Seasonal splendour: A quick guide to local council Christmas events near you
From tree festivals to carols and holiday markets, there are many ways to celebrate across Adelaide this festive season.
Along with a chance to grab a unique last-minute gift, you can expect a visit (or two) from Santa, magical light displays and yummy Christmas treats from Adelaide’s best.
We’ve wrapped up a range of favourite community Christmas events to get you started!
Meander Market on Melbourne Street
2 December 2023, 10:00am to 3:00pm
Melbourne St, North Adelaide
Who doesn’t love a Christmas edition of a market? Presented by Artisans of Adelaide, the much-loved market of North Adelaide will deliver an eclectic range of locally made artisan goods. Melbourne Street will feature unique stalls alongside their top-notch cafes and shops, so you can be sure to find a beautiful gift while grabbing a sweet treat or bite to eat.
Discover more about the Meander Market
Glanvillle Hall Twilight Christmas Market
1 December 2023, 4:00pm to 9:00pm
Glanvillle Hall, Park Ave, Semaphore South
Enjoy a summery eve at the beachside Christmas market in Semaphore South. Packed wood-fired pizzas, street foods, a full bar and live music, the Glanville Hall lawns will become alive with Christmas spirit. Catch the free face painting and Christmas characters from 5pm.
Find out more about Glanville Hall Twilight Christmas Market
Lights of Lobethal Festival
9 to 23 December 2023
Lobethal
A regular fixture on many South Australian’s Christmas calendar, the ‘Lobethal Lights’ is back for another year of delight for all ages. Claiming the worthy title of largest community Christmas light display in the southern hemisphere, it’s easy to spend an evening walking or driving through this lovely community Christmas display.
Discover more about the Lights of Lobethal
Campbelltown Community Christmas events
Christmas at Campbelltown is almost as big as Santa himself!
Kick off the fun with a driving or walking tour of homes and businesses decorated with festive lights. Use their handy Christmas lights map to help you find the best spots.
The council are also offering residents a free community bus tour of the Christmas lights, generously run by volunteers. Running from Monday 4 December to Sunday 31 December, 8:30am – 11:00pm, there’s plenty of time to see the local lights this summer.
There’s also the not-to-be-missed Campbelltown Christmas Carols and Movie event, held at the recently redeveloped Max Amber Sportsfield. Sing along to carols by the Campbelltown City Band and enjoy the food stalls, face painting and a special visit from Santa. All before an outdoor screening of ‘Elf’. Pop Saturday 16 December at 6pm in your calendar and bring a picnic rug.
Find out more about Christmas at Campbelltown
Glenelg Christmas Tree Festival
29 November to 3 December, various times
St Peter’s Church, Torrens Square, Glenelg
This year, St Peter’s Church will be transformed into a Christmasy enchanted land of trees, wreaths and banners. You’re invited to wander through the beautiful displays crafted by local community groups, schools, churches and people from the City of Holdfast Bay. After you’ve absorbed all the Christmas you can, browse the gift stalls and enjoy a spot of Devonshire tea close by. A special market day on Saturday and Ukulele Christmas Carols on Sunday evening will keep your Christmas spirits high.
Discover more about the Christmas Tree Festival
Blackwood Christmas Tree Festival
9 and 10 December, 10:00am to 4:00pm
Tiwu Kumangka, 2 Young St, Blackwood
Supported by a City of Mitcham grant, the Blackwood Christmas Tree Festival is a culmination of monthly community craft sessions where residents have created beautifully decorated trees, handmade gifts, cards, wreaths and tree decorations.
As well as being a sight to behold, items are available for sale and the money raised is donated to the Blackwood CFS and the Lions Hearing Dogs project.
Find out more about Mitcham's Christmas events
Christmas in the Square
3 December, 6:30pm to 9:30pm
Henley Square, Seaview Road, Henley Beach
Join your community down at Henley Square for a night of carols and great food, all topped off with fireworks!
It’s rumoured Santa will stop by, so keep an eye out while the kids get into the free activities and pre-show entertainment. Pack the picnic gear and invite your friends for carolling fun.
Find out more about the Christmas in the Square
Watercolour Christmas Cards workshop
18, 20 and 21 December, 2:00pm to 3:00pm
Various locations across the City of Marion
Held across the City of Marion’s libraries and civic centres, you are invited to join in a relaxed art session where you can create a beautiful holiday card using watercolour paints. What a perfect way to pause and slow down during the business of December!
Suitable for all ages and no experience necessary. All materials will be provided, so you can settle into a festive flow and work on your masterpiece!
