Christmas in Geelong: Family events, lights and things to do

Saturday 22 November

Christmas in Geelong kicks off at Steampacket Gardens with Denis Walter’s Carols by the Bay and the Floating Christmas Tree lighting. It is the official start to the season and a great night out for families.

After the launch, the tree lights up the waterfront every night with a six minute sound and light show running every 15 minutes between 8.30pm and midnight. It is free and easy to watch from anywhere along the bay.

School Christmas Trees at Johnstone Park
22 November to 7 January
Johnstone Park fills with 30 decorated trees made by local primary schools. A quick stop, especially if you are already in the city.

Christmas Performance Trail
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
28 November to 14 December
Central Geelong comes to life with pop up music, dancers and street performers rotating around the city. Short, fun and easy to catch while shopping.

Carousel Christmas with Santa
2 to 23 December
Meet Santa, enjoy morning or afternoon tea and ride the historic Carousel. Sessions run through December and tickets are required.

Christmas nights at the Carousel
13 and 20 December
Two relaxed Christmas themed evenings with Carousel rides, craft and a festive atmosphere. No bookings needed.

Windows of the World
3 December to 7 January
Illuminated displays celebrating cultures from across the globe at the Yarra Street Window Gallery in Market Square.

Geelong Christmas Market
20 December
Little Malop Street Central hosts a festive edition of the weekly Geelong City Market with stalls, gifts and local makers.

Christmas activities at the National Wool Museum – various dates
Craft sessions, a sustainable wrapping workshop and a Christmas themed museum adventure for families. A quick and easy indoor option.

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The Greatest Christmas Show
30 November
A family friendly Christmas stage show featuring illusions, vocals, dancers, cirque acts and a visit from Santa at the Geelong Arts Centre.

A Celtic Christmas
18 December
A Taste of Ireland brings its holiday show to the Geelong Arts Centre with dancers, live musicians and classic Christmas favourites.

29 November to 24 December

Experience Victoria’s largest Christmas lights display with 3.3 million lights, 1000 installations, theme park rides, performances and Santa. It runs for 4.5 hours each night and is one of the region’s biggest festive events.

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Dates: 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 December.
All aboard for a theatrical Christmas journey at the Bellarine Railway. Expect live storytelling, a hot chocolate, carols and a visit from Santa, with each child receiving a silver bell.

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Open 7 Days: 10am - 5pm
Explore a huge range of Christmas decorations, trees, lights, gifts and homewares at Big Christmas on Mercer Street. Ideal for stocking up or getting inspired.

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Geelong comes alive at Christmas with lights, events and plenty of easy ways to spend time with family and friends. Plan a visit, pick a few favourites and enjoy the season.