Canberrans are invited to celebrate over a century of Haig Park with a party on Saturday, 3 February.

Haig Park Turns 101 will feature activities and entertainment for all ages. These include:

• a multicultural stage with music and dance presentations
• inclusive activities for people big and small
• a mini Haig Park Village Markets with food and drinks
• a suitcase rummage – a market of pre-loved goods
• the launch of Ngala Logs, a new seating area for Braddon, and the Labyrinth installation.

Associate Professor Dr Cathy Hope from the University of Canberra’s Faculty of Arts and Design says the party is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the strong community effort to revitalise the park.

“Haig Park has become a place for all Canberrans – whether you are going to the markets, walking your dog, reading under a tree or having a picnic with friends,” Dr Hope said.

“This evolution has been achieved through community-led art, music, dance and play activities, which have created immersive experiences and enabled people to see the park in a different way.”

Dr Hope led the delivery of the six-month Haig Park Experiments in 2019.

This City Renewal Authority initiative featured events and installations to improve community attitudes towards the park.

Dr Hope said the celebration is “not just about the beautiful and peaceful park, but the community that has brought it to life”.

The park’s beginnings

This year, 101 years ago, the final trees were planted in the park.

The resulting shelterbelt of 7000 trees stretched nearly two kilometres to protect the new city of Canberra.

Since then, Haig Park has undergone many transformations – from an unused space to a much-loved community hub.

The park’s 100^th birthday had to be cancelled last year, due to poor weather.

Haig Park Turns 101 runs from 11am to 4pm on Saturday, 3 February. Both humans and dogs are welcome.

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