Get ready to skate into the city this winter in Canberra as Civic Square transforms into an open-air ice rink for all to enjoy.
Running from Friday, 1 July to Sunday, 17 July, the annual Winter in the City event returns with unique experiences, exhibitions, pop-up bars and cosy spaces that capture the essence of winter.
“We’re delighted to invite people back into the city to enjoy all it has to offer, and at the same time support local business, particularly our hospitality retailers that were faced with many challenges during the height of COVID,” City Renewal Authority place experience and communications director Jen Ramsay said.
“I’m excited to see our community enjoying some fun winter activities during the school holidays and all the City Centre has to offer.
“Toasting marshmallows around the fire pit in Civic Square with a hot chocolate from Café Après also has a special appeal to beat the Canberra cold.”
Through shopping, eating, entertainment and socialising, they aim to attract over 20,000 people to attend the two-week event.
Ms Ramsay said this event would be the biggest winter program delivered to date for the City Renewal Authority.
“We’ve established some great partnerships with local businesses, and they’ve really gone above and beyond to make this a unique experience for Canberrans,” she said.
“Café Après and dRINKs Bar are new additions this year and will be open at the same time as the ice rink for the duration of the program, and everyone’s welcome whether you’re skating or spectating.
“Next year and beyond, we hope to build on all of the incredible experiences featured this year.”
In addition to the ice skating rink and skate hire, there will be ice sculptures, food vendors, fireplaces, gourmet hot chocolate and even fires to toast marshmallows.
At the Canberra Theatre Centre Terrace there will be a winter dRINKs Bar, at the CMAG (Canberra Museum and Gallery) there will be a ‘Back to the Boombox’ 80s party and cosy reading nook for the kids, and at the Canberra Centre’s Winter Village there will be indoor snowfall, mulled wine, s’mores and more.
During the school holidays, the ice skating rink will be open Thursday to Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm, and Friday to Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm, starting 1 July.
Local businesses are encouraged to participate in the winter in the City campaign by getting involved with offers and promotions aimed to appeal to the Canberra community and can sign up here.
To book tickets, visit Winter in the City.