Last updated: May 4, 2026 at 1:09 AM
Best Happy Hours, Deals & Events in Canberra, ACT — Monday, May 4, 2026
Canberra’s nightlife is buzzing with fantastic happy hour specials and deals to kick off your week. Tonight, find $10 local wines and $8 schooners during Golden Hour at Midnight Bar in Braddon, or head to Walt & Burley in Kingston for $6 house wines and tap schooners. Leyla Bar offers $10 mini cocktails and house drinks in the City Centre, perfect for a Spring evening.
🍺 Happy Hours in Canberra, ACT Tonight & This Week
Braddon
Midnight Bar
Address: Braddon (part of Midnight Hotel)
Happy Hour: Monday–Sunday 4–6 PM (“Golden Hour”)
Deals: $10 local wines, $8 schooners of beer (Bentspoke Brewing Co.), $12 bartender’s special cocktails, $10 bubbles, $10 red or white wine
Vibe: Sophisticated and vibrant lounge bar, perfect for date nights or group catch-ups.
Why go: Enjoy excellent local wines and craft beers in a stylish setting, perfect for unwinding as Spring begins. They also offer $15 savoury plates for snacking.
The Howling Moon
Address: Level 6/150 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon
Happy Hour: Monday–Friday 4–6 PM
Deals: $8 house wine and tap beers
Vibe: Rooftop bar with stunning views over the city and mountains, offering inventive cocktails and an Italian menu.
Why go: Soak up the Spring air with a refreshing drink and panoramic views, making it an ideal spot for an after-work tipple.
Akikaze Braddon
Address: Braddon
Happy Hour: Weekdays 5–6:30 PM
Deals: Deals on signature cocktails and select beers
Vibe: Intimate and stylish Japanese izakaya, known for its extensive sake and shochu list.
Why go: Dive into authentic Japanese flavours and creative drinks in a chic setting, great for a sophisticated catch-up this Spring.
Shorty’s
Address: Braddon
Happy Hour: Weekdays 4–6 PM
Deals: Discounted classic cocktails, schooners of local beer, and house wine
Vibe: Lively Braddon institution with outdoor seating, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Why go: A perfect spot to kick off your evening and people-watch in Braddon’s bustling hub as the weather warms up.
Marble & Grain
Address: 25 Mort Street, Braddon
Happy Hour: Daily 4–6 PM
Deals: (Specific drink prices not detailed, but generally discounted)
Vibe: European steakhouse-inspired gastro pub on the ground level of Avenue Hotel, with a paddock-to-plate menu.
Why go: A sophisticated setting for a daily happy hour, offering quality food and drinks to enjoy on a Spring afternoon.
Grease Monkey
Address: Braddon
Happy Hour: Weekdays 4–6 PM
Deals: $5 tap beers, house wine and spirits, $10 cocktails, $20 jugs
Vibe: Casual, open-air setting with a focus on burgers, beers, and shakes.
Why go: Enjoy generous comfort food and great drink deals in a lively atmosphere, especially good for a relaxed Spring evening with friends.
City Centre / Civic / NewActon
Leyla Bar
Address: Rooftop (City Centre)
Happy Hour: Tuesday–Friday 4:30–6:30 PM (“Sunset Hour”)
Deals: $10 mini cocktails, $10 house wine and sparkling, $10 select tap beer, mini margs and palomas
Vibe: Luxe rooftop bar with natural light and textured surfaces, perfect for soaking up golden hour.
Why go: Sip on expertly crafted drinks with a view as the sun sets over Canberra, an ideal Spring treat.
Highball
Address: Level 1, 75 London Circuit, Canberra
Happy Hour: Daily 5–6 PM (2-for-1 daiquiris)
Deals: Daily 2-for-1 daiquiris; Wednesdays $12 margaritas (5 PM–late); Thursdays $15 frozen cocktails (5 PM–close)
Vibe: Energetic cocktail bar known for variety and a vibrant terrace.
Why go: Indulge in creative cocktails and enjoy generous deals, especially on Wednesdays for margaritas or Thursdays for frozen delights this Spring.
Luna
Address: 99 London Cct, Canberra ACT 2601
Happy Hour: Thursday–Friday 4:30–6:30 PM
Deals: 50% discount on cocktails, refreshing tap beers, select wines by the glass, and premium house spirits
Vibe: Sophisticated art-deco style interiors with arch windows, offering a luxurious feel.
