Farewell 2024 at these epic December events around Australia.

Santa is visiting in just a few weeks. Your annual leave is getting closer and closer. 2025 is just around the corner. There are so many exciting things to look forward to during December!

Between visiting cosy Christmas markets and making plans for New Year’s Eve, find some time in your calendar for these epic December events and you’ll be finishing the year with an absolute bang.

NSW | VIC | QLD | TAS | WA | SA | NT | ACT

What’s on in NSW in December

GLENGOYNE WHISKY LIBRARY
SYDNEY
5–7 DECEMBER

Sydney‘s first-ever Whisky Library will open this December thanks to Glengoyne, in partnership with Berkelouw Bookstore. The pop-up whisky bar, held at the book brand’s Paddington location, is all about encouraging locals to slow down and relax ahead of the Christmas season. 

Settle into an armchair at Berkelouw’s cosy store with a glass of Glengoyne’s 12-year-old single malt scotch and a good book. Guests are encouraged to embody the ‘joy of slow’, to savour Glengoyne’s exceptional drops and to immerse themselves in an afternoon of peaceful indulgence.

LOST PARADISE
GLENWORTH VALLEY
28 DECEMBER – 1 JANUARY

Ringing in the New Year for 2025, Lost Paradise returns with an all-star lineup. Taking over Glenworth Valley in NSW, the mammoth line-up of international superstars and fierce local talent includes Fisher, Tinashe, Royel Otis, Flight Facilities, AJ Tracey, and loads more.

But Lost Paradise offers so much more than its musical line-up. Need a break from the music or keen to try something new? Head to Shambhala Fields for yoga, talks, workshops, healing arts and Indigenous experiences. Or wander a diverse range of markets in the Lost Village. Also, just to add the icing on top, glamping tents are available to book.

ROLLING SETS
CENTRAL COAST
7 DECEMBER

Nothing beats a good summer music festival, and Rolling Sets is up there with some of the best. Hosted on NSW’s picturesque Central Coast, the live event is all good music, good vibes and good times (with good food trucks on the menu, too).

This year’s line-up is sure to get you excited, with acts like The Wombats, Lime Cordiale, G Flip, Ruel and Mallrat all taking the stage by storm. The festival will take over The Entrance Memorial Park, right near some of the Central Coasts’ best beaches – the perfect way to cool off afterwards.

5K FOAM FEST
SYDNEY
14 DECEMBER

There’s no better way to beat the heat this month than the 5K Foam Fest, which will take over the Sydney International Equestrian Centre for one day only. The fun-filled event is also heading to other Aussie capitals come 2025, including Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne and Brisbane.

While you will work up a sweat conquering the 25 obstacles, mud pits and inflatable obstructions, you’ll also be blasted with 2.5 million cubic feet of foam at the same time! Tackle the course alone or with a group of your best mates, with all ages and abilities welcome.

SANTA SPECTACULAR
SYDNEY
12–26 DECEMBER

The Sydney Santa Spectacular is back after a long, five-year hiatus, and attendees can look forward to a jam-packed program promised to be bigger than ever before. Think 300 twinkling Christmas trees, carnival rides (including the country’s only double-decker carousel), a live circus and a petting zoo, where kids can meet and pat Rudolph.

The epic event will take over Blacktown Showground, which is just a 40-minute drive from the CBD (with frequent trains running as well). Guests are also encouraged to bring a gift to donate to little ones at the Sydney Children’s Hospital, who may not get to go home for Christmas.

REFLECTIONS CADET CUP
TUNCURRY
7–8 DECEMBER

Reflections Holidays is teaming up with Australian sporting powerhouse Surfest to bring the Reflections Cadet Cup to NSW’s Mid-North Coast. Aimed at platforming the country’s hottest new surfing talent, the event is the perfect summer event for beach groms of all ages.

Spend the day watching junior surfing pros compete at Tuncurry’s 9 Mile Beach, known among the wave-loving community for its epic swells and famous breaks. While supporting young locals, guests can also check out street food stalls, live music and prize presentations.

ELF: THE MUSICAL
SYDNEY
19–29 DECEMBER

Watching Elf during the Christmas season is a must. But what if I told you, you could see it in musical form? That’s right, the Australian premiere of Elf: The Musical is coming to Sydney this December – what better way to get into the festive spirit!

Showing for just 11 days, guests can watch the heartwarming, live-action musical adaption in the Sydney Opera House’s Concert Hall. Tickets start at $100 per person for B Reserve.

