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Free Entry · Canberra & Sydney
A European inspired food, wine & winter market
Wooden chalets, twinkling fairy lights, bubbling melted cheese and steaming mulled wine — the magic of a Strasbourg Christmas market, brought to Australia in the middle of winter.
our story
Back to Canberra & The Rocks, Sydney
Born in The Rocks, Sydney in 2017, Christmas in July brought the spirit of Strasbourg’s iconic Christmas market to Australia. In its first year, over 100,000 visitors fell under its spell. By 2019, that number had grown to 250,000 over just four enchanting days. In 2022, the magic crossed to Canberra for the very first time.
Now, in 2026, Christmas in July returns to both cities — bigger, warmer, and more festive than ever. Free entry. Days of food, wine, snow, fire pits, and winter wonder. Because why celebrate Christmas once when you can celebrate it twice?
Please note: dates previously shown were for the 2025 season and are no longer valid.
100K+
2017 Visitors
250K+
2019 Visitors
2
Cities in 2026
SPONSORS & PARTNERS
Free Entry · Patrick White Lawns
Canberra
Authentic European wood chalets, fire pits, snow, and live shows on Patrick White Lawns — five days of winter wonder in the capital.
Dates
1 – 5 July
2026
Location
Patrick White Lawns
Trading Hours
Wed 1 Jul — 4:30 – 9:30 PM
Thu 2 Jul — 4:30 – 9:30 PM
Fri 3 Jul — 4:30 – 10:30 PM
Sat 4 Jul — 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Sun 5 Jul — 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
What's On
Five days of festive experiences
Born in The Rocks, Sydney in 2017, Christmas in July brought the spirit of Strasbourg’s iconic Christmas market to Australia. In its first year, over 100,000 visitors fell under its spell. By 2019, that number had grown to 250,000 over just four enchanting days. In 2022, the magic crossed to Canberra for the very first time.
Now, in 2026, Christmas in July returns to both cities — bigger, warmer, and more festive than ever. Free entry. Days of food, wine, snow, fire pits, and winter wonder. Because why celebrate Christmas once when you can celebrate it twice?
Please note: dates previously shown were for the 2025 season and are no longer valid.
European Chalets
Authentic European wood chalets featuring exhibitors, food, wine & an artisan market.
Fire Pit Garden
Book your fire pit and bring your friends & family together. Toast marshmallows and sip mulled wine.
Fire Pit Cinema
Snuggle up by the fire, toast marshmallows, and enjoy Christmas classics under the stars.
Live Shows
Live music, concerts, Christmas carols & a street art show across the festival grounds.
Snow Lane
Walk through the falling snow and let the magic transport you. Free entry, no bookings needed.
2026 Festival Map
Get your bearings before you arrive — chalets, fire pits, stages and entry points at a glance.
European Chalets
Authentic European wood chalets featuring exhibitors, food, wine & an artisan market
Fire Pit Garden
Book your fire pit and bring your friends & family together. Toast marshmallow & sip on mulled wine
Fire Pit Cinema
Snuggle up by the fire, toast some marshmallows, sip mulled wine and enjoy Christmas classics
Getting there
Patrick White Lawns, Canberra ACT 2600
We strongly recommend using public transport where possible — several bus routes stop just a short walk from the festival site.
Patrick White Lawns is a very small car park with limited access and can fill quickly, often causing delays on entry and exit. For a smoother arrival, park at one of these larger nearby options and walk in:
- National Library of Australia
- Regatta Point / Commonwealth Park Parking
- City West / Civic Parking (Parkes Way side)
Once parked, it’s just a short stroll to the festival. Plan ahead, arrive early, and enjoy the festivities stress-free.
Travel notice — 4 to 6 July
Light Rail Stage 2A construction will replace light rail with buses between Gungahlin Place and Alinga Street, with temporary road closures and pedestrian detours around Northbourne Avenue and Civic. Allow extra travel time and check Transport Canberra updates before you visit.
Winter tip: rug up — coats, scarves, beanies, and yes, ugly Christmas jumpers are highly encouraged. The festival runs rain or shine, only pausing for severe weather.
