The 7 Best Places To Spend Christmas in Australia

Turn Christmas on its head this year by flying down under and spending it in Australia. Say goodbye to short days and miserable weather and hello to stunning gold beaches and endless sunshine, by choosing to celebrate the Yuletide at one of our top picks for the best places to spend Christmas in Australia spanning Sydney to Byron Bay. In this blog, we'll also give you a bit of background of what to expect at Christmas in Australia including what they eat, unique Aussie Christmas traditions and whether people actually spend it throwing a barbie.

Everything To Know About Spending Christmas in Australia

When is Christmas in Australia?

Like their friends in the UK, Australians celebrate Christmas on the 25th with families, friends and loved ones gathering to exchange Christmas gifts and eat a lot of delicious food.

Do they have Father Christmas in Australia?

Of course! Santa goes all over the world on Christmas and Australia is no different! In Australia, Father Christmas arrives on Christmas Eve but because it's so hot, he ditches his heavy coast and trousers and changes into shorts. Also interestingly, he gives his reindeer a break and uses kangaroos to help him deliver his Christmas presents.

Do they sing Christmas carols in Australia?

Yes, they do sing Christmas carols in Australia - but with a twist. In Melbourne, thousands gather for the annual event Carols by Candlelight, where you sing carols around a bonfire. This even is held elsewhere but the Melbourne event is by far the most show-stopping.

How do they celebrate Christmas in Australia?

What are the Christmas dishes in Australia?

In Australia at Christmas, they tend to eat turkey, ham or prawns followed by a fruit pudding or Christmas cake. But a classic Aussie tradition is having a barbecue or picnic - it is summer after all!

The 7 Best Places To Spend Christmas in Australia

1. Gold Coast

Christmas on the Gold Coast Australia is glamorous, sporty and largely spent outside which only makes sense due to the stunning beaches and incredible weather. On the Gold Coast, it's totally normal for you to spend Christmas on the beach surfing, sunbathing, playing cricket or having a barbecue.

What's on at Christmas on the Gold Coast Australia

Mayor's Christmas Carols
When: November 30th
Live music, a Looney Tunes Christmas Show, food trucks and fireworks! What could be better?

Carols on the Beach
When: December 15th
A family-friendly Christmas event on the Gold Coast where you can hear three hours of traditional and modern carols, a visit from Father Christmas himself and a fireworks finale.

Christmas at the Oasis
When: December 7th - 22nd
Decorate gingerbread houses and sip eggnog at this creative Christmas event.

Where to have Christmas Dinner on the Gold Coast Australia

The Star | 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach QLD 4218, Australia
Fill up on the harvest buffet complete with all the trimmings. Included in the price is a three hour beverage package and a visit from Santa.

Where to stay at Christmas on the Gold Coast Australia

Surfers Aquarius | 4-12 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise, 4217, AU
An ultra-modern hotel with stunning sea views.

2. Adelaide

At Christmas in Adelaide, Australia you can expect tons of Christmas events for the whole family to enjoy. They have a Christmas festival with a Santa trail, countless choir concerts and plenty of free family activities that will help you get into the Christmas spirit.

What's on at Christmas in Adelaide Australia

Christmas Pageant
When: November 2nd
A Christmas pageant that's been on the go since 1933 to raise money for worthy causes is a beloved Christmas event that draws thousands each Christmas.

Adelaide Christmas Tree Lighting
When: November 9th
A free community gathering where they'll light the giant Christmas tree.

Christmas Crafternoon - Paper Star Lanterns
When: December 9th and 17th
Another fun and free family event held at the Adelaide City Library where you can make star lanterns from paper and household items that you can then give as Christmas gifts.

Where to have Christmas Dinner in Adelaide Australia

Garcon Bleu | 108 Currie St, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
Indulge in fresh seafood and delicious entrees followed by a selection of mains served directly to your table. Finish with a buffet of festive desserts.

Where to stay at Christmas in Adelaide Australia

St Francis Winery | 14 Bridge Street, Old Reynella, 5161, AU
A picturesque winery with a heated indoor pool and a fantastic on-site restaurant.

3. Sydney

One of the most iconic places to spend Christmas in Australia is Sydney. Known worldwide for its epic New Year's Eve fireworks, Sydney also knows how to celebrate Christmas with flair. From the massive Christmas tree at Martin Place to Christmas markets, Sydney's atmosphere at Christmas is second to none. The famous Bondi Beach is the ultimate Christmas Day hangout, where locals and tourists alike embrace the sun, sea, and sand. And, of course, no visit is complete without a stop at the historic St Mary's Cathedral to experience the awe-inspiring Lights of Christmas projection show.

What's on at Christmas in Sydney Australia

Christmas Lights Spectacular
When: December 1st - January 26th
Visit the Hunter Valley Gardens to see more than four million Christmas lights that illuminate the gardens each year.

Carols in the Domain
When: December 20th
Sydney's largest free Christmas concert, Carols in the Domain, is a beloved annual tradition. Bring a picnic blanket, sing along to classic carols, and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere.

Where to have Christmas Dinner in Sydney Australia

Quay | Upper Level, Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia
Have Christmas dinner for the books at Quay to enjoy a multi-course Christmas feast overlooking the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Where to stay at Christmas in Sydney Australia

The Langham | 89-113 Kent St, Millers Point, NSW 2000, Australia
Stay in pure luxury with lavish rooms, impeccable service, and fantastic views over Darling Harbour.

