Long, sunny days. Warm nights. Beach weather and backyard BBQs. Christmas in Brisbane isn’t your usual snow-globe scene…and that’s exactly why we love it.

The city switches into holiday mode early. You’ll see Christmas trees go up around November, decorations lining the malls, and weekend markets buzzing with locals chasing gifts and fresh seafood. It’s a mix of laid-back summer fun and festive cheer, with plenty going on for families, couples, and visitors looking to soak up a warm-weather Christmas.

Brisbane brings the goods with heaps of free and low-cost events across the city. From light shows and carols to movies under the stars, there’s something happening almost every night through December.

Where is it?: Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane City

When is it? TBC for 2025 

Brisbane’s most-loved light show is back, and it’s bigger than ever. The Enchanted Garden takes over Roma Street Parkland with more than 22,000 square metres of lights, projections, lasers, and soundscapes.

It’s a self-guided experience, so you can explore at your own pace. Expect plenty of wow moments, food trucks from 5pm, and even a licensed bar open to everyone, not just ticketholders. There’s wheelchair access, plus a low-sensory session if you want something quieter. 

This one’s perfect for families, date night, or just a warm summer evening soaking up the Christmas magic.

Where is it? King George Square, Brisbane City

When is it? 19 December, 2025

Shop local under the stars at the BrisStyle Twilight Markets. Every stall features goods made by local designers, artists, and craftspeople; think natural skincare, ceramics, artwork, jewellery, and more. It’s all proudly handmade in Brisbane. 

Grab a bite from the food trucks, meet the makers, and skip the cookie-cutter gifts this Christmas. This market has been running for over 10 years and is a great chance to support local legends while getting your festive shopping sorted.

Where is it? Riverstage, Brisbane City (with livestream at Roma Street Parkland)

When is it? From 6pm on 6 December, 2025

Each year, Riverstage hosts a huge night of festive tunes for the Lord Mayor's Christmas Carols. Expect big names, classic carols, and a full lineup of Aussie talent, all under the stars. 

Tickets are required, but if you miss out, you can still catch the magic via the free livestream in Roma Street Parkland. Pack a picnic or hit the food trucks, and bring your mates or the whole fam for a night of music, lights and holiday cheer.

Where is it? King George Square, Brisbane City

When is it lit? From 29 November, 2025, until early January, 2026

Brisbane’s biggest Christmas tree has a story as rich as the decorations it wears. First lit in 1954, the now solar-powered, 22-metre giant stands tall in King George Square and marks the official start of Christmas in the city. 

The switch-on event includes a full musical performance and always pulls a crowd. Whether you’re just passing through or planning a night out, it’s worth swinging by to see the tree sparkle after dark.

Where is it?: Queen’s Wharf, 33 William Street, Brisbane

When is it? 6pm to 11pm from 10-21 December, 2025 (excluding 15-16 December)

Step into another world at Queen’s Wharf Brisbane as Sono Lumo lights up the precinct with three epic shows each night. This free event fuses dazzling lights, immersive sound, pop-up bars, food trucks and roaming entertainment. 

You won’t need a ticket, just time to wander and take it all in. Perfect for a night out that’s a bit different. We don’t want to give too much away, so expect a few surprises!

Where is it?: King George Square, Brisbane City

When is it? 6-24 December, 2025, every 15 minutes from 7:30pm to midnight

This one’s a true Brissie classic. Every 15 minutes from 7.30pm to midnight during the holiday season, the front of City Hall transforms into a living canvas of colourful projections. Each year brings a new Christmas story told through visuals and sound, projected straight onto the building’s facade. Bring the kids, grab a spot early, and enjoy this free, family-friendly tradition in the heart of the city.

Where is it? Queen Street Mall, Brisbane City

When is it? TBC

Roaming performers, pop-up acts and plenty of Christmas sparkle. That’s what you’ll find on Queen Street Mall through December. From 11am - 3pm and again from 4.30pm - 8.30pm during late-night shopping, the mall is packed with festive surprises. It’s a great excuse to linger while ticking off your gift list. The mix of music, dance, and cheeky characters makes this a hit with kids and grown-ups alike.

Where is it? Victoria Park Putt Putt, Herston

When is it? 7 November, 2025 to 4 January, 2026

From 7 November to 4 January, Victoria Park turns its putt putt course into a full-blown Christmas playground. Expect festive-themed holes, glowing lights, giant candy canes and snowmen, and heaps of photo ops. 

