Forget the notion that you have to stay wrapped up inside over the cooler months!

Winter in the City invites you to ditch the blankets and discover a magical winter wonderland in the City Centre.

The annual celebration is on now until 16 July and this year’s event – for the first time – has brought real snow to Ainslie Place. You can throw snowballs (safely), build a snowman or ride the 8m toboggan slide.

If you prefer to remain upright, you can glide on the event’s largest ever ice-skating rink in Civic Square or push your little ones on the skating supports available for hire. The early bird gets the worm or, in this case, the discount – with 15 per cent discounts on 9am sessions.

There are also special weekend-only events on offer. Children can get up close with their favourite enchanted characters during the 10.45am weekend sessions. Later, the afternoon Snow Sculpture Competitions give entrants the chance to get creative. Each session winner will be invited back to compete for major prizes in the 16 July grand final.

You know what will warm you up on a chilly winter evening? A fabulous party – and Winter in the City is hosting three of them. Boogie Wonderland (18+) on 8 July invites you to put on your best retro chic costume, dance and skate the night away with cocktails and tunes.

Come along for some circus, drag, dancing and good times at the Jazida Pop-up Party on 14 July. Then, for the ultimate white winter experience, head to Whiteout (18+) on 15 July, where you are strongly, strongly encouraged to dress in all white while sipping cocktails, dancing and playing in the snow.

Having such fun can work up your appetite, so this year the ACT Government’s City Renewal Authority has partnered with City Centre businesses to offer a range of deals and discounts. From burgers and bento bowls to churros and coffee delights, why not nab a different tasty deal every day of the event?

Winter in the City is on now until 16 July. View the program and book your tickets winter.inthecity.com.au