Why go: Experience a very generous happy hour in a chic setting, perfect for a high-end toast to the end of your work week.
The Pedlar
Address: Lonsdale Street, City Centre
Happy Hour: Weekdays 4–6 PM
Deals: Discounted local beers, wines, and some classic cocktails
Vibe: Popular haunt with a vibrant atmosphere and excellent food menu.
Why go: A great spot to grab a drink and a bite before heading to a show at the Canberra Theatre Centre, enjoying the bustling Lonsdale Street vibe.
Cabo
Address: City Centre
Happy Hour: Tuesday–Friday 4–6 PM
Deals: $15 slushies, $6 Balter Cervezas
Vibe: Coastal escape bringing holiday vibes to Canberra, with a focus on tequila.
Why go: Channel a vacation state of mind with refreshing slushies and beers, ideal for a sunny Spring afternoon.
Parlour
Address: NewActon Hotel (NewActon)
Happy Hour: Wednesday–Saturday 4–6 PM (“Cocktail Hour”)
Deals: $10 cocktails, $8 beers & wines
Vibe: Elegant setting with art deco interiors, focusing on wine and seasonal cocktails.
Why go: An ideal hideaway in NewActon’s thriving scene for laidback after-work drinks, celebrating little wins with fine sips.
Loquita
Address: City Centre
Happy Hour: Tuesday–Sunday 5–7 PM
Deals: $6 house spirits, $5 Tecate beer, $12 Tommy’s and frozen margs
Vibe: Upbeat, vibrant wonderland with a Latin American flair.
Why go: Forget your daily woes with lively drinks and a fun atmosphere, perfect for a pre-dinner pick-me-up or a casual night out this Spring.
The Pearl
Address: City Centre
Happy Hour: Daily 4–6 PM
Deals: $6 house spirits, wine and beer, plus $15 select cocktails
Vibe: Inviting and upbeat cocktail bar, a city centre favourite.
Why go: Wrap up your workday with fantastic deals on a range of drinks in a central, tempting location.
Kingston Foreshore
Walt & Burley
Address: Kingston Foreshore
Happy Hour: Monday–Thursday 4–6 PM; Friday–Monday 3–6 PM
Deals: Mon-Thu $6 wines and pints for schooner prices; Mon-Fri $6 house wines and $8 tap schooners. Late-night Fri-Sat 11 PM–midnight: $8 house spirits
Vibe: Lakeside pub with fireplaces, offering a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of Lake Burley Griffin.
Why go: Enjoy sunset drinks overlooking the lake with great deals on house wines and tap beers, or catch a late-night spirit special to keep the Spring evening going.
O’Connor
The Duxton
Address: O’Connor shops
Happy Hour: Monday–Friday 3–5 PM
Deals: $5 house red, white and sparkling
Vibe: Local pub located at the iconic O’Connor shops, known for a good time.
Why go: Score incredible value on house wines and sparkling, perfect for an early after-work drink in a friendly neighbourhood spot.
Gungahlin / Woden / Tuggeranong / Jamison
Canberra Southern Cross Club
Address: Woden, Tuggeranong, and Jamison locations
Happy Hour: Daily 3:30–5:30 PM
Deals: 49% discount on sparkling, wine by the glass, beer on tap, and soft drink (members pricing only)
Vibe: Community club offering a range of dining and entertainment options across multiple venues.
Why go: Become a member to unlock significant discounts on your favourite drinks every day, an excellent deal for locals looking to save this Spring.
