Virtual Australia: Canberra, New South Wales-Australia

Just to the right of Sydney lies Canberra.

Canberra is the Capital City of Australia.

The name means "Meeting Place" and the site deliberately chosen as a Capital between the two larger cities (Sydney and Melbourne)

Overview of Canberra

https://youtu.be/Sj-VzFlJ14o

Today (virtually) let's go see what Canberra has to offer!

Our first stop

The Festival of Floriade (Festival of Flowers)

Occurring in September in Canberra (their Spring) but through the magic of virtual travel...we can enjoy it in February.

and even have forced bulbs (here) right now so I am surrounded by the REAL smell of Tulips, Narcissus and Hyacinth!

The Festival is held yearly in Canberra's Commonwealth Park.  It is called Australia's Celebration of Spring. Admission is free.

It has been celebrated since 1988 and the gardens based on gardens in the Netherlands.

Much more than a garden, during the festival there are local artists of many mediums, entertainment, recreation and even a gnome-decorating contest!

Gnome Knoll

Love the Spider-Gnome and Bat-Gnome!

At the Gnome Knoll, plain unpainted gnomes are sold for $18.00 each, months ahead of the contest. Taken home and painted...then returned for the contest. Prizes are given based on age categories for the BEST gnome.

Art Fair, Ferris Wheel,

Flowers, Food and Fun (0h...and Gnomes) Floriade has a little something for everyone!

Tour of Floriade

https://youtu.be/rxE8-kUEqic

More Anon...