It’s that time of year again—when the city starts to sparkle, Christmas plans fill the calendar and the kids begin counting down to the big day. There’s something lovely about heading into Sydney together as the streets take on a festive glow, with Christmas lights, carols and the excitement of choosing gifts for people you love.
This November and December, Martin Place Christmas Markets will bring that Christmas feeling to the heart of the city. Think stalls filled with thoughtful gifts, delicious festive treats and family activities beneath the City of Sydney’s giant Christmas tree.
Presented by Cambridge Markets, the markets open on Saturday 28 November 2026, with selected trading dates continuing through to Christmas Eve. Entry is free, so you can pop in for a browse, enjoy the atmosphere or make an afternoon and evening of it with the family.
For Eastern Suburbs families, it’s a lovely excuse to plan a trip into town, take a photo by the tree and start a little Christmas tradition of your own.
Find something special for your Christmas list
With 55 stalls, there will be plenty to explore. The selection includes homewares, jewellery, fashion, art and handmade gifts, alongside gourmet food and festive treats. It’s a chance to discover something a little different, whether you’re choosing a present for a loved one, looking for a Secret Santa surprise or picking up a small thank-you gift.
For children, being involved in choosing a present can be part of the fun. Give them a small budget and let them help find something thoughtful for a grandparent or someone special. It turns a shopping trip into a shared Christmas activity—and might inspire a conversation about why we give gifts in the first place.
Free Saturday workshops add to the fun
Saturday visits offer another reason to bring the family, with free workshops included in the event program. Activities announced include Christmas wreath making, a class on cooking with Christmas leftovers, a children’s sewing workshop with Slogue, and Christmas card decorating with The Social Outfit.
The workshops vary, so check the latest program for dates, times, age suitability and any booking requirements before planning your visit around a particular activity.
Making something together is a lovely way to slow down during the busy lead-up to Christmas. A handmade card can also become a meaningful addition to a gift chosen at the markets.
Enjoy the Christmas atmosphere
The announced program also includes live music, carols and a visit from Santa, adding to the festive atmosphere around Martin Place. Check the event updates for individual appearances and performance times.
For families with younger children, a daytime visit may fit more comfortably around naps and dinner. Those with older children could plan a late-afternoon browse and stay into the evening to enjoy the Christmas lights.
There’s no need to turn it into a big shopping expedition. Choose a few stalls to explore, decide on a treat budget beforehand and leave time to pause together by the tree. With free entry, families can enjoy a festive outing without committing to an admission fee; food and shopping purchases are extra.
Looking for another budget-friendly family outing? Read about Bondi Outdoor Cinema’s free family movie nights.
A little less waste this Christmas
From the second Saturday, Sustainable Saturdays will see hot food served in reusable containers supplied by Cercle, helping reduce single-use waste at the markets.
Bring your own shopping bags for purchases and refillable water bottles for the family. These small additions to your outing bag can make a busy city visit easier, too.
Market dates and opening hours
The markets are not open every day throughout the season, so check your chosen date before heading into the city.
- Opening weekend: Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November 2026
- First December week: Wednesday 2 to Saturday 5 December 2026
- Second December week: Wednesday 9 to Saturday 12 December 2026
- Final Christmas stretch: Every day from Wednesday 16 to Thursday 24 December 2026
Opening hours: 11am–9.15pm on all listed market dates
Location: Martin Place, Sydney CBD
Entry: Free; food and shopping purchases are extra
Organiser: Cambridge Markets
Whether you’re ticking off your gift list or simply sharing a little Christmas excitement with the kids, Martin Place Christmas Markets offer plenty of reasons to make a festive trip into the city.
Visit Cambridge Markets and the City of Sydney event listing for the latest information.
