Gather your picnic rugs, candles 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, the 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. Registration is through Humanitix.
Thank you to our partners
The Canberra Times Carols by Candlelight would not be possible without the generous support of our partners and the Canberra community.
Presenting Partner: The Canberra Times
Community Sponsor: Soward Management
Charity Partner: Hands Across Canberra
Partners: Canberra Southern Cross Club, ECG Electrical and Capital Radio Network
With thanks to our event supporters Kennards Hire, Crowne Plaza Canberra and the ACT Rural Fire Service, and to Sheree Murray from Auslan Services.