THE FRIENDS EXPERIENCE
SYDNEY
UNTIL FEBRUARY 2025

Friends fans – Christmas has come early to the NSW capital. The Fullerton Hotel is hosting The FRIENDS Experience: The One in Sydney to mark the show’s 30th anniversary, and you’re invited to join the celebrations!

The interactive and immersive experience allows fans to recreate their favourite scenes from the show and reminisce on some of its most iconic moments. Visit the onsite retail store to pick up some exclusive merch, from Central Perk mugs to a cosy Friends-themed hoodie.

What’s on in Victoria in December

CHRISTMAS SHOWTIME FESTIVAL
MELBOURNE
5–23 DECEMBER

This year, the inaugural Christmas Showtime Festival is infusing Melbournians with festive cheer! Running until a few days before Christmas, the event showcases an incredible line-up of live entertainment for all ages, from musical premieres to magic shows. 

The festival opens with the Australian debut of Love Actually? The Musical Parody at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre, where all performances on the program will take place. Tickets to a variety of exciting live shows are on sale now – don’t miss out!

LINDEN POSTCARD SHOW
ST. KILDA
FROM 7 DECEMBER

Housed in a renovated 1871 Victorian mansion in St Kilda, the Linden New Art Gallery will again adorn its walls with small-scale artworks, alongside small-scale sculptural art, for the annual Linden Postcard Show.

The local event provides a platform for a diverse community of both emerging and well-known artists, with attendees able to purchase both 2D and 3D designs. The displayed works also go into the running to win a variety of prizes, too.

THE OUTSIDERS EXHIBITION
MELBOURNE
FROM 12 DECEMBER

For the first time ever, Sandra Powell and Andrew King’s collection of street art will be open to the public. Amassed by avid art collectors over 15 years, the free exhibition features original works by both Australian and international artists.

Guests can admire over 100 original works by the likes of Rone, Vexta and Adnate, as well as Banksy, Barry McGee, Vhils and Hush. The Outsiders Melbourne is the biggest collection of street art in Australia and will be on display in the Victorian capital until May 2025.

NYE ON THE HILL
GIPPSLAND
30 DECEMBER– 1 JANUARY

Wanna welcome 2025 the right way? We’ve got you covered – all you have to do is head to The Farm in Victoria’s Gippsland region, where you’ll find NYE on the Hill. Think good live music, camping with mates, rolling green hills, morning yoga, art installations and curated food trucks.

Now in its 11th year, this three-day rural festival has sold out every single year – and it’s not hard to see why. Between its stellar line-up (Mallrat, Hockey Dad, Rum Jungle and more) and stunning setting, NYE on the Hill has garnered a loyal community. And once you join it, you’ll be keen to come back year after year.

CRFT* WRK
MELBOURNE
7 DECEMBER

If you’re looking to gift a loved one something locally and lovingly made this year, CRFT* WRK is the place to go. The monthly contemporary art fair is held at Melbourne’s iconic Queen Victoria Market, dedicated to giving local makers a platform to showcase and sell all things handcrafted.

Browse stalls touting art, ceramics, jewellery, embroidery, ethical textiles, homewares, artisan perfume and even dog accessories for your furry friend. Head to the C and D shed between 9am – 4pm.

What’s on in Queensland in December

WOODFORD FOLK FESTIVAL
MORETON BAY
27 DECEMBER – 1 JANUARY

Welcome the New Year by setting your soul free at the Woodford Folk Festival, a diverse congregation of the creative community that has transformed into a village of music, culture, and colour since its inception in 1887.

The vibrant event is held on the magical lands of Woodfordia by Lake Gkula, around a 1.5-hour drive north of Brisbane. Headlined by local, national and international acts, festival-goers are invited to create, connect, laugh, listen and dance into 2025.

BRISSTYLE TWILIGHT MARKET
BRISBANE
6 & 20 DECEMBER

BrisStyle Twilight Market is a recurring event in King George Square, touting 100 per cent local, handmade goods that are as delightful as they are sustainable. However come December, the much-loved market turns into a Christmas extravaganza under the twinkling lights of the city’s Christmas Tree.

Peruse stalls run local artisans selling everything from ceramics and embroidery to jewellery and all-natural skincare, before grabbing a snack from the food truck and enjoying local live music. Its a great opportunity to support local businesses and get some Christmas shopping done, too!

