Farewell 2025 at these epic December events around Australia.

December always sneaks up on me. One minute it’s August, the next I’m juggling work wrap-ups and half-finished Christmas shopping. It’s the kind of delicious chaos that comes with the end of another year – when you’re tying a bow on the past 12 months with one hand and cracking open a fresh chapter with the other.

If you’re also running on equal parts exhaustion and excitement, consider this your cheat sheet to squeezing the most joy out of the year’s most chaotic month. From music festivals and art exhibitions to Christmas markets and NYE celebrations, there are so many ways to round out the year with a bang. So without further ado – let’s wrap up the year, shall we?

Taylah’s top picks of the month:

• Best foodie event: Taste of Summer, Hobart, Tas (27 December – 3 January)
• Best music event: Woodford Folk Fest, Moreton Bay, Qld (27 December – 1 January)
• Best cultural event: Boxing Day Ashes, Melbourne, Vic (26–30 December)
• Best outdoor event: Blooms & Bubbles, Margaret River, WA (6 December)
• Best arts event: 5th Indigenous Art Triennial: After the Rain, Canberra, ACT (from 6 December)

Upcoming events to keep on your radar:

• Elvis Festival, Parkes, NSW (7–11 January)
• Australian Open, Melbourne, Vic (12 January – 1 February)
• NATSIAA exhibition, Darwin, NT (until 26 January)
• Wooden Boat Festival, Hobart, Tas (7–10 February)
• Mardi Gras, Sydney, NSW (13 February – 1 March)

What’s on in NSW in December

Ron Mueck: Encounter
Sydney
From 6 December

Held at the iconic Art Gallery of NSW, this Sydney-exclusive is artist Ron Mueck’s largest exhibition in over a decade on home soil. Familiar works exploring birth, death, alienation and connection will sit alongside new commissions like Havoc, described as enigmatic and menacing.

It’s an exciting moment among the city’s art scene, as many of the intricate sculptures by the Australian-born, UK-based artist have never been seen before in Australia. Opening at the beginning of December, Ron Mueck: Encounter will be on display until 12 April next year.

Christmas Lights Spectacular
Hunter Valley
Throughout December

Open every day (except Christmas) from mid-November to late-January, the Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens is the region’s most festive affair. Millions of twinkling displays converge to create the largest Christmas display in the southern hemisphere, so you don’t want to miss out!

The annual extravaganza spans over three hectares, with glowing pathways leading you to themed exhibits at every turn. Alongside illuminated installations, guests can enjoy rides, food stalls, live entertainment, roving performers and even a visit from Santa.

Jolly Night Market
Sydney
11–21 December

Australia’s biggest Christmas-themed night market is decking the halls of Circular Quay again this year, with over 120 stalls transforming the Sydney precinct into a festive wonderland. Running across 11 days, the Jolly Night Market is one of the best Christmas market activations in the country.

This year, attendees can browse stalls touting everything from unique Christmas decorations and handmade gifts to bespoke homewares and First Nations art. The food and beverage program is nothing to blink at either, with plenty of sweet and savoury treats up for grabs.

Rolling Sets
Central Coast
6 December

Nothing beats a good summer festival, and this one is up there with some of the best. Hosted on NSW’s picturesque Central Coast, Rolling Sets pairs live music with good vibes and great times (plus a delicious curation of food trucks, of course).

This year’s musical line-up is sure to get you excited, with acts like Hilltop Hoods, Spacey Jane, The Jungle Giants and Skeggs all taking the stage by storm. The festival will take over Memorial Park for one day only, with plenty of nearby beaches offering the perfect post-boogie cool down.

Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race
Sydney
26 December – 1 January

One of the most celebrated sporting traditions in the world, the annual Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race stands is known as both a gruelling and rewarding ocean challenge. Hundreds of participants tackle the maritime race year after year, from 100-foot maxi yachts to 30-foot racers – making for a true on-water spectacle.

This December, over 140 yachts will compete for the crown, the second biggest fleet this century. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or first-time spectator, the starting line launch in Sydney Harbour will have you cheering louder than waves against a hull.

