The Best Christmas Events on the Gold Coast
The holiday season on the Gold Coast is a magical time filled with festive cheer, family fun, and dazzling events. From carols by the beach to twinkling Christmas markets and theme park celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re planning to spend Christmas in Burleigh Heads, here are some of the best Christmas events to experience this year.
North Burleigh Carols by the Sea
Date: December 2024
Location: North Burleigh
North Burleigh Carols by the Sea is a beloved Christmas tradition, bringing families and friends together for a night of singing, community spirit, and festive fun. The event takes place by the beach, offering a spectacular backdrop for an evening of classic carols and entertainment.
Why You Should Go:
- Free, family-friendly event
- Live music, food stalls, and kids’ activities
- Beautiful beachfront setting
Mayor’s Christmas Carols at HOTA
Date: December 2024
Location: HOTA, Bundall
The Mayor’s Christmas Carols is the biggest carols event on the Gold Coast, featuring top performers, a stunning fireworks display, and a joyful festive atmosphere. Held at HOTA (Home of the Arts), this event draws thousands each year.
Highlights:
- Spectacular live performances
- Family-friendly entertainment
- Fireworks finale to light up the night
White Christmas at Movie World
Dates: Selected nights in December
Location: Warner Bros. Movie World, Oxenford
White Christmas at Movie World is an enchanting Christmas wonderland featuring a magical parade, artificial snow, dazzling lights, and festive entertainment. This ticketed event is perfect for families wanting to experience a Christmas like never before.
What to Expect:
- Christmas light displays and snowfall
- Special festive performances and a Christmas parade
- Themed rides and meet-and-greet with Santa
Santa and Christmas Events at Pacific Fair
Dates: November – December 2024
Location: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Broadbeach
Pacific Fair transforms into a Christmas wonderland, with Santa meet-and-greets, festive workshops, and holiday-themed entertainment throughout the season. The centre is also decorated beautifully, making it a great spot for holiday shopping and Christmas photos.
Why Visit?
- Santa photos and festive displays
- Christmas craft workshops and kids’ activities
- A perfect place to shop for gifts while soaking up the holiday spirit
HOTA Christmas Twilight Markets
Date: December 2024
Location: HOTA, Bundall
Held at the Home of the Arts, the HOTA Christmas Twilight Markets are a must-visit for anyone looking to shop local gifts, gourmet treats, and handcrafted decorations in a vibrant night market setting.
Why It’s Special:
- Unique Christmas gifts from local artisans
- Festive food stalls and live entertainment
- A lively atmosphere under twinkling lights
Dreamworld Night Markets – Christmas Edition
Dates: Weekends leading up to Christmas
Location: Dreamworld, Coomera
The Dreamworld Night Markets get a Christmas makeover, offering delicious festive food, live music, and holiday-themed attractions. Perfect for a night out with family and friends, these markets bring together all the best parts of Christmas.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Festive-themed food and drinks
- Christmas lights and entertainment
- A relaxed and fun atmosphere
Surfers Paradise Christmas Twilight Market
Date: December 2024
Location: Surfers Paradise
The Surfers Paradise Christmas Twilight Market is a lively oceanfront market, perfect for finding last-minute Christmas gifts, delicious food, and festive entertainment. Stroll along the beachfront boulevard, enjoy the holiday lights, and soak in the Christmas cheer.
What to Expect:
- Festive market stalls selling Christmas gifts and treats
- Live music and entertainment
- Stunning views of Surfers Paradise at night
Celebrate Christmas with a Stay at Sandbar Burleigh
With so many festive events happening across the Gold Coast, Burleigh Heads is the perfect place to stay for a magical Christmas getaway. From carols and markets to dazzling light displays and Santa visits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Stay at Sandbar Burleigh and experience a stylish and comfortable retreat in the heart of Burleigh Heads, just minutes away from the best Christmas events the Gold Coast has to offer.
Image credit: Movie World