Heads up—South Bank is transforming into a festive wonderland, and trust us, you’ll want to soak up every magical moment. With Christmas just around the corner, we’ve rounded up the ultimate list of things to see, do, and eat to make your holiday week unforgettable. Let’s dive in!
1. Shop the Collective Markets Christmas Edition Little Stanley Street is the place to be for last-minute gifts. Think jewellery, trinkets, art, and tasty treats—all wrapped up in a Christmas village vibe. Open daily until 22 December, 10am–9pm, it’s a one-stop festive shopping dream.
2. Snap Santa Pics & Storytime with Mrs Claus Flowstate is your go-to for festive fun. Snap a pic with Santa daily from 10am–1pm and 2pm–5pm or swing by Mrs Claus’ Storytime from 2pm–4:30pm. Pet photos and Sensory Santa sessions are also available—because everyone deserves a little magic! Book your Santa photos for $30 here. A contribution from each Santa photo purchase will go towards bringing comfort, joy, and healing to children who need it most during the festive season.
3. Soak Up Christmas in the Plaza South Bank’s giant Christmas tree is lighting up Stanley Street Plaza nightly, creating serious holiday vibes. Add in surprise festive performers from 14–22 December, and you’ve got an insta-worthy Christmas scene.
4. Get Crafty at Christmas Workshops Unleash your inner elf with festive workshops at Flowstate. Kids can dive into bauble making, Christmas colouring, and more from 10am–1pm daily until 22 December.
5. Catch the Nightly Christmas Parade The South Bank Christmas Parade is pure magic, featuring performers, festive characters, and a heartwarming soundtrack. Happening nightly until 22 December at 6:30pm, starting from the South Bank Piazza. Check out the Christmas Parade map HERE.
6. Sing Along at Twilight Carols Nothing says Christmas like carols under the stars. Head to Riverside Green from 5:30pm nightly until 22 December for all the festive feels. PSA: Emma Memma is performing at South Bank’s Christmas Carols on 17 December! Get ready to sing, sign, and groove as the beloved Emma Memma (aka the OG female Wiggle) takes the stage with her bestie Elvin Melvin. This ARIA award-winning children’s musical sensation is landing on 17 December for an interactive show packed with festive fun for the whole family. But that’s not all—there’s a stellar line up of performers spreading Christmas cheer each night, ensuring a magical holiday experience for all.
7. Explore the South Bank Maze Get lost (in the best way) at the Christmas Maze in the Piazza. Open daily until 22 December, this free adventure is packed with twists, surprises, and holiday fun for all ages.
8. Settle in for a Christmas Movie Night Wrap up your evening with a festive flick at South Bank’s open-air cinema. Movies kick off at 7:30pm, but arrive early to enjoy live music, food trucks, and a riverside bar. Running nightly until 22 December at the Cultural Forecourt.
After all the excitement, take a break at one of South Bank’s many dining spots. From riverside bites to family-friendly feasts, there’s a delicious option for every palate. Find out more here.
Mark your calendars—South Bank’s got your week-before-Christmas plans sorted!
