December in Sydney signals the start of Summer. Days are long and warm with perfect swimming weather. Afternoon storms are not uncommon, and while you might see more rainy days than you would like, it’s not cold, and rain rarely falls for more than a couple of hours.
Restaurants and bars are busy with Christmas celebrations and the latter half of the month sees the beginning of the 6-week summer school holidays, making shopping centres and attractions much busier.
Accommodation prices normally skyrocket from about 20 Dec. right through until at least 3 January because of the number of people arriving to see the NYE Fireworks spectacular.
Average Temperatures: 25.8 – 18.6°C (64-79°F) While each year varies the last December saw eleven days of rain.
If you are looking for Christmas lunch or dinner ideas, check our list of Christmas Day dining.
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Major December Events in Sydney
We have listed general things on our What’s to Do in December page. For more, check out our list of Christmas markets and Christmas events in Sydney this year.
Need ideas for how to get in the festive spirit? We have a list of the best Christmas events across Sydney here.
- List of Christmas markets in Sydney
- Sydney To Hobart Yacht Race – 26 December
- NYE in Sydney – 31 December
- Christmas festivals, concerts and more – across December
Markets, Fairs and Community Festivals
Blak Markets
If you are looking for authentic, unique gifts, check out the Blak Markets. A huge range of affordable Aboriginal art, jewellery, homewares and beauty products.
The markets support the local aboriginal people with 100% of the profits going back into the community. There will also be Indigenous-inspired food and drinks on offer.
When: TBC
Where: Tallawoladah Lawn in The Rocks Precinct
Cost: Free – more details on their FB Page
Japan Expo
Get ready for the annual Japan Expo and immerse yourself in Japanese culture with over 40 exhibitors showcasing the best of Japan’s food, tourism, products, and more.
Enjoy cultural demonstrations, interactive workshops, and special events like the International Kimono competition, sake tastings, and a Taiko drum performance.
Date: TBC
Where: Sydney Town Hall
Get Tickets: $27.78 from Eventbrite
Carriageworks December Markets
Get into the festive spirit at Carriageworks this December with two must-visit markets celebrating local produce and holiday cheer.
The Summer Seasonal Market, on 7 December, will feature over 60 stalls offering fresh produce like cherries, watermelons, oysters, and farm-fresh eggs. Enjoy live cooking demos from experts such as Nadine Ingram of Flour and Stone, Tommy Prosser from Crustacean Nation, and Darran Baker from Demoiselle Distillery, sharing tips for your festive feasts.
Then, celebrate the Christmas season at the Carriageworks Christmas Market on 21 December. With over 100 stalls, you’ll find everything from perfect holiday gifts to specialty ingredients for your Christmas menu. Enjoy festive tunes, family-friendly entertainment, and delicious food from vendors like AP Bakery, Crustacean Nation, and Maru Okonomiyaki.
When: Dates TBC
Where: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh
Cost: Free admission
Musicals, Opera, and Theatre in Sydney in December
Elf
Join Buddy as he embarks on his hilarious journey from the North Pole to New York City in search of his birth family.
Directed by Eric Giancola and with a 15-strong on-stage band, Elf: The Musical promises to capture the magic and mischief of the holiday season, reminding us that a little kindness is the greatest gift of all.
When: TBC
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Tickets: From $75 + booking fee, available via the Sydney Opera House website
The Holiday in Concert with Live Orchestra
Get into the festive spirit early with The Holiday in Concert with Live Orchestra, a magical film-to-live orchestra experience touring Australia this Christmas.
Originally released in 2006, The Holiday tells the heartwarming story of Iris (Kate Winslet) and Amanda (Cameron Diaz), two women who swap homes over the holiday season to escape their love troubles. With a star-studded cast, including Jude Law and Jack Black, and a beautiful score by Hans Zimmer, this film has become a Christmas classic.
When: TBC
Where: ICC Darling Harbour
Cost: Visit theholidayinconcert.com for details.
Comedy, Music and Dance
Squid Game: The Experience
Step into the world of Squid Game: The Experience in Sydney! Test your survival skills in a series of high-stakes challenges inspired by the hit Netflix series. Compete in iconic games like Red Light, Green Light, Memory Steps, and the Marbles game.
Experience recreated sets and immersive gameplay, where you’ll go head-to-head with other contestants over 45 minutes for a chance to win an exclusive ‘money can’t buy’ coin. This first-of-its-kind immersive event in Australia will have you feeling like you’re part of the action, with physical and strategic challenges at every turn. Don’t miss your chance to step into the Squid Game universe!
