Our pick of what to do in Canberra this weekend.
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1. Around the world in three days
The National Multicultural Festival returns for another year with an entertainment program that will run across six stages and includes food, live music, dancing and performances from every corner of the world. The three-day event sees Australian singer Vanessa Amorosi and Canberra's Liv Li take to the stage, as well as performances from Bollywood Glam, ANU's Traditional Chinese Orchestra and the RUS Russian Dance Ensemble. Former MasterChef winner Adam Liaw will also be sharing his culinary skills. Friday, 2-11pm, Saturday, 10am-11pm and Sunday, 10am-4pm. Canberra City. Free event.
2. On stage
Lakespeare & Co is back for its third year, presenting free public performances of William Shakespeare's comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream. The comedy revolves around Theseus, duke of Athens, and his marriage preparations to Hippolyta, queen of the Amazons, which includes a four-day festival of pomp and entertainment. Pick a spot on the grass, grab a glass of champagne, a cup of coffee and some food from the mobile eateries and soak up the serenity (and the words of Shakespeare). Friday, 6.30pm. Glebe Park. Saturday and Sunday, 4.30pm. Patrick White Lawns. Free event. Bookings at Eventbrite.
3. Fun run
It's an obstacle course with a difference. Canberra's 5K Foam Fest has more than 22 obstacles including a ridiculously large waterslide, mud pits and, of course, foam. Rock out all day to (family-friendly) music, enjoy a free kids zone for those seven and under, shop from local vendors and celebrate in the beer garden. Saturday, 8am with the last wave leaving at 1pm. Kings Park. Tickets from $51.98 from Eventbrite.
4. Fashion forward
The Three Sixty Fashion Market is the place to go for new and recycled fashion for the stylish and discerning shopper. It promises quality garments of all sizes and styles as wells as shoes, handbags, accessories and more. Stallholders will have vintage, retro and pre-loved fashion, which plays into the market's commitment to providing fabulous fashion through ethical choices and ecological sustainability. Sunday, 10am-3pm. The Fitters Workshop. Free event.
5. Late night
Spend your Friday evening surrounded by art at the National Gallery of Australia's Night Shift. Kicking off its monthly Art Weekend, Night Shift's up late program includes talks and music, curated by artist Arone Meeks. This month Night Shift responds to Belonging: Stories of Australian Art. All gallery spaces are open and food and drinks are available for purchase, plus there will be music from with Dale Huddleston & The Riverbank Band. Friday, 5pm-9pm. Free event.