What’s on in Victoria in December

Summer Night Market
Melbourne
Throughout December

Melbourne’s favourite summer ritual has returned, celebrating a 25-year milestone of street eats, live music, artisan finds and after-dark energy. The Summer Night Market has become a stalwart on the city’s calendar, running for 15 weeks throughout our hottest months.

This year, guests can expect everything from global flavours and local produce to local entertainment and artisan markets. Sunset DJ sets, roving performers and buskers will soundtrack the Queen Victoria Market’s event each week, with free entry for all.

The Big Thrift Market
Torquay
29 December

Picture this: the sun is shining, the sea is sparkling, you’ve got an iced coffee in hand and you’ve just arrived at The Big Thift Market. Does it get any better? Stallholders focus on everything slow fashion, so expect racks upon racks of pre-loved pieces, reworked garments, upcycled accessories, handmade wearables and more.

It’s a win-win for all involved: you’re supporting local makers, revolutionising your summer wardrobe without blowing the budget and giving the planet a little love in the process. Held in Torquay along the Great Ocean Road, The Big Thrift runs from 12pm to 9pm for one day only!

Boxing Day Ashes
Melbourne
26–30 December

The Boxing Day Ashes remain one of the most historic events in world sport – and you won’t want to miss this one. Across five hotly contested days, watch on as Australia takes on England at the MCG for a nail-biting test series, paired with summer sun, cold beers and your best mates.

The two nations have been competing in cricket since 1877, but The Ashes takes the rivalry to a whole other level, sparked in 1882 when Australia stole a test victory on England’s home soil. Will we retain the urn, or will the English take it home? Grab your tickets to find out!

Summer Shred Sesh
Mount Buller
6–7 December

Snow in summer? Mount Buller says yes. Escape the heat this December at the Summer Shred Sesh, a two-day freestyle showdown open to skiers, snowboarders and spectators amid one of Australia’s most gorgeous snow towns.

Thanks to snow stored from the winter, lovers of the cold can extend their favourite season – paired with live music, food trucks, giveaways and plenty of prizes. Whether you hit the slopes or cheer from the sidelines, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the start of summer, Buller-style.

Women Photographers
Melbourne
From 28 November

Melbourne’s NGV unveils Women Photographers 1900–1975: A Legacy of Light, bringing together some of the most iconic images of the 20th century by over 80 influential female artists. The exhibition traces significant parts of history through the lens, from historic images of the suffrage movement to imagery depicting women’s liberation.

Through portraiture, photojournalism and experimental avant-garde works, the exhibition explores not only the photographs, but the stories behind them. Women Photographers reveals how each artist used the camera to capture, reflect and challenge the world around them, including Dora Maar, Ruth Hollick, Florence Henri and more.

Groove Tram
Bendigo
6 December

Bendigo, are you ready to get your groove on? This month, the iconic Groove Tram is gearing up to take guests on a ride through the city for the last time! Stretching the full length of the town, the trams first started operating in 1890 and are now Australasia’s largest tourist tramway.

Come 6 December, tram punters can book one of two, adults-only, Groove Tram rides through Bendigo – starting at 5.30pm and 8pm. For the final ride, local musical duo Slide will entertain guests, who can enjoy wine, beer and nibbles along the way.

What’s on in Queensland in December

Woodford Folk Festival
Moreton Bay
27 December – 1 January

Welcome the New Year by setting your soul free at the Woodford Folk Festival. Built by a diverse congregation of the creative community, the festival has transformed into a village of music, culture and colour since its inception in 1887.

The vibrant event is held in the magical lands of Woodfordia by Lake Gkula, around a 1.5-hour drive north of Brisbane. Headlined by local, national and international acts, festival-goers are invited to create, connect, laugh, listen and dance into 2026.

BrisStyle Twilight Market
Brisbane
19 December

The BrisStyle Twilight Market is one of the Queensland capital’s best markets, featuring 100 per cent local, handmade goods that are as delightful as they are sustainable. However, come December, the much-loved market turns into a Christmas extravaganza under the twinkling lights of the Brisbane Christmas Tree.

