Things to do  |  15 Jan 2021

Buskers are back on the city beat, along with a free symphony in Victoria Square, adventurous theatre in the Botanic Gardens and plenty of sport.

Bread & Circus – Backyard Buskers Festival

The Bread & Circus – Backyard Buskers Festival pitches up in Christchurch today, putting the spotlight on street performers until the end of January.

The festival features handpicked local talent, performing at outdoor and indoor venues across the city.

Among this weekend’s highlights are The New Regent St Spectacular, the Festival Gala hosted by The Topp Twins and the Kids Comedy Gala.

Symphony in the City: Peter and the Wolf

Peter and the Wolf will have a Kiwi sound when the CSO opens Symphony in the City in Victoria Square.

The special sessions for young families will be held on Saturday, with a te reo Māori performance at 11am and English at 12.30pm. The audience also will have the opportunity to get a hands-on experience by trying a variety of musical instruments between the free concerts.

Around the World in 80 Days

Travel Around the World in 80 Days and never leave the Botanic Gardens.

The Anthony Harper Summer Theatre presents a fresh adaptation of Jules Verne’s classic 1872 travel adventure, featuring Phileas Fogg and his valet, Jean Passepartout. Bring your outdoor chair, picnic and sense of fun to the Weather Station Lawn at 6.30pm tonight or at 2pm or 6.30pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Twilight on Weka Pass Railway

Jump on board for a trip on the Weka Pass Railway.

Join the train at Glenmark Station in North Canterbury for a return twilight journey and dinner stop in Waikari on Saturday. Book a train trip online.

Akaroa Music Festival

Head over the hills to Banks Peninsula to enjoy several performances featuring leading classical musicians at the Akaroa Music Festival.

Super Smash at Hagley Oval

Super Smash cricket lights up Hagley Oval today as the Canterbury Kings team faces the Northern Knights, followed by the Magicians side taking strike against the Spirit.

Both the Kings and Magicians are back in action on Saturday. Book tickets online.

Canterbury Beach Volleyball Tournament Series

Bring a picnic and outdoor chairs and enjoy all the volleyball action in the sandpit at the Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre on Saturday.

South Island Sidecar Speedway Championship

Sidecars roar into action on Saturday night at the Moore Park Motorcycle Speedway.

The City South Van Spares South Island Sidecar Speedway Championship features leading local combinations as they duel for title honours from 5pm.

Find out more

You can find out about other events happening in and around Christchurch via the What’s On webpages.