Sydney transforms into a festive wonderland during the Christmas season, offering dazzling events that bring holiday cheer to locals and international tourists. With plenty of Christmas events in Sydney, trust us, your Christmas holiday season this year won’t be boring.
From spectacular light displays to family-friendly activities, the city comes alive with the spirit of Christmas. Of all the Christmas events in Sydney, we’re sure you’ll find something you like, whether it’s for free or paid.
So, wait no further! Let’s explore the must-visit celebrations that make this city the ultimate holiday destination.
Location: St. Mary Cathedral’s Square, College Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: 5.30 PM - 10 PM
Period: 12 December - 25 December 2024
It’s going to be a festive celebration at The Cathedral, with the live entertainment through light shows that will be shown on two sides: the main and the western side of the Cathedral. This year’s title would be A Christmas Carol, by the famous Charles Dickens. There will be the narrative of the story to make the experience more thorough.
Not only the entertainment, you can stroll around the market and food stalls and find something interesting for you. It’s a must-visit for families, for sure.
Location: Pitt Street, between Market and King Streets, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: 8 PM - 1 AM
Period: 28 November - 1 January 2025
Do you want another free Christmas event in Sydney to attend this holiday season? You can walk underneath the Canopy of Light in Pitt Street Mall. Over 80,000 lights will be installed and it will sparkle every evening until the first of January next year.
Don’t forget to take some pictures to commemorate this Christmas event in Sydney!
Location: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point Sydney NSW 2000 Australia
Hours: 2 shows per day (1.30 pm and 7.30 PM)
Period: 10 - 18 December 2024
Watching a ballet is a classic activity around Christmas! Don’t miss this Australian Ballet: The Nutcracker, a family friendly event that will introduce your children to the masterpiece of both Sir Peter Wright’s The Nutcracker and Tchaikovsky’s piece of music.
The duration of the show would be 2 hours and 5 minutes, already including a 25 minutes interval. You can buy the tickets only on the official website and choose the time and date. There are 2 shows per day and there’s the online streaming option as well. The price for standard tickets is AU$66 - AU$437.
Location: Playfair Street The Rocks NSW 2000 Australia
Hours: 4 - 9 PM (Friday), 10 AM - 9 PM (Saturday), 10 AM - 5 PM (Sunday)
Period: 14 December - 22 December 2024 (Every Friday - Sunday every week)
To celebrate the holiday season, The Rocks Market will turn itself into a magical market that you shouldn’t skip. This could be your chance to hunt for the best Christmas gift as well, from the unique crafts, handmade gifts, and more.
Countless food stalls will be there too, and you can pamper yourself by buying some of your favourites. Make sure you close the day by having a picnic under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s sure to be a pleasant Christmas memory to remember forever.
Location: Art Gallery Road Sydney NSW 2000 Australia
Hours: 1 - 11 PM
Period: 21 December 2024
If you search for the biggest Christmas event in Australia, you should check out for the Woolworths Carols in the Domain. It promises a magical evening filled with festive music, dazzling performances, and community spirit. You can meet plenty of Australia stars, and this year includes Hugh Sheridan, Samantha Jade, and more.
You can enjoy on-site festivities, exclusive giveaways, and food and beverage stalls. For those planning to go, arriving early to secure a good spot is highly recommended. Entrance is free, but additional cost for other activities may be required. Also, you can watch the broadcast live on Channel 7 and 7Plus.
Location: Hay St Haymarket NSW 2000 Australia
Hours: 5 - 10.30 PM
Period: 13 - 22 December 2024
The most festive tradition and popular Christmas events in Sydney, Le Jolly Market, is back this December! Belmore Park transformed into a lively Christmas Wonderland. Let’s explore handcrafted treasures, gourmet delicacies, fine wines, and live performances in a refreshing ambience, under the park’s lush trees.
Many items are affordably priced under AUD20, making it an ideal spot to find meaningful presents without overspending.
Location: Cockle Bay, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: All day
Period: 15 - 27 December 2024
No matter when you see it, whether it’s during the sunlight or when the evening comes, watching the amazing centrepiece at Cockle Bay will be another free Christmas event on Sunday to enjoy with your loved ones.
You can enjoy this magical holiday season by gathering around the gleaming centrepiece, take some photos, or just absorb the nice holiday ambience.
Location: The Royal Botanic Garden, Mrs Macquaries Road Sydney NSW 2000 Australia (Araucaria Lawn near Maiden Pavilion)
Hours: 11 AM - 1 PM
Period: 20 December 2024
For children aged 3 - 10 years old (with adults as company), Dreaming of a Green Christmas is a must-try Christmas event in Sydney. The ticket price is $18 per ticket (Foundation and Friends Members $16.50 per ticket). Children under 12 months free with a paying adult ticket.
Surrounded by the refreshing air and garden, Dreaming of a Green Christmas features Elfis and Elvin the Elves at Sydney’s Dreaming of a Green Christmas event! These two mischievous elves have been sent all the way to Australia to make sure Santa’s big visit goes off without a hitch.
Wed, 13 Aug 2025
Jetstar
Melbourne (MEL) to Sydney (SYD)
Start from AU$86.24
Wed, 30 Jul 2025
Jetstar
Brisbane (BNE) to Sydney (SYD)
Start from AU$81.00
Tue, 12 Aug 2025
Jetstar
Canberra (CBR) to Sydney (SYD)
Start from AU$172.39
But there’s a twist – the harsh Aussie environment isn’t exactly what they’re used to at the North Pole! As they fumble their way through unexpected challenges, these cheeky troublemakers will have kids laughing, singing, and cheering for more.
Have an enjoyable Christmas by joining at least one of the Christmas events in Sydney. Call up your best friends, make plans with your family, and plan your Christmas staycation with Traveloka! All hotels, flights, and attractions are waiting at the best price – especially with ongoing promos!