City whitens up for winter festival
Thousands braved the cold for Brisbane’s first “winter wonderland” to help celebrate the 2011 Australian Winter Festival.
Following displays in Melbourne and Sydney, Brisbane’s King George Square is playing host to a myriad of different winter activities to give sub-tropical locals a taste of winter in colder climes.
Brisbanites have the opportunity to hire a pair of skates and step out onto the 900m² ice rink. They can also enjoy gourmet food from over 20 different countries.
First-time ice skater Melissa Wright was thrilled at the chance to skate.
“I had so much fun, I’m so happy they brought this festival to Brisbane, I never thought my first ice-skating experience would be in the middle of the city,” she said.
Irene Smith a mother of two said: “I think this Winter Festival is a great idea, the kids and I had so much fun. The ticket and skate hire was a little expensive but it was great way to spend time with the family.”
In addition to the ice-skating, the festival will also be putting on themed nights and ice-skating performances.
The 2011 Brisbane Winter Festival will run until June 29. Skating tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for kids and a $8 skate hire for 45-minute session.