Sydney Christmas Activities 2025

North Ryde Rotary Carols on the Common

Location: North Ryde

Dates: Sunday 14 December

Cost: FREE

North Ryde Common hosts the North Ryde Rotary Carols on the Common, a community-focused event featuring traditional Christmas carols performed by local groups. Attendees can participate by volunteering for event setup and traffic direction or by purchasing raffle tickets for festive prizes. Donations of cash or items for the Christmas raffle baskets are encouraged to support the event's operations.

Rotary Carols by Twilight

Location: Carlingford

Dates: December 14, 2025, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Rotary Carols by Twilight is held at John Wearn Reserve, where community members come together to sing beloved Christmas carols under the evening sky. This event features a candlelight ambiance that adds to the charm of the carols, creating a special holiday tradition for attendees. The gathering is organized by the Rotary Club of Carlingford, emphasizing community spirit and togetherness.

2025 Carols in the Park

Location: Ryde

Dates: Sunday, 07 December 2025 | 05:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Cost: FREE

The 2025 Carols in the Park takes place at Boronia Park, featuring a free community gathering filled with traditional Christmas carols. Attendees can look forward to a special visit from Santa and his elves, along with a fireworks display to conclude the festivities. Market stalls offering unique gifts and a variety of food options from local vendors add to the lively atmosphere.

Thornleigh Community Carols

Location: Thornleigh

Dates: Sunday 14th December 2025

Cost: FREE

Thornleigh Community Carols at Headen Park is a free, family-friendly event that brings together the local community for an evening of festive music and entertainment. Attendees can enjoy live performances by the Thornleigh Carols band, along with various entertainment options and food from local food trucks. The event supports local charities, including The Storehouse, providing clothing for children in need.

Taronga Zoo Sydney Christmas Concert

Location: Mosman

Dates: December 13, 2025

Cost: $$

The Taronga Zoo Sydney Christmas Concert offers a family-friendly evening of festive entertainment with stunning views of Sydney Harbour. Attendees can enjoy live musical performances and celebrate the holiday season with a special guest from the North Pole. The event aims to raise awareness for wildlife conservation while providing a unique concert experience.

Sydney Christmas Tree & Lights in Martin Place

Location: Sydney CBD

Dates: December 1 - December 25, 2025

Cost: Free

Experience the enchanting lighting of Sydney’s tallest Christmas tree in Martin Place, adorned with over 110,000 LED lights, a dazzling 3.4-metre color-changing star, and 330 unique Australian floral-inspired baubles. This festive event transforms the heart of Sydney’s CBD into a vibrant celebration featuring nightly choir performances, captivating light shows every 15 minutes, and a warm community spirit that welcomes all ages.

Sydney Christmas Festival (City of Sydney)

Location: Sydney CBD

Dates: December 1 - December 25, 2025

Cost: Free to attend; some activities may have costs

Sydney's premier holiday celebration transforms the CBD into a festive wonderland with the iconic Martin Place Christmas Markets as its centerpiece. Experience the majesty of NSW's tallest Christmas tree, adorned with 15,000 native flowers across 800 branches, while enjoying live entertainment, seasonal shopping, and interactive holiday experiences that capture the spirit of an Australian summer Christmas.

Christmas at Taronga Zoo (non-concert activities)

Location: Mosman

Dates: December 1-25, 2025

Cost: Standard zoo admission applies

Celebrate the festive season at Taronga Zoo with a unique Christmas experience that blends wildlife wonder and holiday cheer. Explore the zoo adorned with seasonal decorations, engage in interactive animal encounters, and enjoy creative workshops designed for all ages. This event offers a joyful way to connect with nature and the spirit of Christmas without the concert atmosphere.

Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens

Location: Pokolbin

Dates: December 1-25, 2025

Cost: Adults $30, Children (4-15) $15, Children under 4 free

Experience the enchanting Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens, where over 4.5 million lights illuminate themed gardens, creating a vibrant festive wonderland. This immersive event features unique displays like the Italian Grotto Garden and a playful Aussie Christmas cricket scene, blending tradition with local charm. Visitors can enjoy festive rides, gourmet treats, and magical holiday moments in the heart of Pokolbin.

Sydney Harbour Christmas Lights Cruise

Location: Sydney Harbour

Dates: December 1-25, 2025

Cost: Varies by operator, typically from $50 to $100 per person

Set sail on Sydney Harbour for a magical Christmas Lights Cruise, where the city skyline transforms into a dazzling canvas of festive illuminations. Glide past iconic landmarks and waterfront homes adorned with sparkling displays, all while enjoying seasonal music, onboard commentary, and festive treats. This unique evening experience offers a relaxed yet enchanting way to soak in Sydney’s holiday spirit from the water, with panoramic views and a warm, celebratory atmosphere.

