Get ready to see Sydney sparkle as the festive season descends on our beautiful city. Christmas in Sydney is a magical time, and while we don't have snow, our gorgeous city still transforms into a whimsical wonderland. 

The harbour city is your go-to destination for unique Christmas events in Sydney. So, what's on the calendar in 2025? Plenty of our favourite family-friendly Christmas activities have returned, plus there are some new ones to add to the agenda. See the southern hemisphere's tallest Christmas tree twinkle with joy, meet Santa and his elves at Darling Harbour, tuck into a hearty Scottish feast at The Grounds, and sing along with your favourite stars at The Salvation Army's Carols in the Domain. 

Soak in the sunshine, the music, and the unmistakable energy that makes Christmas in Sydney so special. Merry merry!

The Most Festive Christmas Events in Sydney in 2025

1. City of Sydney's Christmas Events, Lights and Decorations

Kick off your Sydney Christmas with a joyful bang with lights, concerts, fairs, and plenty more! From 23 November 2025 until 4 January 2026, the City of Sydney is delivering a magical lineup of family-friendly events, including the grand lighting of the southern hemisphere's tallest Christmas tree at Martin Place. Dust off those reindeer ears and come along for free Christmas concerts, roving performers, market stalls, Santa's sleigh ride, and, who can forget about the famous Canopy of Lights at Pitt Street Mall. 

A schedule of free Christmas concerts starts on 23 November, but don't miss the official Sydney Christmas Opening Weekend and the lighting of the tree on 28 November.

Where:   Martin Place, Pitt St Mall and throughout the City of Sydney local area
When:    23 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
Cost:      FREE

2. Elf Academy at Marrickville Metro

Elf Academy at Marrickville Metro is a free Christmas experience for kids where they can train to be Santa’s helpers across eight interactive zones filled with craft, music, challenges and cheerful mischief. Little elves can take on the Freeze Challenge, try Silent Karaoke and make Reindeer Feeding Packs while soaking up plenty of holiday magic.

Running every Friday to Sunday from 28 November to 21 December, Elf Academy offers a joyful mix of hands-on fun and Christmas spirit. Let your young elves explore, create and celebrate the season in the most magical way!

Where:    Marrickville Metro, 20 Smidmore St, Marrickville
When:     28 November to 21 December 2025
Cost:       FREE

3. Tartan Christmas at The Grounds

 

Gather round, families, there's a wee bit of Scottish flair in Sydney this merry season at The Grounds of Alexandria!

The Tartan Christmas experience wraps the warmth of summer holidays with a highland twist of tartan-wrapped installations and rich, comforting fare that scream a blithe Yule! (Merry Christmas!).

If you're looking for Christmas events in Sydney that stand out - with charm, patterns, and a little Scottish silliness - then this event should be on your radar. Enjoy a playful mix of holiday fun and heritage charms as you wander along The Grounds' Yuletide trail, snapping selfies as you go along, or maybe even booking a family photo session with the big Man in Red. Adults, make sure you get your hands on a tasty highland-themed beverage or two or book a table for some tasty scran. Kilts are most welcome!

Where:      7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria
When:       On now until 11 January 2026
Cost:         FREE entry; however, access to the laneways and installations is for diners at The Grounds only.

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4. Darling Harbour's Rockin' Christmas

As always, Christmas at Darling Harbour is shaping up to be a festive, family-friendly wonderland with activities and experiences that will make your holiday season sparkle.

The precinct comes alive from November into December with dazzling decorations and Sydney's floating Christmas tree glowing over the water, creating an Insta-worthy backdrop for photos and waterfront strolls. At Darling Quarter's Living Christmas Presents, large vertical garden gift boxes wrapped in bright bows transform the green spaces into an enchanting spot for festive photos and relaxed play, perfect for little ones and grown-ups alike. There's also The Wiggles Tree of Wisdom Big Show, a magical live performance that's sure to get kids singing, dancing and laughing along with their favourite colourful crew. Meanwhile, at Christmas at Darling Square, the laneway hub fills with a glowing light tunnel, free festive activities like face painting and bauble decorating, and live music to keep the whole family entertained as the season builds toward Christmas Day. 

Where:    Darling Harbour
When:     17 November to 25 December 2025
Cost:       FREE entry

5. Wundrful World of Christmas

Embark on an animated journey to the North Pole right in the heart of Sydney at the Wundrful World of Christmas Immersive Experience. 

This interactive, mixed-reality experience is perfect for the whole family. Step through the Wundr Door and let your trusty elf pilot guide you to the snowy North. Along the way, you'll see reindeer in their paddocks, watch busy elves at work in Santa's workshop, and enjoy the delightful treats Mrs Claus is preparing. Keep an eye out for Santa himself in his cosy cottage!