FAQ
Good to know
Where is it located?
We’re coming back to Patrick White Lawns—perfect for a winter wander!🎄
Will there be any transport or traffic disruptions during the festival?
Yes. Due to Light Rail Stage 2A works, there will be temporary changes from Saturday 4 July to Sunday 5 July.
- Light rail services will be replaced by buses between Gungahlin Place and Alinga Street
- Road closures and lane reductions will be in place around Northbourne Avenue and the City
- Some pedestrian access points near Alinga Street may be temporarily closed
We recommend allowing extra travel time and checking Transport Canberra updates before heading in.
Is there parking available?
Yes—there are several parking options around the festival site at Patrick White Lawns.
However, we strongly recommend avoiding Patrick White Lawns by car, as it is a small car park with limited access and can become congested quickly.
For the best experience, we suggest:
National Library of Australia (NLA) Car Park
Regatta Point / Commonwealth Park Parking
City West / Civic Parking (Parkes Way side)
From these locations, it’s just a short walk to the festival.
Planning ahead will help ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival.
Is it free entry?
You bet your baubles it is! Entry to the Christmas in July Festival is totally FREE.
Some experiences and treats do require paid tickets or purchases—but the festive spirit? That’s on the house.
Any age restrictions?
None at all! Open to kids and kids at heart—just bring your Christmas spirit (or a candy cane, that works too).
Is the Fire Pit Experience suitable for kids? How much does it cost?
Absolutely! It’s a family-friendly festive moment, even for the tiniest elves—just make sure they’re supervised at all times around the fire (no rogue reindeer behaviour, please).
✨ No minimum age
✨ Kids under 6 enter FREE and don’t count towards your booking headcount
✨ Just book for the adults, and bring the littlies along for the ride!
Free Entry · The Rocks
Sydney
Ten days of European wood chalets, fire pits, snow, and live shows on the cobbled streets of The Rocks — Christmas in July's original home.
Dates
10 – 19 July 2026
Location
The Rocks, Sydney
Trading Hours
Fri 10 Jul — 4:00 – 11:00 PM
Sat 11 Jul — 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sun 12 Jul — 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Mon 13 Jul — 4:00 – 10:00 PM
Tue 14 Jul — 4:00 – 10:00 PM
Wed 15 Jul — 4:00 – 10:00 PM
Thu 16 Jul — 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Fri 17 Jul — 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sat 18 Jul — 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sun 19 Jul — 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
What's On
Ten days of festive experiences
Born in The Rocks, Sydney in 2017, Christmas in July brought the spirit of Strasbourg’s iconic Christmas market to Australia. In its first year, over 100,000 visitors fell under its spell. By 2019, that number had grown to 250,000 over just four enchanting days. In 2022, the magic crossed to Canberra for the very first time.
Now, in 2026, Christmas in July returns to both cities — bigger, warmer, and more festive than ever. Free entry. Days of food, wine, snow, fire pits, and winter wonder. Because why celebrate Christmas once when you can celebrate it twice?
Please note: dates previously shown were for the 2025 season and are no longer valid.
European Chalets
Authentic European wood chalets featuring exhibitors, food, wine & an artisan market.
Fire Pit Cinema
Snuggle up by the fire, toast marshmallows, and enjoy Christmas classics under the stars.
Live Shows
Live music, concerts, Christmas carols & a street art show across the festival grounds.
Snow Lane
Walk through the falling snow and let the magic transport you. Free entry, no bookings needed.
European Chalets
Authentic European wood chalets featuring exhibitors, food, wine & an artisan market
Fire Pit Cinema
Snuggle up by the fire, toast some marshmallows, sip mulled wine and enjoy Christmas classics
Our Feed
Follow along on Instagram
Born in The Rocks, Sydney in 2017, Christmas in July brought the spirit of Strasbourg’s iconic Christmas market to Australia. In its first year, over 100,000 visitors fell under its spell. By 2019, that number had grown to 250,000 over just four enchanting days. In 2022, the magic crossed to Canberra for the very first time.
Now, in 2026, Christmas in July returns to both cities — bigger, warmer, and more festive than ever. Free entry. Days of food, wine, snow, fire pits, and winter wonder. Because why celebrate Christmas once when you can celebrate it twice?