4. Perth

Spending Christmas in Perth means warm weather, sandy beaches, and festive spirit all around. Perth’s summer atmosphere in December is perfect for outdoor celebrations, with plenty of fun Christmas events and Christmas markets adding to the cheer.

What's on at Christmas in Perth Australia

Christmas Nativity at Supreme Court Gardens
When: December 18th - 21st
See a beautiful re-enactment of the Christmas story with live music and performances. It’s a must-see for families and visitors looking to soak in some traditional Christmas spirit.

City of Perth Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail
When: November 17th - January 7th
Walk through Perth’s CBD to admire over 40 sparkling light installations and projections. A great activity for families and couples alike.

Where to have Christmas Dinner in Perth Australia

Wildflower | 1 Cathedral Ave, Perth WA 6000, AustraliaWildflower offers a contemporary take on Australian cuisine, featuring a seasonal Christmas menu and sweeping city views. It’s a stunning spot for a holiday meal.

Where to stay at Christmas in Perth Australia

COMO The Treasury | 1 Cathedral Ave, Perth WA 6000, Australia
This luxury hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern elegance, perfect for a comfortable and stylish Christmas stay in the city.

5. Byron Bay

For a relaxed, beachy Christmas vibe, head to Byron Bay. Known for its hippy vibes, love for surfing, and breathtaking beaches, Byron Bay is perfect if you’re after a low-key Christmas holiday. Locals and visitors celebrate Christmas on the beach, often with a casual barbecue or a picnic. It’s an ideal place to unwind and embrace a more laid-back festive experience.

What's on at Christmas in Byron Bay Australia

Christmas Day at Main Beach
Celebrate with locals and travellers alike at Main Beach. Bring a blanket, and some tasty Christmas food, and enjoy the mellow vibes under the sun.

Byron Bay Christmas Market
When: Early December
Explore the Byron Bay Artisan Market for unique Christmas gifts, local crafts, and organic treats.

Where to have Christmas Dinner in Bryon Bay Australia

Beach Byron Bay | Clarkes Beach, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Beach Byron Bay offers a Christmas menu featuring fresh seafood, classic Australian mains, and stunning ocean views, perfect for a festive feast.

Where to stay at Christmas in Byron Bay, Australia

Elements of Byron | 144 Bayshore Dr, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Stay in eco-luxe villas surrounded by native greenery, complete with a private beach area, pools, and luxurious amenities for a truly magical Byron Bay Christmas.

6. Melbourne

A Melbourne Christmas blends tradition with a cosmopolitan twist. From high-end Christmas shopping in impressive department stores to over-the-top (in the best way) Christmas lights, Melbourne offers endless photo opportunities. We recommend stopping by Federation Square and Bourke Street Mall for stunning decorations or heading to one of Melbourne’s many rooftop bars to toast the season under the stars.

What's on at Christmas in Melbourne Australia

Myer Christmas Windows
When: Early November to early January
An annual tradition, the Myer Christmas Windows display beautiful, intricate scenes that attract crowds of all ages.

Carols by Candlelight at Sidney Myer Music Bowl
When: December 24th
A Melbourne institution, Carols by Candlelight is an evening of music, candles, and community. Funds raised go towards the Vision Australia charity.

Where to have Christmas Dinner in Melbourne Australia

Vue de Monde | Rialto Tower, 525 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Vue de Monde serves up a lavish Christmas menu with French-inspired dishes and sweeping views of Melbourne’s skyline.

Where to Stay at Christmas in Melbourne Australia

The Langham | 1 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia
For a luxurious stay right along the Yarra River, The Langham delivers elegance, exceptional service, and easy access to Melbourne’s best Christmas sights.

7. Sunshine Coast

A Christmas on the Sunshine Coast is all about beachside bliss. Known for its pristine beaches, national parks, and relaxed vibe, the Sunshine Coast is ideal if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle for a relaxing Christmas by the sea.

What's on at Christmas on the Sunshine Coast Australia

Christmas Boat Parade at Mooloolaba
When: Mid-December
Watch beautifully decorated boats light up the waterways, complete with a festive atmosphere and live entertainment.

Hastings Street Christmas Carnival
When: December 24th
Join in the fun on Hastings Street with live music, Christmas markets, and family-friendly activities.

Where to have Christmas Dinner in Melbourne Australia

The Long Apron | 68 Balmoral Rd, Montville QLD 4560, Australia
Tucked into the hinterland, this fine-dining spot offers a beautiful Christmas lunch with locally sourced ingredients and stunning views.

Where to Stay at Christmas on the Sunshine Coast Australia

Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas | 33A Viewland Dr, Noosa Heads QLD 4567, Australia
Set in a lush, tropical setting with views of the coast, Peppers Noosa is the ultimate holiday escape, offering both villas and resort-style amenities.

Ready to Spend Christmas in Australia?

Although the flight doesn't come cheap, you won't forget spending Christmas in Australia. Whether you want to listen to angelic choirs in Melbourne or watch a Christmas pageant in Adelaide, you're going to experience a whole new side to Christmas that you would've never expected. So if you're still undecided about how to spend Christmas 2024, take this as your sign to fly down under.

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