Carols by Candlelight 2026

Gather your picnic rugs 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, 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. 

The pre-show starts at 6.30pm, carols begin at 7pm and the evening finishes at 9pm. Entry is by gold coin donation, helping Music for Canberra keep this tradition going for every family. Food trucks will be on site offering delicious dinner, snack and sweet treat options.