Carols by the Sea - Bondi

Location: Bondi

Dates: December 10, 2025

Cost: FREE

Experience the magic of Christmas at Carols by the Sea in Bondi Park, where the festive spirit meets the stunning coastal backdrop of Bondi Beach. This free community event invites families and friends to enjoy live performances by local musicians, joyful sing-alongs, and engaging children’s activities, all set against the soothing sounds of the ocean. Bring a picnic rug and soak in a warm, inclusive celebration that captures the essence of a beachside Christmas evening.

Christmas Carols at The Vineyard

Location: Sydney

Dates: December 11, 2025

Cost: FREE

Join The Vineyard Sydney for a heartwarming evening of Christmas Carols on December 11, 2025, where the community comes together to celebrate the season with joyful singing, festive lights, and a spirit of togetherness. This family-friendly event features live music, interactive activities, and a welcoming environment that blends tradition with modern celebration. Experience the magic of Christmas through shared songs, seasonal treats, and a joyful atmosphere that invites everyone to connect and create lasting memories.

Sydney New Year's Eve Harbour Fireworks

Location: Sydney

Dates: December 31, 2025

Cost: FREE

Sydney's New Year's Eve Harbour Fireworks transform the city into a dazzling spectacle of light, culture, and celebration, drawing millions to the waterfront for two breathtaking pyrotechnic shows at 9 PM and midnight. Experience a unique blend of Aboriginal cultural ceremonies, illuminated boat parades, and world-class fireworks launched from iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. The event stands out for its inclusive atmosphere, vibrant street entertainment, and unforgettable moments that unite locals and visitors in ringing in the new year.

Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink Holiday Sessions

Location: Canterbury

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: $

Celebrate the festive season at Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink with special holiday skating sessions throughout December 2025. Experience the thrill of gliding on pristine indoor ice in a vibrant, family-friendly setting, complete with expert coaching and skate rentals. These sessions offer a unique winter escape in Sydney, blending fun, fitness, and festive cheer under one roof.

Macquarie Ice Rink Holiday Skating

Location: Macquarie Park

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: $

Step into a winter wonderland at Macquarie Ice Rink’s Holiday Skating sessions, where festive cheer meets icy adventure throughout December 2025. This vibrant North Shore destination invites skaters of all ages to glide under sparkling lights, enjoy themed music, and experience the magic of the season on the ice. Whether you’re mastering your first spins or joining a lively family skate, the rink offers a welcoming atmosphere with special holiday touches and a variety of on-ice activities.

Christmas Day at Bondi Beach

Location: Bondi

Dates: December 25, 2025

Cost: FREE

Christmas Day at Bondi Beach is a vibrant, sun-soaked celebration where locals and visitors gather on the golden sands to embrace the Australian summer holiday in true coastal style. This iconic event blends laid-back beach culture with festive cheer, offering a unique alternative to traditional Christmas festivities. Expect a lively mix of picnics, music, and spontaneous gatherings, all set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most famous beaches.

Sydney Harbour Christmas Day Cruises

Location: Sydney

Dates: December 25, 2025

Cost: $$$

Celebrate Christmas Day 2025 in unforgettable style with a premium lunch cruise on Sydney Harbour, where festive dining, live entertainment, and panoramic views come together for a truly magical experience. Guests enjoy a gourmet Christmas menu, unlimited drinks, and a joyful atmosphere as they glide past iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. These cruises offer a relaxed yet elegant alternative to traditional celebrations, perfect for making lasting holiday memories with loved ones.

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Holiday Walks

Location: Sydney

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: FREE

Explore Sydney's most prestigious botanical sanctuary during the festive season, where manicured gardens transform into a serene holiday retreat. Wander through diverse plant collections adorned with seasonal beauty, enjoy unobstructed harbour vistas, and experience the tranquility of nature's December splendour. The garden's free general access makes it an ideal destination for those seeking peaceful respite from summer crowds while soaking in the natural elegance that defines this iconic Sydney landmark.

Taronga Zoo Sydney Holiday Experiences

Location: Mosman

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: $$

Celebrate the holidays at Taronga Zoo Sydney with a magical after-dark experience featuring festive music, animal encounters, and breathtaking views over Sydney Harbour. This unique Christmas event blends wildlife wonder with seasonal cheer, offering families a chance to mingle with Australian animals, enjoy live entertainment, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere of the zoo after sunset. Special activities include visits from Santa, hands-on nature experiences, and gourmet food options, all set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most iconic zoological parks.

