Christmas on the Gold Coast 2024: Carols, Lights & Festive Fun
As the calendar flips to December, the Gold Coast comes alive with the spirit of Christmas. Twinkling lights adorn streets, beachside carols echo across the shoreline, and the community gathers for a variety of festive celebrations. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, Swell Resort in Burleigh Heads makes for the perfect base to explore the city’s best holiday events. From dazzling light shows to family-friendly carols, there’s something for everyone this Christmas season on the Gold Coast.
North Burleigh Carols by the Sea
One of the most popular Christmas traditions on the Gold Coast, North Burleigh Carols by the Sea offers a magical evening of live music, festive tunes, and community spirit. Held at the scenic North Burleigh Beach, attendees can spread out a picnic rug on the sand and watch the sun dip below the horizon before the carollers take the stage. Children’s choirs and local performers often steal the show, singing all your favourite Christmas classics.
The event usually features a range of food stalls, so you can indulge in tasty holiday treats and drinks while getting into the spirit of the season. If you’re staying at Swell Resort, North Burleigh is just a short drive or a leisurely stroll along the beach, making it easy to immerse yourself in the holiday cheer.
Movie World White Christmas
For a truly magical evening, look no further than Movie World’s White Christmas. This annual extravaganza transforms the theme park into a winter wonderland, complete with artificial snow, dazzling light displays, and your favourite Warner Bros. characters dressed in festive attire. Families can take part in various Christmas-themed rides, meet Santa, and enjoy special live entertainment scheduled throughout the night.
The highlight of White Christmas is often the festive parade, featuring beloved characters such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Wonder Woman in their Christmas best. It’s a memorable event for kids (and the young at heart), and you’ll find no shortage of photo opportunities. If you’re looking for a sparkling blend of theme park thrills and holiday magic, White Christmas at Movie World is a must-see.
Carols on the Beach, Surfers Paradise
Few Christmas events are as iconic as Carols on the Beach in Surfers Paradise. Taking place right by the water, this free, family-friendly celebration features an array of performers singing timeless carols under the stars. The scent of the sea air, combined with fairy lights and a warm summer breeze, creates a uniquely Australian Christmas atmosphere.
Typically, the event rounds off with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the sky over the Pacific Ocean. Arrive early if you want to secure a good spot on the sand. Afterwards, you can treat yourself to a scoop of gelato or stroll along the famous Surfers Paradise strip to see the lively Christmas décor.
Cooly Carols
Hosted at Queen Elizabeth Park in Coolangatta, Cooly Carols is another highlight of the Gold Coast’s festive calendar. With the stunning backdrop of the coastline, families can enjoy an evening of live performances, interactive kids’ entertainment, and local market stalls. Santa often makes a special appearance, delighting children of all ages.
What sets Cooly Carols apart is the relaxed, community-driven atmosphere. Locals and visitors come together to share the joy of the season, making it a great chance to meet new friends and take in the relaxed coastal vibe that Coolangatta is known for. If you’re staying at Swell Resort, the drive down the coast to Coolangatta is scenic, ensuring you enjoy every moment of your festive outing.
Little ArtLab | Table Top Trees at HOTA
For those who enjoy creative pursuits, the Little ArtLab workshops at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) offer a fantastic opportunity to get crafty. This December, Table Top Trees is the featured project, where children (and adults) can design their own mini Christmas trees using a variety of art materials. Although primarily aimed at younger audiences, these sessions provide fun for the whole family.
Under the guidance of local artists, participants can experiment with textures, colours, and shapes to produce a personalised decoration worthy of adorning any holiday table. Combine your workshop with a visit to HOTA’s galleries or a stroll through the outdoor gardens for a culturally enriched holiday experience.
Tugun Lights Up
The Gold Coast isn’t shy about celebrating the festive season with spectacular light displays. Tugun Lights Up is a shining example of community spirit, transforming the suburb of Tugun into a twinkling wonderland each night in December. Local businesses, residents, and the council team up to decorate shopfronts, trees, and streets with hundreds of sparkling lights and Christmas-themed displays.
Take an evening walk through the heart of Tugun and immerse yourself in the glow of fairy lights—don’t forget your camera to capture the festive magic! The event often coincides with markets and live music performances, making it an enjoyable experience for both the young and the young at heart.
A Very Starry Christmas at The Star Gold Coast
For a more glamorous take on the holidays, look no further than A Very Starry Christmas at The Star Gold Coast. With its luxury dining, sparkling entertainment, and world-class casino facilities, The Star becomes even more vibrant come December. Expect pop-up bars serving festive cocktails, lavish decorations, and live shows themed around the season of giving.
Whether you fancy a lavish Christmas buffet or prefer a fine-dining experience, The Star’s diverse restaurant lineup has something to suit every palate. After your meal, try your luck on the gaming floor or catch a live performance. It’s an upscale way to add a touch of Christmas magic to your Gold Coast holiday.
Pictures with Santa at Stockland Burleigh Heads
No Christmas is complete without a visit to Santa. Stockland Burleigh Heads hosts a Pictures with Santa experience that’s perfect for capturing festive memories. Children can share their wish lists, while adults seize the chance for a family photo that you can treasure for years. The mall typically sets up a cheerful grotto, complete with twinkling lights, holiday décor, and a friendly team to ensure your photo experience goes smoothly.
Beyond Santa photos, Stockland Burleigh offers plenty of dining and shopping options, so you can stock up on holiday gifts or grab a bite after your photo session. Burleigh Heads, with its breathtaking beach just moments away, lets you seamlessly combine Christmas preparations with a seaside stroll.
Stay at Swell Resort This Holiday Season
No matter which events you choose to explore this December, Swell Resort in Burleigh Heads makes an ideal home base. Our spacious apartments provide ample room for families and groups of friends, and our on-site amenities (including a heated magnesium pool and full-sized tennis court) ensure you’ll have plenty to do when you’re not out enjoying the festive fun. Located just a short drive from each of these events, Swell Resort offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort.
Tips for a Merry and Stress-Free Christmas Stay
- Plan Ahead: Popular events like Carols by the Sea and White Christmas can get crowded, so arrive early or pre-purchase tickets where applicable.
- Check Schedules: While we’ve provided approximate dates, event times and programmes can change. Always consult the official websites for the latest information.
- Pack the Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen and hats—December on the Gold Coast is hot, even when you’re celebrating Christmas!
- Explore Locally: Take advantage of our prime location near Burleigh Beach. A morning swim or coastal walk is a relaxing way to start the day before diving into the festive activities.
Celebrate Christmas Gold Coast-Style
The Gold Coast’s festive spirit shines brighter every year, and December 2024 promises an array of carols, concerts, and creative workshops for all ages. Whether you’re marvelling at the lights of Tugun Lights Up, getting crafty at HOTA’s Little ArtLab, or singing along to your favourite tunes at any of the coast’s community carols, you’ll find endless ways to celebrate the season.
Book your holiday stay at Swell Resort and immerse yourself in a Christmas experience that blends sun-kissed beaches with festive charm. From the warm nights of Carols on the Beach to the wintery magic of Movie World’s White Christmas, December on the Gold Coast is guaranteed to create memories that last well beyond the holiday season.