Sydney comes alive during the festive season, offering locals and visitors a dazzling array of Christmas markets, festive lights, concerts, harbour cruises, and New Year’s Eve celebrations. From family-friendly activities to vibrant city events, Sydney promises unforgettable experiences throughout December and the New Year.
1. Wander Sydney’s Festive Christmas Markets
- Locations & Addresses:
- Le Jolly Christmas Market: Customs House Forecourt, 31 Alfred St, Circular Quay NSW 2000
- The Rock Market: George St, The Rocks NSW 2000
- Martin Place Christmas Markets & Tree: Martin Place, Sydney CBD
- Carriageworks Christmas Market: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh NSW 2015
Dates & Times: Early December – 24 December 2025, typically 10 AM – 8 PM
Explore artisan stalls featuring locally crafted jewellery, candles, seasonal décor, and personalised gifts. The markets combine festive shopping with live entertainment and seasonal treats, perfect for family outings or picking up unique Christmas gifts.
Insider Tip: Arrive on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy early access to popular stalls.
2. Discover Christmas Decorations at St Mary’s Cathedral
- Address: St Mary’s Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
- Times: Daily 9 AM – 7 PM
St Mary’s Cathedral offers a candlelit experience with elaborate altar décor, festive music, and a tranquil Christmas atmosphere. The cathedral’s soaring ceilings and traditional stained-glass windows add to the seasonal charm.
Insider Tip: Attend evening services to experience the full effect of candlelight and choir performances.
3. Take a Christmas Lights Cruise on Sydney Harbour
- Address: Various boarding locations, including King Street Wharf & Circular Quay
- Dates & Times: Early December – 24 December 2025, multiple daily departures
Cruise past sparkling waterfront homes, illuminated harbour bridges, and Sydney skyline views while enjoying live music and festive dining onboard. Cruises range from 60-minute sightseeing tours to multi-hour dinner cruises.
Insider Tip: Sunset cruises are highly recommended for photography, offering the perfect light combination.
4. Explore Taronga Zoo’s Christmas Displays
- Address: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088
- Dates & Times: Weekends in December 2025, 9:30 AM – 5 PM
- Entrance Fee: Standard Taronga Zoo tickets apply
Festive music fills the zoo, alongside special animal encounters and seasonal concerts. Elevated locations within the zoo provide views of the Harbour Bridge and city skyline.
Insider Tip: Book tickets online in advance for concerts and animal encounters during peak days.
5. Ice Skating by the Beach at Bondi
- Address: Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi NSW 2026
- Dates & Times: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Entrance Fee: Ticketed per session
Enjoy a surreal contrast of ice and surf as an artificial ice rink is set up along Bondi Beach. A unique Christmas experience blending summer beach vibes with winter skating fun.
Insider Tip: Book skating sessions online for guaranteed entry; visit late afternoons for sunset views.
6. Holiday Walks in Barangaroo Reserve
- Address: Hickson Rd, Barangaroo NSW 2000
Stroll along manicured gardens, harbourside paths, and seasonal installations. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening walk, with city skyline views and quiet picnic spots.
Insider Tip: Capture sunset photos near the water’s edge for scenic Instagram shots.
7. Festive Dining & Shopping in the CBD
- Locations & Addresses:
- Myer Sydney City: 436 George St, Sydney NSW 2000
- Pitt Street Mall: 182 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000
- Westfield Sydney: Cnr Pitt St Mall & Market St, Sydney NSW 2000
Dates & Times: 9 AM – 9 PM
Enjoy seasonal menus, festive shopping, and special promotions. Myer Christmas Windows offer themed displays that delight visitors of all ages.
Insider Tip: Pair shopping with a lunch stop at a nearby café to make the experience more comfortable during busy days.
8. Sing Along at Carols in the Domain
- Address: The Domain, Sydney NSW 2000
- Dates & Times: Christmas Eve, 6 PM – 10 PM
Australia’s largest free Christmas concert, featuring performances by The Wiggles, Marcia Hines, and other major artists. Families can join in singing along to traditional carols in a festive outdoor atmosphere.
Insider Tip: Bring picnic blankets, snacks, and arrive early for optimal seating and family space.
