St John Carols by Candlelight
Attendees gather on the lawn to sing along to holiday carols and enjoy live performances by local artists leading up to a nighttime fireworks finale. On-ground festivities include visits with Santa, giant inflatable games, free face painting, and emergency services educational displays. Visitors can browse handmade gifts at the riverbank Christmas market and choose from a wide range of food trucks and treat stalls.
What to Expect
South Australia's long-running community Christmas carols concert and fireworks display.
Event Details
Ages
All Ages
Neighborhood
Adelaide CBD
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
St John SA
Food & Drink
Buy food and drinks including pizza, burgers, hot dogs, Sri Lankan street food, sweet treats, slushies and coffee, or bring a picnic.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and groups who enjoy christmas carols and outdoor festivities
Vibe
Festive and communal
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free admission.
- Hours: 3.00PM gates open; 5:00PM Experience Adelaide Community Concert; 8.30PM St John Carols by Candlelight concert; 10.30PM fireworks.
- Parking: UPark Topham offers $8 flat-rate parking; book ahead. It is a short walk to Elder Park.
- Accessibility: Reserved seating is available for people with limited mobility, along with Auslan interpreters on ground and a sensory bus at the southern end of the park.
Tips & Advice
- Head down when the gates open to grab a spot near the stage and fit in face painting, Santa and the market before the main concert.
- Book your UPark Topham parking ahead for the flat rate, and it's only a short walk from there to Elder Park.
- Bring a picnic rug and low beach chairs only, and plan to take down any shade structure before the main show starts.
- Pack sunscreen, a hat and water, because the afternoon on the lawn is long and the organisers ask everyone to stay hydrated.
- Buy a Carols candle from the merchandise stalls to light up Elder Park during the concert, and the money supports St John.
Special Events & Promotions
- Limited Gold Class reserved seats sold separately, with all proceeds going to St John Ambulance
- Experience Adelaide Community Concert with local artists, hosted by Craig Pitman and Zoe Sheridan, before the main concert
- Silver Lawn Passes and bushfire preparedness packs up for grabs at the SA Country Fire Service marquee
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reserved seating available?
Yes, a limited number of Gold Class seats are for sale. They come with a prime view of the stage, and all proceeds go to St John Ambulance.
What is there for kids before the concert?
Kids can meet Santa at Santa's Corner, and families can learn CPR there too. There are giant inflatable games with the Mix102.3 Street Crew and free face painting at the Nippy's marquee. Smokey the Koala is at the CFS marquee.
What food is there?
There's pizza, burgers, hot dogs, chips on a stick, Mexican and Sri Lankan street food. For sweets there's fairy floss, doughnuts, popcorn, ice cream and slushies, and there's coffee for the adults. You're also welcome to bring a picnic.
Can I bring alcohol?
Elder Park becomes a dry zone in the evening, shortly before the main concert, so finish any alcoholic drinks before then.
What if I need first aid or lose my child?
St John SA is on site to help. You'll find them towards the city end of King William Road.
More Christmas Events Near Adelaide
More Christmas Events near Adelaide
Always check the official website for the most current information.
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