The best places to go in Australia to celebrate Christmas

Celebrating Christmas in Australia is a truly unique experience. While many parts of the world are bundled up for winter, Australians are firing up the barbie, spending time outdoors, and embracing the joy of summer.

Experience Christmas traditions in Australia

Across the country, communities come together for carols by candlelight, vibrant Christmas markets, and beach picnics under sunny skies. From backyard cricket to coastal road trips, these warm-weather traditions make Australia during Christmas an unforgettable time to connect, relax and explore.

Places to visit

Whether you’re based in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Adelaide, each city offers its own festive charm.

It’s summer in Australia, so swap snowflakes for sea breezes at Bondi or Torquay — our golden beaches invite you to celebrate the seasonal holidays with your toes in the sand. Or, for a break in the heat, explore the Blue Mountains or Adelaide Hills for fresh mountain air and charming local celebrations.

So, where are the best places for Christmas?

Sydney

Sydney shines during Christmas. The city’s landmarks sparkle with lights and festive energy, making it one of the best places to spend Christmas in Australia.

Towering over the city centre, the Martin Place Christmas Tree is a Sydney icon. Stop by after sunset to see its dazzling light show. While you’re there, check out the Martin Place Christmas Market, which showcases local artisans and festive flavours.

Held in Sydney’s CBD, the Jolly Market is a European-style market offering delicious treats, handmade gifts and festive cheer.

Or stroll the cobblestone streets of The Rocks as the historic precinct transforms with live music, decorations, and pop-up food stalls from mid-November until Christmas.

Sydney is also known for its harbour cruises, where you can celebrate Christmas Day aboard a yacht, enjoying seafood platters and panoramic views of the Opera House. It’s no surprise that many consider Sydney the #1 best Christmas town for its combination of city lights, beaches, and iconic celebrations.

Melbourne

Melbourne brings a touch of creativity and magic to the festive season. The city’s laneways, arcades, and public squares transform into a Christmas wonderland.

The Myer Christmas Windows have been a Melbourne institution since 1956, and these animated displays delight children and adults alike.

Federation Square is the heart of Melbourne’s celebrations, with live entertainment, an enormous Christmas tree, and festive light projections.

Head to the Yarra River to enjoy the nightly Crown Christmas River Show water and light show, which is one of the biggest highlights of Melbourne’s December calendar.

If you’re wondering where to go for Christmas from Australia, Melbourne is also the perfect starting point for a scenic Great Ocean Road trip. Spend the festive period exploring coastal towns like Lorne or Apollo Bay.

Brisbane

Brisbane’s tropical warmth and proximity to the Sunshine and Gold Coasts makes for an easygoing and joyful Christmas atmosphere. With glittering city lights and outdoor events, the city is alive with festive spirit.

Roma Street Parkland becomes a glowing wonderland of lights and interactive installations for The Enchanted Garden.

Join thousands at the Riverstage for one of Australia’s most beloved community carol events, the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols.

Queen Street Mall comes alive for  with live performances, pop-up markets, and family-friendly entertainment.

Adelaide

Whether you’re exploring the Adelaide Hills or sipping wine in the Barossa, South Australia’s festive spirit blends good food, great company, and plenty of sunshine. It’s no wonder many travellers consider Adelaide one of the best places for Christmas when looking for a relaxed and authentic Australian experience.

The heart of Adelaide glows with the spectacular Giant Christmas Tree in Victoria Square, which lights up nightly throughout December.

Just an hour’s drive from Adelaide, the Barossa Valley offers boutique Christmas markets, twilight street parties and a warm country welcome.

Festive and seasonal things to do at home

If travel isn’t on the cards this year, there’s still plenty of festive fun to enjoy from home.

Christmas Carols on TV

Not everyone can make it to the big events in person, but you can still join in from your lounge room. Tune into Carols by Candlelight from Melbourne’s Sidney Myer Music Bowl on Christmas Eve, or Carols in the Domain from Sydney, two of the most cherished traditions for Australia during Christmas.

Boxing Day online sales

Boxing Day (26 December) is one of the biggest shopping events of the year in Australia. From 6am, eager shoppers flock to the malls to grab bargains. Prefer to skip the crowds? Many retailers now offer the same great deals online, so you can shop the sales from home while enjoying leftover pavlova.

Boxing Day Test cricket matches

Another uniquely Australian tradition, the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground draws thousands of fans each year. It’s part of the Men's Ashes 2025-26, which run from 21 November 2025 to 8 January 2026. Whether you’re at the MCG or watching from home, the match is the perfect way to unwind after Christmas Day.

Australia offers endless ways to celebrate the festive season. Whether you’re chasing lights in Sydney, coastal breezes in Queensland, or a vineyard Christmas in the Barossa, there’s no shortage of best places to go in Australia to celebrate Christmas, each promising warm days, bright nights, and a truly Aussie kind of magic.