From 5 - 19 July
CANBERRA’s
City Centre is the hottest spot in town!
For 15 days, the City comes alive with daily fire performances, circus acts, theatre, and musical comedy shows to warm up your winter.
Make a day—or night—of it. Book a table at your favourite dining spot or try somewhere new and explore local shops.
Free event
Always wanted to see Circus Oz? Now’s your chance – and it’s free this winter in Canberra! Experience a collision of comedy, clowning, acrobatics, skipping, bows and arrows, beauty, muscles, music, flying trapeze, juggling, slapstick, crazy antics and daredevilry from an eclectic ensemble spanning six decades. It’s a sheer delight – full of joy, energy and fun for all ages.
Circus Oz
Tuesday 15 – Friday 18 July
3:30 - 4:30 pm daily
Saturday 19 July
12:30 - 1:30 pm and 3:30 - 4:30 pm
Free event
Lucky Jim
Step into the chaos of fun! This winter, don’t miss the brand-new expanded show of Lucky Jim’s Messy Room — a hilarious, musical performance the whole family will love. Packed with laughs, surprises, and interactive moments, it’s the ultimate winter treat for kids and adults alike.
Free event
Fire Show
Following a spectacular 2024 season, Flux Entertainment returns—bigger, bolder, and brighter than ever! Experience brand-new pyrotechnic stunts, and don’t miss a special performance by Jessy Spin on 19 July.
Saturday 5 – Saturday 19 July
5:30 - 5:45 pm | 6:30 - 6:45 pm | 7:30 - 7:45 pm daily
Saturday 19 July | 12 pm - 9 pm | City Walk, Canberra
We’re bringing you a winter event like no other. The Forage is back — but not as you know it.
Think fire shows lighting up the night, DJ sets , Circus Oz, live music and street food that’ll warm your day.
So rug up, round up your mates, and come hungry. This is winter in Canberra done right.
Program
DJ Mr Michael 12 pm
Circus Oz 12:30 pm
DJ Mr Michael 1:30 pm
Lucky Jim 2:00 pm
Circus Oz 3:30 pm
Lavers 4:50 pm
Fire performances at 5:30 pm
Raio de Sol 5:50 pm
Fire performances 6:30 pm
Raio de Sol 6:50 pm
Fire performances 7:30 pm
Emilia Grace 8 pm
A curated selection of Canberra’s favourite street food vendors
FAQs
What is Winter in the City?
Winter in the City is a free public program presented by City Renewal. Running from 5–19 July 2025, the event brings Canberra’s City Centre to life with live and fire performances, family entertainment, and a festive winter atmosphere across Petrie Plaza and City Walk.
When and where is the event happening?
The program runs daily from 5 to 19 July in City Walk, Canberra City.
Daily performance times:
2:00 pm – Family theatre, music, and comedy
3:30 pm – Circus or ensemble performance
5:30 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm – Fire performances
There are no daytime performances on Monday 14 July to allow for a scheduled program transition. Fire performances will proceed as normal.
A grand finale will take place on Saturday 19 July, featuring a full day of performances and The Forage street food festival.
Do I need to buy a ticket?
No. All performances are free and open to the public.
Is the event family-friendly?
Yes. The program is designed for all ages and focuses on fun, safe, and engaging experiences for families and children.
Is seating available?
Yes. Performances are on a raised, open-air stage, viewable from multiple locations. Seating includes:
Bleacher-style seating (capacity 120)
Deck chairs, picnic tables, and bench seating
Seating is first in, best dressed. You’re welcome to attend as often as you like.
Will there be food and drinks?
City centre businesses are open daily, offering full lunch, dinner, and drink options throughout the program.
On site, there will be:
Hot chocolate and marshmallows for toasting
A licensed bar for the adult crowd
On Saturday 19 July, The Forage will offer an expanded selection of street food vendors.
Are there toilets available?
Yes. Public toilets are available at the Canberra Centre, just a short walk from the event site.
Is the event accessible?
Yes. The site is wheelchair accessible, with flat terrain and nearby amenities.
How do I get there, and where can I park?
The event is in the City Centre, accessible by:
Light rail and bus (Alinga Street stop is closest)
Car, with parking at:
Canberra Centre (Petrie/Cooyong Street)
Civic Pool
City West and City East car parks
Bike and foot (bike racks available nearby)
Free parking is available Wednesday to Sunday from 5:30 pm to 8:30 am at some public city car parks.
There’s also fare free Fridays on Transport Canberra bus and light rail services.
The western side of London Circuit and a section of London Circuit east is closed to traffic due to the construction of Light Rail to Commonwealth Park.
What happens in bad weather?
The program runs rain or shine, but performances may be delayed or rescheduled if conditions are unsafe. Check City Renewal channels for updates.
Can I bring my pet?
Yes—well-behaved pets on leads are welcome. Please consider whether the crowds and fire performances are suitable for your animal.