Where:   Wundr Store, 31 Market St, Sydney
When:    From 1 November until 24 December 2025
Cost:      Juniors (3-16 years) $27.50; Adults $37.50; Group of 10+ $27.50 each; Family of 4 or 5 (no more than 2 adults) $27.50 each. Children under 2 go FREE.

6. Christmas at The Cathedral

One of our favourite Christmas events in Sydney, Christmas at St Mary's Cathedral is a much-loved free event that transforms the forecourt of St Mary's Cathedral into a lively Christmas village each evening from 17 to 25 December 2025 (5.30-10.30 pm).

During these nine nights, families and visitors can wander through market stalls offering food, drinks and Christmas gifts, enjoy live entertainment from local performers and community choirs, and watch roaming musicians and entertainers bring seasonal cheer to the crowd. As night falls, the cathedral's iconic facade becomes the canvas for a spectacular light show with immersive visuals telling classic Christmas stories and highlighting themes of hope, joy and the true meaning of the season. 

Where:    St Mary's Cathedral Square, College Street, Sydney
When:     Wednesday 17 to Thursday 25 December 2025 from 5.30 to 10.30 pm
Cost:       FREE

7. High Tea With Santa

A very special guest is in town - and he wants to have high tea with you!

High Tea With Santa at The QVB invites families to savour a joyful tradition brimming with sparkle, sweetness, and holiday cheer. 

Santa will, of course, be in attendance as guests dine on a bespoke Christmas-themed traditional high tea of delectable pastries, freshly-baked goodies, sugary treats, and select teas (vegan and gluten-free available). Don't worry about documenting the moment on your phone - there will be professional photographers on hand to capture your special moments with Santa. 

Where:   The Tea Room at the QVB
When:    21 November until 24 December 2025
Cost:      Adults/teens (13+) $105; Children (1-12 years) $65; Under 1s go FREE

8. A Homegrown Christmas at The Rocks

Everyone's favourite historic precinct, The Rocks, is transforming into a Homegrown Christmas extravaganza with decorations, whimsical installations, food, drinks, merriment, and more! 

For those keen to enjoy a holiday season filled with Aussie charm and some of the best Christmas activities in Sydney, a Homegrown Christmas at The Rocks is right up your alley. Every corner of the famous precinct will be sprinkled with family-friendly magic, from sparkling Christmas trees to bustling markets, and tasty holiday treats. There will be over 50 locations dotted throughout The Rocks to amplify your celebrations with culinary delights, performances, shopping, and entertainment across 42 enchanting days. 

Where:      The Rocks Precinct
When:       14 November until 25 December 2025
Cost:         FREE entry

9. Christmas Village at The Vineyard

'Tis the season to head over to everyone's favourite family-friendly venue, The Vineyard, for their annual Christmas Village!

Stroll through the colourful laneways of the North Pole right here in Western Sydney, as The Vineyard transforms into Santa's hometown. You don't need a passport to immerse yourself in the candy-cane lanes and snowy scenes of this year's Christmas paradise. There'll be Christmas carols, Santa photos, nightly Christmas lights, and seasonal surprises from 1 November 2025 to 5 January 2026. And if you don't have any plans for Christmas Day lunch, let The Vineyard treat your taste buds with their delicious seafood buffet.

Entry is completely FREE!

Where:   The Vineyard, 725 Windsor Rd, Vineyard
When:    From 1 November 2025 to 5 January 2026
Cost:      Entry is FREE. Bookings are required for Christmas Day lunches.

10. Christmas Concert at Taronga

Kick off the festive season and kick up your heels at the Taronga Christmas Concert. Relax with a picnic in the stunning grounds of Taronga Zoo, with breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, and enjoy a magical summer night of family-friendly entertainment, with a special guest all the way from the North Pole!

Gather your family and friends and embrace the holiday spirit at a special event filled with Christmas cheer and festive fun, all whilst contributing to the conservation of wildlife. 

Where:   Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman
When:    13 December 2025
Cost:      Adult $43.40, Junior (4-15 years) $36; Concession $38.97

11. Christmas Fun at Campbelltown Billabong

 

Kick off the festive season in the beautiful outdoors at Campbelltown Billabong Parklands!

This family-friendly event blends everything kids love about Christmas - Santa, elves, treasure hunts, swimming, and more - with the relaxed beauty of balmy summer days. 

Little ones are in for a treat as they get to meet Santa, join a Christmas treasure hunt, bounce on jumping castles, get creative with face painting and crafts, and snap a festive family photo. It's the perfect way to enjoy some Christmas cheer without the big city crowds.

Where:  Campbelltown Billabong Parklands, The Parkway, Bradbury
When:   13 December 2025 | 12-3 pm
Cost:    Adult $8.10; Children $5.40; Families $22.80

12. Christmas At Rouse Hill Town Centre

Rouse Hill Town Centre is bringing the holiday spirit to life with a festive celebration of Christmas fun for the whole family. Throughout the season, Civic Way transforms into Candy Cane Lane with twinkling lights, merry music, live entertainment, and giant games. Wander through the lane to find Santa’s brand new house, enjoy free festive activities, and hit the ice-skating rink from 6 December. 

