Celebrate Christmas 2025 on the Gold Coast
Christmas on the Gold Coast means swapping snow for sand and experiencing the festive season with golden sunshine, sparkling ocean views, and that signature Australian summer vibe. From theme park parades to beachside carols under the stars, a Gold Coast Christmas delivers an unforgettable holiday celebration in a tropical paradise.
In this Blog
Why Christmas on the Gold Coast Feels Magical
Credit: Tourism Queensland
While many Australians picture Christmas as a sun-filled summer celebration, the Gold Coast takes it one step further. With its subtropical warmth, you can spend the day at the beach, in the park, or anywhere outdoors, and those long summer days mean plenty of time to stretch the festivities well into the afternoon.
The festive spirit here feels different too! More relaxed, more connected to nature, and somehow more genuine. Whether you're building sandcastles or enjoying a barbecue Christmas lunch at one of the region’s sprawling picnic spots, on the Gold Coast, the magic of Christmas comes from slowing down, being together, and celebrating the season in your own sun-soaked way.
Best Christmas Markets
After a uniquely-local Christmas shopping experience? The Gold Coast comes alive with festive markets throughout December, offering everything from handcrafted gifts to gourmet treats in magical outdoor settings.
Christmas Markets GC
The Gold Coast's biggest festive markets transform Broadwater Parklands into a Christmas wonderland from December 20-22, with Christmas Markets GC featuring hundreds of stalls in the shady outdoor venue by day, and trees strung with enchanting lights at night.
HOTA (Home of the Arts)
HOTA (Home of the Arts) usually host a special Christmas version of their famous markets that showcase local artisans and gourmet producers, while the Surfers Paradise Twilight Christmas Markets bring festive cheer to the beachfront with unique Australian-made products, handcrafted gifts, and live entertainment.
The Dreamworld Night Markets
The Dreamworld Night Markets throughout December offer a unique festive experience. Along with the usual mix of delicious street eats and sweet treats, you’ll find live Christmas music, gift-filled market stalls, Christmas movies on the big screen, and plenty more seasonal fun to enjoy.
Carols and Festive Performances
Nothing captures the spirit of an Australian Christmas quite like singing carols under the stars, and the Gold Coast hosts some of the country's most beloved outdoor carol celebrations.
The Mayor's Christmas Carols
The Mayor's Christmas Carols at HOTA Parklands, delivers Gold Coast's premier carol celebration featuring performances from both local and nationally acclaimed artists, fireworks, kid’s shows, and a special visit from Santa himself.
Cooly Carols
The legendary Cooly Carols at Queen Elizabeth Park creates one of the jolliest Christmas carol extravaganzas on the Coast, with families travelling from across the region to experience live carol performances, food trucks and more on the shores of the iconic surf beach.
Carols On The Beach
Nothing says Gold Coast Christmas like singing along to “Last Christmas” (WHAM style) in your sandals on the sands of Surfers Paradise. Carols on the Beach is a free, family-friendly celebration full of festive cheer, with a lineup of special guest performances to be revealed soon.
Unique Christmas Activities
Credit: Warner Bros. Movie World
From Christmas-themed mini golf and theme park adventures, to alfresco movies under the stars, the Gold Coast is jam packed with festive fun to suit every taste and budget.
Movie World’s White Christmas
Experience the enchantment of the season at Warner Bros. Movie World with White Christmas. For two weeks, the park is transformed into a glittering winter wonderland on Main Street, complete with snow, lights, and festive cheer. Watch the Joy to the World parade featuring floats from across the globe, take photos with your favourite characters, enjoy rides at night, and indulge in seasonal treats. It’s an unforgettable family celebration of Christmas magic.
Runaway Bay Christmas Lights Cruise
Take in the dazzling Christmas lights of Runaway Bay on a one-hour cruise with Beachcomber Charters. Glide along the canals with a glass of Prosecco in hand, soaking up the festive decorations and holiday spirit. Guests are welcome to bring extra drinks, making this a unique and relaxing way to enjoy the season. Cruises depart at 6pm.
Pacific Fair’s Christmas Wonderland
Just steps from Dorsett Gold Coast, Pacific Fair transforms into a Christmas wonderland with over 400 stores extending their hours for festive shopping. The centre dazzles with glittering decorations and a spectacular Christmas tree display, while Santa photos capture those precious holiday memories throughout the season.
Santa’s Putt Putt
For family-friendly fun, head to The Club at Parkwood Village for Christmas-themed mini golf. The first nine holes are transformed into a festive wonderland, complete with lights, decorations, snow effects, bubbles, music, and more. Open from November 10 to January 2, it’s the perfect activity for kids and adults alike.