It’s ideal for families, mates, or a date night with a twist. Adults playing with kids aged 4 - 17 can even play at kids’ prices. And with a licensed course, you can order snacks, drinks and cocktails direct to your hole. Make sure to reserve the bistro for pizzas and skyline views before or after; it gets booked out quickly in the silly season.

Where is it? South Bank Cultural Forecourt, South Brisbane

There’s something magical about watching a classic Christmas movie by the river under a clear Brisbane sky. Last year’s line-up included classics like Elf, The Grinch, and Home Alone 2, screened on the lawn at South Bank. Bring a picnic, grab a beanbag, and settle in for a festive film with your family or mates.

When is it? QPAC Concert Hall, South Bank

Where is it? 17-19 December, 2025

Celebrate the season at QPAC's most loved annual concert, Spirit of Christmas. Featuring powerhouse performances from some of Australia's top musical theatre talent, the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, and multiple choirs, it's a night of heart, harmony and holiday joy. 

Expect a mix of traditional and modern classics, all performed in the iconic QPAC Concert Hall. This one sells fast, so keep an eye on ticket release dates.

Where is it? Bribie Island Canals

When is it? 7pm on 13 December, 2025

Boats dressed head-to-toe in fairy lights, a laser show, food trucks, and live music; this free event draws thousands. Held on 13 December from 7pm, the parade winds through the canals and Pumicestone Passage. 

The best views? Grab a spot near the Pacific Harbour Marina for all the action, or seek out quieter spots along the route for a more relaxed vibe. Just bring your own seating and settle in for a couple of magical hours.

Where is it?: Bim’Bimba Park, Gainsborough Greens, Pimpama

When is it? 14 December, 2025

Sunday, 14 December, Bim’Bimba Park turns into a Christmas wonderland. Think live music, face painting, pony rides, obstacle courses, markets, nine food trucks, and a visit from Santa himself. When the sun sets, Santa Clause 3 hits the screen, followed by fireworks at 8:30pm. It’s free, family-friendly, and one of the biggest Christmas community events around.

Where is it? Pine Rivers Park, Strathpine

When is it? 14 December, 2025

Head to Pine Rivers Park for a night of carols, food, crafts and fireworks. Santa’s Village has craft workshops and face painting for the kids, while the main stage hosts local talent belting out festive tunes.

There’s a twilight market for last-minute shopping and food trucks for a bite. The night ends with a fireworks show at 8pm.

Where is it? Dendy Powerhouse Outdoor Cinema, New Farm

When is it? 4-21 December, 2025

This outdoor cinema brings the Christmas feels with big screen favourites like The Grinch, The Muppets Christmas Carol, and Miracle on 34th Street. Held at Brisbane Powerhouse in New Farm, it’s a chilled way to spend a summer night. Pack a picnic or grab something on-site, and settle in under the stars.

Brisbane fills up fast over Christmas, so it pays to book your stay early. Here are three top spots right in the heart of the action:

This brand-new 5-star stunner opened in late 2024 and is already turning heads. With 340 luxe rooms, sweeping views of the river and South Bank, and a pool deck that’s made for summer, it’s a solid pick if you’re after something a bit special.

Right across from King George Square and City Hall, you’re close to the tree lighting, carols, and Queen Street Mall. There’s a rooftop pool, on-site dining, and easy access to everything, whether you’re here to relax or ticking off your gift list.

Next door to the Pullman, Mercure offers 4-star comfort and shares the same facilities, including the rooftop bar and gym. It’s central, well-priced, and ideal if you want to stay close to the festive action without blowing the budget.

Brisbane weather around Christmas is perfect for evening events, riverside picnics, or beach mornings before the heat really kicks in.

Expect daytime temps between 28°C and 31°C. Nights are balmy too, sitting between 18°C and 21°C. It’s peak summer, so the air feels sticky (thanks to the 70% humidity) and the UV is off the charts. Pack sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and light, breathable clothes. If you’re planning long days out, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

We’re not going to lie, you’ll likely get a few wet days. We usually see showers around 8 - 13 days in December, and quick afternoon storms can roll through, but they don’t usually hang around. Thunderstorms are possible, but not a daily thing either.

The good news? Sea temps sit at around 25°C to 26°C, which makes beach or pool swims an easy yes. Winds are usually light, and you’ll still get about nine hours of sunshine most days.

December’s a top time to visit Brisbane. The city’s buzzing with Christmas events, warm weather, and heaps of ways to soak up the sun. Saying that, Brisbane fills up fast in December, so lock in your stay early to snag the spot and room type you want.

Ready to feel the Christmas cheer? Pack your bags and get set for a fun-filled festive season. From flights to attractions, sort it all in one go with Traveloka.