Christmas in Brisbane:
Nostalgic moments for the young at heart
Rediscover the magic of Christmas in Brisbane City, take a trip down memory lane or create new memories with your grandkids.
Time to shop
Start your Christmas shopping early in Queen Street Mall with extended trading hours to beat the crowds and afternoon heat. Enjoy the comfort of air-conditioned shopping centres such as QueensPlaza, Uptown and MacArthur Central and stroll between the stores through the open-air, accessible walkways.
Amongst the 500 stores, you’ll be sure to find gifts for your family - from the youngest to the oldest and you may even find a little something for yourself along the way. From the walkways to the individual shops, the festive atmosphere can be felt all around.
Reminisce and indulge
If you’re looking for a sense of tradition or old-world charm, a visit to the Brisbane Arcade in Queen Street Mall is a must. Take a seat in the corridor and marvel at the beautiful decorations that perfectly compliment the building’s interior and heritage storefronts.
Discover standout novelty gift stores like The Pen Shoppe, The Model Shoppe and Keri Craig Emporium, where you’ll find bespoke gifts for someone special. When it’s time to rest after exploring the beautiful stores, The Room with Roses is the perfect spot to stop in for morning tea or a leisurely high tea.
Nostalgia with the grandkids
If you are spending the day with your grandkids, discover the wide range of kid-friendly Christmas events happening all across The City. Experience the nostalgic feeling of seeing the Uptown Christmas Windows that always tell a unique Christmas story or admiring the Queen Street Mall decorations.
Make some new memories with your grandkids and take part in a Tiny Door scavenger hunt with the help of our guide, watch one of The Magic & Circus Shows in the mall, or listen to live performers in the heart of Queen Street Mall.
Christmas magic
On 28 November make your way to King George Square to experience the Lord Mayor’s Lighting of the Christmas Tree in the heart of The City on 28 November - a much-loved Brisbane tradition. Enjoy an evening filled with live entertainment and the special moment when the tree lights marking the beginning of the festive season.
From 5 December, visit King George Square to see City Hall transform into a vibrant display of captivating visuals and a heart-warming festive story for the whole family to enjoy. If you’re visiting town after 10 December, you can head to Queens Wharf Brisbane to see the spectacular Sono Lumo light display.
Wine and dine
Take your time and enjoy a delicious meal while you’re in The City. Whether you prefer alfresco dining by the river, a hidden gem tucked down a laneway, or a family friendly place for the grandkids, Brisbane City has plenty of wonderful places to eat and unwind. It’s the perfect way to rest your feet, share jolly stories, and refuel before (or after) your Christmas shopping.
