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Day + Time | Saturday | 11am – 4pm Location | National Carillon, Lake Burley Griffin, Queen Elizabeth II Island, Parkes ACT 2600
Entry | Free | No Ticket Needed!
Access | Wheelchair accessible, accessible bathroom, off street parking
The Canberra Kinetic Sculpture Race is a thrilling one-day celebration of human-powered inventions, playful engineering, and imaginative design. Held at the National Carillon, the Race brings together teams who have each created a kinetic sculpture capable of traveling across land, sand, and water. These machines are part artwork, part vehicle, and entirely powered by human energy. Come witness the true magnificence as the sculptures enter the water and cross the sand. Take a peek inside these machines and talk to the artists who will inspire you and your next build.
Blending art, engineering, pageantry, and speed, the Race offers a vibrant spectacle for audiences of all ages. Visitors can explore the sculptures up close, meet the makers, and watch the creations navigate the unique tri-terrain course. No two machines are alike: each team brings their own creativity, humour, and design ingenuity, resulting in a colourful display of moving sculptures that reflect Canberra’s inventive spirit.
Responding to the Festival theme of Dissent, the Canberra Kinetic Sculpture Race celebrates the joyful act of reimagining what vehicles and public art can be. At a time when technology often feels overwhelming and automated systems dominate daily life, these handmade, human-powered machines offer a playful form of resistance. They are accessible and champion sustainability, encouraging creative problem solving, and highlighting the power of community driven design.
The event is free to attend and designed to be accessible for visitors of all abilities. The Canberra Kinetic Sculpture Race positions the city as a leader in imaginative, human centered design and celebrates the extraordinary creativity found within Canberra’s vibrant design community. Join the fun by being part of a team or coming out to watch it all happen!
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Event venue
National Carillon, Canberra, Australia
Tickets
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