When: 14 Dec- 2 February, 2025 (closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve)
Where: The Immersive Big Top, Luna Park Sydney
Art and Exhibitions
Eora by Michael Riley
Step into a powerful digital journey at the Museum of Sydney with this compelling three-screen installation by acclaimed Wiradjuri/Kamilaroi filmmaker Michael Riley. This masterful work weaves together archival imagery, natural landscapes, and contemporary First Nations art, accompanied by an immersive soundscape featuring local First Nations voices.
Recently digitized, this landmark piece celebrates First Nations resilience, cultures, and beauty through a mesmerizing 20-minute experience. Originally commissioned for the museum’s 1995 opening, it returns as we approach the Museum of Sydney’s 30th anniversary celebration.
When: From December 7 (closed Christmas Day) 10am-5pm daily
Where: Museum of Sydney
Cost: Free entry
Primavera 2024: Young Australian Artists
Primavera 2024: Young Australian Artists has opened at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA). Curated by Lucy Latella, this year’s exhibition focuses on cultural connection in the face of social and political challenges, with five emerging artists drawing on their personal and family histories to explore evolving cultural identities. The exhibition remains a significant platform for early-career Australian artists.
Featured Artists:
- Teresa Busuttil – Explores her Maltese-Australian heritage through found objects and contemporary interpretations of kitsch.
- Chun Yin Rainbow Chan – Revitalizes women’s folk songs from Hong Kong’s Weitou people, blending cultural memory with modern media.
- Aidan Hartshorn – Creates cultural objects addressing the impact of industrialization on his Walgalu and Wiradjuri ancestral lands.
- Monica Rani Rudhar – Navigates cultural disconnection through autobiographical sculptures and video, drawing on her Indian and Romanian heritage.
- Sarah Ujmaia – Examines forced displacement and language loss through material-led, experimental works inspired by her Chaldean background.
When: 30 August 2024 – 27 January 2025
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Level 2 Galleries
Cost: Free
Food and Drinks
Luna Lu’s Dumpling Masterclass
Luna Lu’s Dumpling Masterclass is the perfect way to welcome spring in Sydney. With its prime location at The Rocks and gorgeous views of Sydney Harbour, this 90-minute class will have you mastering the art of dumpling-making in no time.
Guided by Luna Lu’s resident chef, you’ll prepare two delicious dumplings, including a vegan option, and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine on arrival. Open to all skill levels, it’s a fun way to spend your Sunday with family or friends.
When: TBC
Where: Luna Lu, 7-27 Circular Quay West, The Rocks
Cost: $100 adults, $55 children (plus booking fee)
Bottega Coco Pasta Making Class
Join Italian chef Pier Davide Maiuri, renowned for his work in Top 10 world-rated and Michelin Star restaurants, for a culinary adventure you won’t forget. In this masterclass, Executive Chef Dario Nencioni will guide you through crafting exquisite Italian dishes, from veal pappardelle ragu with crushed pistachio and parmesan to an authentic buffalo margarita pizza recipe from Italy’s southern coast.
After cooking, you’ll enjoy a shared banquet of your delicious creations.
When: TBC
Where: Bottega Coco – Shop 1 T3.01/300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
Cost: $118 per person, book here
Events in Regional NSW
Cherry Harvest Season in Mudgee
Fresh cherries are an essential part of an Aussie Christmas, so why not create a new Christmas tradition in your family and make heading bush and picking your own fruit part of your Christmas experience?
Where: Roth Family Orchard, 108 Eurunderee Lane, Mudgee
When: 1-21 Dec.
More: details here Bookings from late October.
Southern Highlands Food and Wine Festival
Immerse yourself in the Southern Highlands Food & Wine Festival set in the picturesque Corbett Gardens. As the historic locale comes alive with festive lights, indulge in an eclectic mix of soulful music ranging from jazz and funk to bossa nova.
This event promises a showcase of the region’s best wines, with over 60 vineyards presenting their finest cool-climate varieties. From crisp chardonnay and zesty sauvignon blanc to the aromatic Riesling and lush pinot gris, every tasting is an invitation to fall in love with the Highlands anew. Perfect for connoisseurs and families, this festival is a journey of unforgettable flavours and sounds.
When: TBC
Where: Corbett Gardens, Bendooley Street Bowral
Cost: Adults 18+ $30 includes a tasting glass for free sampling 13-17 years old $10
Plan ahead
There is lots happening across Sydney over the summer so get a head start with these pages.
- What’s on in January in Sydney
- Sydney in February
- Christmas Events
- School holidays in Sydney
- Get out on the harbour this summer.
Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney?
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