Families can also capture the magic with Santa photos, including Sensitive Santa and Pet Paw-trait sessions, and go in the running to win a $10,000 Airbnb getaway when booking before 5 December.

Where:  Rouse Hill Town Centre, Cnr Windsor Road & White Hart Dr, Rouse Hill
When:   Saturday 1 November – Wednesday 24 December 2025
Cost:     General entry and activities are FREE
              Santa photos from $26.95 

13. Sydney's Christmas Spectacular 

Get ready to sprinkle some serious holiday magic on your festive season with Sydney's Christmas Spectacular 2025!

This 90-minute, jaw-dropping production will light up your Christmas with world-class performances and unforgettable music that pay tribute to the Radio City Rockettes, The Nutcracker, and more.

The Voice finalist, Prinnie Stevens, will lead you on a musical journey through all of your favourite Christmas classics to remind us that Christmas truly is one of the most magical times of the year. 

Where:    Sydney's State Theatre
When:     19-21 December 2025
Cost:       Adults from $79; Child/Concession from $69; Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) from $249

14. The Salvation Army's Carols in the Domain

 

A perennial highlight of Sydney's Christmas events calendar, Carols in the Domain returns with new acts and a new naming partner for the 43rd instalment of the much-loved event!

As of 2025, The Salvation Army is the new naming rights partner of the renowned Carols in the Domain, taking over from Woolworths. The name might have been tweaked, but you can expect the same music, magic, and traditions of Sydney's premier Christmas carols event. A star-studded lineup of performers from stage, screen, and song will take to the stage at one of Sydney's most iconic outdoor venues. While the full lineup is yet to be announced, we've heard rumours that some of the stars include Australian music icon Marcia Hines, Broadway sensation Kym Johnson, entertainer Hugh Sheridan, 2x ARIA Award-winner Budjerah, and none other than The Wiggles!

Mark Saturday 20 December 2025 in your diaries to celebrate Christmas with the stars at the 43rd Salvation Army Carols in the Domain. For those who can't make the event, you can watch it live on Channel 7 and 7Plus.

Where:  The Domain, Art Gallery Road
When:   20 December 2025 from 1-11 pm
Cost:     The Accessible Lawn is free. Seated tickets start at $84.90 per ticket. Children under 2 go FREE

15. Santa Claus: The Musical at TEATRO

Santa Claus: The Musical at TEATRO is a heartwarming and festive live theatre experience that brings the spirit of Christmas to life on stage in Sydney's inner west.

Bring the whole family for a musical treat set on Christmas Eve, following Santa and Mrs Claus as they decide to retire after a thousand years of delivering joy, leading to an unexpected adventure when a website designer and his tech-savvy daughter are drawn into the North Pole's magical world. Are they able to help keep Christmas on track amid mischief from a cheeky elf?!

Where:  TEATRO, Italian Forum, 23 Norton St, Leichhardt
When:   11-28 December 2025
Cost:     Mid-Week Standard: $65, Concession: $55, 4 Ticket Offer: $50
              Friday, Saturday & Sunday Matinees: Standard: $75, Concession: $65, 4 Ticket Offer: $60
              A handling fee of $6.95 per transaction applies

16. Christmas in the Pines at Lone Pine Tavern

 

Christmas in the Pines at Lone Pine Tavern turns this Rooty Hill favourite into a festive family playground that's perfect for all ages.

From early November through to mid-January, Lone Pine Tavern is dotted with twinkling lights, seasonal decor, and plenty of Christmas cheer, making a post-meal walk feel like a mini holiday adventure. Santa makes a special appearance with family photo sessions available from late November to just before Christmas, giving everyone a chance to capture those priceless moments in their Christmas best. There's a free Christmas Family Fun Day with face painting, Aussie reptile shows, and more, and later in December Lone Pine hosts its very first Christmas Carols event under the summer sky, complete with live music, a kids' disco and even visits from festive characters like Santa, the Grinch and the Gingerbread Man. 

Where:     Lone Pine Tavern, 15 Rooty Hill Rd South, Rooty Hill
When:      29 November 2025 – 14 January 2026
Cost:        General admission is FREE

 17. Illuminate The Hills

The Hills Shire is set to sparkle once again as The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden gets decked out with thousands of twinkly lights for the annual Illuminate The Hills festival.

The 2025-2026 instalment of the much-loved festival kicks off on 30 November with carols, food trucks, ice creams, a sausage sizzle, Christmas markets, music and more. The magical Christmas installations will light up the rose garden each night from 7.30-10.30 pm until 2 January 2026.