Please note: dates previously shown were for the 2025 season and are no longer valid.
Getting there
Location
Right in the heart of The Rocks — cobbled streets, harbour breeze, and Christmas magic all wrapped into one.
FAQ
Good to know
Where is it located?
Right in the heart of The Rocks—cobbled streets, harbour breeze, and Christmas magic all wrapped into one.🎄
Is it free entry?
You bet your baubles it is! Entry to the Christmas in July Festival is totally FREE.
Some experiences and treats do require paid tickets or purchases—but the festive spirit? That’s on the house.
Any age restrictions?
None at all! Open to kids and kids at heart—just bring your Christmas spirit (or a candy cane, that works too).
Can I bring my dog?
🐾 Absolutely! Santa loves furry friends—dogs are welcome to join the festive fun throughout the whole event. Just make sure they’re on the Nice List (and on a leash)!
Behind the Scenes
About the Festival
The spirit of a cold and white Christmas, in days of food, mulled wine & entertainment.
our story
Bringing Strasbourg to Australia,
one snowflake at a time
In 2017, we set out to bring the feel of Strasbourg’s most beautiful Christmas market to Australia — importing authentic wood chalets, nutcrackers, traditional food and hot wines, music and more.
Launched in The Rocks, Sydney, the event was an immediate sensation — over 100,000 visitors in its first year. By 2019, that had grown to 250,000 visitors across four enchanted nights.
In 2022, the magic made its way to Canberra for the very first time. Now we’re inviting you back to the wintry wonderland of eastern France — twinkling fairy lights, bubbling melted cheese, cozy fire pits, and steaming mulled wine — as we return to both cities in 2026 with even more festive cheer.
With something as joyful and spectacular as Christmas, why not have it twice?
Free entry!
'Tis the reason to celebrate Christmas twice
What's not to love about Christmas — the presents, bonding time with family and friends, and let's not forget the food.
We may have it good in Australia, but we’re a few snowflakes, mulled wine, and toasty fires away from great.
The festival takes place at the beautiful Parkes Place West Lawns in Canberra and the iconic The Rocks in Sydney — five days in Canberra, ten in Sydney — with a mix of free and ticketed experiences for families, friends, and Christmas enthusiasts alike.
Snow Falling Lane & The Fire Pits
Two giant nutcrackers will welcome you
Real Christmas trees and dazzling lights await as you stroll through the snow lane, flakes drizzling from above — an experience to remember, and your ultimate Instagram moment.
Follow the snow lane along humming Silent Night toward the fire pits — winter-ready and available to hire, with all-you-can-eat roasted marshmallows and a cup of mulled wine to warm up your night.
The Mulled Wine Garden & Concert Stage
There's no winter without mulled wine
Fill your glass with aromas of spiced, steamy cinnamon wine as you indulge in the atmosphere — or, if the cold gets the better of you, a cup of boozy hot chocolate might be more your calling.
For the brewery lovers, a handful of locally distilled craft beers — brewed especially for this festival — will meet you whenever a refill is needed.
Melted Cheese, Comfort Food & Artisan Market
Your stomach is our guest of honour
Iconic crêpes, Fondue Savoyarde in a cob from the French Alps, German hot dogs, Italian pasta in a cheese wheel, Belgian waffles, and torch-flamed crème brûlée — comfort food will be bountiful.
While you feast, wander the market and shop ’til your heart’s content — stalls filled with art, craft and spirits from local producers, perfect for a Christmas in July gift.
Let's not forget the mistletoe! XX
The Christmas in July Team
Sneak Peek
Food, Wine, & trinkets
Your stomach and tastebuds are our guest of honour. Europe and France are known for their delectable selection of fine food and wine — come prepared for a culinary journey like no other.
Scroll & Discover
Iconic crêpes, Fondue Savoyarde in a cob, German hot dogs, Italian pasta in a cheese wheel, Belgian waffles, torch-flamed crème brûlée…
Comfort food will be bountiful! Chefs will create unique fusion dishes for a FEAST-ival like no other. Below, discover the exhibitors bringing it all to life — pick your city to see who’s making the trip through the snow.
