Canberra Day is a public holiday. It takes place annually on the second Monday of March. The holiday is a celebration of the founding of Canberra in 1913. It is one of the major festivals in the area. It's largely a celebration of culture and diversity. It celebrates the European settlement, as well as how far Canberra has grown over the years. It draws out all of the locals, who take the festivities very seriously. People in the area are passionate about the celebration and plan weeks in advance for the upcoming festivities.
Upcoming Dates For Canberra Day
Canberra Day is always celebrated on the second Monday of March. The date originally fell on the third Monday of each March. Although the date was changed in 2008. The observations of Canberra Day are as follows:
- Monday, March 13, 2017
- Monday, March 12, 2018
- Monday, March 11, 2019
- Monday, March 9, 2020
- Monday, March 8, 2021
- Monday, March 14, 2022
- Monday, March 13, 2023
- Monday, March 11, 2024
- Monday, March 10, 2025
Where Is Canberra Day Considered A Holiday?
Canberra is considered a holiday in the Australia Capital Territory. In Canberra, all the schools will be closed for observation of the holiday. Also, government buildings are closed on Canberra day. Public transportation will run on holiday schedules, or be unavailable. If you're in need of public transportation, make sure to check ahead and find out when it is available. Throughout other areas of Australia, Canberra Day is a regular day, whether observed or not. It's not celebrated outside of the Australia Capital Territory.
Festivities & Events During Canberra Day
During the Celebrate Canberra festivals, there are many activities that are fun for the whole family. If you're planning a holiday, you'll want to see the festivals. The festival celebrates the cultural diversity, as well as all the efforts made in growing and expanding. There are exhibitions, concerts and even film to celebrate the day. There are sporting events and dance/theatre events as well. There is something for everyone, so it's worth including in your holiday planning. There is also a "Citizen of the Year" award for someone with recognized efforts in making the community better. This award has been given out for many reasons, such as volunteer work or community work. It is given out to celebrate the efforts of citizens. All sorts of entertainment can be found throughout Canberra on Canberra Day. Although largely unobserved in other areas of Australia, Canberra is very passionate about the founding celebration.
A Brief History Of Canberra Day
The area that later became Canberra was part of the European settlement. It grew in popularity after being declared the new capital city. This was the result of an international competition, won by Walter Griffin and his wife. They were given the privilege of designing the new capital city, which would became the Canberra known today. It was originally celebrated on the third Monday of March. In 2008, the date was changed to the second Monday of March.