Winter in the City wrapped up on 18 July after ten days of free, world-class entertainment that transformed Petrie Plaza and City Walk into a lively winter destination, drawing thousands of people into Canberra's City Centre and delivering a significant boost for local businesses.
From 8 to 18 July, an estimated 31,000 people visited the City Centre to enjoy family-friendly circus performances, spectacular fire and pyrotechnic shows and a range of winter hospitality experiences. The festival attracted an average of 3,100 attendees per day and generated an estimated $2.3 Million* in expenditure impact, demonstrating the value of place activation and public events in supporting the local economy.
A 14‑metre elevated stage next to the Civic merry‑go‑round hosted 40 free performances throughout the July school holidays. Audiences enjoyed Here, there and everywhere!, Circus Oz’s new production featuring acrobatics, live music and comedy, while Flux Entertainment delivered a brand-new series of choreographed fire and pyrotechnic performances that lit up the city after dark.
The free event ensured everyone could access high-quality entertainment and encouraged visitors to spend more time in the city, supporting nearby cafés, restaurants, bars and retailers. Popular additions included the Central Social Club winter bar and Centro Café’s hot chocolate hut located next to the performance stage.
The success of Winter in the City highlights the strong demand for free, family-friendly experiences and the important role events play in supporting Canberra's night-time economy. Every visit creates opportunities for local businesses and contributes to a more vibrant, connected and welcoming City Centre.
The recent 2026 Council of Capital City Lord Mayors Night-Time Economy Report highlighted Canberra's growing night-time economy, supporting more than 32,000 jobs and generating $4.9 billion in annual turnover.
Events such as Winter in the City showcase and activate the City Centre, encouraging people to gather, connect and enjoy all the city has to offer. Recent improvements in Garema Place and City Walk are helping make the City Centre safer, more attractive and welcoming destination.
Winter fun in the city doesn't end with the festival. Through the City Renewal Authority's Business Activation Grants program, 16 local businesses will deliver pop-ups, live music, food and wine experiences, arts programming, wellness activities and extended trading through to 31 August.
Visit InTheCity.com.au for event highlights, upcoming activations and inspiration for your next city visit.
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*Conservative estimate based on City Renewal consumer survey data and high proportion of children in attendance.
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.
