Christmas in Brisbane City

Brisbane City is ramping up the Christmas activities this year with more than one way to get in the festive mood. With a program packed tighter than a present-stuffed stocking, expect free and affordable experiences for all ages.

The festive season officially kicks off with the annual Lord Mayor’s Lighting of the Christmas Tree in King George Square on Friday November 27. One of the season’s most-loved traditions, the evening of entertainment will run from 6:30–7:30 pm and will feature a performance from Australian singer-songwriter Jem Cassar-Daley.

Those keen to get a head start on their Christmas shopping can hit the Black Friday Sales along Queen Street Mall, then take a short walk to Reddacliff Place for the City After Dark Markets from 4:00–9:00 pm on Friday November 27. Or, if you’re after something more artisanal, shop for gifts made by local makers at the BrisStyle Twilight Markets on select Fridays throughout November and December

The City Hall Lights will illuminate King George Square throughout December with a spectacular display of colourful projections. This year’s show, Meowy Christmas, follows a grumpy cat called Grouch who causes Christmas havoc with his canine companion Max, running every 15 minutes nightly from 7:30 pm until midnight.

The Enchanted Garden returns to Roma Street Parkland from Friday November 20 to Saturday December 19 with this year’s installation, Night Flight, an illuminated experience inspired by the nocturnal creatures that inhabit the gardens.

Little explorers can make a list and check it twice as they hunt for the Christmas Tiny Doors scattered around Brisbane City throughout December, including five new doors.

Take the whole family down to the Queen Street Mall stage for The Greatest Time of the Year and The Magic & Circus Show: Christmas Edition, performing daily from Friday December 4 to Thursday December 24, with Starz Christmas Spectacular returning on Friday evenings.

Warm up those vocal cords for the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols at the Riverstage on Saturday December 5 from 4:00 pm. Tickets are essential, so book early.

Brisbane City’s restaurants, bars, hotels and entertainment venues are also getting into the Christmas spirit, with The Star Brisbane, Brisbane Arcade and MacArthur Central among the precincts offering festive menus and exclusive seasonal offers.

“We know families are feeling the pinch, so we’re bringing free festive fun to the city so everyone can enjoy the magic of Christmas in Brisbane,” says Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.

Discover the full Christmas in Brisbane program and start planning your visit here.

This article was written in partnership with our friends at Brisbane Economic Development Agency.