From day trips and enchanted gardens to Christmas flicks and sips, there’s something for everyone on this Christmas hit list. Even those with a heart two sizes too small might just find a little bit of Chrissie joy among these gems…
THE NUTCRACKER | DEC 1 – 20
Queensland Ballet’s The Nutcracker returns to celebrate the magic of Christmas for another year! Be transported to a dazzling winter wonderland where anything is possible. Fireplaces crackle, snowflakes flutter, and enchanted toys come alive to frolic and play to delight families of all ages. Held in one of QPAC’s impressive theatres, it’s a tradition not to be missed, grab tickets here!
LORD MAYOR’S CHRISTMAS CAROLS | FROM DECEMBER 2
It’s that time of year again, with the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols taking over Riverstage with a whole lot of festive cheer. Join a lineup of Brisbane’s best entertainers as they sing and dance to all your favourite Christmas classics and more. And if you missed out on tickets, don’t fret – the two hour spectacle of song and celebration can be enjoyed from the greens of Victoria Park on December 2 with a free simulcast of the event on the big screen from 4:30 pm! Then play it back on TV later this month if you’re in need of some cheer.
MERRY MIXOLOGY AT THE MIX BAR | DEC 10-22
Outside The Jukebox returns with Brissie’s best Christmas party – a boozy Christmas cabaret show, served with extra cheer at the Mix Bar, Woolloongabba. Rolled out as a set of four punchy vintage television episodes, each will be served with its own equally punchy retro cocktail. Merry Mixology will be host to some epic vocals along with dancing, drag, puppets and a good dose of humour to round it off. Grab tickets to a night of dazzling talent and tipples here.
CHRISTMAS ACTUALLY AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE | DEC 13 – 17
Are you as obsessed with the iconic institution that is Love Actually as much as we are? Then you will love this tribute to the movie’s soundtrack at The Powerhouse. Award winning performer and producer, Naomi Price and friends will be returning for their sixth year to dazzle audiences with the music of everyone’s favourite Christmas film live on stage, wrapped up with a neat little bow and a snowfall of comedy and charm. Relive the movie’s magical moments with a band of top Aussie musicians and superstars. Grab tickets here.
*Side note, if Love Actually isn’t your favourite Christmas film, you’re wrong.
THE SOUTH BANK CHRISTMAS SHOW | DEC 18-23
On the top of South Bank’s Christmas agenda this year is their Christmas Show – a jam-packed program of singing, dancing, a chorus of elves running a muck in Santa’s workshop and an appearance from the big man himself. It’s sure to be a kaleidoscope of Christmas chaos suitable for every age from 9 days to 90 years. There might be two performances every evening during the week before Christmas, but we are sure tickets will be snatched up quicker than Christmas elves can make a present. Grab yours here.
CHRISTMAS PUTT PUTT AT VICTORIA PARK | LOCATION
Grab your friends and have a sleigh time, putting past giant reindeers, twinkling Christmas trees, elves and bells and baubles aplenty. Order your favourite snacks and drinks to enjoy as you play, with a special Altos Tequila collaboration offering boozy slushies for those looking for a little bit of extra cheer. Make sure to book your tickets here so you don’t miss out on the holiday fun!
ENCHANTED GARDEN AT ROMA ST PARKLANDS | TILL DEC 20
The much anticipated light spectacle that is The Enchanted Garden, presented by Royal Caribbean at Roma Street Parkland, is back for 2023! The dazzling light show spectacle will run until December 20, transforming the parklands into a spellbinding illuminated landscape, inviting park goers to embark on a fantastical quest. Perfect for all ages, find out more here.
CHRISTMAS CRAFTS AT MoB | DECEMBER 5
You can always count on The Museum of Brisbane to supply some bangin’ arts and crafts workshops to get in the Christmas spirit. And this year, they’ve got it all covered with an 18+ Christmas Party with Rachel Burke, the Tinsel Queen. Grab a champa and get ready to make your very own floral Christmas tree topper inspired by Rachel’s bright colours and iconic humour. It’ll be a night to remember, grab tickets here.
SANTA SNAPS | THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
Snag a photo with Mr. Claus himself at some of the best spots around town. Hit two birds with one stone and tick off some of your Christmas shopping then stop in at Myer’s Santaland and v=be sur eto check out their window displays too! Or stop by your nearest DJ’s for a classic snap or Redbank Plaza for a freebie. And this year, Westfield’s Auslan Santa is returning so everyone gets the chance to tell Santa your wishlist. We can hear the sleigh bells ringing…
JINGLE ALL THE WAY OVER TO YOUR LOCAL CAROLS | THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
It’s hard to beat a classic night of carols with the fam. Pack a basket of drinks and nibbles and take your pick from this roundup of the best carols in Brissie. South Bank’s Carols by the River never disappoint or enjoy the live brass band at The Government House Christmas Lights Show, Paddington. Other faves include Bayside Christmas Carols in the Park, Rotary Club of Mt Gravatt Christmas Fair and Beenleigh Community Christmas Carols.
BONUS:
DAY TRIP TO THE GRANITE BELT CHRISTMAS FARM
Truly one of the most magical places on Earth, load up the car and gather the gang asap because you haven’t experienced Christmas until you visit the Granite Belt Christmas Farm. Live out your Swiftie childhood dreams on a Christmas tree farm and visit Australia’s most prestigious Christmas store to load up on your decks this year. And nestled in the heart of the of the Granite Belt Wine Region, it’ll make quite a nice day trip. Check out their website here.
Can you hear that? Christmas is coming! …Can you tell we love Christmas?
