Sydney is set to shine brighter than ever this festive season, as the City of Sydney announces a spectacular four-week Christmas celebration, starting Saturday, 25 November.
Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO, unveiled a dazzling array of festivities designed to sprinkle Christmas magic throughout the city. “Sydney sparkles and buzzes at this time of year, and we’re excited to welcome everyone to enjoy the festive atmosphere,” said Moore.
The heart of the celebrations will be the iconic Martin Place, where the majestic 24-metre Christmas tree, adorned with over 110,000 lights and 330 glossy baubles, will take centre stage. This uniquely Australian tree, featuring 800 branches decorated with 15,000 flowers representing nine native blooms, including waratah and bottlebrush, will come to life with a colourful sound and light show every 15 minutes from 30 November to 1 January.
The festivities kick off with a bang over the opening weekend, 25-26 November. The Christmas markets at Martin Place will offer a plethora of gifts, goodies, and festive fare from 11am to 8pm. Adding to the charm, roving Christmas characters will animate both Pitt Street Mall and Martin Place.
An enchanting sleigh ride on 30 November, featuring Santa Claus, the Lord Mayor, a 65-piece marching band, and elves on reindeer tricycles, will culminate in the official lighting of the Martin Place Christmas tree, accompanied by a glittering fireworks display.
Sydney’s neighbourhoods are not left behind, with six free community concerts spanning two weekends in December. These concerts, featuring performers like The Listies and Lah Lah’s Big Live Band, will offer music, dance, games, and food trucks. A $5 photo opportunity with Santa, benefiting the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation, is also on offer.
Accessibility is a key focus, with features like Auslan interpretation and accessible toilets ensuring everyone can join in the fun.
The festive spirit extends to the choirs, with groups like the Australian Girls Choir and Sydney Gay & Lesbian Choir serenading shoppers with Christmas carols at various locations, including the QVB forecourt and Martin Place.
Adding to the visual splendour, 80,000 suspended lights will illuminate Pitt Street Mall, while the Woolworths building across from Sydney Town Hall will be draped in a curtain of light.
In the spirit of giving, the City of Sydney proudly supports the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation. Donations will aid in providing critical care for young patients.
For more details on this unmissable Christmas extravaganza, visit sydneychristmas.com.au.