Head to King George Square to peruse stalls selling everything from ceramics and embroidery to jewellery and all-natural skincare, before grabbing a snack from the food truck and enjoying live music. It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses – and get some Chrissie shopping done, too!

Wynnum Wonderland
Wynnum
28 November – 22 December

This year, a new festival is coming to Brisbane’s coast. From the founders of the Wynnum Fringe, Wynnum Wonderland has been described as pure joy wrapped up in a big Bayside bow, ready to generously sprinkle festive cheer among townsfolk to get everyone into the spirit of silly season.

For its inaugural event, Wynnum Wonderland is really putting on a show. Live entertainment spans music, circus and acrobatics to comedy, carols and cabaret – plus plenty of bars and food trucks. With a line-up like that, it is sure to become a Chrissie tradition in no time.

Sono Lumo
Brisbane
10–21 December

Brisbane’s largest Christmas festival of sound and light is set to transform Queen’s Wharf this December, turning the precinct into a festive wonderland like never before. Running across 10 days, Sono Lumo heroes three spectacular sound and light shows under the theme ‘Steampunk City’, which will illuminate surrounding buildings with immersive projections.

Alongside these visual spectacles, attendees can also spend the evening listening to live entertainment and DJ sets at pop-up bars offering drinks and seasonal bites. Or head down to the riverfront, where a seven-metre inflatable airship bar will be hovering from above.

Radiance
Rockhampton
28 November – 24 December

Rockhampton in Central Queensland embraces the festive season come December with Radiance, held in the city’s heritage-listed Botanic Gardens. Wander through 150-year-old trees to discover a variety of stunning light installations, laser effects, enchanting sculptures and interactive projections.

The nightly event will also showcase Christmas-themed art displays, soundscapes and special effects, all to get you excited for Santa’s arrival. In a first for the festival, guests will be able to experience the ToyMaker’s Workshop, which will run alongside Radiance until Christmas Eve.

What’s on in Tasmania in December

Very Merry Christmas High Tea
Launceston
14 December

Nothing gets you in the mood for Christmas more than a festive high tea experience, enticing guests with sweets, treats and irresistible eats. One place getting into the spirit this year is Cataract on Paterson, one of the coolest cafes in Launceston, with its Very Merry Christmas High Tea.

Start off with a coffee or festive-themed cocktail before indulging in tiered platters topped with everything from fresh scones to finger sandwiches, plus bottomless cups of tea. It’s the perfect family day out, thanks to a mini high tea curated for your mini-me.

Taste of Summer
Hobart
27 December – 3 January

Hobart’s gorgeous waterfront explodes with flavour and festivity over the New Year period, as Taste of Summer transforms Princes Wharf into a celebration of Tasmania’s finest produce. The week-long celebration opens at midday daily, giving you plenty of time to grab a coffee and wander down.

Over 80 locally led artisan stalls will be dishing up seasonal fare, fresh seafood, craft beer and premium wines across the week, paired perfectly with a line-up of live music. Don’t miss the big NYE party – with neon lights, performances and fireworks over the harbour, it’s the ultimate way to welcome 2026.

NYE Beerfest
Launceston
31 December

Launceston’s annual NYE Beerfest invites you to spend the final day of the year at Royal Park, sampling your choice of more than 200 top-notch brews. Do you accept? If so, you’ve just signed up for one of the city’s hottest events – and there’s so much more than just beer to look forward to.

In the lead-up to an epic fireworks display come midnight, you can attend tasting sessions, masterclasses, comedy shows, live music sets and the (not-so-official) beer olympics. If you’re not a fan of beer, you’re still welcome – just grab a cider, wine cocktail or spirit instead!

