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Enlighten Canberra and Enlighten Night Noodle Markets 2017

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The Cube for Heaven's Sake installation.
The Cube for Heaven's Sake installation. Supplied

There's something magical about evening eating at food markets. It's hard to say if it's the warmth and light of the afternoon sun as it slowly hits the horizon, the relaxed al fresco setting of makeshift outdoor furniture, or the smells and sounds of food being prepared just metres away that makes the experience so special. Combine this atmosphere with a festival backdrop of amazing architectural projections illuminating some of Canberra's most iconic buildings, and you've got yourself an arts, culture and food event worth checking out.

With the turn of a season, Canberra welcomes Enlighten and with it, the Enlighten Night Noodle Markets, as part of Good Food Month. Think: food vans offering dumplings and doza, decked out shipping containers filled with pad Thai and gyoza and gourmet food tents featuring next level noodles.

Across 3-12 March, Enlighten will showcase premiere international installations, wild roving performances, exclusive dining experiences, live music and dynamic architectural projections in the heart of Canberra.

Enlighten Night Noodle Markets.
Enlighten Night Noodle Markets. Supplied
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Returning for their third year in the nation's capital as part of Enlighten, the Night Noodle Markets shine a light on Asian-inspired cuisine from local and interstate vendors. Featuring the likes of Hoy Pinoy, Bao Stop and Little Kyoto, the Night Noodle Markets will appease the most discerning of foodies.

To ensure you enjoy your Enlighten experience completely, we recommend the immersion method. Dive right in! The program offers both free and ticketed events, including behind the scenes tours, hands on activities, inspiring talks and workshops and even a glow in the dark electronic music dance party (complete with complimentary high-vis vests and glow-sticks).

Start your night with a quick bite before exploring the event hotspots. A bao or BBQ skewer should do the trick. Enlighten hosts a swathe of local, national and international talent that you can get up close and personal with, so say hello to roving artists as they make their way by. Don't forget to doff your hat at The Couldmen, these mild mannered gentlemen are both pleasant and polite.

Stop by the Museum of Australian Democracy and take part in a unique and playful interactive installation which allows you to leave your message in our nation's history. Rearrange, remix and reframe the written word to craft your own record 'for the record' as part of this cutting-edge collaborative experience. This activity is family friendly and suitable for all ages.

As the sun sets, make your way across to the National Portrait Gallery and make your mark on Enlighten. The building facade will be bathed in digital projections of faces; a rolling conveyor belt of 'selfies' and portraits. Jump in the photo booth, take a snap and get famous, billboard-style.

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Finally, grab some noodles, head to the Enlighten Main Stage and settle in. Be entertained by the cool, hip tunes of bands such as Toyo, Bustamento, Cookin' On 3 Burners, which will provide the perfect soundtrack to your dinner. And for dessert? Flashing fairy floss, of course. This is a light show, after all.

Date: 3 - 12 March 2017

Times: 5pm - 12pm Fridays and Saturdays and 5pm - 10pm every other night

Main event: Nights 3 to 4 and 10 to 11 March

More info: http://enlightencanberra.com.au/

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