Come along and celebrate Australia Day and all things horse-related at the National Museum of Australia. Our Australia Day festival is inspired by the Spirited: Australia’s Horse Story exhibition and entry to the Spirited exhibition is free all day.
There is a wealth of entertainment for the whole family at this exciting day out. Highlights include performances by X-Factor star Caitlyn Shadbolt, renowned country singer Warren H Williams, Baz ‘n’ Snags puppets and Queen Juanita and the Zydeco Cowboys.
There is also a remarkable line-up of other activities throughout the day including horse rides, boot scooting, demonstrations, exhibition talks, craft activities and much more.
With the assistance of local milliner Christine Waring, children can make their own fascinator or jockey’s cap and then take part in our fashions on the field parade. They can also make their own bookmark or key fob with assistance from the Saddlers’ and Harness Makers’ Association of Australia.
Everyone can join in to help decorate the Big Spirit life-size horse sculpture, with artists Suzie Bleach and Andy Townsend. If you are still feeling creative, add a colourful horse drawing to our large-scale chalk art mural.
There are also some fascinating performances on offer. You can see the amazing sport of equestrian vaulting that is gymnastics on horseback, with members of the National Equestrian Centre vaulting team. Have a go yourself using a barrel rather than a horse. Renowned whip maker Anthony Rennick will be making whips throughout the day as well as giving whip-cracking demonstrations.
Refreshments from Broadbean Catering at the Museum Cafe will be on sale throughout the day. Enjoy a classic Aussie barbecue outside by the lake or something scrumptious from our ‘bush tucker’ inspired cafe menu inside. After lunch, keep the kids happy on what is sure to be a hot summer’s day with an ice cream from our mobile cart or a slice of cold watermelon from our fresh fruit station.
Catch a bus to the Museum on Australia Day. Action bus route 934 will operate on a standard Sunday timetable. Additional free charter services will operate direct to the Museum from City Bus Station platform 10, every 30 minutes from 9.00am.
A Spirited Australia Day at the Museum
Monday 26 January, 10.00am – 3.00pm.
Free entry – costs apply to some activities.
For more information visit nma.gov.au/australia_day
