One of the joys of December with kids is how every little festive moment becomes a core memory waiting to happen. If you’re ready to lean into the magic (and get out of the house before someone breaks an ornament), here’s your guide to Christchurch’s best Christmas fun and sweet, seasonal things happening around the city this year. Perfect for building little traditions of your own.

Note: these are ordered by date with a few ongoing Christmas favourites at the end! Kate, @christchurchwthkids

Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park

Saturday 29 November – North Hagley Park

The classic Kiwi Christmas kick-off. Pack a picnic blanket, layer the kids in something comfy and settle in for live music, dancing and that big festive atmosphere that only Hagley Park can do. It gets busy, so plan to arrive early or bus in if you can. The fireworks at the end are such a treat for the kids and really make the night feel like the start of Christmas.

New Brighton Seaside Christmas Parade

Saturday 13 December – 10am

A proper community Christmas moment by the sea. Watch the colourful parade roll along the beachfront, meet Santa in his grotto and then wander the seaside market filled with crafts, gifts and yummy food. Kids love the relaxed beachy vibe and it’s such a fun way to start a festive weekend.

Festive Fun at The Arts Centre

The Arts Centre turns into the sweetest Christmas hub all season long. They’ve got carols, Christmas-themed makers markets, dance-and-jingle sessions, craft workshops and little surprises tucked everywhere. It’s such an atmospheric spot, especially wandering the historic buildings with the kids while everything feels sparkly and old-timey festive.

Fun in the City: Ballantynes + The Crossing

Ballantynes’ Christmas windows are a must-see every year - nostalgic, cosy and straight out of a Christmas movie. Head upstairs to their Christmas Shop where the trees, ornaments and displays make it feel like you’re stepping into your own Love Actually moment. Then wander through The Crossing from 9 December to find their sleigh setup and more festive touches the kids will love.

Festive Treat Hunting

Christchurch does Christmas treats so well. Sweet Soul Patisserie always brings out stunning themed cakes that look like tiny edible artworks. Moment Café has their special Christmas hot chocolates (peppermint or gingerbread… both dangerously good) and if you have the ROAM app you’ll get a free fluffy! Rollickin Gelato always releases a fun seasonal flavour that becomes a mini tradition for so many families and we can’t wait to discover this year’s creation. A perfect after-school outing or weekend adventure!

Moment Café’s special Christmas hot chocolates.

Garden City Christmas Mākete

Saturday 6 December - Wolfbrook Arena

A giant, full-of-heart Christmas market featuring over 200 incredible local makers and foodies. You can shop for thoughtful gifts, grab delicious eats and let the kids enjoy festive entertainment including Santa and the Grinch. It’s bustling in the best way and a lovely place to get into the creative, community side of Christmas. Free to enter.

Shands Road Christmas Lights Experience

29 November – 30 December, 8.30pm-11.30pm

This is Christmas chaos in the most magical way possible. A full animated village, a ferris wheel, garden trains, steampunk Santa control room, Disney characters, a gingerbread village, light show - wild and wonderful. Kids will absolutely lose their minds in the best way. Bring warm layers, a camera and $5 per child / $15 per adult for entry. A proper Christmas outing with wow factor!

Sweet Soul Patisserie treats almost look too good to eat!

Photos with Santa

A simple but classic childhood moment. Merivale, Westfield Riccarton, The Palms and Northlands all have Santa setups where little ones can sit, chat, or simply stare in awe. It’s a lovely keepsake for grandparents and the perfect excuse for a festive treat afterwards.

Sumner Beach Christmas Carols

11 December – 5.30pm, Matuku Takotako (Sumner Library)

A sweet, community-style carol evening featuring the Sumner Silver Band, face painting and that warm neighbourhood feeling. It’s relaxed, family-friendly and a gorgeous way to ease into the Christmas spirit by the beach. Bring a picnic or grab dinner in the village afterwards.

The Tannery Christmas Market

Thursday 4 December – 10am to 9pm

The Tannery comes alive with twinkly lights, local artisans and beautiful gift ideas. It’s the kind of market where you take your time wandering, soaking in the atmosphere and letting the kids admire the decorations. The whole place feels like a storybook at Christmas. Free entry, and great options for a meal after.

Kaiapoi Christmas Carnival & Santa Parade

Saturday 6 December – Kaiapoi Park

A full-day carnival with artisan stalls, music, food trucks and a big Santa parade at 1.30pm. There’s a proper family zone and loads to explore, making it a fun day trip from Christchurch city. It’s easy, festive and has that small-town Christmas charm. Free entry.

Christmas Riverside Farmers Market

Sunday 7 December – 10am to 3pm

Fresh produce out the front, handmade gifts in the centre and plenty of festive fun around every corner. Santa pops in, the food options are endless, and it’s an easy, relaxed way to get into the holiday spirit. Perfect for families who love a good Sunday outing. Free entry.

Carols by Candlelight

Christmas Eve – 9pm, Victoria Square

One of Christchurch’s most cherished traditions. Bring blankets, grab candles and join the city for an evening of beautiful choir singing and classic carols under the night sky. It’s peaceful, nostalgic and genuinely magical - the perfect way to end Christmas Eve before bedtime excitement begins.

The Best Christmas Things to Do and Events Christchurch