If you are spending Christmas in Sydney this year we have you covered with this guide to the very best Sydney events from concerts and tree lightings to Christmas carols and Chrissy drinks on the way.
It’s time to get into the Christmas mood, and to help you along we have collected all the options so you can find all the best things to do in Sydney at Christmas, from festivals and Christmas markets to carolling and the prettiest Christmas trees.
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Christmas Festivals and Concerts
These special events will help you get in the Christmas spirit quick smart.
Christmas Actually: The Music of Love Actually Live
Get ready for the ultimate festive treat as the beloved holiday film Love Actually comes to musical life on the Opera House stage. This charming production features an all-star Australian cast performing favorite holiday hits from the movie’s soundtrack, including songs made famous by Mariah Carey, Joni Mitchell, The Beach Boys, and The Beatles.
Led by Green Room Award winner Naomi Price, alongside talented performers Stefanie Caccamo, Luke Kennedy, Irena Lysiuk, and Mat Verevis, the show combines live music with comedy and theatrical charm. Backed by some of Australia’s finest musicians, this 90-minute performance promises to be the perfect start to your holiday season.
When: 26-30 November 2025
Where: Studio, Sydney Opera House
Duration: 90 minutes (no interval) l Suitable for: Ages 15+
Carols at the House
The Sydney Philharmonic Choirs’ beloved Christmas tradition returns to the Opera House Concert Hall, bringing together hundreds of voices, star soloists, and a full orchestra under the direction of Brett Weymark. This family-friendly concert features classic carols like Joy to the World and Silent Night alongside seasonal favorites and contemporary works.
The program includes Bach’s rousing Magnificat, Eric Whitacre’s Sing Gently, and Australian works by Joseph Twist, Deborah Cheetham Fraillon, and Katie Noonan. Audiences can join in singing selected carols or simply sit back and enjoy the spectacular sound of massed voices in Australia’s most iconic venue.
When: 12-14 December 2025
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Duration: 140 minutes (including 20-minute interval)
Suitable for: Ages 8+
The Nutcracker
The Australian Ballet brings back the beloved festive classic The Nutcracker to the Sydney Opera House. Sir Peter Wright’s enchanting production, featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed by Opera Australia Orchestra, captures all the magic of Christmas Eve through the eyes of young Clara.
This timeless production showcases exquisite designs by John F. Macfarlane that bring the festive world to life – from whirling snowflakes and toy soldiers to the Sugar Plum Fairy in her candy-floss pink costume. Watch in wonder as the Christmas tree grows to touch the ceiling and Clara’s magical journey unfolds.
Perfect for creating new family holiday traditions or rekindling childhood memories of this cherished ballet.
When: 28 November – 16 December 2026
Where: Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House
Christmas at the Cathedral
Celebrate the spirit of Christmas at one of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks. The Cathedral forecourt will be buzzing with Christmas market stalls, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Inside, enjoy traditional displays, including a nativity scene, and a towering real Christmas tree. From stunning light shows to festive markets, this year’s celebration brings Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge to life like never before.
For the first time, the awe-inspiring light projections by The Electric Canvas will illuminate both the main and western sides of the Cathedral, accompanied by narration that brings the story to life.
When: 12–25 December 2025, nightly from 5:30pm–10:30pm. Light show begins at 8:30pm.
Where: St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney
Cost: Free
Homegrown Christmas at The Rocks
Experience an authentic Australian Christmas in The Rocks’ historic precinct. From mid-November through Christmas Day, the iconic cobblestoned streets transform into a vibrant festive playground with uniquely Australian decorations and entertainment.
The program features:
- Live music by the harbour with the Homegrown Concert Series
- Artisan Christmas markets for unique gift shopping
- Free Laneway Cinema screening Christmas movies
- Over 50 festive dining and drinking venues
- Special holiday decorations throughout the precinct
This is your chance to experience Christmas with a distinctly Australian twist in one of Sydney’s most historic settings.
