Canberra Heritage Festival 2019: Modernism, Victoriana and Mr Darcy

Posted on 2 April, 2019

The ultimate answer to anyone who sniffs at Canberra’s lack of ‘history’—the Canberra Heritage Festival—is back for 2019.

There is truly no festival more diverse in our city with this collection of meticulously-curated events spanning everything from a vintage ball to a celebration of Jane Austen, history tours, a martini cocktail hour and Star Wars. Yes, Star Wars.

Celebrating the colourful history of our city, the Canberra Heritage Festival pulls together the diverse strings of our past in new and surprising ways. From 13 April–5 May we’ll all have a chance to celebrate our past and learn from it for the future.

With the 2019 theme of SPACE and a focus on Canberra’s role in the 1969 moon landing, as well as plenty of ways to celebrate our city’s modernist architecture and bush setting, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what not to miss.

Vintage Ball at the National Film and Sound Archive

Sarah Snook as Gertrude ‘Trudy’ Pratt Photographer: Ben King.

Catch an evening viewing of The National Film and Sound Archive’s (NFSA) The Dressmaker Costume Exhibition for a night of ‘50s glamour and high fashion.

The perfect chance to frock up in an outfit Myrtle Dunnage herself would be proud of, come dressed in vintage finery or bring along a prized piece for appraisal by an NFSA curator.

You’ll also get a chance to learn a step or two from the pros during the swing dance demonstration before dancing the night away to a swinging retro vinyl DJ.

Saturday 27 April from 7 – 11 pm | National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton

Apollo to the Moon

Did you know that Canberra played a key role in the 1969 Moon Landing? Find out just how pivotal Australia was in broadcasting TV’s most iconic moment at the CSIRO Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex’s Apollo to the Moon exhibition until 31 December.

You’ll also be able to see rocket engines, spacesuits and even a piece of the moon that’s more than 3.8 billion years old. How’s that for heritage?

Until 31 December from 9 am – 5 pm | CSIRO Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex , 421 Discovery Dr, Tidbinbilla 

Jane Austen Festival

Credit: Steven Shaw.

Ready to find your Mr Darcy? Or just dance the night away, Bennet-style? Get ready to discover your inner Kitty at the daytime dance workshops before dancing the night away at one of three Regency-style evening balls with live bands.

Read more about the Jane Austen Festival here.

12 – 14 April | Various locations across Canberra | Bookings close 10 April 2019

Cycling the Old Weetangera Road

For cycling enthusiasts, there’s only one way to experience the 2019 Heritage Festival and that’s in the saddle.

On Wednesday 17 April, bring your bike along for a 13-kilometre one-way cycle following bike paths through Belconnen as you learn about the history of the Old Weetangera Road and the people who lived there. Suitable for children 12+. Free.

Wednesday 17 April from 12 – 2 pm | Meet opposite 161 Dryandra Street, O’Conner

Modernist Market

Wish you could live in Mad Men? Then you’ll love the Modernist Market.

With a whole day of entertainment, food and stalls selling everything from clothing to homewares, furniture, books and records, you’ll be able to find your inner pinup with Miss Cherry Bomb and see a vintage car show.

Sunday 14 April from 10 am – 3 pm | University House, ANU Campus

Astronomy adventure

Kick off your school holidays with a Big Bang (theory) by helping build a planetarium at Bungendore Primary School.

This family-friendly event will include talks from experts about Indigenous Astronomy and a chance to see the night sky through a telescope.

14 April from 3 – 8 pm | Bungendore Primary School and Oval, 37 Gibraltar St, Bungendore | Bookings close 11 April 

ANZAC Eve Peace Vigil

This annual ANZAC Eve event has become a Canberra tradition. After a community ceremony and singing atop Mount Ainslie, walk down the mountain’s winding paths to the Australian War Memorial in a contemplative lantern-lit procession.

It will be less of a remembrance of wars past and more a reflection on a peaceful and inclusive future.

Wednesday 24 April from 5.30 – 7.30 pm | Starting atop Mt Ainslie, Mt Ainslie Drive, Campbell

History High Tea hosted by Hotel Kurrajong and Elizabeth Burness

Travel back in time to when Canberra was young with your guide, Elizabeth Burness. Elizabeth portrays a young lass, Bette, and her quest to find love in Canberra in the 1920s as you enjoy high tea in the heritage listed Kurrajong Hotel.

Friday 26 April from 3 -5 pm | Hotel Kurrajong, 8 National Circuit, Barton

Martinis at Manning Clark House

Explore Manning Clark House, a mid-century modern architectural gem, at cocktail hour with a chilled martini crafted by Canberra’s very own Martini Whisperer, Phillip Jones.

While you’re there, be taken on a tour around the iconic property, enjoy light snacks and hear a talk on its fascinating history.

Friday 3 May from 5.30 – 7.30 pm | 11 Tasmania Circle, Forrest | A non-alcoholic cocktail option will also be available

May the 4th be With You: The music of Star Wars at the National Carillon

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far, away, carillonists discovered their love of the music from Star Wars.

Revisit John Williams’ epic score in this free concert where you can spread out on the lawns of Aspen Island as the National Carillon presents Episode Two: Bells in Space.

4 May | Aspen Island, Parkes

the essentials

What: Canberra Heritage Festival 2019
When: 13 April – 5 May
Where: Various locations across Canberra
Full program: environment.act.gov.au/heritage/heritage-festival

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