Jingle all the way through these unique Christmas in July Festival experiences
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Ho ho hold onto your hats, because the countdown is on to one of the most fun, festive experiences on our calendar – the Christmas in July Festival.
Transforming Patrick White Lawns into a winter wonderland from Thursday 3 until Sunday 6 July, the magical European-inspired experience has been bringing a touch of white winter magic to Canberra since making its debut in 2022. And this year is no different. With a brand new lakeside location, the 2025 Festival promises even more magic, complete with stunning views – and yes, that does mean lakeside raclette.
Looking like something straight out of your favourite Christmas movie, this year will see several winter-ful and unique experiences that you need to have on your radar – because we promise that they’ll jingle the bells of even the grumpiest Grinch.
Read this list, check it twice, and thank us later. Oh, and did we mention it’s free?
Walk through Snow Lane and sleigh your Instagram game
A sparkling alpine village filled with authentic wooden chalets, towering nutcrackers, and over 40 real pine trees coated in falling snow…this is everything you love about winter wrapped up into one Instagrammable moment.
But the thing you need to see at the Christmas in July Festival is Snow Lane – a stunning alley filled with real Christmas trees and dazzling lights (and the perfect spot for a family Christmas photo). And with artificial snow falling every 15 minutes, you’ll be whisked away from Canberra and into the middle of one of Europe’s best Christmas markets.
Looking for more moments worthy of the ‘gram? Take your pick from the large Christmas tree, the gorgeous arches at the entries, and the French Alpine-inspired wooden chalets – all of which will be filled with something special, from handmade snow globes to gourmet pantry picks. Grab yourself a hot chocolate (with a boozy option available for adults) and enjoy wandering through the winter wonderland.
Eat, drink and be merry at the Fire Pit Garden
Grab those marshmallows, because in exciting news, the Fire Pit Garden is returning for another year – and they had us at mulled wine.
The perfect cosy experience on a cold night, this year you can book yourself and four to eight friends a seat in the outdoor fire pit garden where (for $25 per person), you’ll receive a glass of mulled wine and unlimited marshmallows to roast. Yep – you can toast, roast and repeat to your heart’s content.
The perfect way to warm up while slowing down, book your hour-long experience here.
Rock around the Christmas tree with free live music
It’s not Christmas without carols, which is why with free live music playing every afternoon of the festival, you’ll be rocking around the Christmas tree (preferably with a glass of mulled wine in hand).
With the full program coming soon, you can expect performances from The Baker Boys Band, Music for Canberra and Lean Castley and her band. Plus (because that’s not all), there will also be live performances from Rio Samba – yep, we’re talking a fusion Brazilian samba Christmas show – and 6th Position, the talented dancers from the 2024 and 2025 production of The Nutcracker in July. Just make sure to bring your dancing shoes!
Ho ho hold on – because there’s more to discover
Along with roaming performers, more snow-filled moments, hands-on workshops, and more, ‘tis the season for a good time this July. Keep an eye out, because there’s more information to come!
THE ESSENTIALS
What: Christmas in July
When: Thursday 3 July until Sunday 6 July
Where: Patrick White Lawns, National Triangle
Web: christmasinjuly.com.au
Images supplied.