| Venue | Days | Hours | Best Deal | Neighbourhood |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midnight Bar | Mon–Sun | 4–6 PM | $8 Schoopners, $10 Wines | Braddon |
| The Howling Moon | Mon–Fri | 4–6 PM | $8 House Wine & Tap Beers | Braddon |
| Akikaze Braddon | Weekdays | 5–6:30 PM | Signature Cocktail & Beer Deals | Braddon |
| Shorty’s | Weekdays | 4–6 PM | Discounted Cocktails, Beers & Wine | Braddon |
| Grease Monkey | Weekdays | 4–6 PM | $5 Tap Beers, $10 Cocktails | Braddon |
| Leyla Bar | Tue–Fri | 4:30–6:30 PM | $10 Mini Cocktails & House Drinks | City Centre |
| Highball | Daily | 5–6 PM | 2-for-1 Daiquiris | City Centre |
| Luna | Thu–Fri | 4:30–6:30 PM | 50% off Cocktails, Beers, Wines | City Centre |
| The Pedlar | Weekdays | 4–6 PM | Discounted Local Beers & Wines | City Centre |
| Cabo | Tue–Fri | 4–6 PM | $15 Slushies, $6 Balter Cervezas | City Centre |
| Parlour | Wed–Sat | 4–6 PM | $10 Cocktails, $8 Beers & Wines | NewActon |
| Walt & Burley | Mon–Fri | 3–6 PM | $6 House Wines, Pints for Schooner Prices | Kingston |
| The Duxton | Mon–Fri | 3–5 PM | $5 House Red, White & Sparkling | O’Connor |
| Canberra Southern Cross Club | Daily | 3:30–5:30 PM | 49% off Drinks (Members) | Multiple |
🎁 Best Deals & Offers in Canberra, ACT This Week
🍽️ Dining Deals
2 For 1 Pizza Night at The Alby
Deal: 2 for 1 pizza night
When: Mondays
Venue: The Alby
Why go: Start your week with a delicious and affordable pizza feast, perfect for sharing with friends or family.
$20 Selected Pizza & Pasta at The District
Deal: $20 selected pizza and pasta
When: Mondays from 5 PM
Venue: The District
Why go: Enjoy a hearty and budget-friendly Italian dinner to cure your Monday blues.
Free Drink with Burger at Edgars
Deal: Free house drink with your choice of beef, chicken or veg burger
When: Mondays from 5:30 PM
Venue: Edgars
Why go: A great value deal for a casual Monday night burger and a beverage.
Bottomless Pasta at Amici
Deal: All-you-can-eat pasta
When: Next on Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Venue: Amici, Canberra
Why go: Indulge in endless pasta dishes, a perfect mid-week treat for carb lovers.
Sushi Omakase at KOTO
Deal: 14-course Sushi Omakase experience, with optional wine or sake pairings
When: Sundays–Thursdays
Venue: KOTO, Canberra
Why go: A special, intimate culinary journey crafted by a hatted Executive Chef, ideal for sushi connoisseurs. Bookings are essential due to limited seating.
AK’s x Sal’s Pastificio Pasta Night ⏰ This week only
Deal: A tight menu of handmade pastas with Asian-inspired twists, deep-fried ravioli, and dessert
When: Friday, May 16, 2026 from 5 PM
Venue: AK’s (Braddon)
Why go: Experience a unique pop-up collaboration offering innovative pasta dishes in a 90s hip-hop, soul food atmosphere. Limited seats mean you need to be quick!
🍸 Drink Specials
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Leyla Bar ⏰ This month only
Deal: Month-long fiesta with bottomless margaritas, palomas, sparkling and rosé
When: Every Saturday in May 2026
Venue: Leyla Bar (City Centre)
Why go: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo all month long with free-flowing drinks and a lively Late Night Fiesta featuring DJs, drink specials, and nachos.
APS Wednesdays at Highball
Deal: $15 margaritas and $10 beer and wine when you flash your APS lanyard
When: Wednesdays from 5 PM
Venue: Highball (City Centre)
Why go: A fantastic mid-week deal for public servants looking to unwind with colleagues right after work.
🎭 Entertainment Offers
Live Music at Blackbird Bar
Deal: Enjoy live music
When: Ongoing, tonight Monday, May 4, 2026, 7:30–11:59 PM
Venue: Blackbird Bar – Live Music – Cocktails – Nightclub – Underground Speakeasy, Canberra
Why go: Immerse yourself in Canberra’s vibrant live music scene in a cool, underground speakeasy atmosphere.
Live DJs at Grease Monkey
Deal: DJs playing live
When: Friday and Saturday nights
Venue: Grease Monkey, Braddon
Why go: Dance your way into the weekend with great tunes and a lively crowd in a casual setting.
📱 Loyalty & App Deals
EatClub Discounts
Deal: Save up to 50% off the total bill, including drinks
When: Ongoing
Venue: Various bars and restaurants across Canberra
Why go: Discover amazing last-minute savings on dining and drinks all over Canberra by checking the EatClub app for deals.