RADIANCE
ROCKHAMPTON
UNTIL 24 DECEMBER

Rockhampton comes alive during December with Radiance in the city’s heritage-listed Botanic Gardens. Wander through 150-year-old trees to discover a variety of stunning light installations, laser effects, enchanting sculptures and interactive projections.

There will also be Christmas-themed art displays, soundscapes and special effects to get you excited for the festive season. For those with sensory needs, an early low-sensory session is available, too.

BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL
BRISBANE
29 DECEMBER – 5 JANUARY

Tennis fans should head to the Queensland Tennis Centre in the state’s capital this month to see some of the sport’s best competitors take to the court. The Brisbane International is the Sunshine State’s answer to the Australian Open, with an impressive line-up of intense matches unfolding over eight days.

Reigning Australian Open champion and US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka will be playing, alongside world number four Jessica Pegula. Holger Rune, Frances Tiafoe, Alexei Popyrin, Jordan Thompson and two-time DC Open champion Nick Kyrgios will also take to the court.

What’s on in Tasmania in December

ARTISAN’S HAND CHRISTMAS MARKET
CYGNET
6 DECEMBER

Get your loved ones a unique and special gift this Christmas from the Artisan’s Hand Christmas Market in Cygnet. The one-off market is full of handmade, authentic gifts created by local artisans and makers.

Scour a huge range of stalls touting everything from ceramics and homewares to jewellery and original artworks. Running from 3pm to 7pm, visitors can also grab a bite to eat from the Delicious Pocket Curries food truck and enjoy the lively community atmosphere.

TASTE OF SUMMER
HOBART
28 DECEMBER – 4 JANUARY

Taste of Summer is back again at Hobart‘s Princes Wharf to give Tasmanians a sample of their state’s best produce. This year, an incredible collection of local producers, makers and shakers will present their finest products, alongside live music, entertainment and local culture.

The week-long event includes everything from local music and live entertainment to freshly shucked oysters and artisanal cheese. So come down, fill a plate, raise your glass and celebrate summer in Tasmania – we’ll cheers to that!

NYE BEERFEST
LAUNCESTON
31 DECEMBER

Ring in the new year on the waterfront at Launceston‘s Royal Park this year, where the annual Beerfest will be pouring top-notch brews in the lead-up to its midnight fireworks display. Although there’s a heavy focus on local beer, families are still invited to come down and enjoy live entertainment and a 9:30 pm fireworks show.

there will also be tasting sessions, masterclasses, brewing forums, live demonstrations and expert panel talks. And if you’re not a fan of beer, don’t worry – there will also be local wine, cider, cocktails and spirits on the menu.

What’s on in Western Australia in December

SNACK FESTIVAL
PERTH
31 DECEMBER

One of Western Australia’s biggest NYE festivals is back this year, offering the perfect NYE plans for you and your mates. Snack Festival, held at the Claremont Showground in Perth, will have you sending off 2024 with your hips swinging.

Across nine epic stages, over 40 DJs will play their best sets into the night. Whether you opt for the silent disco, bush doof paint party or karaoke village, you’ll be having so much fun you won’t even notice the clock striking midnight.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CRUISE
MANDURAH
UNTIL 5 JANUARY

Step aboard the famous Mandurah Christmas Lights Cruise and be immersed in kaleidoscopes of colour streaming along the city’s winding waterways. The marine city turns it on like you wouldn’t believe, and it’s breathtaking!

Mandurah, voted Australia’s top tourism town last year, is filled with more than 200 ornately decorated homes, shimmering with millions of Christmas lights. Witness the elaborate installations from the water, with one- and two-hour cruises departing every night from the Mandjar Bay jetty until early January.

RADAR FESTIVAL
PERTH
28 DECEMBER

Farewell the year at Radar Festival, an open-air party like no other on the capital city’s Langley Park foreshore. With an epic line-up of international artists, attendees can dance the night away to some of 2024’s best bangers.

Think British rapper AJ Tracey, French disc jockey LB aka LABAT, UK-based DJ Bushbaby, Dutch underground artist KI/KI, plus many more. Tickets are on sale now – grab them before it’s too late!

CHERRY HARMONY FESTIVAL
MANJIMUP
14 DECEMBER

Celebrate local food, wine, entertainment and craft at the 2024 Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival. The foodie-fuelled day is full of exciting activities, including live music and performances, long lunches, locally run stalls and the much-loved Grand Parade.

While Manjimup and the surrounding South West region of WA are known for their excellent cherry-growing conditions, local farmers have unfortunately reported a substantial drop in normal harvest levels this year. So, be kind and spread the love to the region’s other delicious produce!

