Christmas in Darwin

Ahh Christmas season, the time for jingle bells, cocoa by the fire, a soft flurry of snow blanketing the city. But not in Australia. And definitely not in Darwin!

Despite what the songs and movies might have you believe; Christmas for Australian’s is far from a winter wonderland. In fact, the closest thing to snow you’ll find in Darwin in December is tropical downpours. Don’t let the wet season get you down though, December is still a great time to visit Darwin, even if you do encounter a bit of rain.

• Lighting of the tree

  Christmas in Darwin is kicked off with the annual lighting of the Christmas tree in the Darwin Mall. Enjoy boutique market stalls in the early evening while you wait for the tree to brighten up the mall for the Christmas season.

• Carols by Candlelight

  It just isn’t Christmas in Australia without a Carols by Candlelight event. These evening community events have become somewhat of an Australian Christmas institution, as towns around the country gather the best musical talents from the region for an evening of Christmas tunes, belted out by the community as the warm sun sets late in the evening. Since this time of year is summer in the Southern hemisphere, it’s the perfect time to enjoy warm evenings outside, and singing Christmas carols simply adds to the festive spirit. Head to the City of Darwin’s Carols by Candlelight in the George Brown Botanic Gardens on December 1^st for a taste of this Aussie Christmas tradition.

• Casaurina Pool Christmas Party

  With humidity levels high through the festive season, the City of Darwin has invited everyone to the Casuarina pool for a massive Casuarina Pool Christmas Party. Beat the heat with pool games and inflatable water slides, a free sausage sizzle lunch and DJs spinning the best beats all day. Entry to the pool party is free and you’re sure to meet many welcoming locals and fellow tourists enjoying the community Christmas fun.

• Drag Queen Bedtime Stories

  Hop into your pyjamas, grab your best teddy and head to the Darwin City library for Drag Queen Bedtime Stories. Christmas stories have never seen more glitter and cheer! This family friendly event is perfect for young and old, with everyone guaranteed a giggle.

• Santa on Wheels Parade 

  Join the big man himself in the Santa Fun on Wheels parade. Join Santa for a bike ride along Darwin’s foreshore. Grab your best tropical Christmas gear and deck out yourself, and your bike, in festive regalia. Parade participants will receive their own goody bag and the chance to meet Santa himself at the parades end at Nightcliff Pool. Enjoy a refreshing dip after the ride and enjoy jumping castles and photo booths among other fantastic activities. Plus, there are prizes for the most festive bikes, so make sure to use all your decorating skills. Tinsel, baubles, hats and bells, nothing is off limits!

For the second year running Darwin has created a jam packed calendar of Christmas events for locals and visitors alike. These events and many more are awaiting for you. So enjoy Christmas like a Territorian and head to Darwin this December.

Related article: Darwin lights up with city wide illuminated art

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.