Please note: dates previously shown were for the 2025 season and are no longer valid.
Sneak Peek — Scroll & Discover!
Sydney · 10–19 July
The Rocks Retailer Trail
A Christmas journey through The Rocks — discover participating retailers offering exclusive Christmas in July specials, experiences, and festive treats.
Scroll & Discover
Iconic crêpes, Fondue Savoyarde in a cob, German hot dogs, Italian pasta in a cheese wheel, Belgian waffles, torch-flamed crème brûlée…
Explore, shop, and enjoy the trail throughout the precinct. Filter by what you’re after, or browse the whole trail below — some retailers span more than one category, so you’ll spot a few in more than one filter.
Please note: dates previously shown were for the 2025 season and are no longer valid.
Warm up with a cup of festive comfort at the Christmas in July Eggnog Bar — rich, housemade (eggless) eggnog in indulgent flavours, with a cheeky splash of Baileys or spiced rum for those feeling merry.
Add a little sweetness to your stroll with handcrafted Christmas lollies — bursting with colour and festive charm, the perfect stocking stuffer (or a cheeky snack for yourself).
Step into a cosy garden setting and warm up with a glass of rich, spiced mulled wine — winter favourites paired with a refined drinks menu, from classic wines to creative cocktails and whisky flights.
Step inside and warm up with a cosy Japanese izakaya feast in a heritage setting — a generous shared menu from karaage and sashimi to sushi and miso, paired with a warming sake.
Gather around the table for an exclusive Christmas in July sharing feast, designed for groups of four or more — premium Australian produce from fresh seafood to wood-fired meats, with a festive spiced dessert.
Step into a world of colour, texture and storytelling — stunning original artworks and prints by an award-winning artist, perfect for a meaningful gift or something special for your home.
Bring the spirit of Christmas home with beautifully crafted ornaments, candles and festive treasures — a warm, personal touch for winter celebrations, perfect for gifting or decorating your space.
Find the perfect gift with a timeless touch — from luggage tags to journals and travel essentials, each piece can be personalised on-site with complimentary embossing.
Discover timeless Christmas ornaments designed to add a touch of elegance to your festive season — delicate details, classic finishes, a little extra sparkle for your winter décor.
Where winter whales meet Christmas wonder — inspired by Sydney's annual whale migration, unique gifts full of charm and creativity, featuring beautifully crafted accessories and keepsakes.
Discover timeless Australian craftsmanship with handcrafted leather and suede collections — statement trench coats, intricately cut suede shawls, bespoke handbags, each individually made.
Beautifully scented perfumes and handcrafted festive soaps made with all-natural ingredients — from delicate florals to charming Christmas-shaped soaps.
Celebrate the season with the exclusive Snow Design Twilly, inspired by winter in New York City — a limited-edition silk piece capturing the magic of the season in a timeless, wearable form.
Sydney · 10–19 July
Sydney Live Shows
Enjoy live music with a glass of mulled wine!
What's On
Get ready to rock around the Christmas tree!
Ten nights of live music, dance, and festive entertainment woven through the laneways and historic streets of Sydney’s most iconic precinct. From intimate acoustic sets to high-energy performances, something is always happening across our three stages.
Check back as we reveal the full lineup — it's going to be a big one.
Friday, 10th July
- Tree Stage — Busking
Sydney · 10–19 July
Firepit Cinema
Snuggle up by the fire, toast marshmallows, sip mulled wine, and enjoy Christmas classics under the stars.
What's On
Cinema, under the stars!
Nestled on the lawn in front of Cadmans Cottage, our Firepit Cinema is the heart of Christmas in July — where fairy lights twinkle, marshmallows roast, and your favourite festive films play under the stars. Each firepit comes with comfy seating, crackling warmth, and all the winter charm you could dream of.
Check back as we reveal the full lineup — it's going to be a big one.
The fire pits are out and the marshmallows are all toasted!
Our Firepit Cinema has wrapped for 2026, but we’ll be back with more cosy movie nights in 2027. Keep an eye out — the elves are planning something special!