When: November 14 – December 25, 2025
Where: Throughout The Rocks precinct
Cost: Free entry, various costs for food and shopping
Australian Brandenburg Orchestra Noël! Noël! concert series
The Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and the Brandenburg Choir, joined by special guest Christina Leonard, one of Australia’s foremost saxophonists, are set to enchant audiences with their much-anticipated Noël! Noël! concert series.
This beloved tradition has graced the Australian summer for over two decades and remains a cherished Brandenburg hallmark, offering a selection of music that celebrates the holiday season.
Noël! Noël! promises an uplifting program filled with timeless carols, excerpts from Handel’s monumental Messiah, and a delightful array of festive musical surprises.
Where: City Recital Hall TBC
Where: St Patrick’s Church Parramatta TBC
Christmas Festival at Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour’s most magical Christmas celebration returns to Tumbalong Park for two enchanting evenings. This free festive extravaganza features Australian music icons Anthony Callea and Samantha Jade, with TikTok sensation Jayden Rodrigues as your host for both nights.
Get ready for an unforgettable Christmas experience with roving performers, festive sing-alongs, and special appearances from The Quokkas, The Beanies, and the Adult Glee Choir. Don’t miss Santa’s magical arrival! Treat yourself to delicious festive fare from the food trucks and stalls.
When: TBC
Where: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour
Cost: Free
Christmas at The Streets of Barangaroo
Experience waterfront Christmas festivities with free entertainment and activities throughout the precinct.
Highlights include a Christmas claw machine offering prizes from local retailers (spend $15 to play), roving performers, and native Christmas trees featuring Indigenous artwork by Taleena Simon.
When: TBC
Where: Barangaroo
Cost: Free entry and activities
QVB Santa Experience
New for 2025, the QVB presents an immersive Santa Experience on Level 2, directly under the dome. This magical journey includes:
- A whimsical ride to Santa’s grotto
- Encounters with enchanting elves and fairies
- Professional photography session with Santa
- Two digital photographs included with each booking
When: November 9 – December 24, 2025 (selected sessions)
Cost: $50 per group (maximum 6 people)
Bookings: Essential
City of Sydney Community Christmas Concerts
Experience music, dance, and entertainment by performers like The Listies, Justine Clarke, Diver City, and Lah Lah’s Big Live Band. Join in the fun with games, food trucks, and a special visit from Santa Claus.
Concerts will be held from 5pm-9pm:
- Pyrmont Christmas concert, Pirrama Park – Saturday, 29 Nov.
- Surry Hills Christmas concert, Prince Alfred Park – Sat 1 Dec.
- Rosebery Christmas concert, Turruwul Park – Sunday, 30 Nov.
- Rushcutters Bay concert, Reg Bartley Oval – Sunday, 7 Dec
- Glebe Christmas concert, Bicentennial Park- Saturday, 6 Dec
- Alexandria Christmas concert, Alexandria Park – Sunday, 14 Dec.
Celebrate the holiday season with family and friends at these festive, community-filled events.
Christmas Carols
Nothing gets me more in the Christmas spirit than belting out a few Christmas Carol or two. These next few shows are bound to make every carol lover happy.
Christmas Choirs at Martin Place
Get into the festive spirit by listening to some of the city’s best choirs as they perform next to the Martin Place Christmas Tree.
When: 6pm-8pm daily 1 Dec to 24 Dec 2025
Where: Martin Place Christmas Tree – George Street Sydney
Carols in the Domain
Carols in the Domain is Sydney’s biggest caroling event. There is a free area – known as the festive lawn but you will need to get here early to nab a spot. You can also book tickets with funds raised going to charity.
When: Saturday, 20 December 2025, 1pm–11pm
Where: The Domain Sydney
Cost: Ticketed area from $85 More details
Carols by the Sea – Bondi
Nothing screams Aussie Christmas more than singing carols by the beach. Bring your family and friends, along with some snacks and a blanket, and get ready for a night filled with music and entertainment.
Performer details will be announced in coming weeks. Activities include free face painting for kids and a visit from Santa.
