Christmas in Brisbane:
Festive fun for families

Where to Stay: A Festive Family Sleepover

It’s the Christmas school holidays, so enjoy a family staycation and make the most of all the family-friendly activities that are happening in the heart of Brisbane City. Amora Hotel Brisbane and Voco Brisbane both offer a comfortable and relaxed family space with views of the Brisbane River. W Brisbane is fun for the whole family, with quirky interiors, incredible views and even a mini playground for the young ones. Stamford Plaza Brisbane will place you in a quieter part of The City, next to the Brisbane Botanical Gardens, perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll.

Follow the trail of Tiny Doors

Add a little wonder as you explore The City by foot with the Brisbane Christmas Tiny Doors Trail. Scattered throughout The City, you’ll find these miniature festive doors that turn the streets into a whimsical treasure hunt. Find all [insert number] with our insiders guide to the door locations. It’s a great way for kids to explore, get active, and soak up the holiday atmosphere, while you can enjoy The City’s Christmas charm along the way.

Kick off with festive magic

As the sun starts to set and The City lights begin to sparkle, make your way to King George Square, the heart of Christmas in The City, to find Brisbane’s most spectacular Christmas Tree — a dazzling centrepiece that captures the spirit of the season, and is the perfect spot for family photos. Plan your visit for 28 November to catch the Lord Mayor’s Lighting of the Christmas Tree event which kicks off the festivities around The City.

From 5 December, head back to King George Square to experience the City Hall Light Spectacular. This enchanting nightly show projects festive stories onto the historic City Hall façade, delighting families with a kaleidoscope of colour and Christmas magic.

Shop with sparkle

Tackle your Christmas shopping together (without the stress) with the extended trading hours at Queen Street Mall. With over 500 retailers, there’s something for everyone - from fashion and books to toys and tech, you can pick up gifts for the whole family, even yourself at any time of day.

Between stores, take the time to enjoy the magical Christmas decorations and light displays found all throughout the mall. The kids will love to discover Brisbane City’s new decorations that will provide the perfect family photo opportunity as the Mall twinkles through the day and night. Don’t forget to stop by Uptown for the infamous Christmas window display featuring Candy Coated magic.

Refuel together

After a big day, gather the family for a relaxed dinner at one of The City’s many family-friendly restaurants. From casual eats to international favourites, there are plenty of options that cater to even the pickiest little diners. Find Jimmy’s on the Mall, Longtime, Brew and many others in Queen Street Mall, or wonder a little further afield for Communa Cantina, Corbett and Claude or Winghaus.

Breakfast

Coffee and breakfast are much needed to keep energy levels high for all the festive activities. Find Felix for Goodness in Burnett Lane for a delicious veggie forward menu or Nodo Donuts that is home to a Gluten Free only menu. For coffee and breakfast on the go, drop into one of The City’s best coffee shops and you won’t be disappointed.

Add in some fun & games

Keep the kids (and teens) entertained the next morning with a wide range of activities. Challenge the family to a bowling match or putt putt at Strike in Wintergarden or team up and test your minds in an escape room adventure.

Catch a Christmas Show

Nothing says Christmas quite like live entertainment. Head to Queen Street Mall Stage for find a Christmas Magic Circus Show for a dazzling performance that will wow the little ones, A Christmas Dreamscape and many more incredible performances for immense family-friendly fun.