Where:   The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden, 43 Roxborough Park Rd, Baulkham Hills
When:    Nightly from 28 November 2025 to 2 January 2026 from 7.30 to 10.30 pm
Cost:      FREE

18. ACO Carols on the Pier

For families who can't get enough of Christmas carols at this time of the year, ACO Families invites you to celebrate the wonder of Christmas at ACO Carols on the Pier in the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct.

Featuring the acclaimed musicians of the Australian Chamber Orchestra and the angelic voices of the Luminescence Chamber Singers, this enchanting concert blends the timeless joy of Christmas carols with the elegance of world-class classical music.

Sing along to favourites like Jingle Bells, Silent Night, Little Drummer Boy, and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas in this 50-minute festive performance designed to delight audiences of all ages.

Where:   Australian Chamber Orchestra, ACO Pier 2-3, 13A Hickson Road, Dawes Point
When:   Thursday 18 - Monday 22 December 2025
Cost:     Tickets $49 pp. Babes-in-arms FREE on a parent’s lap.

19. Christmas Markets

Christmas in Sydney just isn't Christmas without a little market shopping! From the famous Mosman Christmas Night Markets to the Hawkesbury Country Markets, Carriagewoks Christmas Markets, and Christmas at The Rocks, there are loads of festive Christmas markets popping up in Sydney this season. 

With the scent of cinnamon in the air and Christmas lights glowing all around, strolling through one of the city's Christmas markets is the perfect way to slow down, share the spirit of the season, and make magical memories as a family. Plus, they're the ideal spot to nab some one-of-a-kind pressies to pop under the tree!

Where:   All across Sydney
When:    From November 2025
Cost:      FREE

20. Christmas Day Lunch

If you're keen to put your feet up and let someone else take over the cooking this silly season, indulge in an utterly delectable Christmas lunch in Sydney.

Restaurants all across the city are dishing up incredible meals from festive menus this season, and bookings are now open! 

Where:  Multiple venues across the city
When:   25 December 2025

Tips for Families

Make the most of Sydney's festive season with these handy tips for a stress-free and joy-filled outing:

• Arrive early in the evening for major Christmas light displays and markets, especially on weekends when it's cooler and less crowded.
• Use public transport where possible, as parking near popular Sydney Christmas events (such as The Rocks or Darling Harbour) can be expensive and fill up fast. Many train stations and ferry stops are within walking distance of top attractions.
• Book ahead for ticketed events, experiences, and dining as these top activities sell out fast.
• Pack wisely, particularly for outdoor events: Bring a picnic blanket, water bottles, hats, and snacks. Glow sticks also go a long way to keeping kids happy during outdoor festivities. 

FAQs About Christmas Events in Sydney

1. What are the best Christmas activities for kids in Sydney in 2025? 

There are plenty of kid-friendly events on the calendar this year! For babies and toddlers, we recommend Darling Harbour, the Christmas Concert at Taronga, Christmas Village at The Vineyard, and Tartan Christmas at The Grounds. Older kids or those who stay up later will enjoy Christmas Fun at the Billabong, Carols in the Domain, City of Sydney's Christmas Events, Wundrful World of Christmas, High Tea With Santa, Illuminate The Hills, and a Homegrown Christmas.  

2. Where can I see the best Christmas lights in Sydney?

Top spots for Christmas lights in the city in 2025 include Martin Place, Pitt Street Mall's Christmas Canopy, St Mary's Cathedral, and Darling Harbour's waterfront displays. For Christmas lights in the suburbs, check out these top locations.  

3. Are there any free Christmas events in Sydney?

Absolutely! Most of the events on our list are free or have free entry. Our favourite free events include Illuminate The Hills, A Homegrown Christmas, the City of Sydney's Christmas Events, Christmas markets, and Christmas Village at The Vineyard.

4. What's open in Sydney on Christmas Day 2025?

While many shops close on Christmas Day, popular beaches, cafes, parks, select restaurants, and even cinemas remain open. Other attractions such as Taronga Zoo, Sydney Zoo, and Sydney Tower also operate on a limited schedule. Check out our complete list of places open on Christmas Day. 

One thing's for sure - Sydney knows how to do Christmas right! Year after year, our gorgeous city puts on a bewitching show that dazzles all ages. From sun-soaked outdoor celebrations to uplifting carols, celebrity sightings, twinkling installations and, of course, the big Man in Red, Sydney at Christmas is magical, mesmerising, and made for memories. Don't forget to tag @ellaslist so we can share in your joy. Merry Christmas!

Hero image: Martin Place Christmas Tree

Want More Christmas Cheer?

The Most Festive Santa Photos in Sydney
Sydney Christmas: City of Sydney's Best Christmas Events, Lights and Decorations
Where to Book the Best Christmas Day Lunches in Sydney
The Best Streets With Christmas Lights in Sydney
 

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