Canberra is set to illuminate its skies with a breathtaking display of drones and lights over the Australia Day long weekend, transforming Lake Burley Griffin into a canvas of national pride and celebration.
A Free Community Event Celebrating Australian Icons
The Flight: Drone Skyshow and Night Markets offers a free, family-friendly experience on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin from Saturday, January 24 to Monday, January 26. This event, supported by the National Australia Day Council, aims to bring the community together during the cost of living crisis, providing an accessible evening out for all.
Two Unique Shows Each Night
Each evening will feature two distinct fifteen-minute performances at 9pm and 10pm, utilising six hundred drones launched from a barge on the lake. This innovative launch method allows for longer and more dynamic displays compared to previous years.
The first show, titled Dream Big, explores the boundless opportunities available in Australia through the eyes of a young Australian. The second performance follows a Christmas beetle on a whimsical journey across iconic Australian landmarks, from the majestic Great Barrier Reef to the thrilling Bathurst 1000 race.
Vibrant Night Markets and Culinary Delights
From 5pm each day, visitors can immerse themselves in a bustling night market offering a diverse range of food and drink. The culinary offerings span from traditional German sausages and Jordanian cuisine to sweet treats like buttermilk doughnuts and cannolis.
Hamid Heydarian, Chief Operating Officer of the National Capital Authority, highlighted the scale of the festivities, noting that vendors go through substantial quantities each night, including hundreds of kilograms of chicken and thousands of freshly juiced oranges.
Prime Viewing Locations and Transport Options
The primary viewing area is at Commonwealth Place on the southern side of the lake, near the international flag display. This location will also host live music and the night markets. For families seeking an alcohol-free environment, Kings Park on the northern side of the lake provides a secondary viewing area near the carillon.
To facilitate access, free shuttle buses will operate each night between Civic and Woden and the event sites. Attendees are encouraged to use public transport, bike parking available around the lake, or arrive early if driving to utilise designated parking areas in the Parliamentary Triangle.
A Personal Connection to the Theme
Mr Heydarian, who migrated to Australia from Iran in 1988, expressed a personal resonance with the Dream Big theme. "I'm a first-generation migrant, came here with no English. And this is one of the things I truly appreciate working for the NCA, because it's one way for me to give back to the community," he shared, underscoring the event's deeper significance.
With an estimated one hundred thousand people expected to attend over the three nights, this event showcases Canberra's ability to host remarkable celebrations. No bookings are required, inviting everyone to enjoy an evening of light, music, and community spirit.
