Things to do in Canberra in May

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Overview

May is a good time to visit Canberra. The weather is usually moderately chilly with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 40—58°F (4—14°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Canberra during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Australian War Memorial, attend the Canberra International Music Festival, visit the National Gallery of Australia, and more!

Canberra has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your May trip to Canberra. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to May. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Canberra in May. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout May, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Canberra in May

Top experiences in May
Visit the Australian War Memorial
May is a poignant time to visit the Australian War Memorial, as the nation commemorates Anzac Day and remembers the sacrifices of those who have served in the armed forces. The memorial's exhibitions, galleries, and commemorative events offer a powerful and moving insight into Australia's military history and the impact of war on the nation. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a deeper understanding of Australia's past, the memorial provides a thought-provoking and educational experience.
Attend the Canberra International Music Festival
The Canberra International Music Festival is a highlight of the city's cultural calendar, featuring world-class musicians and performances in stunning venues across the city. In May, the festival presents a diverse program of classical, contemporary, and experimental music, showcasing the talents of local and international artists. From intimate chamber concerts to grand orchestral performances, the festival offers a rich and immersive musical experience.
Visit the National Gallery of Australia
In May, the National Gallery of Australia hosts a range of special exhibitions and events that showcase the best of Australian and international art. From contemporary installations to classic masterpieces, the gallery offers a diverse and enriching cultural experience. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or just curious to explore, the gallery's world-class collection and thought-provoking programs will leave you inspired and enlightened.
Explore the Floriade
Floriade is Australia's biggest celebration of spring, featuring over one million flowers in bloom. Taking place in Canberra's Commonwealth Park, this annual event is a riot of color and fragrance, with themed garden beds, horticultural displays, and entertainment for the whole family. In May, you can witness the stunning tulips, daffodils, and other spring blooms in full bloom, creating a magical and Instagram-worthy experience.
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Take a sunset cruise on Lake Burley Griffin
In May, the days are getting shorter, making it the perfect time to enjoy a leisurely sunset cruise on Lake Burley Griffin. As the city lights up in the evening, you can relax on a boat and take in the stunning views of Canberra's landmarks, bridges, and waterfront. With a glass of wine in hand and the gentle breeze in your hair, you can savor the beauty of the city from a unique and unforgettable perspective.
Take a hot air balloon ride over Lake Burley Griffin
May is the perfect time to experience the breathtaking beauty of Canberra from a hot air balloon. As the city wakes up to crisp mornings and clear skies, you can soar above the iconic landmarks, lush greenery, and sparkling waters of Lake Burley Griffin. The panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside are truly unforgettable, making this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Go on a bushwalk in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
May is a great time to explore the natural beauty of Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, located just a short drive from Canberra. With its rugged mountains, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, the reserve offers a range of walking trails suitable for all fitness levels. You can spot kangaroos, wallabies, and native birds, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Australian bush.
Sample the local food and wine at the Canberra District Wine Harvest Festival
May is harvest time in the Canberra wine region, and the annual Wine Harvest Festival offers a unique opportunity to taste the latest vintages and meet the winemakers. With cellar door tastings, gourmet food stalls, and live music, the festival celebrates the region's thriving food and wine scene in a relaxed and picturesque setting.
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Holidays in Canberra in May
May

There are no holidays in Canberra in May

Other notable holidays

Weather in Canberra in May

Temperatures on an average day in Canberra in May

The average temperature in Canberra in May for a typical day ranges from a high of 58°F (14°C) to a low of 40°F (4°C). Some would describe it as moderately chilly with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Canberra, January, has days with highs of 85°F (29°C) and lows of 58°F (14°C). The coldest month, August has days with highs of 52°F (11°C) and lows of 35°F (2°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Canberra in May based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in May
58°F
highs
40°F
lows

General weather summary

Moderately chilly with a gentle breeze
Feels like
16%
Chance of rain
0.064 in
Amount
10.8 mph
Wind speed
80%
Humidity
10.3 hrs
Daylight length
6:50 AM
Sunrise
5:08 PM
Sunset
59%
Cloud cover
Jacket
What to wear
What to wear in May
With an average high of 58°F (14°C) and a low of 40°F (4°C), it generally feels moderately chilly with a gentle breeze. With that in mind, most people would dress in something warm like a jacket
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Best attractions for Canberra in May

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Canberra has to offer for travelers in May, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Canberra that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Canberra for May.
Australian War Memorial
1. Australian War Memorial
4.8
(13330)
War memorial
Museums
Shrine and museum built as a visual focus for the country's gratefulness for military sacrifice.
Parliament House
2. Parliament House
4.5
(1548)
Government office
Sights & Landmarks
Vast building housing Australia's parliament, opened in 1988, topped by 81m-high flagpole.
National Gallery of Australia
3. National Gallery of Australia
4.5
(5886)
Art gallery
Museums
Expansive modern building with Australian & international art, plus a sizable aboriginal collection.
Questacon - National Science and Technology Centre
4. Questacon - National Science and Technology Centre
4.6
(6236)
Science museum
Museums
Children's museum featuring interactive exhibits & puppet shows about science & technology.
Mount Ainslie Lookout
5. Mount Ainslie Lookout
4.7
(4201)
Vista point
Sights & Landmarks
Paved observation deck with panoramic vistas & information plaques detailing distant landmarks.
National Museum of Australia
6. National Museum of Australia
4.5
(6853)
National museum
Museums
Modern waterfront building housing artefacts from 50,000 years of Australian history & culture.
Lake Burley Griffin
7. Lake Burley Griffin
4.6
(329)
Lake
Nature & Parks
Serene trails for walking & cycling border this scenic man-made lake offering boating & fishing.
National Portrait Gallery
8. National Portrait Gallery
4.5
(1804)
Art gallery
Museums
National collection of portraits, photos and paintings in a contemporary, geometric building.
Commonwealth Park
9. Commonwealth Park
4.6
(515)
Park
Nature & Parks
National Zoo & Aquarium
10. National Zoo & Aquarium
4.6
(4664)
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
This storied, 25-acre site offers exotic & native animal encounters, zookeeper talks & picnic areas.
National Arboretum Canberra
11. National Arboretum Canberra
4.6
(6592)
Arboretum
Nature & Parks
Large, modern park with cedar & oak forests, a lively cafe & a playground with big acorn treehouses.
Royal Australian Mint
12. Royal Australian Mint
4.5
(4917)
Sights & Landmarks
Collectibles store
Manufacturing site of Australia's coins, offering tours with coin history, plus a cafe & shop.
Executive Briefing Centre - Telstra Tower
13. Executive Briefing Centre - Telstra Tower
3.4
(17)
Conference center
Sights & Landmarks
Old Parliament House
14. Old Parliament House
4.6
(4476)
Museum
Specialty Museums
Seat of Federal Parliament for 61 years until 1988, now housing the Museum of Australian Democracy.
Australian National Botanic Gardens
15. Australian National Botanic Gardens
4.6
(3140)
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
Tranquil botanical garden featuring a diverse array of native plants, walking trails & a cafe.
National Library of Australia
16. National Library of Australia
4.5
(378)
National library
Government Buildings
Public library with a reading room, treasures gallery, changing exhibitions, a bookshop and a cafe.

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