Canberra Festival of Speed celebrates successful second year
Organisers of the KAYR Facilities Services Canberra Festival of Speed are delighted to announce that the second edition of the event has seen strong growth in key areas including crowd and interstate engagement.
16,317 patrons made their way through the gates over the two-day festival, which is a 20 per cent year-on-year increase. Interstate and international visitors accounted for almost half the patronage, confirming the Festival of Speed as Canberra’s newest major driver of tourism.
Key Figures:
• A total of 16,317 (20 per cent y-o-y increase) patrons across the two days
• 49% of ticket holders came from outside of the ACT
• Including some ticket holders came from five different countries (outside of Australia): France, Germany, USA, Philippines and New Zealand
• 250 vehicles (20 per cent y-o-y increase)
• Australia’s Spartan supercar was crowned the People’s Choice Car of the Festival
The Canberra Festival of Speed will return for its third running in 2026 with dates to be confirmed.
Canberra Festival of Speed Director and Thoroughbred Park Chief Executive Darren Pearce said, “What a wonderful festival for automotive enthusiasts with fans coming from near and far to experience everything the festival on offer.”
“We’ve seen great growth by nearly every measurement this year, and this is just the beginning.”
“We would like to thank our sponsors, trade stall holders, food vans, car owners, volunteers, officials and each and every fan who came through our gates this weekend, we hope to see you for the 2026 Canberra Festival of Speed.”
“We thank the fans for creating a great atmosphere across the two days that was safe, inclusive and fun. It was fantastic to see so many families making the most of the festival.”
The festival also raised funds for Hands Across Canberra as its official charity and community partner. The festival provided special guided tours for families supported by Canberra charity and community organisations.