Looking for a weekend activity that won’t break the bank? You’re in luck. The first-ever Ginninderry Festival is just around the corner, and organisers are keen to prove that community spirit doesn’t have to come with a price tag.

This festival is all about free family fun.

There’ll be unlimited free rides for all ages, including Giant Slide, Pirate Ship, The Storm, Bungee Trampoline, and everyone’s favourite classic, Cups and Saucers (good luck Mum and Dad).

Free face painting, roving performers, and sideshow-style basketball, soccer and mini golf are all on the cards.

If sports is more your vibe, Canberra Raiders royalty Mal Meninga will also be on hand to chat and pass on his top footy tips.

After your meet-and-greet, head over to the market to browse dozens of stalls packed with crafts, gifts and artisan goods from local producers.

“The whole point of the Ginninderry Festival is to bring people together with loads of fun, free activities for all ages,” Ginninderry’s head of sustainability and community development Jessica Stewart says.

“When you’ve had your fill of rides and games, I recommend exploring the open studios at Strathnairn Arts.

“There’ll also be a free repair station where you can get your bicycle tuned while meeting new people.”

Canberra’s favourite food trucks will be in attendance, including Dumpling Diplomat, Tikka Stand, GRILL-AX and Tacontento. Thirsty? Complement your lunch with a drink or two at the adults-only bar.

Tying the whole day together is a fantastic live music lineup, featuring passionate artists Michael Bray, Azlan Bathusha, Maddy Proud, The Po Boys and Amosa Family.

The Storm is sure to get your adrenaline pumping – no umbrella needed. Photo: Ginninderry.

Ginninderry has long been hailed as a highly liveable, sustainable community with deep connections to nature. Comprising the West Belconnen suburbs of Strathnairn and Macnamara, it’s a welcoming district with plenty of stories to tell.

But you don’t have to be a resident to attend the festival; it’s open to anyone and everyone. Jessica says it’s the perfect opportunity to spend a Saturday afternoon connecting with others in a welcoming, lighthearted atmosphere.

“There’s no doubt about it, many Canberrans are feeling the pinch right now,” she says.

“That’s why allowing ourselves time to play is so vital. We need to be silly and laugh together. Building those positive relationships within our community has never been so important.

“If nothing else, it’s a great low-cost way to get the family out of the house for some fun!”

The 2026 Ginninderry Festival will run from 2 pm until 7 pm on Saturday, 29 August, at The Link, Strathnairn. For more information, visit Ginninderry.