Movies Under the Stars
Enjoy a festive outdoor cinema experience this December with Movies Under the Stars. Bring blankets, pillows, and a picnic to watch festive flicks like Arthur Christmas and Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer at locations including Broadbeach, Runaway Bay, and Southport. This free, family-friendly event is perfect for a cosy holiday evening.
Where to Spend Christmas Day
Credit: Tourism Queensland
When it comes to celebrating the big day, the Gold Coast is full of fantastic spots to celebrate, whether you’re unwrapping presents, sharing a festive meal, or simply enjoying quality time with family and friends.
The Best Family Beaches
The Gold Coast's pristine beaches provide the perfect backdrop for an equally perfect Australian Christmas Day.
Main Beach
Located just north of Surfers Paradise, Main Beach offers calm waters ideal for families with young children, while the patrolled areas by Southport SLSC lifeguards provide peace of mind for parents wanting to relax and enjoy the festivities.
Currumbin Beach
Currumbin Beach combines spacious sand and park areas with excellent facilities, including BBQ areas and playgrounds that make it ideal for extended family gatherings. If you’re not too keen on taking on the waves, The Rock Pools at Currumbin also provide the perfect spot to park up for the day and take a dip in calmer waters.
Kurrawa Beach
Kurrawa Beach in Broadbeach offers a vibrant family-friendly entertainment precinct with 5 patrolled lifeguard towers monitoring the beach breaks. The beachside parks feature several playgrounds, shady barbecue areas, modern amenities, and wheelchair-friendly beach access.
Finding The Perfect Picnic Spot
While the Gold Coast is famous for its beaches, there are plenty of parks and natural areas that make for unforgettable Christmas Day picnics and BBQs.
Burleigh Hill
One of the Gold Coast’s most popular picnic destinations, Burleigh Hill sits atop Burleigh Headland, offering sweeping coastal views that stretch all the way to Surfers Paradise. The area features picnic tables, BBQ facilities, and scenic walking trails that wind along the coastline. Arrive early, though, the hill fills up fast!
Springbrook National Park
For a cooler, mountain-side option, Springbrook National Park is a spectacular choice. Surrounded by lush rainforest, waterfalls, and ancient trees, the park provides picnic areas with tables, shelters, and clean facilities. It’s ideal for those who want to combine a festive meal with a scenic walk or a refreshing dip at one of the park’s waterfalls.
Cascade Gardens
Cascade Gardens in Broadbeach offers a peaceful riverside sanctuary set back from the Gold Coast Highway. With many barbecue and undercover picnic shelters, a huge playground, sensory gardens, and facilities including toilets, shaded benches and picnic tables, it provides everything needed for a memorable Christmas Day gathering.
Christmas Day Dining
Although many Gold Coast restaurants close on Christmas Day, just minutes from your room at Dorsett Gold Coast, The Star offers a full range of dining experiences to satisfy every appetite.Skip the turkey this year, the team at Kiyomi will be serving up their famous menu of Japanese-Australian fusion bites for a Christmas dinner you won’t soon forget, while The Harvest Buffet presents a special all-you-can-eat package of fresh local seafood. Don’t miss out on your bonus glass of sparkling on arrival!Keen to give Christmas lunch an Italian twist? Cucina Vivo is serving up a 4-course lunch and 3-hour beverage package, while The Garden Kitchen & Bar have curated a special Christmas menu using the freshest seasonal produce available, paired with local wines and beers.To explore the full menu offerings for each of the above, click here.
Tips for Planning Your Christmas Visit To The Gold Coast
Make the most of your festive getaway and stay on Santa’s nice list with these handy planning tips:
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Book accommodation and restaurant reservations well in advance – Christmas becomes incredibly popular during peak season
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Arrive a few days before Christmas and spend some time exploring the region’s best Christmas lights displays. You can follow this handy map.
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Pack for warm weather but bring light layers for air-conditioned venues and evening carol events
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Hitting the theme parks? Research theme park extended hours and book tickets online to save money and avoid queues
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Use public transport or the light rail system to avoid parking challenges at popular events like the Mayor's Christmas Carols
Dorsett Gold Coast – Your Holiday Base
Located in the heart of Broadbeach, Dorsett Gold Coast puts you at the centre of the Gold Coast's Christmas celebrations. Our modern rooms feature coastline or hinterland views, with connecting options for families ensuring everyone can unwrap presents together.
After days filled with festive markets, buffet dining and caroling, unwind by our infinity pool or with a cocktail at Jin Bar. With 24/7 room service, complimentary WiFi, and direct access to The Star Entertainment Precinct and light rail connections, your perfect Gold Coast Christmas is seamlessly taken care of. Ready to celebrate the festive season, Gold Coast-style?