What’s on in South Australia in December

VEGAN FESTIVAL
ADELAIDE
7–8 DECEMBER

The South Australian capital will host this year’s Vegan Festival, inviting plant-based foodies and omnivores alike to Rundle Park for a delicious weekend of flavour. There will be special guest talks, cooking demonstrations, live music, hands-on workshops and an array of stalls selling vegan products and produce.

Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, want to learn more about a plant-based lifestyle or are just keen to eat some good food, you’re sure to have a blast. Tickets are on sale now and range from $5 to $15 per person.

CHRISTKINDLMARKT
HAHNDORF
13–15 DECEMBER

For a traditional German-style Christmas market, look no further than Hahndorf, a must-visit if you’re visiting the Adelaide Hills. Settled by German refugees in 1838, the small town holds its European heritage to this day.

It’s no surprise then that Christkindlmarkt draws on homeward traditions, from mulled wine and roasted chestnuts to carols by candlelight and Christmas-themed stalls. The markets are free to attend and will run from 3pm to 10pm throughout the event’s entirety.

GRAPES OF MIRTH
MCLAREN VALE
7 DECEMBER

This month, the much-loved wine and comedy event Grapes of Mirth is hitting the Lloyd Brothers winery in McLaren Vale on the Fleurieu Peninsula for the very first time. Expect a heavyweight roster of killer stand-up comedians to pair with refreshing South Australian wines.

This year’s line-up, which kicks off at 1pm, is looking fresh, with Merrick Watts, Mel Buttle and Rhys Nicholson among the six outstanding comics taking to the stage. Between sets, grab a bite to eat from the food trucks and enjoy DJ Pedro Moshman’s spinning tracks.

DOUGSTOCK
WILLUNGA
6–7 DECEMBER

The town of Willunga in McLaren Vale has oft been described as where heritage meets hippie, so what better place to host the region Dougstock Music and Camping Festival? The electric event is all about bringing generations of music to the stage, from iconic legends to emerging artists.

You can also forget the trek home – after dancing through the night, head back to your campsite for a peaceful sleep under the stars. Then get up the next day and do it all over again. Set among the rolling hills and dramatic landscapes of the valley, Dougstock isn’t one to miss.

LIGHTS OF LOBETHAL
LOBETHAL
7–22 DECEMBER

A beacon of light to the local community and South Australians of all ages, the Lights of Lobethal is a volunteer-run festival. Throughout its 60-year history, no other calendar event has built more morale, creating happy memories and spreading joy, hope and resilience throughout the community.

Experience the magic of Christmas and ignite your sense of nostalgia by immersing yourself in impressive experiences, from fantastical light installations to traditional festive events. Think carols, nativity plays, markets and the annual Lobethal pageant.

What’s on in the Northern Territory in December

LIQUID LIGHT
DARWIN
UNTIL 25 DECEMBER

Throughout the month of December, Darwinites meandering along the city’s well-known waterfront will spy a stunning showcase of sound, water and light. The free art installation captives with mesmerising laser projections, water fountains, animations and soundtracks.

Perfectly timed with the festive season, Liquid Light – A Christmas Wonderland is a great night out for the whole family. After admiring the installation, which start at 7:30 pm each evening, hit up one of Darwin’s many divine restaurants for a bite to eat.

TWO GIRLS FROM AMOONGUNA
ALICE SPRINGS
UNTIL 2 JANUARY

Featuring new work by Arrernte/Southern Luritja artist Sally M Nangala Mulda and Western Arrarnta artist Marlene Rubuntja, Two Girls From Amoonguna is an unmissable exhibition. Hosted at the Araluen Art Centre in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, it explores the reality of First Peoples’ experiences in Central Australia.

Each piece of art has been intricately handcrafted, from the bush-dyed, hand-sewn sculptures to the observationalist paintings. Learn about each artist through artistic recounts of their intertwining stories of friendship and resilience.

THE NUTCRACKER
DARWIN
13–14 DECEMBER

Lovers of the theatre will be ecstatic to know that the Victorian State Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is hitting Darwin‘s Entertainment Centre this month. For two nights only, the Christmas-themed story will enchant viewers with its pure delight.

Follow Clara as she ventures into the Nutcracker prince’s otherwordly land, with classics like the famous sugar plum fairy pas de deux and breathtaking snow scenes sure to wow the audience. Tickets for the two-hour show are on sale now, starting at $55 per person.

What’s on in the ACT in December

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