Are you looking to make the festive period extra magical this year? Sydney might not be the most wintry destination but the city is packed with Christmassy confection despite the toasty temps. The most festive places in Sydney bring very pretty street decorations, colourful gingerbread laneways, dancing lights, glittery villages and festive trimmings to life for much of December. There’s also authentic European pop-ups, religious places decked out in dazzling decorations and plenty of festive markets to shop from to get you in the spirit of the season. Whether you’re travelling to the Harbour City or are a long-time resident, we recommend popping these super Christmassy places around the city on your radar this month.
1. The Rocks
While Christmas means snow, cracking fires and hot treats for much of the world, here in Sydney we have our own version of holiday cheer which includes beaches, quirky traditions and festive escapes. But one spot that you could easily mistake for somewhere in Europe during the holidays is The Rocks. The historic neighbourhood is packed with holiday programs that include markets, glittering light displays, miniature Christmas villages and notes of mulled wine and festive treats wafting through the air. You can even watch free Christmas movies every week throughout December. Check out the full program of events at The Rocks here.
2. St Mary’s Cathedral
If you like doing Christmas the old-school way, we recommend a visit to Sydney’s St Mary’s Cathedral. One of Sydney’s classic holiday celebrations, the historic cathedral packs an unmissable festive atmosphere with dreamy light projections, carol singing, Christmas trees and markets. The festivities will take place from December 14 until Christmas Day on December 25 from 5.30pm until 10.30pm to mark the 12 days of Christmas. There will be several light shows to enjoy and food and drink stalls on-site and you can also watch carollers sing. Head here for further details.
3. Martin Place
Martin Place is home to Sydney’s most iconic Christmas tree so it’s a classic festive choice for the holidays. The tallest tree in all of NSW is decked out from head to toe with 110,000 LED lights, a 3.4-metre colour-changing star and 330 specially created glossy baubles. Once you’re done marvelling at the tree and the lights surrounding it, make a beeline for the Martin Place Christmas Market which serves festive vibes in spades with holiday treats, festive decor, gifts, live music and much more.
4. Queen Victoria Building
The QVB twinkles with lights and festive cheer with charmingly decorated corners and more to explore. Plus, there’s nowhere quite like it for shopping either considering it’s home to over a hundred world-renowned and homegrown brands including Polo Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss and Jimmy Choo. Yuletide lovers can experience the magic of Christmas with Christmas choirs, festive high teas and many photo opportunities. Don’t miss out on seeing Australia’s largest indoor Christmas tree at the venue. Check out the full program here.
5. The Grounds
Christmas vibes have hit a fever pitch at The Grounds of Alexandria which is currently teeming with giant gingerbread houses, candy canes, holiday lights, snowcapped trees and Christmas-themed food and drinks to gorg on under twinkly lights. After dark, you can continue marvelling at the Christmas illuminations without the crowds but make note that the activation is only open for dining customers. Make a booking here.
6. Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour goes full throttle for Christmas with delicious food, live music, weekend fireworks, giant baubles and plenty of wholesome family fun. There’s also an exclusive Harbour Village, pedal boats and Pixar Putt mini golf so chances of the kids getting bored are slim. A number of dining destinations in the area are also organising Christmas-themed feasts if you’re planning a festive dinner. Find the full list here.