Living Gems

5 Must-do Christmas Events in Brisbane 

Whether you love attending Christmas Carols, are looking to enjoy some outdoor festivities, need to find the perfect gift, looking for an activity with the grandkids or would like to donate your time to a charity – we have the perfect idea for you! 

Here are our favourite Christmas Events in Brisbane this year. 

Brisbane Lord Mayor's Christmas Carols

1. Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols 

Saturday 10 December, 6pm (gates open at 4pm), Riverstage 

Sing along to all your Christmas favourites at Brisbane’s premier annual event, The Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols 

Hosted by Naomi Price, this year’s Carols will feature a brilliant line-up of stars, including Sheppard, Johnny Manuel, Stefanie Jones (Mary Poppins) and Swing on This featuring Luke Kennedy, Bert LaBonte, Matt Lee and Ben Mingay. 

There’s also Jem Cassar-Daley, Eva Kong, Irena Lysiuk, Alinta Chidzey (Moulin Rouge! The Musical) along with an all-star gospel line-up of Lai Utovou, Carmen Smith, Rachel Everett-Jones and Angela Fabian. Plus, of course, The Jingle Belles will return to the stage with 18 elite dancers choreographed by Kate Wormald. 

Tickets are $5 (free for Under 18s). Tickets are limited so register today. 

Book your ticket: brisbane.qld.gov.au 

 

2. Northshore Christmas Boat Parade 

Sunday 18 December, 4 – 10pm | Northshore, Hamilton 

This inaugural free event begins at 4pm with an armada of glittering boats lighting up the iconic Brisbane River at Northshore. Sing along to the Christmas classics as you watch the festive boats gliding along the river. 

There’ll also be onshore entertainment, featuring roving artists, live music and plenty of jolly photo opportunities! 

Watch the parade from one of the many viewing areas, or why not join in? Yes, you can sail along on a river cruise with friends and family while enjoying a delicious meal and drinks!  

Register for a free ticket: Northshore Christmas Boat Parade  

 

 3. Christmas Markets 

Spread joy to the world by shopping local and finding the perfect unique gifts this Christmas! Brisbane hosts a range of incredible markets over the festive season, including: 

The Collective Markets – Christmas Edition (presented by eatSouthBank)
17 – 22 December, 10am – 9pm, Little Stanley Street South Brisbane 

BrisStyle Brisbane Twilight Market
Friday 2 December, 4 – 9pm, King George Square Brisbane City 

Portside Christmas Markets
Sunday 18 December, 3 -6pm, Portside Wharf 

Gasworks Christmas Markets
Saturday 10 December, 4 – 8pm, Gasworks Plaza 

 

 4. Santa’s Stop Over 

17 – 22 December, 4 – 9.30pm, Flowstate Pavilion South Bank 

What’s the perfect Christmas outing with grandkids? Taking them to visit Santa himself!  

Santa’s Stop Over is a free photo station located at South Bank’s Flowstate Pavilion. Here you can take a festive selfie with Santa Claus and the kids can tell him exactly what they’d like for Christmas (and if they’ve been naughty or nice)! 

To reserve your spot, visit the entrance booth one hour before your preferred session time and collect your free tickets. 

Photo sessions run from 4 – 5pm, 5.30 – 6.30pm, 7 – 8pm and 8.30 – 9.30pm. 

Learn more: brisbanekids.com.au 

 

5. Get involved in a Christmas charity 

Christmas is about giving, and what better way to embrace the Christmas spirit than volunteering or donating to a local charity.  

There are many organisations who need assistance, especially over the festive season. These include: 

 Want to explore more Christmas events in Brisbane? Head to the Christmas In Australia website.