Canberra Public Holidays and Term Calendar Comprehensive Guide
University of Canberra

Public holidays provide students with an excellent opportunity to relax, decompress, and explore the city and surrounding areas.Although many offices and some small businesses will close, major retailers and supermarkets usually adjust their business hours, allowing everyone to still enjoy going out during the holidays.
To help you plan your trip in advance, UC has compiledall the holidays in Canberra, Australia's capital, for 2024, as well as the important semester calendar of the University of Canberra.It is recommended that students bookmark this before checking it out!
Summary of Important Dates
March
Canberra Day (March 11): The second Monday of March every year isthe day to celebrate the official naming of Australia's capital(1913). Schools and many businesses will close; while the city will host celebrations and music performances. Scan the QR code to see more event information.

Good Friday (March 29):Celebrating Easter activities to commemorate Jesus.This important Christian festival is widely popular around the world. To celebrate this festival, people usually eat fish and hot cross buns.
Easter Saturday (March 30): Also known as Holy Saturday, many businesses will remain open and adjust their business hours. Traditionally, this is the day Christians prepare for Easter Sunday.
Easter Sunday (March 31): In Christian faith, Easter Sunday is usually the day to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.Manypeople will attend mass, gather with family and friends, or participate in Easter egg hunts.
April
Easter Monday (April 1): Marks the last day of the four-day Easter holiday. If you need to go out, remember to check the websites and social media pages of businesses, as some locations may not be open or are adjusting their business hours.
ANZAC Day (April 25): This national holiday aims tocommemorate the Australians and New Zealanders who sacrificed in World War I. Dawn services and flower-laying ceremonies are held across the country, and many people wear red poppies as a symbol of remembrance.
May
End of Teaching for the First Semester of 2024 at the University of Canberra(May 3):The first semester officially ends, and students start preparing for exams.
Start of the Examination Period for the First Semester of 2024 at the University of Canberra(May 6):The two-week examination period officially begins.
June
King's Birthday (June 10): This public holiday celebrates the birthday of King Charles III of the United Kingdom. June 10 is a Monday, meaningyou will have a long weekend holiday in Canberra.
July
University of Canberra 2024Second Semester Orientation Week (July 22-26):Orientation Week returns, allowing students to prepare for the new semester and participate in numerous activities prepared on campus.
University of Canberra 2024Second Semester Begins (July 29): The official start time of the second semester.
October
Labour Day (October 7): Held on the first Monday of October, Canberra's Labour Dayis a day off for most workers. It is to celebrate and recognize people's contributions to the local economy, and it should be noted that Labour Day may have different dates in each state and territory.
December
Christmas Day (December 25): Originating from a religious holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus, Christmas in Australia has evolved into a day to spend with family and friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy reunion time.Most businesses and shops will close on Christmas Day.
Boxing Day (December 26):Boxing Day is a good time to buy goods as many retailers offer special discount promotions.There will also be some sports events on the day, such as the Boxing Day Test and the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.
2025
January
New Year's Day (January 1): The first day of the New Year, this national public holiday usually starts from New Year's Eve. You can expect fireworks, music, and countdowns to midnight, followed by making wishes and setting New Year's goals.
Australia Day (January 26): This controversial datecommemorates the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788. Many people now regard January 26 as a day of mourning to support Australia's First Nations.
February
University of Canberra 2025 First Semester Orientation Week: Orientation Week, also known as O-week, is a week-long event designed to introduce students (both new and current) to university life, help you make new friends, and prepare for the new semester's studies.
We hope this article can be your little assistant when checking important dates.In addition to studying, participating in local festivals and activities is also an excellent way to deeply understand Australian culture and enjoy relaxing times during your study abroad life!
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