Canberra Southern Cross Club Membership Benefits
Deal: Member-exclusive pricing, including 49% off happy hour drinks
When: Ongoing
Venue: Woden, Tuggeranong, and Jamison locations
Why go: Join in venue to take advantage of significant member discounts across all club offerings, from happy hour to dining.
🎉 Events & Parties in Canberra, ACT — May 2026
📅 Tonight & Tomorrow
Viva Italia in Canberra Festival
Date & Time: Ongoing until May 9, 2026, including today, Monday, May 4
Venue: Various venues, Parkes
Tickets: Varies by event
Don’t miss: Immerse yourself in Italian culture, food, and entertainment as this festival continues to celebrate throughout the city.
Blackbird Live Music
Date & Time: Tonight, Monday, May 4, 2026, 7:30–11:59 PM
Venue: Blackbird Bar – Live Music – Cocktails – Nightclub – Underground Speakeasy, Canberra
Tickets: Varies, likely cover charge or minimum spend
Don’t miss: A fantastic opportunity to catch live music and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a unique underground setting.
PJs Monday Night Trivia
Date & Time: Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 5, 2026, 6–9 PM
Venue: PJs in the City, Canberra
Tickets: Free to participate, typically with food/drink purchases
Don’t miss: Test your knowledge and have fun with friends at this popular weekly trivia night. Gather your team for a mid-week challenge.
Smith’s Poetry Thing
Date & Time: Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 5, 2026, 7–9 PM
Venue: Smith’s Alternative, Canberra
Tickets: Varies
Don’t miss: Experience the vibrant spoken word scene and discover local talent in an intimate setting.
Bottomless Pasta at Amici
Date & Time: Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Venue: Amici, Canberra
Tickets: Price for bottomless pasta (booking likely recommended)
Don’t miss: Indulge in an endless supply of delicious pasta dishes, perfect for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
📆 Coming Up This Month
Film Developing and Scanning Workshop
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 6, 2026, 6–9 PM
Venue: Photo Access, Griffith
Tickets: Course fee applies
Don’t miss: A unique opportunity for photography enthusiasts to learn traditional film techniques and develop new skills.
Molly Pro Jazz Jam
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 6, 2026, 8:30–11:30 PM
Venue: Molly, Canberra
Tickets: Varies (check venue for details)
Don’t miss: Enjoy a sophisticated evening of live jazz in one of Canberra’s best-kept secret speakeasies.
Beethoven’s Ghost | Musica Viva Australia | Canberra
Date & Time: Thursday, May 7, 2026, 7–9 PM
Venue: Llewellyn Hall, ANU, Canberra
Tickets: Price applies
Don’t miss: A classical music experience from Musica Viva Australia, showcasing exceptional musicianship in a renowned venue.
De Bortoli Wine Dinner at Tuggeranong
Date & Time: Thursday, May 7, 2026, 6:30–8:30 PM
Venue: Canberra Southern Cross Club Tuggeranong, Greenway
Tickets: Price applies
Don’t miss: Indulge in a curated wine dinner featuring De Bortoli wines, a treat for food and wine lovers.
The Whitlams with Canberra Symphony Orchestra
Date & Time: Friday, May 8, 2026 and Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 9:30 AM
Venue: Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square/London Cct, Canberra
Tickets: Price applies
Don’t miss: Experience the iconic Australian band The Whitlams performing with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra for a unique musical collaboration.
Satinder Sartaaj in Canberra
Date & Time: Monday, May 11, 2026, 6:30 PM
Venue: Royal Theatre, Canberra
Tickets: Price applies
Don’t miss: An evening with the renowned Punjabi singer, songwriter, and poet, Satinder Sartaaj, offering a captivating cultural performance.
SHREK RAVE CANBERRA
Date & Time: Saturday, May 16, 2026, 8:00 PM
Venue: The Baso Canberra
Tickets: From $21.75
Don’t miss: A themed rave night promising a unique and energetic party experience for fans of the iconic ogre.
Vision Pres. WHAT SO NOT + Anna Lunoe
Date & Time: Saturday, May 23, 2026, 8:00 AM
Venue: Dairy Road Precinct, Canberra
Tickets: Price applies
Don’t miss: An early start for an electrifying performance by renowned electronic artists WHAT SO NOT and Anna Lunoe.
