Canberra Showground (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Canberra Showground?
What makes it 84% Kids-Friendly: Royal Canberra Show, farm nursery, kids craft zones and covered farmers market stalls provide rides, animals and hands-on fun; wide pram aisles and lost-child centre boost safety.
Positives:
- Under-6s free at Royal Canberra Show: Children under 6 enter at no charge, reducing ticket costs for younger kids.
- Covered, stroller-friendly pavilions: Wide indoor spaces keep family dry on rainy days and allow easy stroller access.
Challenges:
- Crowded peak times: Weekends and show days can get busy, so expect queues and limited seating.
- Parking availability: Site parking fills early on event days; consider arriving before gates open or using public transport.
What is Canberra Showground?
- A multi-purpose events precinct in Canberra’s Lyneham suburb, officially known as Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC)
- Home to interconnected exhibition pavilions, arenas, a grandstand and conference facilities across 54 hectares
- Traditional site of the annual Royal Canberra Show, now operating year-round under ACT Government management
What is so special about Canberra Showground for with kids?
- Enjoy free entry for under-6s and stroller-friendly pavilions
- Visit markets on Saturday mornings and quarterly craft fairs
- Experience farm animals, carnival rides and science demos at the Royal Canberra Show
- Join family-friendly concerts and workshops at the National Folk Festival
- Pre-book tickets and arrive early to avoid crowds and parking issues
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This allows time to explore the markets, try rides, visit the Farmyard Nursery, and rest between activities.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Canberra Showground
Royal Canberra Show:
Annual late-February event with Sideshow Alley rides, Farmyard Nursery and Science Extravaganza.
Tip: Buy tickets online to skip lines. Under-6s enter free.
Capital Region Farmers Market:
Saturday 7:00–11:30 am market under Harvest Hall with fresh produce and live music.
Tip: Arrive by 8 am to avoid crowds and grab a corner stall with seating.
Handmade Canberra Market:
Quarterly craft market showcasing over 260 stalls of local art, food and pop-up workshops.
Tip: Check schedule for kid-friendly craft sessions and use baby-change facilities in Coorong pavilion.
National Folk Festival:
Easter weekend festival with workshops, music and family circus shows spread across EPIC.
Tip: Book family passes early; pack ear protection for young children during concerts.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Canberra Showground
- Buy show tickets online: Purchase tickets in advance to skip on-site queues and save time.
- Use Gate 7 entrance: This gate is closest to the Farmyard Nursery and main carnival rides.
- Check workshop schedules: Review event program online to plan hands-on activities around your kids’ nap times.
Reviews of Canberra Showground
KE Y
great location- toilets need to be cleaned a little later than 9am - people lining up to use no other available
David Reno
Went there for the poultry show, and worked for the veterans in the food truck.
Tony Prior
Great place for many events
Regan Turner
We paid $35 per night for a powered site for two people. That is $10 more per night than your average Showgrounds stay. The place is very average for a Showground. The sites are grassed and there are a few trees. The amenities are OK but not very clean. There is BBQ area but no kitchen. There is a washing up sink. It is pet friendly too.
Milton Fox
Had a wonderful time with my son. Historically Summernats have a bad rap with the Canberra community for valid reasons at the time. Today I saw on evidence of those issues and simply had a great time with my some enjoying cars of all types.
When is the best time to visit Canberra Showground (Canberra, Australia)?
Royal Canberra Show runs in late February. Handmade Canberra Market happens late Mar, mid Jun, late Aug and late Nov. Farmers Market every Saturday morning. National Folk Festival takes place over the Easter long weekend. Check specific dates online before visiting.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult show tickets | AUD 56 |
| 1 child show ticket (6–16 yrs) | AUD 14 |
| Sideshow Alley rides (6 rides) | AUD 30 |
| Family market snacks | AUD 30 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 130 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Canberra Showground
Address: Cnr Northbourne Avenue and, Flemington Rd, Lyneham ACT 2602, Australia
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