s Floriade is the annual and colourful month-long celebration of Spring in the form of vivid floral displays held in the city’s Commonwealth Park.
Commencing in 1987, the festival was a gift from the ACT Administration to recognise the city’s 75th birthday in the form of an abundance of tulips, scillas, grape hyacinths and many more varieties to be planted and all take in Canberra during Spring. Derived from Latin, the word floriade can be taken from the Latin verb “floreat”, meaning to be covered with flowers in bloom. It is currently the largest flower festival in the southern hemisphere.
While the main drawcard is the flowers of Floriade, you can also learn from the experts at the various horticulture workshops, be inspired with tips on permaculture and ecological gardening or embark on a gnome hunt – as the intricately painted garden gnomes make a starring feature throughout the festival display. Plus, experience NightFest, an evening extravaganza held during the event, which includes night markets, music and light installations for all ages to enjoy. Each year promises a full program of daily activities in addition to the opportunity to taste the delicious Canberra produce and sample local brews and wines too.
2020 saw Floriade reimagined, as the displays moved from the Park to across the city, with a million bulbs and annuals planted the event adapted and took on a new perspective. As Canberrans emerged from not only winter hibernation but also covid-19 lockdown restrictions, the celebration of Spring blooming was felt all over Canberra, in addition to the resilience and community spirit of the unprecedented year.
Floriade is a perfect reason to visit this lively capital city and also discover its integral history, energetic culture, natural beauty and world class food and wine scene, and become pleasantly surprised by Canberra.
Click here for our packages including Floriade or contact our Holidays of Australia & the World team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au for more.
Image credit: VisitCanberra
