Must-see Winter Festivals in Sydney 2025

It might seem slightly counterintuitive, but there's something about winter in Sydney that makes you want to get outside and explore.  The good news is, you can, because our cool city has an enchanting lineup of winter festivals in Sydney and beyond to make the cooler season hot, hot, hot!

From ice-skating spectaculars to snowmen, medieval faires, Christmas in July, and carnival rides galore, there's plenty to see and do at Sydney's lineup of winter festivals 2025. 

Must-See Winter Festivals in Sydney & Beyond

1. Yulefest Blue Mountains

Celebrate Christmas the cosy way this winter at Yulefest in the Blue Mountains. Each July, the region transforms into a magical midwinter wonderland filled with festive cheer, twinkling lights, and roaring fires. What started over two decades ago—when a group of Irish tourists suggested Christmas felt more authentic in the cold—has become a beloved seasonal tradition.

Whether you're after a hearty Christmas-style dinner, live entertainment, family fun, or a touch of old-world charm, there's something for everyone across the mountains. From charming hotels decked out in decorations to Santa sightings and snowfall (if you're lucky), Yulefest brings a joyful, wintry escape just a short drive from Sydney.

Where:       Various locations throughout the Blue Mountains
When:        Saturday 21 June - Saturday 9 August 2025
Cost:         Various depending on event

RELATED:
Where to Celebrate Christmas in July in Sydney

2. Bondi Festival

When the temperature drops, there’s nothing like heading to the seaside to catch a whiff of that icy ocean air. And what better place to do it than on the shores of Sydney’s most iconic beach - Bondi!

Returning to the shores this July, the two-week Bondi Festival will run day and night, showcasing all the delights of Sydney’s rich arts scene. The full festival programme drops soon, but if past years are anything to go by we can expect an arts festival for all ages where families can discover live shows including comedy, theatre and music, take a spin on the Ferris wheel and ice rink, plus enjoy circus shows for the whole family!

Where:       Bondi Beach
When:        Friday 4 - Sunday 20 July 2025
Cost:          FREE with some paid events

3. Bastille Festival

Francophiles rejoice because the Bastille Festival is bringing a little taste of France to The Rocks this July - c'est magnifique!

The four-day Bastille Festival runs from 17 to 20 July and is one of the most popular winter festivals in Sydney for the season. Bastille Festival will showcase the very best in French food, wine, entertainment, street stalls, pop-up igloos and even a Christmas Village! Start practising your "ouis" and pull out your favourite beret!

Where:   Circular Quay, Sydney
When:    Thursday 17 to Sunday 20 July 2025
Cost:      General admission is FREE

4. Mosman WinterFeast Night Market

Get ready to rug up and soak up the cosy vibes at Mosman’s WinterFeast Night Market!

This much-loved winter event is back with more than 30 stalls to explore. From handmade jewellery and original artwork to luxe candles, lush succulents, handbags and more – you’ll find plenty of treasures to treat yourself (or someone else).

Feeling peckish? Follow the scent of gourmet street eats, hot drinks, and tempting treats as you wander through the market. With twinkling lights overhead and live music and roving performers bringing the atmosphere to life, it’s the perfect way to spend a wintery evening. 

Where:   Mosman Square and Village Green, Spit Junction
When:    Thursday 26 June 2025 | 4.30 pm - 9 pm
Cost:      FREE

5. Chill Fest Campbelltown

Koshigaya Park in Campbelltown will be bursting with family fun at one of the coolest winter festivals in Sydney - Chill Fest

The magic of winter will be in full swing this July and every day of the NSW school holidays with activities and entertainment including amusement rides, an open-air ice-skating rink, light shows, marshmallow toasting and warming food trucks.

Gather your family and friends for a frosty adventure sparkling with magical lights, roving performers, and the charming Alpine Winter Markets.

Where:   Koshigaya Park, Campbelltown
When:    Friday 4 - Sunday 20 July 2025 | From 12 pm to late
Cost:      FREE entry. Tickets for skating, food and rides will all incur a cost

6. Winter in Bathurst at The Greens On William

Head to Winter in Bathurst at The Greens On William for a jam-packed family festival filled with thrilling activities from 4 – 20 July 2025. 

