Invitation to the opening of the First Commonwealth Parliament at Exhibition Building, Melbourne, 9 May 1901

The Federation of Australia was ushered into existence with a series of celebrations across the country. Two of the most important events in the Federation year were the inauguration of the Commonwealth of Australia on 1 January and the opening of the first Commonwealth Parliament on 9 May. To commemorate both occasions, celebrations ranging from flag-raising ceremonies to banquets, fireworks and sports carnivals were held.