🆓 Free Events
Kids Eat Free at Ainslie Football Club
Date & Time: Mondays, 5:30–8:30 PM
Venue: Ainslie Football Club
Tickets: Free (with every full-priced adult meal)
Don’t miss: A perfect family-friendly deal, allowing parents to enjoy a meal while kids eat for free.
One Free Kids’ Meal at Casey Jones Pub
Date & Time: Mondays, from 5 PM
Venue: Casey Jones Pub
Tickets: Free (with any main meal)
Don’t miss: Another great option for families looking for an affordable Monday night out.
Free Pool Mondays at Tuggeranong
Date & Time: Mondays
Venue: Canberra Southern Cross Club Tuggeranong
Tickets: Free
Don’t miss: Enjoy a relaxed and free game of pool to unwind on a Monday evening.
| Event | Date | Venue | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viva Italia in Canberra Festival | Until May 9, 2026 | Various venues, Parkes | Varies |
| Blackbird Live Music | Mon, May 4, 2026 | Blackbird Bar | Varies |
| PJs Monday Night Trivia | Tue, May 5, 2026 | PJs in the City | Free |
| Smith’s Poetry Thing | Tue, May 5, 2026 | Smith’s Alternative | Varies |
| Bottomless Pasta at Amici | Tue, May 5, 2026 | Amici | Price applies |
| Film Developing and Scanning Workshop | Wed, May 6, 2026 | Photo Access, Griffith | Course fee |
| Molly Pro Jazz Jam | Wed, May 6, 2026 | Molly | Varies |
| Beethoven’s Ghost | Thu, May 7, 2026 | Llewellyn Hall, ANU | Price applies |
| De Bortoli Wine Dinner | Thu, May 7, 2026 | Canberra Southern Cross Club Tuggeranong | Price applies |
| The Whitlams with Canberra Symphony Orchestra | Fri, May 8 & Sat, May 9, 2026 | Canberra Theatre Centre | Price applies |
| Satinder Sartaaj in Canberra | Mon, May 11, 2026 | Royal Theatre, Canberra | Price applies |
| SHREK RAVE CANBERRA | Sat, May 16, 2026 | The Baso Canberra | From $21.75 |
| Vision Pres. WHAT SO NOT + Anna Lunoe | Sat, May 23, 2026 | Dairy Road Precinct | Price applies |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Canberra, ACT Happy Hours & Nightlife
Q: What time does happy hour start in Canberra?
Happy hour times in Canberra vary by venue, but many establishments kick off their specials between 3 PM and 5 PM. For example, The Duxton in O’Connor starts its happy hour at 3 PM, while most happy hours in the City Centre and Braddon begin around 4 PM or 4:30 PM.
Q: Which Canberra bars have the cheapest drinks?
For some of the cheapest drinks, consider The Duxton in O’Connor with $5 house red, white, and sparkling during happy hour. Grease Monkey in Braddon offers $5 tap beers and house spirits, and Loquita in the City Centre has $5 Tecate beer. Canberra Southern Cross Club venues offer a significant 49% discount on various drinks for members.
Q: What are the best neighbourhoods for nightlife in Canberra?
Braddon and the City Centre (Civic) are widely considered the best neighbourhoods for nightlife in Canberra. Braddon is known for its eclectic mix of independent bars and creative flair, while the City Centre offers a wide array of bars, from pubs to sophisticated cocktail lounges. Kingston Foreshore is also popular for lakeside venues.
Q: Are there free events in Canberra this month?
Yes, there are several free events in Canberra this May. PJs in the City hosts free Monday Night Trivia. Families can enjoy “kids eat free” deals at Ainslie Football Club and Casey Jones Pub on Mondays. Additionally, Canberra Southern Cross Club Tuggeranong offers Free Pool Mondays.
Q: What are the best rooftop bars in Canberra?
Canberra boasts several excellent rooftop bars perfect for enjoying the views. Leyla Bar and The Howling Moon (atop Hotel Rex in Braddon) are highly recommended for their scenic overlooks, creative drinks, and vibrant atmosphere. Highball also offers a great terrace for golden hour drinks.