Just a few hours west of Sydney, Winter in Bathurst is a must-visit regional festival packed with fun. With ice skating, foodie weekends, an action-packed Kids Day and an inclusive All Abilities Day, it’s the perfect excuse for a magical winter getaway during the July school holidays.

Where:    The Greens On William, 29 William Street, Bathurst
When:     Friday 4 - Sunday 20 July 2025
Cost:       General admission is FREE. McDonald’s Bathurst Ice Rink is ticketed.

7. Snow Time in the Garden

For Aussies, the novelty of experiencing an authentic white winter is a fairly rare occurrence. Ski holidays can be costly and not always accessible for families. But we’ve found a very affordable alternative just a short drive away to Hunter Valley Gardens.

The 2025 Snow Time in the Gardens will be held from 29 June to 28 July and is the perfect opportunity for the family to get their snowflake fix! Kids (and big kids) will be able to partake in ice skating, tobogganing, snowman building and a whole host of other frosty outdoor activities. Just remember to pack your gloves!

Where:     Hunter Valley Gardens, 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
When:      Saturday 28 June - Sunday 27 July 2025
Cost:        $40 per adult; $30 per child (4-15yrs); under 3s go FREE; family passes from $93

8. Winterfest at Hawkesbury Showground

Step into a world of medieval magic at Winterfest, returning to Hawkesbury Showground on 5–6 July. This family-friendly festival is packed with jousting, combat displays, birds of prey, mermaids, unicorns, artisan markets and more.

From costume competitions to swordplay and traditional crafts, Winterfest is a fun and fascinating weekend adventure for all ages—just a short stroll from Clarendon Station!

Where:    Hawkesbury Showground, Racecourse Rd, Clarendon
When:     Saturday 5 - Sunday 6 July 2025
Cost:       1 Day: $30 per adult, $15 per child. 2 Day: $45 per adult, $20 per child

9. Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival

While we can’t jet off to Kyoto to take in the arrival of the breathtaking Cherry Blossom season, fear not because we can still enjoy the stunning display of nature's palette right here during winter in Sydney.

The Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the most beautiful ways to experience winter in Sydney in the Auburn Botanic Garden, and the good news is it’s returning this year! Japanese delicacies, attractions, and kid-friendly activities are on the agenda for nine cherry blossom-filled days in August.

Where:    Auburn Botanic Gardens, Chisholm Rd & Chiswick Rd
When:     TBD for 2025
Cost:       FREE for kids 15 and under and Cumberland residents; $10/adult.

Further Afield...

10. Fondue Chalet at Fed Square

Melt into winter at Melbourne’s cosiest pop-up—Fondue Chalet has arrived at Fed Square!

This charming alpine-inspired experience brings the magic of the French Alps to the city, with 18 private ski-style chalets, roaring fire pits, and piping-hot pots of traditional fondue. Dip, sip, and share with friends while soaking up the après-ski vibes—plus mulled wine, of course!

Only here for six weeks, Fondue Chalet is your go-to winter warm-up. Book those flights, folks!

Where:   Fed Square, Melbourne
When:    Thursday 15 May - Sunday 22 June 2025 
Cost:      $99 per person, minimum of 6 people and maximum of 8 people per chalet | Children under six eat for free

11. Winter Solstice Events

As the longest night of the year approaches on Saturday 21 June 2025, Australians are set to embrace the Winter Solstice 2025 with warmth and wonder. If you're in the mood to celebrate, the options are endless.

From firelit festivals in Melbourne and Brisbane to Hobart’s legendary Dark Mofo and its daring Nude Solstice Swim, this seasonal celebration turns the chill into a chance for connection, creativity, and a little midyear magic.

Where:   Throughout the country
When:    Saturday 21 June 2025
Cost:      Various

More Winter Magic in Sydney

Where to See Snow Near Sydney
The Best Spots for Winter Fruit Picking
Whale Watching in Sydney

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