Winter in Canberra: a uni student’s survival guide
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Skip the hibernation this winter with some of our favourite budget-friendly activities.
Contrary to popular belief, there are many ways to enjoy a Canberra winter that doesn’t include travelling elsewhere. Students who are still waiting for their next paycheck, this one’s for you.
Events, festivals and markets to cure those winter blues
The Handmade Market
Canberra’s beloved Handmade Market is the perfect way to satisfy those winter cravings and upgrade your home décor with homemade food and designs. Returning on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June (that’s this weekend!), the Handmade Market will be sure to warm you up this winter without breaking the bank.
Exhibition Park, Flemington Road, Mitchell | handmadecanberra.com.au
The Christmas in July Festival
The annual Christmas in July festival is returning to Patrick White Lawns to bring Canberrans the authentic European Christmas experience. Taking place from Thursday 3 until Sunday 6 July, the festival includes live music, Christmas lights, fusion dishes, wine and a fire pit garden.
Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | christmasinjuly.com.au
Winter in the City
Grab your puffer jackets and head out to the city centre because from Saturday 5 until Saturday 19 July, the city will be transformed into a winter wonderland. With events and live performances for all ages, (including the much-anticipated fire show), you won’t want to miss this.
Various locations, City | winter.inthecity.com.au
Old Bus Depot Markets
Continuing on the theme of markets, the iconic Old Bus Depot Markets are on every Sunday bringing you the finest of handcrafted clothing, jewellery, food and homeware. Trust us when we say it does not disappoint!
21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | obdm.com.au
A baddie on a budget? No worries! Here are our favourite thrift stores
Lonsdale Street
Lonsdale Street in Braddon is home to some of the best thrift stores in Canberra such as Goodbyes, Vinnies (of course) and the newest addition, Canberra Garms. These stores offer affordable, unique and quality options to upgrade your winter wardrobe.
G17/27, 3 and G16/27, Lonsdale Street, Braddon | goodbyes.com.au| vinnies.org.au and canberragarms.com
Fashion Thrift Society
Popular among students and a personal favourite, the Fashion Thrift Society is returning to Canberra on 20 July. With all-day student passes available for just $9, FTS is an affordable way to explore vintage fashion and discover local brands.
Exhibition Park, Flemington Road, Mitchell | fashionthriftsociety.com.au
Good Goodies Flea Market
Hosted by Gang Gang Café, Good Goodies is a flea market for locals to share their products with the community. From handmade cakes to preloved clothes, this market is the perfect way to spend a chilly Saturday.
4/2 Frencham Place, Downer | facebook.com
Dirty Janes
Known best for its antiques and vintage goodies, Dirty Janes is a go-to for those looking for affordable, yet stylish furniture to decorate with (or to window shop). There’s even a café to grab a hot drink and toastie while you browse!
80b Collie Street, Fyshwick | dirtyjanes.com
Looking to escape the cold? Here are some strictly indoor options
Holey Moley and Hijinx Hotel
Grab your friends and your student IDs because Holey Moley and Hijinx Hotel are offering nine holes for $12 and a five-set of challenge rooms for $20, and what could be a better pregame? With mini golf, karaoke, challenge rooms, food and cocktails, you’ll never want to leave!
Canberra Centre, Corner of Cooyong Street and Ainslie Avenue, 148 Bunda Street, City | holeymoley.com.au
Hoyts
This winter you can catch all the new releases for only $12.50 from Monday to Thursday through Student Edge, what a bargain!
Benjamin Way, Belconnen and Bradley Street, Phillip | hoyts.com.au
Phillip Ice Skating Centre
Okay, this isn’t exactly escaping the cold, but we promise it’ll be worth it. Phillip’s Olympic-sized ice rink is open every day with walk-ins and lessons. Every Wednesday from 8 am until 10pm, uni students can skate for only $20 – talk about a fun way to procrastinate your assessments.
1 Irving Street, Phillip | phillippoolandskate.com.au
Love Athletica Hot Mat Pilates
You’ll be sure to warm up and feel the burn at Love Athletica’s heated mat Pilates classes. Take advantage of their limited-time opening offer and get five classes for just $39 this winter.
70 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon | loveathletica.com.au
