From twinkling lights and Christmas markets to carols by candlelight, these charming destinations deliver all the festive cheer you need to make the season merry and bright.

The holiday season in Australia is a different kind of magic than in the northern hemisphere. From sun-soaked beachside celebrations to country towns decked out in twinkling lights, the festive spirit is alive and well across the country.

Whether you’re after a winter wonderland vibe (minus the snow) or a beachy Christmas experience, these towns know how to deliver on festive cheer.

1. Hahndorf, SA

Step into a fairy-tale Christmas village in Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement. Come December, this charming town in the Adelaide Hills transforms into a Christmas wonderland straight out of Europe. The streets are lined with heritage buildings adorned in festive lights, and local shops offer up a treasure trove of artisan goods perfect for gift shopping.

Don’t miss the Christkindlmarkt, a traditional German-style Christmas market  where you can indulge in mulled wine, gingerbread, and bratwurst while browsing handcrafted decorations and gifts. The twinkling fairy lights, carols and festive fare will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a snow globe, even though the sun is shining.

2. Ballarat, Vic

This Gold Rush town knows how to celebrate Christmas with old-world charm and sparkle. Sovereign Hill’s Christmas in July  may get all the attention, but come December, Ballarat comes alive with festive spirit once again.

The entire town is lit up with Christmas lights and festive markets pop up in historic streets filled with local crafts, food stalls and live entertainment.

One of the highlights is the Ballarat Christmas Tree; a massive display that stands proudly in the town square alongside carol services that bring the community together in a joyful celebration.

3. Hunter Valley, NSW

The Hunter Valley is known for its world-class wineries, but come Christmas, it transforms into a festive wonderland. The Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular is the largest light display in the southern hemisphere, with over four million lights illuminating the beautiful gardens.

Stroll through the themed light displays, including Fairyland, Winter Wonderland and the new Candyland, while enjoying live entertainment, food stalls and family-friendly activities. New to The Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular this year are 10+ metre Christmas trees, the five-metre Teddy Bear seat and Mr and Mrs Claus.

It’s the perfect spot for a festive evening under the stars and if you’re a wine lover, it’s a win-win Christmas destination.

4. Mandurah, WA

Mandurah transforms into a sparkling wonderland during the holiday season with its famous Mandurah Christmas Lights Trail .

The entire foreshore and waterways are adorned with dazzling light displays, creating a magical spectacle that attracts locals and visitors alike.

You can get up close to the illuminated houses or enjoy a stroll along the waterfront to soak in the festive atmosphere.

Mandurah also hosts family-friendly events, including carols by candlelight and a vibrant Christmas pageant  that winds through the heart of the city, making it one of WA’s most festive destinations.

5. Launceston, Tas

When it comes to festive charm, Launceston delivers with country warmth and a sprinkling of holiday magic.

The streets of Tasmania’s second city are illuminated with sparkling lights and the city hosts several Christmas events throughout December.

One of the standout features of the city’s Silverdome Christmas Market. It offers a great opportunity to pick up handmade gifts and seasonal treats and the City of Launceston Lions Club Christmas Parade  is a beloved event where the streets come alive with festive floats, marching bands and cheerful crowds, adding to the town’s festive atmosphere.

6. Stanthorpe, Qld

Known for its wineries and cool climate, Stanthorpe transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season. Located in the Granite Belt, this charming country town goes all out with twinkling Christmas lights, community carols and festive markets.

A must-visit is the Granite Belt Christmas Farm , where you can pick your own real Christmas tree, wander through the festive shop filled with decorations and gifts and even meet Santa’s farm animals.

With local wineries hosting festive-themed events, Stanthorpe offers a cosy and magical countryside Christmas experience.

7. Lobethal, SA

The Lobethal Lights are nothing short of legendary, with this quaint town in the Adelaide Hills putting on South Australia’s largest Christmas light display. For over 60 years, the Lobethal Lights Festival  has been illuminating homes, businesses and streets, drawing visitors from far and wide.

Wander through the town’s Living Nativity scenes, enjoy local markets brimming with handcrafted goods and join the community in celebrating Christmas. The lights and celebrations continue for most of December, offering plenty of time to experience the magic of Lobethal at its festive best.

8. Chiltern, Vic

Nestled in Victorian High Country, Chiltern is known for its stunning natural beauty, but it’s also a town that knows how to do Christmas right.

Sharing its festive spirit by covering the street bollards with crocheted decorations, Chiltern will fill your heart with holiday joy.

Ready to deck the halls? These festive Aussie towns are guaranteed to get you feeling merry and bright this holiday season. Pack your Santa hat and get ready to celebrate!