Finding the best Christmas events Gold Coast has to offer is easier than ever. The city comes alive with carols, markets, and parades that bring families and friends together year after year. This list gathers the most-loved celebrations so you can enjoy the season without the endless searching.
Expect ocean breezes, cheerful crowds, and a relaxed atmosphere that pairs perfectly with your stay at The Village at Burleigh. Holiday magic shines brightest by the beach with sand underfoot, good company, and a carefree schedule.
Must-Do Gold Coast Christmas
Christmas in Gold Coast, Australia, brings coastal air, festive cheer and a relaxed pace you won’t find in the city. It’s the perfect season to unwind and take part in a few well-chosen events close to where you stay.
For guests already enjoying a Gold Coast holiday, it’s an easy way to step into the season. This event remains one of the most loved family activities that Gold Coast residents and travellers come back to each year.
- Located a short walk from Burleigh Heads Beach
- Live music, local acts and a fireworks finale
- Suitable for families or those planning a relaxed picnic
- Held early to mid-December, 4 pm to 8 pm
- Free entry with food stalls available
- Local tip: Bring a beach mat and arrive early for the best spots and easier parking
Must-See Gold Coast Christmas Events
December in Broadbeach brings a festive energy that’s easy to embrace. The carols and markets keep things simple and enjoyable, all within easy reach of Burleigh.
North Burleigh Carols by the Sea
- Thursday 4th December 2025
- 4 pm till 8 pm
- Held at Ed Hardy Park, North Burleigh
- ~10 mins drive
- Local Tip: Arrive early to snag a beachfront spot for the sunset show
A festive seaside celebration that brings the community together for an evening of carols, lights, and holiday spirit under the stars.
Christmas Around the World (November 21, 2025)
Take part in a festive celebration that brings together holiday traditions from across the globe. Enjoy an evening filled with performances, music, and international flavours that showcase the true spirit of Christmas.
Event Highlights:
- Live shows presenting Christmas customs from different countries
- Food stalls serving seasonal dishes from around the world
- Holiday craft booths and a festive gift market
- Carol singing and cultural dances
- Family-friendly activities and themed photo areas
- Facebook: Christmas Around the World
Celebrate joy, unity, and the wonder of Christmas in every culture at Broadbeach Cultural Precinct – Albert Waterways Auditorium.
The Oasis Christmas Events (Broadbeach Mall)
Held in the heart of Broadbeach, these markets feature handmade gifts, local food vendors and festive entertainment. It’s a go-to spot for Christmas in Gold Coast, Australia and one of the more relaxed family activities Gold Coast locals enjoy this time of year.
- Boutique stalls with crafts, food and music
- Free entry; purchases vary in price
- A great option for festive browsing and casual shopping
Carols on the Beach
Celebrate Christmas by the sea as Carols on the Beach turns Surfers Paradise into a stage of light, music, and festive joy. This free, family-friendly event brings together the best of an Aussie Christmas with warm summer evenings, ocean breezes, and voices singing under the stars.
Event Highlights:
- Where: Surfers Paradise Beach, Gold Coast
- When: December 2025 (evening show, approximately 3 hours)
- Cost: Free entry
What to Expect:
- Live performances of traditional and modern carols by top Australian artists
- A surprise visit from Santa and festive entertainment for all ages
- Twilight beachfront markets featuring food, gifts, and holiday treats
- A grand fireworks finale over the Pacific Ocean
- Auslan interpreters and accessible viewing areas
Local Charm: Tugun Lights Up
Tugun adds a relaxed, village-style touch to your Gold Coast holiday.
Tugun Lights Up
This local festival features festive lights, craft stalls, carols and street food. It’s a go-to for those after low-key Christmas dinner Gold Coast options and easy Christmas party ideas Gold Coast style.
- 25 minutes’ drive from Burleigh Heads
- Christmas lights, stalls and live music
- Kids’ crafts and community performances
- Free entry; food priced between $8 and $20
More Things to Do in December
Once the carols settle and the fireworks finish, the season continues with some of the most enjoyable family activities Gold Coast has on offer.
With warm evenings and a relaxed pace, December is a great time to wind down or add a few more festive moments to your trip. These local ideas keep the spirit going and highlight some of the most popular things to do in the Gold Coast this time of year.
- Browse Christmas pop-ups across Burleigh’s shopping precincts
- Enjoy beachfront dining with festive menus and sea views
- Visit Santa photo installations in major shopping centres
- Book a sunset cruise or take in a Gold Coast holiday-themed show
Seasonal Cheer on the Coast
The festive season during Christmas in Gold Coast, Australia, brings coastal charm, warm weather and easy-going events. Throughout December, Gold Coast Christmas events run across nearby locations, making it easy to enjoy the season without a packed itinerary.
Carols, markets and family-friendly shows create a holiday atmosphere that suits both quick trips and longer getaways. A Gold Coast Christmas is about simple pleasures, open skies and shared celebration.
Comfort at The Village Burleigh
After a full day of lights, music and festive moments, returning to a calm and comfortable space brings the day to a perfect close.
The Village at Burleigh is your local base for a relaxed Gold Coast holiday, just 150 metres from Burleigh Heads Beach. The spacious, self-contained apartments suit both couples and families, giving you a private retreat with everything close by. Mornings start with a coastal walk and evenings often wind down beside the pool or out on the balcony.
Many guests return during Christmas in Gold Coast, Australia, knowing that the best Gold Coast Christmas events are only minutes away. There’s no need for long drives or last-minute plans. You’ll be close to the carols, markets and family favourites that make the season shine.
In between events, enjoy browsing Burleigh’s festive pop-ups, booking a table at your favourite local restaurant or simply soaking up the warm evenings with a quiet drink. Christmas here is relaxed, coastal and easy to enjoy on your own schedule.
Relax into the season with a stay at The Village at Burleigh. Beach mornings and festive nights await. Book your stay now!
Image credit: North Burleigh Carols by the Sea