All Ages

Festivals, festivals, festivals! Enjoy summer while it lasts, my lovelies…

On Friday February 5 the National Multicultural Festival begins. Until Sunday February 7, each stroll through the city will treat you to delectable authentic cuisines from every corner of the globe, petite stalls for the browsing and free live entertainment. What a grand way to brush off the filth of Australia Day! On opening night you’ll have the chance to see contemporary Australian artistsDeni Hines, Melinda Schneider, Paulini and Emma Donovan on the stage in Garema Place. Countless performers will entertain you over the weekend on three main stages in Garema Place, Petrie Plaza and Akuna Street. A performance not to be missed on the Sunday in Garema Place at 4.30pm is that of The Sodapops, a homegrown funk/pop fusion band that I’m sure will not only make you dance but will light that festive fire in your belly. On the 7^th you can be a part of celebrations in honor of the upcoming Chinese New Year. For more festivities or information visit www.multiculturalfestival.com.au.>

Also on Sunday February 7 is Capital City Hardcore, featuring a gut-wrenching lineup of bands includingDead Kings, I Exist, Vera, Reigner, Atlantis Awaits and Observer. This is all happening at Canberra’s newest all ages venue The Warehouse, Capital City Hardcore being their debut all ages gig. You can buy your tickets at 1pm when the doors open, it costs only $10 AND there will be a meat/vegan friendly BBQ!

The Corinbank Festival is exactly what this summer needs. This spectacular three day music festival from Friday-Sunday February 26-28 also happens to be a two night sleepover at the Corin Forest Mountain Resort, one of the most beautiful locations in the state! What could be better than camping in the middle of nowhere after performances by artists You Am I, Clare Bowditch, Ash Grunwald,Urthboy, Astronomy Class, Dallas Frasca, Batucada Sound Machine and Tijuana Cartel, just to name a few. All up, the festival will feature over 30 brilliant artists to suit all tastes, not including workshops and activities ranging from bushwalking to belly dancing. Weekend passes started selling for $165+BF but ticket prices are rising as the date draws nearer. For just a slice of the magic, buy a day ticket from $35+BF. Children under 16 get in ‘free’… with a $5 BF. Be sure to go on the right day for what you want to see. For the three day program go to www.corinbank.com and for tickets go to www.greentix.com. Every ticket sold will plant one tree!

As previously mentioned, until the end of February the National Film and Sound Archive are bringing back their popular outdoor film screenings in the NFSA’s peaceful courtyard. Dirty Dancing, a romantic classic by Emile Ardolino, will be screening on Saturday February 6 to celebrate the life of Patrick Swayze. And on Saturday February 13 you can see The Lost Boys, a horror movie based on two teenage boys and a shitload of teenage vampires. This 1987 film was a creation of Joel Schumacher, the American director who brought youBatman Forever, Batman & Robin and The Number 23. You hear that Twatlight fans? There is a GOOD vampire film for you to live for. So run along kiddies, tickets cost $8 for concession and $10 full price.

Dig in!