While March seems to be filled with public holidays, April and May have a severe lack of them. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday, celebrated this year on 8 June, is warmly welcomed break to the routine – especially now that autumn has turned to winter.
Since fireworks are now banned (and smuggling them in isn’t advisable) you might cbe tempted to run away for the weekend. Don’t do that – there’s plenty to see and do around town!
Here are a few other ideas on how to be a real Canberran on Queen’s Birthday Weekend!
Queen’s parade
The monarchy might seem a bit old-fashioned, but there’s nothing better than the pomp-and-ceremony of tradition. For a more formal start to the day, head down to the Royal Military College, Duntroon to celebrate the occasion.
At the Army’s annual Queen’s Birthday Parade the observers get to witness the Trooping of the Queen’s Colour. Music, precision and uniforms… It’s an impressive sight…and it’s free!
Afternoon tea
Since Canberra is getting cold and wintery the best thing to do is to take advantage of indoor activities! Book a lovely afternoon tea in one the many venues in Canberra.
This delicious way to spend an afternoon will keep you warm and your tastebuds happy. What better way to celebrate Queen’s birthday than some tea, scones, clotted cream and cucumber sandwiches?
The Hyatt Hotel is famous for theirs, but the experience at The Burbury Hotel is also brilliant!
Jazz festival
British traditions aside, there are many events taking place in Canberra during the long weekend that are not directly linked to the monarchy. Canberra’s winter jazz music festival The Capital Jazz Project will be on until 8 June.
The last weekend of the festival will offer international collaboration from the heavyweights of modern jazz as well as Australian talent.
Truffle hunt
Among other things, the first weekend of June marks the beginning of the local Truffle Season. Layer up for this wintery activity in the oak forest on Canberra’s only trufferie. Follow the truffle dogs in the forest to spot this ‘black magic’ and head back to the truffle shed to learn more about cooking with truffles. This delicacy treasure hunt surely fits into the royal theme of the weekend.
Wineries
Long weekends are the best for out of town excursions. The Canberra wine district offers numerous great wineries at a close proximity from each other. An outing to the countryside is refreshing and the beautiful scenery and delicious wine make it up for the hour’s drive.
Even if fireworks are no longer allowed, there are plenty of things to experience in Canberra to make the long weekend a blast!
