There really is nothing more spectacular than Christmas-time in Brisbane. With the balmy summer nights providing the perfect backdrop for festive celebrations, the river city puts on many annual Christmas events just waiting for you to explore.
Get into the Christmas spirit by discovering the most loved Christmas events which are held in Brisbane each year.
Lighting of the City Hall Christmas Tree
A standout event during Brisbane’s festive celebrations is the annual lighting of the Christmas Tree in King George Square. Standing an impressive 22m high, the event is generally held on the 1st of December, and includes live musical performances of cherished Christmas tunes.
The Lott by Golden Casket City Hall Light Display
Get ready to be captivated by the magical charm of Christmas at The Lott by Golden Casket City Hall Lights.
Every year, Brisbane’s iconic City Hall transforms into a lively canvas of stunning visuals and sounds as a Christmas story is projected onto its facade.
The Enchanted Garden – Roma Street Parkland
Every December, Roma Street Parklands comes to life in a dazzling display of fairy lit trees, LED displays and magical light installations in celebration of the festive season.
With hidden delights at every turn, the almost 1km self-guided and wheelchair-accessible trail takes 30 to 40 minutes to complete, with bookings essential for this much-loved family affair.
Read our detailed review of The Enchanted Garden here.
Christmas Light Displays in Brisbane
2023 Christmas Light display at Minimine Street in Stafford.
When Christmas comes around grab a list of Brisbane’s best Christmas Light displays, pile the family in the car, pop on some carols and drive the streets looking at the dazzling festive displays.
From giant inflatables, snow machines, and the popular synchronised light and music displays, there really is something to excite Brisbane Kids around every corner.
Check out the full list of Christmas Light Displays in Brisbane here.
Government House Christmas Light Display
The landmark historic house and gardens of Fernberg Estate are bathed in a magical light show which has become a must-see event for Brisbane families at Christmas time.
Visitors are also welcome inside Government House to have a photo alongside the grandly decorated Christmas Tree.
Christmas on Queen
Experience Christmas-themed pop-up performances and roaming acts in the Queen Street mall at the fun and festive Christmas on Queen.
Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols
One long-standing Christmas event in Brisbane which lights up the Botanical Gardens‘ Riverstage each year is the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols.
Booking out quickly, the event sees families spread out on picnic blankets with candles alight as they sing along with big stars, choirs and children to much-loved Christmas carols.
Carols By Candlelight
Held in schools, local parks, churches and other venues all over Brisbane, is it really even Christmas if you haven’t attended a Carols by Candlelight?
With picnic blankets spread out and battery operated candles in hand, families can sing along to their favourite Christmas songs, surrounded by a multitude of other singing voices.
You can check out all of the best places to find carols in Brisbane here.
Southbank Christmas Concert
There is music, there is dancing, there are performances and even a visit from Santa himself.
The Southbank Christmas Show is an annual event which draws crowds of families looking to join in on the Christmas cheer and fun. Held in the piazza, tickets are essential to see the popular show.
Queensland Ballet’s -The Nutcracker
IMAGE CREDIT: Queensland Ballet on Facebook
For any future ballerinas or little dancing stars, the Queensland Ballet’s Nutcracker is a much-anticipated event which hits the stage at QPAC every Christmas season.
Captivating Brisbane audiences with a dazzling winter wonderland where anything is possible, fireplaces crackle, snowflakes flutter, and enchanted toys come alive to frolic and play.
Christmas Cinema at Southbank
Every year, various outdoor venues around Brisbane screen Christmas movies for families to enjoy.
At Southbank they go one step further with their nightly screenings of Christmas favourites on the their expansive riverside lawns. Bring a blanket, grab a picnic, or indulge in delicious eats from nearby restaurants. It’s the perfect way to unwind and get into the holiday spirit.
Christmas Tiny Doors
How adorable is this!? A new event that is delighting children everywhere, kids can embark on a joyful adventure discovering whimsical Christmas-themed tiny doors sprinkled throughout the city.
Available throughout December in King George Square, Queen Street Mall and more locations throughout the City, let the magic of the season come alive through these enchanting little surprise doors.
Christmas Markets
Each festive season, pop-up Christmas markets adorn the streets in and around the city. In fact, Brisbane offers so many incredible Christmas markets you would almost need every day of December just to get through them all!
You can find a comprehensive list of where to find these markets at Christmas Markets in Brisbane.
Santa Photos
A well-loved tradition for many Brisbane families, getting a photo with Santa continues to be an event on most festive calendars.
Come December, families in their Christmas best join long queues and wait patiently for their chance to meet Santa. Some even bring their family pet (at selected sittings).
Located in main shopping centres and stores all over Brisbane, there are plenty places which offer paid or FREE santa photos.
St Nicholas Street Precinct
IMAGE CREDIT: Ipswich Festivals on Facebook.
Only a short drive from Brisbane, this event gets a mention due to the huge range of fun Christmas activities provided for families.
With light displays, entertainment, food vans and movies, families can settle in for a full night of fun in Ipswich.
For more festive Christmas events in Brisbane check out Free Christmas Events in Brisbane.
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