Canberra Day is a public holiday in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) that celebrates the founding of Canberra, the capital city of Australia. It is an opportunity for residents to reflect on the city's history, and
enjoy festivities.

Table of Contents

1. When is Canberra Day?
2. The History of Canberra Day?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. More about Canberra

When is Canberra Day?

Canberra Day is observed on the second Monday in March each year. The following is the list of Canberra Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Canberra Day? 

In the late 1800s, Sydney and Melbourne were Australia's largest cities, but both wanted to be the capital. To resolve this rivalry, the federal government decided in 1908 that a new capital would be built in New South Wales, but at least 100 miles from Sydney.

The site for Canberra was chosen because of its large open space for future development, and the strategic inland location which is away from the coastal threats.

The city's official naming ceremony took place on March 12, 1913 at Capital Hill. Lady Denman, wife of the then Governor-General Lord Denman, announced the name "Canberra", believed to be derived from the Ngunnawal word "Kamberri", meaning "meeting place".

The ACT began celebrating Canberra Day as a local event in the 1950s, recognizing the city's history. In 2007, the ACT Government officially declared Canberra Day a public holiday and moved it to the second Monday in March, creating a long weekend for residents.

What Do People Do on This Day?

The day is filled with festivals, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.

The ACT Government organizes a Canberra Day Festival, featuring live music and entertainment, cultural performances such as dances, and storytelling performances.

In some years, fireworks light up the night sky over Lake Burley Griffin. Families enjoy carnival rides, food trucks, and light shows near the lake.

Many of Canberra's major institutions such as museum and gallery offer free or discounted entry for the day.

Families and friends gather in parks and nature reserves for outdoor meals, while others may explore Lake Burley Griffin and nearby trails.

Canberra Day is a fun-filled and meaningful holiday, celebrating the city's past, present and future.

More about Canberra

Canberra is the capital city of Australia and the political center of the country. It is located in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), between Sydney and Melbourne. Unlike other major Australian cities, Canberra was planned and purpose-built to be the nation's capital.

In 1901, Australia became a federation, but there was a dispute between Sydney and Melbourne over which city should be the capital. In 1908, a compromise was reached, and Canberra was chosen as the capital, located between the two largest cities. Canberra was officially named by Lady Denman on March 12, 1913.

Canberra is home to Australia's federal government and major political institutions such as the parliament house, and the high court of Australia. Unlike other capitals, Canberra has large nature reserves, forests, and lakes within the city.

Canberra has prestigious universities, including The Australian National University (ANU), and it is known for scientific research and government policy studies. The population in Canberra is over 460,000 in 2023.