What’s on in Western Australia in December

Bubbles & Blooms
Margaret River
6 December

Head to one of the Margaret River’s best wineries this month and you’ll be treated to Bubbles & Blooms, a dreamy afternoon of flowers and free-flow sparkling hosted at Howard Park. It’s the kind of event where you sip crisp Jeté bubbles, wander through colourful arrangements and soak in the summer air.

The free event takes place on the family winery’s shady lawn and brings together the region’s top florists, local eateries and musical performers. Top the arvo off by joining the one-hour ‘Sparkling from Near and Far’ masterclass to test your bubbly knowledge. 

Snack Festival
Perth
31 December

More NYE wonderland than music festival, Snack takes over Perth’s Claremont Showground with three main stages hosting epic music acts. Each stage has its own offshoot: The Pyramid Stage has a silent disco dancefloor, Sin City, a kissing booth, and the Duckzilla Stage, a VIP deck.

But that’s not all – in fact, it’s just the beginning. The festival also features thrilling rides and food trucks, as well as a beer garden, wedding chapel, snow park, piercing station, tattoo parlour and sumo wrestling ring. You’ll be having so much fun you won’t even notice the clock striking midnight.

Cherry Harmony Festival
Manjimup
13 December

Celebrate the local food and wine of Manjimup at the Cherry Harmony Festival this December. The flavour-fuelled day is full of exciting activities, including live music, street performances, exhibitions, workshops and the much-loved log-chopping competition.

Manjimup and the surrounding South West region of WA is known for its excellent cherry-growing conditions, making it an excellent place to do some seasonal fruit picking. But more importantly, it’s a great opportunity to support the community and get to know its local producers.

Attachment Styles
Perth
From 13 December

Opening 13 December at Perth’s Art Gallery of Western Australia, Attachment Styles: Modes of Belonging in Modern and Contemporary Art showcases some of the most recognisable works in Australian history. The landmark exhibition reveals the messy and magnetic ways humans connect – or don’t.

Highlights include Frederick McCubbin’s Down on his luck, Hans Heysen’s Droving into the light, Arthur Streeton’s The hillside and John Nash’s The Bathers. Alongside the iconic collection, visitors can expect a range of contemporary acquisitions from emerging Aussie artists like Tom Freeman, Mary Moore and Colleen Ahern.

Christmas Lights Cruise
Mandurah
Until early January

This month, step aboard one of Mandurah Cruises’ iconic boats for a Christmas Lights Cruise like no other. Homes along the city’s winding waterways come together each year to put on an incredible collective display, resulting in a kaleidoscope of colour for all to enjoy.

Millions of twinkling lights, decorations and installations are sure to get even the grumpiest of Grinches in the festive spirit. There are a variety of cruises to choose from, including a sensory-friendly option, departing nightly from the Mandurah Cruises Jetty in Mandjar Square.

What’s on in South Australia in December

Dougstock
Willunga
5–6 December

Dreaming of a hilltop escape that feels like a local secret? Look no further than Dougstock. The two-day music and camping festival in Willunga, on SA’s Fleurieu Peninsula, brings original Aussie artists together in a lush, elevated setting. Plus, artisan markets, food trucks, yoga sessions and good vibes, of course.

Whether you’re into psych-rock, jazz, soul or acoustics, the line-up is sure to excite – think Ripcord, Moose Juuce, Alexander Flood, Laura Hill and more. With campgrounds onsite, it’s the kind of weekend where you can really slow down, sink in and let the music carry you.

Carols by Candlelight
Adelaide
13 December

Head to Elder Park this month to soak up the magic of St John Carols by Candlelight, a timeless tradition among Adelaidians. Gates open early, and you’ll find live music, food trucks, Christmas markets, face painting and festive fun before the big singalong starts.

As night falls, the concert begins, with community choirs and star performers taking to the stage – including the winner of The Voice Australia 2025, Alyssa Depopolo. The evening culminates in an epic finale of fireworks, as thousands of voices join in for their favourite carols.

Lights of Lobethal
Adelaide Hills
12–23 December

A beacon of light to South Australians of all ages, the Lights of Lobethal is a volunteer-run festival in the Adelaide Hills suburb. Throughout its 60-year history, no other calendar event has built more morale, creating happy memories and spreading joy, hope and resilience throughout the local community.