9. Watch Love Actually in Concert
- Address: ICC Sydney Theatre, 14 Darling Dr, Sydney NSW 2000
- Dates & Times: Select dates in December 2025
Enjoy a live orchestra performing the soundtrack in sync with the iconic Christmas film. Perfect for a romantic night or family outing.
Insider Tip: Purchase tickets early, as concerts often sell out during the holiday season.
10. Join Candlelight Concerts
- Locations: The Eveleigh, historic halls, churches across Sydney
Experience intimate venues illuminated by hundreds of candles, accompanied by live string performances ranging from Christmas classics to popular music like ABBA or Hans Zimmer.
Insider Tip: Arrive 15–20 minutes early to select the best seating near the performers.
11. Take a Photo with the QVB Christmas Tree
- Address: Queen Victoria Building, 455 George St, Sydney NSW 2000
- Dates & Times: Daily 9 AM – 9 PM
The 30-metre Christmas tree at QVB is a Sydney holiday tradition, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and ornaments. The tree provides a stunning festive backdrop for family and friends’ photos.
Insider Tip: Evening visits are ideal to capture the full effect of the illuminated tree with fewer crowds.
12. Catch a Christmas Show at the Sydney Opera House
- Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000
- Entrance Fee: Ticketed events
Sydney Opera House hosts seasonal concerts, choral performances, and ballets such as The Nutcracker. Visitors can enjoy world-class acoustics and a magical festive atmosphere.
Insider Tip: Check the Opera House website for family-friendly matinees and book in advance for popular shows.
13. Discovery SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
- Address: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
- Dates & Times: Daily 10 AM – 5 PM
- Special Event: “White Christmas Cruise Party” – 21 December, 4-hour harbour cruise
The aquarium combines festive decorations with interactive marine life experiences. The White Christmas Cruise includes music, dinner, DJs, and views of Sydney Harbour, perfect for a unique holiday celebration.
Insider Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to meet at the Aquarium Wharf and secure the best boarding experience.
14. See Ron Mueck Exhibition – AGNSW
- Address: Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
- Dates & Times: December 2025, 10 AM – 5 PM
- Entrance Fee: Standard gallery tickets
Experience hyper-real sculptures that explore scale, vulnerability, and humanity, offering an immersive cultural Christmas outing for art enthusiasts.
Insider Tip: Weekday visits avoid crowds and allow a more contemplative experience.
15. Celebrate Christmas at The Grounds of Alexandria
- Address: 7A/2 Huntley St, Alexandria NSW 2015
- Dates & Times: 7 AM – 9 PM
This Instagram-famous location transforms into a festive wonderland with tartan bows, glowing arches, and stylish dining spaces. Perfect for families, couples, or friends.
Insider Tip: Early morning visits provide optimal photo opportunities before dining crowds arrive.
16. Watch Hunter Valley Christmas Lights (Day Trip)
- Address: Hunter Valley, NSW
- Entrance Fee: Ticketed per vehicle or person
The Southern Hemisphere’s largest Christmas light display features over four million lights across vineyards and gardens. Visitors can enjoy a magical evening driving through or walking on designated pathways.
Insider Tip: Arrive at dusk for the best light displays and cooler evening temperatures.
17. Experience Darling Harbour Christmas Celebration
- Address: Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour NSW 2000
- Dates & Times: Early December 2025, 4 PM – 10 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free
A family-friendly festival featuring live music, water performances, Santa appearances, and fireworks. Darling Harbour becomes a lively hub of holiday cheer with activities for all ages.
Insider Tip: Check the schedule for Santa appearances to plan family visits around popular shows.
18. Join Sydney Fish Market 36-Hour Seafood Marathon
- Address: Pyrmont Bridge Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009
- Dates & Times: 5 AM 23 December – 5 PM 24 December 2025
A legendary pre-Christmas event offering non-stop seafood shopping. Fresh catches, gourmet products, and holiday treats create a must-visit culinary experience.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to access rare seafood and avoid peak crowds.
19. Explore Machu Picchu Exhibition
- Address: Fever Pavilion, Sydney Showground, Olympic Park NSW 2127
- Dates & Times: 9 AM – 6 PM
This immersive exhibition transports visitors to ancient Peru with VR experiences, rare artefacts, and interactive storytelling, making it an educational holiday outing.
