ACT Policing moved swiftly to break up an unofficial gathering of Summernats enthusiasts performing noisy burnouts on a central Canberra street, just days before the official start of the high-octane car festival.
Early Arrivals Spark Police Response
With the main Summernats event not due to commence until Thursday, some eager drivers and fans arrived in the capital early. On Tuesday night, their activities escalated as they took to Lonsdale Street in the inner-city suburb of Braddon to test their vehicles, filling the air with the screech of spinning tyres.
Police were called to the scene around 10pm and successfully dispersed the group. The exact number of cars and drivers involved in the premature display remains unclear.
High-Visibility Policing Promised for Major Event
The incident serves as a precursor to what authorities anticipate will be a busy weekend. ACT Policing confirmed they are ramping up preparations for the influx of an expected 130,000 visitors to the four-day festival.
Officers issued a stern warning, stating that any sign of dangerous driving will result in vehicles being stopped. The police force has promised a significant and highly visible presence throughout the event to maintain safety.
Festival Kicks Off Amid Scorching Forecast
The official Summernats 2026 launch is set for noon on Thursday, January 8, featuring a spectacular cruise of hundreds of modified cars along Northbourne Avenue. This year, a severe heatwave will add an extra challenge, with temperatures forecast to near 40 degrees Celsius.
In response to the extreme weather, co-owner Andy Lopez announced the distribution of 50,000 Zooper Dooper ice blocks to help keep the crowd cool.
The Braddon precinct, scene of Tuesday's disruption, will host the official fringe festival from 5pm until 11pm on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The area will feature live music, street food, and a Show'n'Shine display on Lonsdale Street.
The core activities, including burnout competitions and car parades, will be held at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC). The event concludes with a Saturday night concert featuring fireworks and a performance by Peking Duk.
While often controversial, the festival is a major economic driver. Research from IER indicated that the 2025 Summernats delivered a $46.6 million boost to the ACT economy, attracting tens of thousands of interstate and international visitors.
