December 2025 offered a rich cultural and sporting feast for the nation's capital, with major art exhibitions, thrilling cricket, and a deep dive into Korean pop culture captivating Canberrans.
Sporting Thunder and Artistic Heights
The return of summer's Big Bash League saw fans flock to Manuka Oval to cheer on the Sydney Thunder. The atmosphere was electric as the city's other green team took to the field in a clash against the Melbourne Stars.
Meanwhile, in the trendy suburb of Braddon, artist Lawrence Tan undertook an ambitious project. Using a cherry picker, he spent 17 days meticulously creating a large-scale, vibrant mural high above a car park on Lonsdale Street, adding a splash of colour to the city's main thoroughfare.
The Korean Wave Hits the National Museum
Just in time for the school holidays, a major international exhibition launched at the National Museum of Australia. Hallyu! The Korean Wave opened to the public on December 12, 2025. Curated with expertise from institutions like London's Victoria and Albert Museum, represented by curator Rosalie Kim, the exhibition explores the global phenomenon of Korean culture. It is scheduled to run until May 10, 2026, giving locals and visitors ample time to explore its offerings.
A Month Captured in Frames
The month provided a diverse array of visual stories for photographers. From the focused intensity of an artist on a cherry picker to the excited crowds at the cricket and the curated displays of Hallyu!, December showcased Canberra's dynamic spirit. These events highlighted the city's growing reputation as a hub for both international cultural attractions and beloved local sporting fixtures.
The successful opening of the Korean Wave exhibition, in particular, underscores Canberra's place on the global cultural circuit, bringing world-class content directly to Australian audiences. It promises to be a significant draw for the National Museum throughout the first half of 2026.
