Your Libraries ACT membership unlocks a wealth of free entertainment options.
22 May 2026
In brief:
- This article lists ways to save money during winter.
- There are free and low-cost ways to keep entertained, active and well fed.
- This article also provides tips to reduce energy bills in winter.
Winter is a perfect time to slow down and enjoy the comfort of home. But while staying in might seem like the more affordable option, costs can still add up.
Whether you’re spending time indoors or braving those crisp Canberra winter days, these tips will help you make the most of the season – without stretching your budget.
SAVE ON ENTERTAINMENT
Use free streaming services
Forget subscriptions – save your cash this winter with Libraries ACT’s free streaming services.
Library members can access many platforms including:
- Beamafilm – a streaming platform for movie lovers
- BeamaKids+ – movies and shows for kids
- Kanopy – a streaming service with over 45,000 films, documentaries and TV series
- Kanopy Kids – educational and entertaining movies and shows for kids
- Story Box Library – a growing collection of videos with stories read aloud by favourite storytellers
- Freegal music – a music library with over 18 million songs.
You can watch eight free movies or episodes a month. This includes international cinema and Australasian stories.
See how else your membership can keep you entertained this winter.
Enjoy Canberra’s free activities
Winter doesn’t have to mean hiding away – there are plenty of free activities to enjoy right across the ACT.
Why not organise a trivia night? Check out one of these free trivia spots.
If the kids are going wild inside, find a budget-friendly activity to keep them busy.
Many of Canberra’s national institutions offer free general admission. You can also join a free tour at many of them. Check out locals’ favourite attractions.
Canberra's diverse music scene has something for everyone. Venture out this winter to experience one of Canberra’s great live music venues.
Discover Winter in the City
Held from 8–18 July 2026, this beloved event is completely free.
Expect high-energy circus acts and fire performances lighting up the night.
Rug up, wander, stop for a bite and stay a little longer as the city shifts into the evening.
See the Winter in the City program.
Take the kids to Hop In!
Located at Canberra Museum + Gallery, Hop In! is a playful, hands-on exhibition designed for children aged 3–12 and their families.
It’s free and on until 11 October 2026.
Celebrate Christmas in July
Enjoy free entry to the Christmas in July festival. Experience a fun festive vibe alongside European-inspired food stalls and a winter market.
It’s on from 1–5 July 2026 at Parkes Place West.
SAVE ON FOOD
Find great local food deals
The couch certainly beckons in winter, but it’s also great to get out, eat something delicious and support your local eatery.
Save money when dining out by finding some local meal deals.
See our guide to eating out for less in Canberra.
Head to the markets
Buying fresh produce directly from a producer is a great way to save money. You’re also supporting your community while you shop.
Get the ultimate guide to Canberra’s markets.
SAVE ON THINGS AROUND THE HOUSE
Declutter your house for free
Extra time at home presents a good opportunity to declutter.
If you find household items you no longer want, use some of the free waste disposal options in Canberra.
Grow your own veggies
If you’re looking for a new hobby at home, why not start a veggie patch? This can be rewarding and save you money. Plus, some hardy veggies are best planted in winter.
If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve got some great tips from Fiona Buining of Ainslie Urban Farm.
Learn how to grow veggies at home.
SAVE ON HOBBIES
Pay less for books
Cuddling up with a good book and a cuppa is one of the best things about winter.
If you have a long list of books to get through, why not use your Libraries ACT membership and borrow them for free? You can even borrow eBooks and audiobooks.
Visit the Libraries ACT website for more info.
Keep an eye out for street libraries in your region.
Move more, spend less
Looking to be more active this winter? Discover 10 free or low-cost ways to get active in Canberra.
Why not rug up and tackle one of the ACT’s lesser-known walks?
You might even try one of Canberra’s more unusual sports. Many are super-affordable and a whole lot of fun.
You could find some zen with free or low-cost community yoga. Or borrow some yoga resources from your local library.
Keen to show the kids some snow? We’ve compiled a list of the best places you can see snow for free.
Just look up!
Stargazing is a fabulous – and free – way to spend an evening. And believe it or not, winter is the best time to do it!
Renowned for its clear skies free from the glare of city lights, Canberra is an amateur astronomer’s dream.
Mount Stromlo Observatory runs free public stargazing nights. For DIY ideas, check out our stargazer’s guide to Canberra.
SAVE ON STUDY OPTIONS
Expand your skills from the comfort of your couch
Libraries ACT has a huge list of online learning and educational materials for all ages. Master a new language or gain some crafting skills – all online.
There is also a wealth of family history resources.
CIT offers a range of courses through the Fee-free TAFE initiative. Some are delivered fully (or mostly) online.
Learn something new or upskill in free courses spanning cyber security, hospitality, project management and graphic design.
Find out more about free education options in the ACT.
SAVE ON ENERGY COSTS
Get the most from your heating system
You might be tempted to crank the heater to full blast, but this can really impact your energy bill.
Whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, simple actions can help you keep warm while spending less on your heating bill.
- Set your thermostat between 18 and 21 degrees.
- Only heat rooms you’re using – close doors and windows to make sure.
- Turn off your heater if you go out and set its timer for when you get home.
- Put on an extra layer of clothing, or use a heated throw, hot water bottle or wheat pack, before turning up the heat.
Find more energy saving tips and advice here.
The ACT Government offers free workshops including detailed energy-saving advice, tools and resources.
Renting? Get free advice on how to save money on bills
Renters can get a free home visit with the Renters’ Home Energy Program. Experts will give advice on how to save money on energy bills.
During the visit, the energy expert will:
- review how your home uses energy
- show you quick, cheap, and effective ways to cut energy bills
- give you a free heated throw rug or cooling towel (limited time only)
- give you a personalised plan with low or no-cost ways to save on energy.
Book a home energy visit today.
Save money upgrading appliances
Jump online and get expert advice on your next electric appliance for free.
The Make Your Next Choice Electric online tool gives you an estimate on how much you could save by going electric.
The tool helps Canberra households to create their own energy transition plan and switch off gas.
Find out more about switching to electric.
ACT Government rebates
There are also some ACT Government rebates available. View the ACT Government cost of living support website.
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