With December here, Brisbane comes alive in a magical way and there are plenty of free or low-cost experiences to soak up the Christmas spirit. Here are some top picks around the city, straight from Brisbane City Council’s seasonal lineup.
1. Christmas Tiny Doors (1–24 December)
Starting from 1 December, go on a charming treasure hunt for the little Christmas themed tiny doors designed by local artist Mace Robertson. Hidden across the city in spots like Queen Street Mall, King George Square, MacArthur Central, Post Office Square, Queens Wharf, Queens Plaza, Wintergarden, and Uptown these whimsical doors are great for families, friends, or a relaxed afternoon stroll.
2. City Hall Lights (5–24 December)
From 5 December, every night from 7:30 pm to midnight, Brisbane’s iconic City Hall is transformed into a living storybook. Through light projections and sound, A Christmas Blackout tells a heart-warming story about community, connection, and the true spirit of Christmas. No bookings are required, and the show runs every 15 minutes in King George Square.
3. Christmas on Queen (December Daily Performances)
Throughout December, Queen Street Mall hosts roving Christmas entertainers, from roller-skating candy canes and stilt walkers to musical trios and more. Performers appear daily during two windows: 11am–3pm and 4pm–8pm. It’s a lovely way to break up your city shopping or make a casual visit to the mall part of your festive evening.
4. The Magic & Circus Show – Christmas Edition (Weekends in December)
Every Saturday and Sunday in December (6–7, 13–14, and 20–21), stop by the Queen Street Mall stage for a family-friendly circus and magic show. Rhett Marrow and Jason Gray bring their talents with delightful tricks, laughter, and festive energy. Performances run at 12pm and 1pm.
5. Lunchtime Christmas Carols (15–24 December)
Take a midday break from shopping or work and enjoy Lunchtime Carols in Queen Street Mall. The Underground Opera will perform a mix of traditional and contemporary Christmas carols at 12pm and 1pm daily from 15–24 December.
6. Sono Lumo: A World of Sound, Light & Imagination (10–21 December)
One of the season’s standout events, Sono Lumo, lights up Queen’s Wharf Brisbane from 10–21 December (except 15–16). There are three nightly shows at 7:15pm, 8:15pm, and 9:15pm.