Sydney Central Business District Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Sydney Central Business District and surrounding areas
Sydney shines this festive season in the Central Business District with Holiday lights along Circular Quay and activities around the Opera House and Darling Harbour. From Handel's Messiah by the Radio Community Chest Choir to the Christmas Day Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour and the Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks Celebration, the city blends winter festivals with rich seasonal events. Stroll markets near the Harbour, enjoy family-friendly activities beneath lit trees, and soak up festive entertainment across precincts that make the CBD a warm holiday hub.
Find the best Sydney Central Business District Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Markets
9 eventsCurated artisan market in a historic rural village.
Christmas Parties
9 events32nd annual music festival supporting charities
Christmas Lights
7 eventsNSW's tallest Christmas tree with native Australian flowers.
Christmas Shows
6 eventsBach's Christmas Oratorio performed in its entirety
Other Christmas Activities
13 eventsIconic harbor fireworks and 'Calling Country' cultural celebration
Editor's Picks (6)
-
Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks Celebration
(Sydney)
Iconic harbor fireworks and 'Calling Country' cultural celebration
-
Bach's Christmas Oratorio
(Sydney)
Bach's Christmas Oratorio performed in its entirety
-
Carols in the Domain
(Sydney)
Australia's most beloved Christmas carols tradition
-
Carols at the House
(Sydney)
Annual Christmas carols tradition at Sydney Opera House
-
Martin Place Christmas Tree
(Sydney)
NSW's tallest Christmas tree with native Australian flowers.
-
St Albans Village Market
(St Albans)
Curated artisan market in a historic rural village.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Sydney Central Business District
Discover thousands of christmas events across the country
Also Near Sydney Central Business District
Sydney Central Business District Christmas FAQ
Key annual events include the Martin Place Christmas tree lighting, the Christmas Festival at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour, and the Pitt Street Mall canopy of lights. These events feature live music, choirs, and festive performances.
Sydney Central Business District is known for its large-scale light shows, the floating Christmas tree in Darling Harbour, and the integration of native flora in decorations, such as the Martin Place tree adorned with native flowers.
The heart of the CBD, including Martin Place, Pitt Street Mall, and Darling Harbour, offers the most concentrated and impressive Christmas light displays and decorations.
Christmas markets and local artisan stalls are commonly found at College Green, Darling Harbour, and various pop-up locations near the CBD throughout the holiday season.
Enjoying the public light displays, attending free carol concerts, and exploring the festive markets with no admission fee are great budget-friendly ways to celebrate in the CBD.
Family-friendly options include kids’ workshops at Darling Harbour, interactive light displays, and festive performances at the Christmas Festival and markets that offer activities suitable for children.