Christmas in the City 2021 was officially launched today, bedecking Canberra’s CBD with festive and interactive installations and events, including a translucent Christmas tree.

This year’s program includes art installations and decorations in City Walk, a packed month of performances featuring the Canberra Symphony Orchestra and on-street DJs, and local businesses presenting an advent calendar of offers.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said he was very much looking forward to an opportunity to celebrate Christmas in a Covid-safe way after a challenging year for everyone.

“There’s something for everyone in this year’s series of events, but the purpose of all of this is to draw more people into the CBD. There’s more life in the city than there was a month ago, and there’ll be even more life in the coming two or three weeks as we head into December,” Mr Barr said.

“The range of programs and events are encouraged to attract hundreds and then thousands over the four-week period. As we move out of lockdown, Canberrans will be keen to support local businesses and this will be a key driver of our economic recovery into Christmas and throughout 2022.”

Descending upon Braddon will be some naughty elves, there’ll be a Dancing in the Streets event, colourful flags, banners, and a mural, transforming City Walk into a festive wonderland to create a uniquely Canberran Christmas.

“This year we have the biggest Christmas program ever, with something for everybody. This Christmas, the design for the decorations and installations celebrates the beloved natural elements of our city, including our iconic Gang-gang Cockatoo,” Mr Barr said.

“My Christmas tree at home isn’t up yet, but [the City Walk Christmas tree] is pretty good – it’s bigger than the one I’ve got at home.”

From Wednesday 1 December, a digital advent calendar displaying the countdown to Christmas will be showing the festive offers from local businesses each day, and the performances and entertainment will run until Christmas Eve.

For more information about Christmas in the City 2021, visit act.gov.au/cityrenewal/home

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