Luna Park Sydney Christmas Celebrations

Location: Milsons Point

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: $$

Celebrate Christmas 2025 at Luna Park Sydney, where festive magic meets thrilling amusement rides against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour and the Harbour Bridge. This seasonal event transforms the historic park into a winter wonderland filled with dazzling lights, holiday-themed attractions, and joyful entertainment for all ages. Experience a unique blend of classic carnival fun and Christmas cheer in an iconic Sydney setting.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb Holiday Experience

Location: Sydney

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: $$$

Celebrate the holidays with a unique Sydney tradition: scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge during the festive season. This special Christmas experience offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and harbour, with the chance to meet Santa Claus at the summit for a memorable photo opportunity. Climb through crisp air and festive cheer, enjoying exclusive holiday touches like carols and a complimentary Santa hat, making it a standout adventure for visitors and locals alike.

Sydney Fish Market Holiday Shopping

Location: Sydney

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: FREE

Experience the vibrant Sydney Fish Market Holiday Shopping event, a festive seafood extravaganza held annually in Pyrmont. This unique Christmas tradition features a 36-hour marathon where fresh, premium seafood is available nonstop, perfect for holiday feasts. Visitors can explore a vast selection of live and freshly caught seafood, alongside gourmet delicacies and local produce, all set against the bustling waterfront atmosphere.

Barangaroo Reserve Holiday Walks

Location: Sydney

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: FREE

Experience the festive spirit at Barangaroo Reserve this Christmas 2025 with scenic waterfront strolls framed by Sydney Harbour’s iconic skyline. This unique holiday walk combines natural sandstone landscapes, native flora, and immersive Indigenous art installations, creating a vibrant celebration of culture and summer by the water. Visitors can enjoy live music, seasonal markets, and interactive festive displays that bring the harbour to life in a joyful, sunlit setting.

Sydney Observatory Holiday Star Gazing

Location: Sydney

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: $

Celebrate the festive season under the stars with Sydney Observatory’s special holiday star gazing event in December 2025. Guests will enjoy guided tours of the southern night sky, explore celestial wonders through powerful telescopes, and discover the stories behind the constellations that light up the summer sky. This immersive experience blends astronomy, heritage, and holiday magic, making it a unique way to connect with the cosmos during the Christmas season.

Mrs Macquarie's Chair Holiday Picnics

Location: Sydney

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: FREE

Celebrate Christmas 2025 in style with a holiday picnic at Mrs Macquarie's Chair, where Sydney's most iconic harbor views set the scene for a festive and memorable day. This unique experience blends the natural beauty of the Royal Botanic Garden with luxurious picnic amenities, offering a private and picturesque setting to enjoy the season. Guests can unwind on plush cushions, savor gourmet treats, and soak in panoramic vistas of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, all while listening to their favorite holiday tunes on a Bluetooth speaker. It's the perfect way to create lasting memories with loved ones in one of Sydney's most cherished locations.

Sydney Harbour Islands Ferry Tour

Location: Sydney

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: $

Experience the magic of Sydney Harbour this Christmas 2025 with a scenic ferry tour to iconic islands like Fort Denison and Cockatoo Island. Enjoy festive decorations and a joyful holiday ambiance as you cruise past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, discovering unique history and stunning waterfront views. This tour blends sightseeing with seasonal cheer, creating an unforgettable holiday adventure on the water.

Centennial Park Holiday Walks

Location: Sydney

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: FREE

Celebrate Christmas 2025 with enchanting holiday walks through Sydney’s Centennial Park, where 189 hectares of lush greenery transform into a festive wonderland. Explore illuminated trails, discover seasonal art installations, and enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by nature’s beauty, making it a unique outdoor holiday experience for all ages.

Bronte Beach Holiday Celebrations

Location: Bronte

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: FREE

The Bronte Beach Holiday Celebrations on Christmas Day 2025 invite locals and travelers to a vibrant, inclusive gathering on one of Sydney’s most scenic shores. Known as the unofficial 'Orphan’s Christmas,' this festive event brings together backpackers, holidaymakers, and families for a day of sun, music, and community spirit. With free entry, a relaxed atmosphere, and a focus on sustainability, it’s a unique way to celebrate the holidays with a coastal twist, featuring extra amenities and safety measures to ensure everyone enjoys a memorable beachside Christmas.

Coogee Beach Holiday Picnics

Location: Coogee

Dates: Throughout December 2025

Cost: FREE

Celebrate Christmas 2025 with a festive picnic at Coogee Beach, where the sparkling ocean meets sunlit sandy shores. This unique holiday experience invites visitors to relax on the grass or beachside with friends and family, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and scenic coastal views. With ample space for picnics, swimming, and casual beach games, it’s an ideal spot to soak up the Aussie summer Christmas spirit in a vibrant, natural setting.