Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year — especially for families in Sydney! Whether you’re planning a festive outing with the kids, catching up with friends for a Christmas market stroll, or simply soaking up the twinkling lights, there’s something special for everyone.
From free family concerts and Santa photo spots to dazzling light displays and Christmas markets, Sydney comes alive with holiday cheer. Here are seven fun and festive ways for mums, dads and little ones to celebrate the season and make lasting memories together.
1. Free Family Christmas Concerts
Get ready to sing, dance and soak up the festive cheer at Sydney’s beloved free outdoor concerts!
Taking place across Pyrmont, Rosebery, Rushcutters Bay, Glebe and Alexandria, these events feature live music, roving performers and plenty of activities for kids. Acts include Team Dream, The Quokkas, Lucas Proudfoot and Junkyard Beats.
Each concert is designed to be inclusive, with Auslan interpreters, live captions, sensory tents and accessible facilities.
5:30pm – 8:30pm | Saturday 29 November – Sunday 14 December
2. Surry Hills Christmas Fair
Crown Street transforms into a festive playground for one magical day! Expect markets, family games, roving entertainment, delicious food and craft activities for the little ones.
Don’t miss Santa’s sleigh ride — or the popular dog show where festive pups take centre stage!
2:30pm – 10pm | Saturday 13 December
3. Meet Santa in the City
Santa’s setting up shop in his magical Martin Place house! Snap a festive photo with your family, friends, or even your furry companions.
Plus, $5 from every photo booking goes to Variety – The Children’s Charity, so you’ll be spreading joy while capturing memories.
23 November – 24 December | Times vary
4. Dazzling Christmas Lights & Decorations
Marvel at NSW’s tallest Christmas tree, glowing with over 110,000 LED lights and 330 giant baubles.
Stroll through the Canopy of Light, see sparkling projections at the QVB and Woolworths building, and admire festive displays at Sydney Town Hall, Customs House, Hyde Park and St Mary’s Cathedral.
5. Choirs in the City
Nothing says Christmas quite like the sound of carols filling the air. Catch live choirs performing festive favourites every evening in Martin Place surrounded by lights and colour.
6pm – 8pm | 1 – 24 December
6. Christmas at Sydney Town Hall
Step inside one of Sydney’s most stunning buildings for an evening of carols, music and heartwarming readings.
This much-loved event sells out quickly, so book early to experience the joy and grandeur of Christmas at Town Hall.
8pm – 9:30pm | Wednesday 17 December
7. Martin Place Christmas Markets
Sip, shop and soak up the atmosphere at the Martin Place Christmas Markets, featuring handmade gifts, artisan creations and international food stalls. Perfect for finding unique presents and festive treats!
11am – 9:30pm | Thurs–Sat, 27 Nov – 20 Dec | Sunday 30 Nov
However you choose to celebrate, Sydney is bursting with festive fun for families this Christmas. From magical light trails and Santa visits to lively markets and joyful carols, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the holiday spirit.
So pack some snacks, round up the kids, and make a day (or night) of it — these events are the perfect way to create those special Christmas memories your family will treasure for years to come.
see all activities here: City of Sydney.
