Canberra's night sky will once again become a dazzling canvas of light and storytelling this Australia Day long weekend, as the hugely popular Flight: Drone SkyShow returns for its third year.
A Sky-High Celebration Returns
The breathtaking and completely free event will transform the skies above Lake Burley Griffin over three nights, featuring two original 15-minute aerial performances. This year's production promises to be the most immersive yet, building on the success of previous years with an expanded fleet of 600 drones creating intricate formations.
National Capital Authority Chair Terry Weber expressed excitement about the event's return. "We're really thrilled to be bringing the Flight: Drone SkyShow back to the National Triangle for a third year," Mr Weber said. He confirmed that this year's experience would be enhanced with an immersive lighting display supporting the drone fleet.
Immersive Stories in the Sky
Created by internationally acclaimed producers AGB Creative, the two shows—Dream Big and Aussie Icons—are designed to celebrate the Australian spirit. Each performance is set to a custom soundtrack with synchronised lighting effects, turning the lakefront into a dynamic theatre.
Dream Big follows a young girl's imagination as she explores future possibilities, celebrating ambition and potential. Aussie Icons takes audiences on a whimsical journey with a shimmering Christmas beetle visiting iconic Australian landmarks, from Uluru to the Great Barrier Reef.
National Capital Authority Chief Executive Karen Doren highlighted the shows' universal appeal. "This year's two stories highlight the world of possibilities available to all young Australians and the unique icons, locations and events that we all recognise and relate to as Australians," she said.
Event Details and Practical Information
The event will run on January 24, 25, and 26 with two viewing hubs: Commonwealth Place (Queen Elizabeth Terrace) and Kings Park. The first drone show begins at 9:00 PM, followed by a second show at 10:00 PM.
From 5:00 PM, attendees can enjoy Night Markets with diverse food vendors and live entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere. Organisers encourage early arrival due to the event's popularity, noting several transport options:
- Over 4,000 free parking spaces in the National Triangle
- Free shuttle buses from Canberra City and Woden
- Bike parking around the lake
- Public transport and accessible parking options
A beloved feature returning this year is Maliyan, the wedge-tailed eagle and totem of the local Ngunnawal people, whose soaring silhouette will again respectfully ground the event in Country. With carefully designed ground lighting expanding the scale of the storytelling, this year's Flight: Drone SkyShow promises to be an unmissable celebration of community, culture, and connection in the nation's capital.