When: Date: Wednesday, 10 December 2025
Venue: Bondi Park Dolphin Court (Bondi Beach/Pavilion area)
Admission: Free; family-friendly and open to all ages
Carols by the Sea – Brighton Le Sands
Celebrate Christmas by the sea at this beloved community event on Botany Bay. This free, family-friendly celebration features live carol performances by local schools and community groups, market stalls, food trucks, and children’s activities. The evening culminates with a special visit from Santa.
Pack your picnic mat and join fellow residents for this relaxed seaside Christmas celebration.
When: Friday, 5 December 2025, from 6:00pm
Where: Cook Park, Brighton Le Sands
Cost: Free entry
Christmas Carols at Halliday Park
Join Communities for Communities for their Annual Christmas Carols celebration at Halliday Park, Five Dock. This festive community event features an exciting lineup of local performers, including electric drummers, The Sydney Street Choir, Drummoyne Primary School Choir, and Sydney Voices, culminating with the NSW Corrective Services Band.
Bring the whole family for an evening of entertainment including: live performances, face painting and children’s activities and a special visit from Santa
Food and refreshments: Choose from a variety of options including gozleme, souvlaki, pizza, burgers, dumplings, antipasto platters, and sweet treats like ice cream, donuts, and gelato.
When: Wednesday, 17 December 2025
Where: Halliday Park, McGrath Avenue, Five Dock.
Carols on Norton
Join us for this iconic community event in its 20th year presented by Leichhardt Espresso Chorus and the Inner West Council.
Bring a picnic, your singing voice and experience some inner west Christmas magic.
Join the Candy Cane Children’s Choir, The Choir will be conducted by leading choral conductor Michelle Leonard OAM with a chamber orchestra of Sydney’s leading players, 100 adults in the Leichhardt Espresso Chorus, star soloists, and the award-winning Moorambilla Voices treble choir.
When: TBC
Where: Pioneers Park Leichhardt
Le Jolly Christmas NIGHT Market
Sydney’s eagerly awaited “Jolly Market” is back, bringing festive joy to Customs House. This annual Christmas night market offers a unique experience with wooden huts featuring artisanal products, delicious food, fine wines, and live music against a stunning backdrop. Don’t miss this enchanting opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit while enjoying a memorable night out in Sydney.
Treat yourself to Champagne and Rosé while savoring a foodie’s Christmas feast. Discover tantalizing lobster rolls, fresh oysters, gingerbread, grilled scallops, and irresistible melted cheese creations. Don’t miss pasta in a cheese wheel or Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers. With five wine bars and 40 specialty foods, you won’t go home hungry!
There will also be stalls selling locally sourced products and hand made goods at affordable price.
Dates: TBC (Friday, 13 December – Sunday, 22 December 2025)
There are several special Christmas Markets running across the city beginning in October, and all your favourite regular markets will probably have some Christmas stalls.
Check out our Christmas Market Guide here.
Christmas Trees in Sydney
Need a photo for your Christmas messages? Make your way to one of these trees and snap a selfie or two.
Martin Place Christmas Tree
The tallest Christmas tree in NSW stands proud in Martin Place, creating a spectacular centerpiece for Sydney’s Christmas celebrations. This magnificent tree features over 110,000 LED lights, a 3.4-metre colour-changing star, and 330 specially designed glossy baubles.
Across its 800 branches, you’ll find 15,000 native Australian flowers including banksia, waratah, bottlebrush, wattle, eucalyptus gum flower, kangaroo paw, flannel flower, pink waxflower and white waxflower.
Every evening in December, local choirs perform beneath the tree, while a dazzling light show plays every 15 minutes from 8pm to midnight.
When: Thursday 27 Nov. to Friday 2 Jan. 2026 – The tree will be lit every day, 8pm to 11:55pm
Where: Between George St and Pitt St at Martin Place
The Rocks Christmas Tree
The Rocks Christmas Tree will be set up in the heart of the Rocks and feature plenty of Instagrammable spots for sharing your images with family and friends.
