Darling Harbour Christmas Celebrations
Where holiday magic meets the harbour
From 17 November to 25 December, Christmas arrives in Darling Harbour with festive fun for all ages. Staying at Hotel Woolstore 1888 means you are just a short walk from sparkling waterfront celebrations, twinkling light displays and special moments made to share.
Sydney’s Floating Christmas Tree
Standing 10 metres tall in Cockle Bay, this dazzling tree is unlike anything Sydney has seen before. Watch as the ornaments shine bright by day and the entire structure transforms into a shimmering beacon of colour and light each evening over the water. The perfect backdrop for photos and festive evening strolls.
Christmas Fest in Tumbalong Park
On Saturday 13 December 2025 from 4pm to 9pm, Tumbalong Park becomes the joyful heart of Darling Harbour. The afternoon begins with sunshine, lawn games and live entertainers filling the grassy park with laughter. As the light softens, choirs rise in song and the evening transforms into a festive dance party the whole family can enjoy. Keep your eyes peeled for a special guest in red who always knows when to make an entrance!
Food is part of the fun too. Think summer bright flavours with a hint of Christmas nostalgia. Easy picnic style bites that feel fresh and familiar, designed for sharing as you settle onto the lawn and let the atmosphere wrap around you.
A little sparkle. A little mischief. A whole lot of cheer. Christmas Fest is the kind of event that makes the season feel alive.
Festive weekends done right
All season long, the precinct feels alive with decorations and atmosphere. Look out for:
- Christmas pedal boats drifting across the harbour
- Saturday night fireworks lighting up the sky
- Free family activations and roving performers
- Festive treats and outdoor markets
- Waterfront restaurants perfect for gathering and celebrating
Whether you spend your visit exploring the lights, enjoying the firework show or soaking in the harbour breeze, nothing beats having your room close by when you are ready to unwind.
Stay near the sparkle
Step out the door and you are moments from every festive highlight. Wander along the foreshore, take in the twinkle of Darling Harbour, then return to cosy comfort and a slow morning start at Percy the next day.
Christmas in Pyrmont feels warm, joyful and wonderfully easy when home is this close to the celebration.
Image credit: Darling Harbour