Canberra’s Arts and Entertainment Scene Heats Up for 2026

Canberra’s arts and entertainment calendar is shaping up to be one of its most diverse in recent years, with a mix of major touring acts, immersive exhibitions, and seasonal festivals drawing visitors into the capital. According to information from VisitCanberra and local event listings, the city is hosting events that span centuries of creativity-from Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary comedy and folk traditions.

Leonardo da Vinci Exhibition Extended

The immersive exhibition 'Leonardo da Vinci, 500 Years of Genius' has proved a major draw, with organisers extending its run until 12 April 2026, as confirmed by Canberra.com. The show, which uses high-definition projections and interactive displays to explore the Italian polymath’s inventions, art, and anatomical studies, has been a highlight of the city’s autumn calendar. Visitors can view the exhibition at a central Canberra venue, though specific ticket prices and session times are best checked directly with the event’s official ticketing partners.

Comedy, Music and Festivals

Comedian Jim Jefferies brings his 'Son of a Carpenter' stand-up tour to the Royal Canberra Theatre on Friday, 24 July 2026, according to Canberra Daily. The show promises a sharp, no-holds-barred set from the Australian-born star, who now performs internationally. Earlier in the year, on Saturday, 18 April 2026, singer Guy Sebastian will take the stage at AIS Arena as part of his '100 Times Around The Sun Tour', as listed by Out in Canberra. The National Folk Festival, a staple of the Easter weekend, also returns, gathering performers from across the country for a long weekend of music, dance, and workshops.

Art Fairs and Chamber Music

The Canberra Art Fair offers a three-day community celebration of the visual arts, bringing together local and national artists, as noted by Region.com.au. Meanwhile, the 2026 Early Music Chamber Season, also highlighted by Region.com.au, features leading guests from around Australia, performing classical and baroque works in intimate venues across the city. These events, alongside the city’s major seasonal festivals-including the Enlightenment Festival in autumn, Floriade in spring, Summernats in summer, and the Truffle Festival in winter-ensure there is always something for residents and visitors.

For those planning ahead, booking tickets early is advisable, particularly for the Leonardo da Vinci exhibition and the Jim Jefferies show, both of which have generated strong interest. While specific pricing for most events is not publicly listed in the provided sources, the Canberra event calendar at events.canberra.com.au and other local listings offer up-to-date details on session times, venue access, and ticketing links.