Insider Tip: Allocate 2–3 hours to fully explore all interactive stations.
20. Watch Sunset Cinema Bondi
- Address: Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Dr, Bondi NSW 2026
- Entrance Fee: Ticketed
Outdoor cinema at Bondi Pavilion showcases Christmas classics like Home Alone and The Holiday, as well as new releases. Beachside seating adds to the unique festive experience.
Insider Tip: Bring blankets and light refreshments for a comfortable evening on the sand.
Sunset Cinema Bondi
Things to do in Sydney this New Year’s Eve
Watch NYE Fireworks at Sydney Harbour
Location: Sydney Harbour | Dec 31
Two major fireworks shows: a family-friendly 9 PM display and a midnight grand finale over Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Free vantage points include Observatory Hill and Jeffrey Street.
Insider Tip: Public transport is recommended as parking is limited.
Take YE Fireworks Cruises & Parties
Address: King Street Wharf, 5/32 The Promenade, Sydney NSW 2000
Enjoy a front-row view of Sydney Harbour fireworks with gourmet dining, live entertainment, and premium service.
Explore Rooftop NYE Vantage Bars
- Altitude: Various prices
- Blu Bar on 36: Tickets from $1,249 per person
- Infinity Tower: Tickets from $1,344 per person
- Bar Lulu: Tickets from $595 per person
- Zephyr Sky Bar: Tickets from $699
Insider Tip: Book months in advance for the best views and availability.
Choose Your Best Place to Stay in Sydney with
Central accommodation enhances the festive experience in Sydney by giving renters easy access to Christmas markets, harbour cruises, Bondi Beach, and NYE celebrations. L’Abode Accommodation offers stylish, fully equipped apartments designed for families, couples, or friends, ensuring comfort after full days of festive activities. Renters enjoy modern kitchens, spacious living areas, and convenient locations that reduce travel time, allowing more time to explore Sydney’s holiday events.
With professional Airbnb property management Sydney and executive leasing Sydney services, guests benefit from seamless check-ins, reliable support, and a stress-free stay. L’Abode Accommodation ensures renters can fully enjoy Sydney’s Christmas and New Year celebrations while having a comfortable, central base.
Explore L’Abode Accommodation properties in Sydney
List Your Home: L’Abode Property Management
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best family-friendly activities in Sydney during Christmas?
Families can enjoy Carols in the Domain, explore Sydney Christmas markets, cruise Sydney Harbour, or visit Taronga Zoo’s Christmas displays for festive music, animal encounters, and seasonal entertainment. - Where can I see Christmas lights in Sydney?
Sydney CBD, Bondi, The Rocks, and St Mary’s Cathedral feature spectacular festive decorations. Highlights include the QVB 30-metre Christmas tree and illuminated laneways, perfect for photos and evening strolls. - Which Sydney markets are open during the Christmas season?
Festive shopping is available at Le Jolly Christmas Market, The Rock Market, Martin Place Christmas Markets, Carriageworks Christmas Market, and Queen Victoria Market, offering artisan gifts, seasonal treats, and holiday décor. - Where are the best spots to watch the NYE fireworks in Sydney?
Top vantage points include Observatory Hill, Jeffrey Street, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and family-friendly locations across Darling Harbour, all offering clear views of the 9 PM family-friendly and midnight grand finale fireworks. - What are the recommended rooftop bars for NYE in Sydney?
Altitude, Blu Bar on 36, Infinity Tower, Bar Lulu, and Zephyr Sky Bar provide cocktails, live entertainment, and prime views of the city skyline and Sydney Harbour fireworks. Booking in advance is recommended. - Where can I enjoy festive cruises in Sydney?
Scenic holiday cruises include Sydney Christmas Party Cruises and SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium’s White Christmas Cruise Party, offering waterfront views, live music, dining, and festive entertainment for all ages. - Where should I stay in Sydney to enjoy Christmas and NYE festivities?
L’Abode Accommodation provides centrally located apartments near Sydney CBD, Harbour, and Bondi, with Airbnb property management Sydney and executive leasing Sydney services. Guests enjoy comfort, convenience, and a stress-free holiday stay after full days of festive activities.