Vibrant hues, daring floral designs and a glorious day being surrounded by undeniably stunning natural beauty, that is what you will discover when you travel to the always flamboyant
Floriade.
Every year since Floriade began in 1988, hundreds of thousands of people flock to the not always raved about Canberra, to explore the definitely always raved about Floriade. This year from the 17th of September to the 16th of October, Commonwealth Park will be overcome with colour and creativity from over 1 million flowers blooming bright. While Floriade is a festival of tulips (my favourite flower), they are also accompanied by irises, hyacinths and daisies to name a few. This years theme is "A Feast for the Senses", with the garden bed designs based around all things culinary.
Tulips at Floriade
While the flowers are certainly the main attraction, don't be fooled into thinking that's where the festival stops. There's a great range of market stalls to enjoy as well, with health and beauty, gourmet food and beverages, clothes, giftware and much more on offer. Be engaged by many different exhibitions, including fashion, crafts and fine art, floral art and horticultural displays, plus noted celebrities and experts sharing their tips and wealth of knowledge regarding home gardening and outdoor living.
On the lake at Floriade
For something that'll keep adults and kids alike entertained, there will be street performers, live music, dancing and community performances. There's Matilda's Farmyard, a reptile display and other programs tailored to the kids too. Gnome painting is another hit at Floriade, and while it is more aimed at the kids, as somewhat of an adult, I would recommend it to all. My boyfriend and I have painted one each time we've been for the past 3 years and we thoroughly enjoy getting back to our childhood.
Rainbow design
If you're a lover of the night life, then be sure to experience the
NightFest which only runs between the 28th of Sept and 2nd of Oct. It offers a different look at Floriade, with a cocktail in hand you can be captivated by extravagant lighting, comedy shows, acrobatics, live music, night markets and movies under the stars.
With Canberra a little over a 3-hour drive away you can quite comfortably take a scenic drive down and have a sneaky weekend getaway tiptoeing through the tulips.
