Canberra Nara Candle Festival
A celebration of the sister-city relationship between Canberra and Nara, JapanJoin us on at The Canberra Nara Candle Festival on Saturday 25 October 2025 from 4-9pm at the Canberra Nara Peace Park, Lennox Gardens, Yarralumla.
The Canberra Nara Candle Festival has been held annually in Canberra Nara Peace Park since 2003, when a delegation of citizens from Nara participated in an informal ceremony to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Sister City relationship. This year marks the 31st anniversary of the sister city relationship.
The festival is based upon a much larger candle festival held in Nara, known as the 'Tokae', and celebrates Japanese culture while promoting the values of peace and goodwill. Visitors can experience Japanese art, culture, performances and activities for all ages, try delicious Japanese cuisine, and see the park illuminated with 2000 candles.
The program for the festival will be available soon.
Cosplay Competition
Step into character and celebrate Japanese pop culture at the Canberra Nara Candle Festival’s Cosplay Competition!
Open to all ages, this much-loved event invites cosplayers of every level to showcase their creativity and passion, with great prizes up for grabs. Whether you're recreating an iconic anime hero or adding your own twist to a classic look, join us on Saturday 25 October for a night of culture, community, and costume.
Visit our Competition Page to enter!
Gallery
See how we celebrated Canberra's sister city relationship with Nara, Japan last year! From the ringing of the Rotary Peace Bell to the lighting of 2,000 candles and the cosplay competition, take a look at our gallery below.
