Christmas Season 2024-2025 in Sydney

There is obviously no snow in Sydney at Christmas. However, you can find everything else—light displays in the streets, cozy Christmas markets, carol singers, and delicious holiday treats. Most of Sydney's Christmas markets last for one or two days during late November and December, so don't forget to check the dates when you plan your visit.

Blak Markets at The Rocks (December 16–17, 2024)

Sydney’s Christmas shopping scene is a celebration of handmade and locally produced gifts, with the Blak Markets by the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence (NCIE) being a standout event. Held on the Tallawoladah Lawn in The Rocks, Gadigal Land, the markets return on December 16-17, 2024, from 10 am to 4 pm. Offering 20 unique stalls, this two-day event showcases Indigenous artistry, including authentic artworks, handcrafted homewares, jewelry, and Aboriginal-inspired food. Visitors can also enjoy cultural performances, such as traditional dances, singing, and a weaving workshop.

As an established social enterprise, Blak Markets directs 100% of profits back into Aboriginal communities, making each purchase a meaningful contribution to local development. Entry is free, and the event begins with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, followed by performances by the Jannawi Dance Clan and Muggera Dancers across the weekend.

Christmas Shopping Night at Australian Design Centre (December 2024, unconfirmed)

Once a year, the Australian Design Centre holds the Christmas Shopping Night featuring gifts from local Object Shop makers. This relaxed Christmas Shopping evening offers designed and collectible facilities from more than 100 emerging and well-established local craftspeople. On top of that, visitors can enjoy gift wrapping and a complimentary beverage.

Sydney Fish Market 36-Hour Seafood Marathon (December 23–24, 2024)

Sydney Fish Market holds a 36 Hour Seafood Marathon—a typical Aussie Christmas event. It is running non-stop from 5 am on December 23 to 5 pm on Christmas Eve. This long-standing tradition attracts over 100,000 visitors and sees the sale of up to 370 tonnes of seafood. In addition to its renowned seafood, the market offers a range of products, including meat, produce, baked goods, and beverages, making it a one-stop shop for Christmas preparations.

Parking is available at the main lot and Sydney Secondary College, with a flat rate of $5. Public transport options include bus routes 501 and 389. To avoid crowds, visit early on December 23 or during the quieter hours of the night.

Christmas at the Cathedral (December 12–25, 2024)

Dazzling light displays in Sydney typically begin in November, but the highlight of the season is the iconic Christmas at St Mary’s Cathedral Square. Running from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm each night, this spectacular light and sound show illuminates the cathedral, attracting millions of visitors. As Sydney's most famous holiday symbol, the event has become a cherished tradition, offering a captivating experience from early December through to Christmas Day. The 2024 edition, Christmas at the Cathedral, promises to be as enchanting as ever.

Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens (November 1, 2024–January 26, 2025)

The Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens is a must-see event, drawing thousands of families each year. The gardens come alive with millions of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere just two hours from Sydney. Open from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm (with rides available from 6 pm to 10 pm), visitors can explore themed light displays, enjoy festive food and beverages, and experience exciting amusement rides.

Santa’s Workshop and roving entertainment add to the holiday cheer, making it a perfect outing for families. Ticket prices include family passes, with options starting at $122 for two adults and two children. For those looking to experience the lights both day and night, combined passes are also available, with family tickets starting at $187. Individual ride tickets are $6 each, or a bonus pass of six rides for $30 can be purchased on-site.

Canopy of Light at Pitt Street Mall (2024 Dates TBA)

Canopy of Light is a walkway along Pitt Street Mall which becomes a wonderland thanks to a canopy of suspended Christmas trees. With 85,000 LEDs, the Christmas light forest installation illuminates the way from dusk to midnight.

Martin Place Christmas Tree (2024 Dates TBA)

The lighting of the Martin Place Christmas Tree is a highlight of Sydney’s festive season, with Santa and the Lord Mayor arriving on a cycle-drawn sleigh to illuminate the tallest Christmas tree in New South Wales. Decorated with over 110,000 LED lights and 15,000 Australian flowers, the tree sparkles throughout the season, attracting large crowds to the late November ceremony, which features a free concert and children's activities.

From December 1 to 24, choirs perform daily next to the tree, filling the air with festive carols. Performances, including the Australian Girls Choir, take place from 6 pm to 8 pm, adding to the magical holiday atmosphere at Martin Place.

Australian Brandenburg Orchestra Noël! Noël! Concert Series (December 7–17, 2024)

The Australian Brandenburg Orchestra’s Noël! Noël! concert series returns this summer, featuring the Brandenburg Choir and special guest, saxophonist Christina Leonard. This cherished holiday tradition will fill the City Recital Hall and St Patrick's Church with timeless carols like O Come All Ye Faithful and Stille Nacht, along with festive surprises. Audiences can expect uplifting performances that blend classic chorales with joyful sing-alongs, making Noël! Noël! a heartwarming celebration of the season. Tickets range from $30 to $60.

Sydney Zoo’s Christmas Animal Kingdom (2024 Dates TBA)

Sydney Zoo’s Christmas Animal Kingdom in Eastern Creek offers a festive experience that combines wildlife and holiday magic. Running from November through December, this popular event features millions of sparkling lights, Christmas displays, and over 4,000 animals. Visitors can enjoy activities like sliding down the giant snow slide, decorating gingerbread in Candyland, and sending letters to the North Pole from Mrs. Claus’ Post Office. Santa will also be available for professional photos, with every child receiving a free gift. Last year's ticket prices included $44.99 for adults, $29.99 for children, and free entry for infants under 2.