Lara Suddards
Festive Fun for Families: Bringing on the Christmas Cheer in Brisbane, Ipswich & the Gold Coast
The festive season is fast approaching, and there’s no better way to soak up the Christmas cheer than by joining in some of the magical events happening across Brisbane, Ipswich, and the Gold Coast. From twinkling lights to carols under the stars, here’s your guide to the best family-friendly Christmas experiences this December.
Carols and Community Celebrations
The season wouldn’t be complete without the sound of Christmas carols filling the night air, and South East Queensland delivers in spectacular fashion.
Returning for its 14th year, this much-loved event at HOTA, Home of the Arts, promises two magical nights of festive music and family fun on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December. Tickets are required for entry, but you can also catch the live screening from the HOTA Parklands, free and no tickets required. Pack your picnic rug, grab a bite from the food trucks, and enjoy the show under the stars.
Head to Riverstage on Saturday 6 December 2025 for Brisbane’s biggest Christmas party. Featuring live music, star-studded performances, and plenty of sparkle, this annual event captures the spirit of the season perfectly. If you miss out on tickets, don’t worry, the show will also be livestreamed to Roma Street Parkland, complete with pre-show entertainment and food trucks.
For a relaxed, family-friendly celebration, the City of Logan Christmas Carols are not to be missed. Running from 3pm to 8pm on Saturday 6 December at Griffith University Logan Campus, this free event offers markets, food stalls, live music, and free rides, capped off by a spectacular fireworks finale. Tickets are not required for this one, so you can simply show up and set up your picnic!
On Saturday 13 December, Robelle Domain will light up with live performances, delicious food trucks, market stalls, and fireworks at 8:30pm. It’s a community favourite for both children and grown-ups alike. No tickets required.
This December, Broadbeach Mall will transform into a magical gingerbread village, offering free festive fun for the whole family. From Monday 15 to Sunday 21 December 2025, the space next to The Oasis Shopping Centre will burst with colour, creativity, and Christmas spirit.
During the daytime sessions (10am – 3pm daily), families can dive into festive workshops—decorate your own gingerbread cookies, enjoy Christmas craft sessions, and settle in for storytime theatre. Each one-hour session includes all activities, but bookings are essential.
Little adventurers can also take part in The Oasis Treasure Hunt, collecting a map and following clues to uncover hidden surprises throughout The Oasis Shopping Centre. No bookings required for this one.
For those in the northern Gold Coast, Christmas in Coomera brings a full weekend of free festive fun, with activities running across Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December. Families can dive into the celebrations with a lively DJ dance party complete with snow machines and surprise performances, or try their hand at the North Pole Putt Putt course. Little ones will love spotting stilt-walking candy canes, Rudolf, Hip Hop Santas and even the Grinch as they roam the precinct bringing Christmas cheer. Of course, Santa himself will make special stage appearances throughout the event.
Between face painting, photo moments in Santa’s sleigh or on his throne, and plenty of roving entertainment, there’s something to keep every age smiling. It’s also a great chance to tick off some last-minute shopping with market stalls offering unique gifts and stocking fillers, while food trucks serve up tasty bites for hungry families. If you’re looking to add a joyful, high-energy outing to your Christmas calendar, Christmas in Coomera is the perfect way to celebrate together.
For a unique twist on holiday celebrations, don’t miss Santa and Sirens at the Nicholas Street Precinct on Thursday 27 November (5pm–7pm). This free event combines festive fun with a tribute to our real-life heroes, showcasing emergency service vehicles decked out in Christmas lights. Families can snap photos with Santa, enjoy live carols by Journey Church, and stay to witness the official lighting of the City Christmas Tree in d’Arcy Doyle Place at 6:45pm.
Finally, round out your Christmas adventures with the Brisbane City Hall Light Spectacular. Beginning 5 December, King George Square comes alive each evening as dazzling projections light up City Hall’s historic façade. It’s a breathtaking visual display of festive storytelling that will delight families of all ages.
Whether you’re decorating gingerbread in Broadbeach, singing carols under the stars, or taking in some stunning lights, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate this Christmas season. Gather your loved ones, embrace the sparkle, and make this festive season one to remember.
Find Lara’s recommendations at her website Mrs. Lardeedah.com, and follow her socials Facebook and Instagram
