Annual Floriade spring celebration opens in Australian capital

Canberra: Australia’s largest celebration of spring has opened its gates in the nation’s capital.
The 36th Floriade festival officially opened at Canberra’s Commonwealth Park on Saturday, inviting visitors to explore over 1 million flower blooms as well as entertainment, cultural celebrations and workshops.
Tara Cheyne, the Australian Capital Territory’s Assistant Minister for Economic Development, said in a media release on Friday that the annual event is a major boost for Canberra’s economy.
“Floriade is recognized Australia’s largest celebration of spring and attracts close to half a million visitors with nearly 50 percent coming from interstate or overseas, providing a boost to Canberra’s economy and building the city’s reputation as a global tourist destination,” she said.
“I encourage you to let your imagination take you to your own wonderland as you take in the spectacular floral displays in Commonwealth Park.”
The Australian Capital Territory Government in June announced it was hoping the festival would attract more than 500,000 people and generate 60 million Australian dollars (38.5 million U.S. dollars) for the local economy.
The free, non-ticketed event runs until Oct 15, with gates open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.