5 things to do this long weekend

By Ashleigh Went.

You don’t have to be a monarchist to enjoy the Queen’s birthday long weekend. Everyone appreciates an extra day of no-work and to prove it, our fair city has lined up some heaps of activities to get amongst. Whether you’re in the mood to feast, shop, get artistic, or simply chill out with some smooth jazz, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our picks of what’s on offer:

World Gin Day Degustation

Join Phillip A Jones, AKA The Martini Whisperer, for a gin-spired degustation. Jones has paired with the culinary team at Pialligo Estate to present a distinctive menu with bespoke cocktails, featuring Australian award winning craft gins. You’ll even learn from the Martini Whisperer himself how to craft the perfect martini.

The World Gin Day Degustation is on Saturday, June 11 at Pialligo Estate. Buy tickets here.

Fix + Make

“Jeans represent democracy in fashion” – Giorgio Armani. Got a pair of jeans you just can’t bear to part with? Restyle them into an apron or tote with fashion designer Suzan Dloughy in this Fix and Make workshop.

Fix + Make: Utility Apron is on Saturday, June 11. Book a spot.

Capital Jazz Project

Life’s a lot like jazz – it’s best when you improvise… Get yourself along to the Street Theatre and get jazzy, baby. There’s acts all weekend long – catch FinnLand orPaolo Angeli + Mirko Guerrinia’s Voyage to Sardinia on Friday night, Stu Hunter: the migration on Saturday or Lloyd Swanton: Ambon on Sunday, and finish up the weekend with Muluta Astatke + Black Jesus Experience on Monday.

Capital Jazz Project runs June 10 – 13 at 15 Childers St, City West. Make sure to buy tickets here. 

Handmade Market

Fashion meets food meets arts, homewares and more. Meet designers and producers from Canberra and the surrounding region and buy gifts for friends and loved ones… and a few for yourself while you’re at it. Don’t forget to pick up a stuffed donut – they’re divine!

Handmade Market runs June 11 – 12 at the Exhibition Park. Visit the website for more information.

Canberra Truffle Hunt

The Canberra Truffle Festival runs from June – August and celebrates the glorious yet rare Black Winter Truffle. You can get in on the action at Macenmist Black Truffles & Wines in Bredbo – about an hour’s scenic drive from Canberra. Hunts begin at 10am where you can hunt for your very own truffles. Make sure you rug up because it’s bound to be chilly!

Canberra Truffle Hunt Saturday, June 11 at Macenmist Black Truffles & Wines. Find the details and book your tickets here.