The air was fresh and the ice was smooth as skaters soared beneath the stars in the city's centre on Friday night.
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Garema Place was transformed into a chilly winter wonderland beneath strings of sparkling icicle lights as Skate in the City kicked off in Civic for the fifth year.
Thousands of amateur and professional skaters are expected to flock to the open-air ice rink, which is designed to attract crowds outside to the city centre in the heart of winter.
Last year's event drew a record-breaking crowd of 20,000 skaters and pumped $1.5 million into local businesses.
Canberra CBD Limited chief executive Jane Easthope hoped Friday's opening night would be the first of many thriving evenings for the attraction.
"We are extremely excited for the first of many skate sessions tonight, and hope to see plenty of skaters on the ice and people getting involved with other activities in the CBD."
Friday's opening night included a dance party and live music and coincided with Sids and Kids Red Nose Day.
Sids and Kids ACT representatives sold red noses and ran competitions at the rink to raise money for families faced with the death of a baby due to sudden infant death syndrome.
Show Pony Events event manager Demi Aloisi said about 150 skaters showed up for the first session of the year and there was a good vibe.
"It's the only open rink in Canberra and it's something a bit different that's bringing the community together.
"If tonight's anything to go by it's going to be a huge hit."
The event will run every night through to July 26 and will feature themed dress up nights, cultural events and a snow box for children.
Skaters can enjoy a dance party session every Friday night and professional performances by experienced skaters at a matinee and night session on Saturdays.
There will be seven sessions daily, with an extra session on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
