For generations, Christmas in Canberra has begun with the sound of familiar carols shared beneath the open sky. On 5 December 2026, the community will gather once again for The Canberra Times 82nd Annual Carols by Candlelight, presented by Music for Canberra at Stage 88 in Commonwealth Park.
The tradition dates back to 1945, when the first carols were held outside Old Parliament House. Today, thousands of people come together for an evening of festive music, community spirit and seasonal celebration. The program features local favourites, including Woden Valley Youth Choir, Canberra Youth Orchestra, Canberra City Band and Kingsland Brass, alongside guest artists and a visit from Santa.
Gather your picnic rugs, candles and community spirit for The Canberra Times 82nd Carols by Candlelight presented by Music for Canberra, on Saturday 5 December at Stage 88, Commonwealth Park.
Canberra has sung in Christmas by candlelight since 1945, when carols were first held outside Old Parliament House. It is now Australia’s second-longest-running community carols, after Melbourne, and around 5,000 people joined us in 2025.
Woden Valley Youth Choir, the Canberra Youth Orchestra, Canberra City Band and Kingsland Brass lead the singing, with guest artists from across Canberra’s arts community and a visit from Santa.
Entry is by gold-coin donation, helping Music for Canberra continue bringing accessible musical experiences to the community. The event also supports the spirit of giving through its charity partnership with Hands Across Canberra.
Bring a picnic rug and join this much-loved Canberra tradition. Discover event details and register your attendance here.