Experience the magic of Christmas and ignite your sense of nostalgia by immersing yourself in impressive experiences, from fantastical light installations to traditional festive events. Think carols, nativity plays, markets and the annual Lobethal pageant.

What’s on in the Northern Territory in December

Symphony of the Soul
Darwin
6 December

In a touching farewell to their artistic director and chief conductor, Jonathan Tooby, the Darwin Symphony Orchestra is performing Tchaikovsky’s extraordinary Sixth Symphony Pathétique. Held at the city’s Entertainment Centre, Symphony of the Soul promises to fill the space with melodies that swell with both heartbreak and hope.

The evening begins with Bernstein’s sparkling Overture to Candide, followed by DSO’s own Bassoonist Robert Llewellyn, who will feature in Weber’s Bassoon Concerto. The one-night-only event also marks DSO’s final performance of 2025, so it’s definitely not one to miss.

Sip n’ Sleigh
Darwin
19 November – 23 December

Get into the festive spirit this month with Sip n’ Sleigh, an epic Christmas cocktail trail along the Darwin waterfront. You and your crew will wander between 10 different venues, sampling a special holiday drink at each stop, as well as delightful bites to keep you fuelled. It’s like a merry pub crawl, but make it classy!

Your ticket includes four drink tokens and four food tokens, so you can pick and choose what you’d like. Just grab your booklet guide from the Wave Lagoon kiosk, then set off to taste your way through the day – because nothing says Christmas in summer like refreshing cocktails and waterfront views.

Christmas Light Trail
Darwin
29 November – 4 January

Step into a tropical festive dream with Darwin waterfront’s 2025 Christmas Light Trail, where the night comes alive with giant decorations along a one-kilometre illuminated pathway. From a glowing Santa to a towering lighthouse and even a giant octopus — it’s beachy, magical and totally unique.

All December long, the waterfront will be bursting with merry energy: pop-up performers, roving entertainers, face-painting and more. Younger ones with little legs can jump onboard  the magical Waterfront Express, a mini train ride that tracks along the trail each night.

What’s on in the ACT in December

After the Rain
Canberra
From 6 December

Curated by Girramay/Yidinji/Kuku-Yalanji artist Tony Albert, the 5th National Indigenous Art Triennial: After the Rain spotlights 10 immersive, large-scale installations by both established and emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across Australia.

Exploring themes such as rebirth and cycles of cleansing, the recurring exhibition creates an important platform for ideas, art, conversation and connection by First Nations communities. Following its presentation at Canberra’s NGA, After the Rain will tour nationally, visiting cities like Perth, Alice Springs and Brisbane.

Spilt Milk
Canberra
13 December

Spilt Milk is gearing up for another huge year, and Canberrans won’t be missing out. The festival rolls into its hometown at Exhibition Park this month, bringing the same electric energy that’s made it one of Australia’s most in-demand music events. Past performers include big names like Post Malone, Flume and Fisher, so expectations for the 2025 line-up are high.

Beyond blockbuster artists, Spilt Milk is loved for its immersive extras. There’s the Guilty Pleasures singalong tent, Howdy Howdy country bar and iconic Bus Da Move party bus, just to name a few. This year’s art program doesn’t disappoint either, curated in collaboration with local and socially conscious art studios. 

Laughs on the Lake
Canberra
4 December

Some of Canberra’s best comedians are coming together this month for Laughs on the Lake by Love Boats, a cheeky comedy cruise that mixes stand-up with sunset views on Lake Burley Griffin. Settle in with a drink and a slice of freshly cooked pizza as your boat glides out onto the water and the jokes start rolling.

The show is MC’d by the fabulous Caitlin Maggs, with a line-up featuring Chris Malton, Sarah Stewart, Jeremy Smith, Jelin Palm, Sam Sila and Chris Begg. The one-night floating comedy club is guaranteed to leave you grinning long after you’ve returned to shore.