It may surprise you but Christmas is one of the best times of the year to be in Sydney. There are festive markets to explore, dazzling light displays to admire and neighbourhood lights to discover. Some of our favourite Christmas trees are now popping up around town as we inch closer to the holiday season. Here are a few of the best to see around Sydney in 2024.
1. Martin Place Christmas Tree
Sydney’s most famous and photographed tree serves as the ideal backdrop for any Christmas photo. It’s also the tallest tree in NSW covered from head to toe in hundreds and thousands of LEDs, a giant colour-changing star, and over 300 baubles. Plus enjoy Christmas carols in the evening and plenty of festive fun. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the Martin Place Christmas Market where you can shop for festive treats, gifts, food and more to the city.
2. QVB
The tree in the Queen Victoria Building stands 24 metres tall across 3 floors, under the famous QVB Dome. It’s also the largest indoor Christmas tree in Australia. Visitors can look forward to a sparkling Christmas tree with an Indigenous collaboration of First Nations artists from Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative. Read all about the QVB’s Christmas program here.
3. The Rocks
The Rocks dresses in its Christmas best with a lovely miniature Christmas village, giant snow globes, and festive markets taking over its cobblestone streets. It’s also home to a huge seven-metre-tall Christmas tree decked up with decorations and fairy lights. Decked out in classic gold, silver, and champagne hues and a shimmering gold star, it’s a lovely sight with nearby harbour views to boot.
4. Fullerton Hotel
The Fullerton Hotel Christmas Tree is one-of-a-kind because it’s literally covered in hundreds of teddy bears making it a delightful photo op for young and old alike. Standing at 5-metre tall in the lobby of the CBD institution, the tree is adorned with limited-edition Fullerton Santa bears, glossy baubles, and festive decor. While there, don’t miss out on their festive afternoon tea.
5. Parramatta Square
Along with its December Christmas markets, the City of Parramatta has also welcomed a huge Christmas tree that has taken over Parramatta Square. Decked out with pretty baubles, lights, and stars, the towering tree is perfect for a festive selfie with the family. Plus, expect a variety of colourful roving Christmas characters to add to the fun. The market will be held on December 4, 11 and 18.
6. Le Jolly Market
The popular Le Jolly Market will be back this holiday season with markets, wine, jazz music, snow flurries, and all the French vibes. Throughout the event, a beautifully lit-up Christmas tree will stand as a centrepiece, with Christmas carols and more to delight visitors every night. Read all about it here.
7. Customs House Circular Quay
Right outside the heritage-listed museum space and commercial building, you’ll find a Christmas tree with classic red and gold hues and several festive ornaments. The CBD holiday mainstay is delightful with its traditional decorations and prime location. You can also make a beeline to Christmas markets around the corner for cheesy treats, live music, and shopping while you’re at it.
8. Central Station
Central Station is the largest and busiest railway station in Australia. But if you take a moment to pause and escape the crowd, you’ll discover a trio of Christmas trees in the middle of the bustling spot. The heritage-listed railway station located in the centre of Sydney is home to 3 classic Christmas trees, varying in size and covered in tinsels and garlands.
9. Manly Corso
The bustling beachfront Manly Corso is particularly lovely during Christmas with a towering 8.5 metre tall Christmas tree along with markets, decorations, lights, live music, and more throughout the Northern Beaches spot. Read all about Christmas festivities in the Northern Beaches.
10. Four Seasons Hotel
An underrated gem in Sydney, the Christmas tree at the Four Seasons Hotel in The Rocks is adorned with a timeless gold and green palette. The pretty tree also features red baubles and garlands. Plus, spoil yourself with their decadent Christmas Day Buffet Lunch for the perfect day out.