Whether it’s the sweet Christmas markets popping up every weekend, the sweet sound of carols permeating the air or simply attending one of the many uniquely Sunny-style festive celebrations, there’s nothing quite like Christmas in our pocket of paradise. We like to celebrate Christmas with sand, not snow.
Thanks to Urban List Sunshine Coast, they’ve rounded up some of the best festive events on the Coast this silly season.
Christmas At The Ginger Factory
Jump aboard the gingerbread train at Yandina’s famous Ginger Factory this Christmas. Meet Santa in his workshop, get your Christmas photos sorted, take in the massive Christmas display and shop for unique Aussie gifts at the iconic ginger gift shop.
When: Various dates from 8th to 24th December
Where: The Ginger Factory, 50 Pioneer Road, Yandina
Cost: Free
For more information, click here.
Christmas Carols At NightQuarter
Merry makers of all ages will have a blast at NightQuarter’s annual Christmas Carols, where you can dance with Rudolph, sing with Santa, enjoy live entertainment and dig into all your favourite NightQuarter food stall delights. These are Christmas festivities like no other and there’s no better way to spread the festive cheer.
When: Saturday 18 December, from 4pm
Where: NightQuarter
For more information, click here.
Christmas Boat Parade
Every year, the Mooloolaba Yacht Club hosts a Christmas parade with a difference. The Mooloolaba Yacht Club Christmas Boat Parade will showcase decorated boats of all shapes and sizes, as their festively decorated displays light up the Mooloolah River. Houses along the Mooloolah River and Kawana Waters’ canal will also be cheerfully lit up, contrasting against the parade of boats making their way downstream.
When: Saturday 18 December, from 7pm
Where: 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba
Cost: Free
For more information, click here.
Christmas Lights Cruise
Something about viewing Christmas lights from the water just hits different. Well, luckily for you, you can soak up all the wholesome LED goodness from the comfort of a fully licensed boat on Seafood Cruises’ Christmas Lights Cruise. Take in the festive surrounds of the Mooloolah River as you relax (with a drink in hand, of course) from the comfort of the indoor seating or enjoy the view from the outdoor viewing decks.
When: From Monday 6 December to Tuesday 28 December, various times
Where: 33 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba
Cost: Adults: $29; children: $19
For more information, click here.
The Festive Garden
A walk-through experience of stunning Christmas lights at the Maroochy Botanic Gardens? Sign us up. At The Festive Garden tour, you’ll be able to explore Christmas lights in a magical setting, meet Santa and his elves, get your face painted and enjoy roving entertainment—and it’s all festively free! This ultra-aesthetic, twinkly AF tour is the prime spot for all your Christmas Instagram glory.
When: Friday 17 December to Tuesday 21 December, from 6pm to 9pm daily
Where: Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens, Tanawha
Cost: Free
For more information, click here.