What's On
Choose your package
WATCH & ROAST pass
$38
per person
- 1 bucket of marshmallows for the group
- Includes deckchairs, headsets and blankets
Christmas Magic Pass
$45
per person
- Unlimited marshmallows
- 1 glass of mulled wine per person
- Includes deckchairs, headsets and blankets
Family moment pass
from $60
- Starts at 2 adults + 2 kids for 11:00 am sessions
- Designed for families with children
- Includes deckchairs, headsets and blankets
What's On
This Season's Films
Available
Return of the Hero
Sun, July 19th · 5:00 PM
Rated M · 2018 · 1h 30m
When a charming but unreliable officer disappears, his fiancée is left heartbroken. To comfort her, her sister begins writing letters pretending to be him. Years later, the officer unexpectedly returns, complicating everything.
Free · No Booking Needed
Snow Lane
our story
The Magic of a Snow Falling Lane
A real Christmas tree alley and dazzling lights await as you stroll through our snow lane, with flakes drizzling from above. Returning to both Sydney and Canberra — this is an experience to remember, and your ultimate photo moment.
Please note: dates previously shown were for the 2025 season and are no longer valid.
Our Feed
Your Ultimate Photo Moment
Snap it, share it, and let the snow do the talking — we love seeing the festival through your eyes.
Please note: dates previously shown were for the 2025 season and are no longer valid.
We're Here to Help
Contact Us & FAQ
Got a question about the festival? Find quick answers below, or reach the right team directly.
Contact Us
Get in touch with the right team
Free Entry
Canberra
1–5 July 2026
Wed 1 Jul
4:30 – 9:30 PM
Thu 2 Jul
4:30 – 9:30 PM
Fri 3 Jul
4:30 – 10:30 PM
Sat 4 Jul
11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Sun 5 Jul
11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Free Entry
Sydney
10–19 July 2026
Fri 10 Jul
4:00 – 11:00 PM
Sat 11 Jul
10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sun 12 Jul
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Mon 13 Jul
4:00 – 10:00 PM
Tue 14 Jul
4:00 – 10:00 PM
Wed 15 Jul
4:00 – 10:00 PM
Thu 16 Jul
4:00 – 10:00 PM
Fri 17 Jul
10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sat 18 Jul
10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sun 19 Jul
10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
FAQ
Good to know
Do you cater to dietary restrictions?
Getting There & Parking
Where is it located?
🎄 Canberra — Patrick White Lawns, set along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, with sweeping waterfront views. Right in the heart of Canberra, a short stroll from the city centre.
🎄 Sydney — The Rocks, near Circular Quay, tucked between George Street and Playfair Street, behind the MCA and just steps from the Harbour.
Look out for fairy lights, mulled wine, and festive music — you won’t miss it!
Will there be any transport or traffic disruptions?
For Canberra, Light Rail Stage 2A works run from Saturday 4 to Sunday 5 July:
- Light rail replaced by buses between Gungahlin Place and Alinga Street
- Road closures and lane reductions around Northbourne Avenue and the City
- Some pedestrian access near Alinga Street may be temporarily closed
Allow extra travel time and check Transport Canberra updates before heading in.
For Sydney, check Transport NSW ahead of your visit, as conditions may vary.
Getting There & Parking
Where is it located?
🎄 Canberra — Patrick White Lawns, set along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, with sweeping waterfront views. Right in the heart of Canberra, a short stroll from the city centre.
🎄 Sydney — The Rocks, near Circular Quay, tucked between George Street and Playfair Street, behind the MCA and just steps from the Harbour.
Look out for fairy lights, mulled wine, and festive music — you won’t miss it!
Will there be any transport or traffic disruptions?
For Canberra, Light Rail Stage 2A works run from Saturday 4 to Sunday 5 July:
- Light rail replaced by buses between Gungahlin Place and Alinga Street
- Road closures and lane reductions around Northbourne Avenue and the City
- Some pedestrian access near Alinga Street may be temporarily closed
Allow extra travel time and check Transport Canberra updates before heading in.
For Sydney, check Transport NSW ahead of your visit, as conditions may vary.




