a classic car is parked in a parking lot

Canberra, ACT · Summer

Summernats

First weekend of January (4 days)

Summernats is Australia's biggest car festival: four days each January at Exhibition Park in Canberra devoted to street machines, burnouts, show'n'shine, cruising and horsepower in every form. The burnout competition, held in a purpose-built pad, crowns the country's best and is the event's roaring centrepiece.

Around 120,000 fans attend what is part car show, part festival and part pilgrimage. Thousands of show cars fill the pavilions and cruise routes, and the city's relationship with the event is its own long-running story. It is loud, hot and proudly excessive; ear protection is a genuine packing item.

  • Major Event
  • Community Event
When
First weekend of January (4 days)
How often
Every year
Venue
Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC)
Crowd
Approx. 120,000
Entry
Paid
Setting
Outdoor
Public holiday
New Year period
Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC)Approx. 120,000Official event site

Dates shown follow the event's typical pattern; exact dates change each year, so confirm on the official site before booking travel.

Getting there by bus

Tell us where you're starting from and we'll find coach options to Canberra. We’ve prefilled the usual event date; adjust it to suit your plans.

One-way trip

Fares and timetables are confirmed on the operator's site before you book.

More events around Canberra