About the Festival

A celebration of friendship, culture and community

The Canberra Nara Candle Festival celebrates the sister city relationship between Canberra and Nara, Japan. Each year, the festival brings the community together to experience Japanese culture, enjoy live performances, take part in cultural activities and see Canberra Nara Peace Park illuminated by thousands of candles at dusk.

Held in Canberra Nara Peace Park at Lennox Gardens, the festival is one of Canberra's longest-running cultural events and welcomes visitors of all ages.

The Canberra-Nara connection

Canberra and Nara became sister cities in 1993. Since then, the relationship has created opportunities for cultural exchange, friendship and learning between the two cities.

The relationship continues to connect communities through education, the arts, cultural programs and people-to-people exchanges.

Why candles?

The festival is inspired by Nara's famous candle festival, known as Tokae, where thousands of candles light public spaces throughout the city. Canberra's festival reflects this tradition and celebrates the shared values of peace, goodwill and friendship that underpin the sister city relationship. Each year, approximately 2,000 candles are lit throughout the park, creating the festival's signature experience and a memorable backdrop for cultural performances and activities.

The 2026 event also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Australia and Japan. This landmark agreement strengthened the friendship, cultural ties and cooperation between our two nations. The Canberra Nara Candle Festival proudly celebrates this milestone alongside the 33rd anniversary of the Canberra-Nara Sister City Relationship

A lasting friendship

The connection between Canberra and Nara extends beyond official partnerships. Over many years residents, school, community groups and cultural organisations have contributed to the relationship and helped strengthen ties between the two cities.

Following the devastating Canberra bushfires in 2003, the people and government of Nara provided significant support to the ACT community, reflecting the strength of the friendship between the two cities.

Experience the festival

Whether you're coming for the candle display, Japanese food, cultural demonstrations, live entertainment or simply to enjoy a unique evening by the lake, the Canberra Nara Candle Festival offers an opportunity to connect with Japanese culture and celebrate a friendship that continues to span generations.

In Pictures

Festival Highlights

Explore photos from previous Canberra Nara Candle Festivals and discover the performances, cultural experiences and candlelit moments that make this event a unique celebration of Canberra's friendship with Nara, Japan.