Midwinter Festival
Saturday 4 – Saturday 18 July | 12pm – 9pm
Gather by the flames, settle in for immersive cinema, or wander and discover what draws you in. From first light to evening glow, find something to spark your senses in Parramatta this Midwinter.
Image Credit: Destination NSW
Midwinter Festival turns Parramatta Square into a lively winter destination, inviting everyone to explore buzzing daytime experiences and stay on as the sun sets for cosy evenings around firepits, food and entertainment. Running day to night for two weeks in July, Midwinter brings people together to gather, explore and experience Parramatta in a new and memorable way.
360° Dome Cinema
Step inside the awe-inspiring 360 degree cinematic dome sphere where immersive films and music led visuals come to life all around you. Book your tickets and choose the story you’d like to experience:
- Star Dreaming: In the arid heartland of Western Australia, Lucia and Max visit the largest science facility ever built by mankind.
- The Earth Above: A Deep Time View: Australia’s Epic History is a feature-length full-dome planetarium show.
- The Great Solar System Adventure: One small step was just the beginning. Now, we take one step beyond – driven by curiosity, bound for Mars.
- One Step Beyond: A Journey to Mars: Experience the thrill of launch, the challenges of life in space, plus the cutting-edge technology of NASA’s Artemis program.
- Holst's The Planets: A re-imagining of British composer Gustav Holst's The Planets orchestral suite. A fusion of art, music and science in a 360° spectacle.
- Pink Floyd - The Dark Side of the Moon: Enjoy breath-taking views of the solar system, played out to 42 minutes of The Dark Side Of The Moon.
- Ecosphere: Immerse yourself in the wildest places on earth and meet the humans protecting our most precious wildlife.
Explore the Midwinter Festival
More information coming soon.
Ignite
Ignite
12pm - 9pm, Daily
Grab a buddy to seesaw beneath the towering illuminating sculpture by Amigo & Amigo. The installation is inspired by the communal bonfire, offering warmth and illumination.
Roaming Fire Artists
Roaming Fire Artists
5pm - 9pm, Thursday - Saturday
Catch the free dynamic roving fire performances that fire up Parramatta Square and light up the festival’s after‑dark atmosphere.
Midwinter Markets
Midwinter Markets
12pm - 9pm, Thursday - Saturday
Wander through seasonal market bites and artisanal offerings, there's something to savour at every turn.
Image Credit: Destination NSW
S'mores & Firepits
S'mores & Firepits
5pm - 9pm, Thursday - Saturday
Cosy up by the firepits and indulge in warm, toasted marshmallow s'mores in the crisp night air.
Live Music
Live Music
5pm - 9pm, Thursday - Saturday
Gather around for a free live music program of musicians and beats from all corners of the world, presented on the Lolo Gypsy Caravan Stage.
Midwinter Bar
Midwinter Bar
5pm - 9pm, Thursday - Saturday
A winter bar by Karu Distillery bringing the heat with hot flaming cocktails, mulled cider and creativity in liquid form.
Active Movement Studio
Active Movement Studio
Kickstart your health and wellness journey with a completely free 10-minute physiotherapy or exercise physiology consultation, perfect for discussing any nagging injuries, chronic conditions, or fitness goals.
Amusement Rides
Amusement Rides
12pm - 9pm, Daily
Take a spin on timeless vintage carousel ride or bounce into sky-high bungee fun.
Artwork Displays
Artwork Displays
Live throughout the festival
Little artists take centre stage as their Midwinter creations are brought to life in large-scale illuminated art installations.
Winter Rewards
Warm up your winter at Parramatta Square.
This July, dining at Parramatta Square could come with a little extra reward. Winter Rewards is coming soon, with over $31,000 in prizes and gift cards up for grabs across selected dates.
We’re putting the finishing touches on the promotion and will share full details here shortly — including how to take part and where to claim your reward.
Stay tuned.
Rivareno Gelato's seasonal favourites has returned, bringing a comforting selection of sweet treats perfect for the cooler days ahead.
Available until 31 August
Rivareno Gelato has launched three new premium affogatos, each made-to-order and layered with indulgent flavours. Combining signature gelato, hot espresso, mascarpone cream, and artisanal toppings, these affogato offers a twist on the classic Italian dessert.
Available until 31 August
Celebrate the end of the financial year and receive a $100 LILYMU gift card. Book for a group of 8 or more in June or July and dine in on a banquet to claim this offer.
Available to 31 July
Stay cosy with Little Duck's winter range perfect for the cooler months. Crafted with carefully selected ingredients and packed with feel-good benefits, their comforting drinks are the perfect companion this winter.
Available until 31 July
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