Where: Playfair Street and Argyle Street The Rocks
QVB Christmas Tree
This year, the QVB presents a distinctive Christmas tree, celebrating Aboriginal culture in Australia. Inspired by the Wollemi Pine, it features an interactive installation by Dr. Bronwyn Bancroft, showcasing Aboriginal innovation and art.
Artists Jude Jarrett and Jeffrey Samuels have adorned Flannel Flowers with their artwork, symbolizing a connection with nature and celebrating native flora and fauna.
On Level 2, the tree is topped with a Swarovski topper and features an exclusive Augmented Reality experience, where Bancroft’s Southern Royal Albatross-inspired decorations come to life. Visitors are encouraged to explore the tree from every level for unique views.
Where: Queen Victoria Building George Street Sydney
Christmas Lights and Decorations in Sydney
Sydney city council has developed a self-guided walking app that will guide you around the city’s best decorations and light displays. The walk covers 4km and is estimated to take 1-2 hours, depending on how many stops you make.
Christmas in Darling Square & Darling Harbour
Take your annual Christmas photo with the Giant Christmas gifts – These enormous 1.8m Christmas presents create a perfect shot – sparkling silver and pink packages can be found in the Harbourside Forecourt.
- The Harbour Village – Saturday and Sunday from 10am-2pm – Kids entertainment, kids craft, write letters to Santa and meet Santa.
- Join a Christmas wreath workshop in the Chinese Garden
There is plenty of Christmas fun to be had at Darling Square this month too:
Darling Square is collaborating with Warner Bros to bring a Wonka-themed extravaganza, featuring a range of activities throughout December. The precinct will be a sight to behold with a gigantic, Christmas tree-shaped candy jar for unforgettable family photos, exclusive retail offers, wandering performers, and live music.
The area will be adorned with eye-catching decorations suitable for all ages, including an umbrella display, twinkling fairy lights, cotton candy trees, a Wonka Bar-themed table, and more.
Where: Darling Harbour Foreshore and Darling Quarter
Barangaroo Bells
Three gigantic interactive Christmas bells with inbuilt swings will light up Sydney harbour this festive season. Listen while you swing and you’ll notice the bells sound and light up every time you reach the top!
Adding to the festive ambiance, many Barangaroo retailers are presenting exclusive Christmas-themed menus and special promotions, inviting everyone to indulge in the holiday joy and toast to the year that has passed.
The festive spirit will be enhanced with live music performances scheduled from December 1st up to New Year’s Day. Every Wednesday to Saturday, DJs will set the holiday mood, bringing the unique Sydney summer feel to the Barangaroo waterfront.
Where: Wulugul Walk, Barangaroo South
Strand Arcade
Christmas decorations inspired by native flowers, the Strand Arcade is always stunning, but it looks especially lovely with some extra sparkle.
Where: 412-414 George St, Sydney
When: From early November
Westfield Sydney Central
Westfield has 150 trees featuring half a million twinkling LED lights inspired by Eucalyptus Trees, the ‘Christmas Gum’. Plenty of backgrounds perfect for your Christmas Instagram shot. “Check out the 3D Matrix lighting installation between Zara and Innisfree, the Christmas forest down the Grand Staircase into the Food Court or the twinkling green wall pillars on the Level 3 Market St entry.”
Where: Westfield Central (Pitt Street Mall)
When: From early Dec until Dec 28 approx.
Christmas Foodie Events
Good Food and Wine Show Christmas Markets
Transform your Christmas shopping experience at the Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Market, Sydney’s premier festive food and gift destination. Taking over the ICC, this gastronomic wonderland features over 150 artisanal producers showcasing the finest in food, wine, and thoughtfully curated gifts.
Don’t miss the exciting features:
- The Festive Kitchen: Watch top Australian chefs share their holiday cooking secrets and recipes
- Secret Sips Sessions: Free wine masterclasses by Wine Selectors experts (first come, first served)
- Extensive range of gourmet food, fine wines, and unique Christmas gifts
- Interactive demonstrations and tastings
This market is the perfect place to buy last minute gifts and eats
When: 21 – 23 November 2025
Where: ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour
Cost: $10 kids, $15-25 adults
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