Parramatta lights up for Christmas with family activities
PARRAMATTA will light up this Christmas with a free, star-studded carols concert headlined by some of Australia’s best-known performers, the annual Christmas tree lighting and a packed program of live music, festive markets and family entertainment.
Celebrations kick off on November 26 with Christmas Markets bringing artisan food, gifts and festive treats to Parramatta Square from 11am with Santa photos and roving elves before the lighting of the 18-metre Christmas tree at 8pm.
Kate Miller-Heidke will headline the concert on 12 December, hosted by Jay Laga’aia and Justine Clarke, with a free petting zoo, amusement rides, horse and carriage rides, face painting and a fireworks finale at 9pm.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Cameron MacLean said the program gives people plenty of reasons to celebrate Christmas in the heart of Parramatta.
“Christmas is a special time in Parramatta and this year we’re bringing our community together with a fantastic program of entertainment, markets and activities for the whole family,” Cr MacLean said.
“From some of Australia’s best performers at our Christmas Carols to local musicians, shopping for gifts at the markets and the lighting of our Christmas tree, there is so much to see and do during this magical time of the year.
“I encourage our community to bring their family and friends, soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy everything our City has to offer.”
Parramatta Square will again transform into a festive marketplace from 17-22 December, with Christmas Markets running daily from 11am-9pm.
Visitors can discover 40 stalls of unique treats, handcrafted gifts and local art, enjoy gourmet food with live music.
The annual Seniors’ Christmas Celebration is bringing a festive cheer to Riverside Theatres with a relaxed morning tea, raffle and a performance of A Very Merry Christmas Variety Show for residents with a valid NSW Seniors Card on 1 December.
2026 Christmas program
Tree Lighting and Christmas Markets
When: Thursday 26 November
Time: 11am-9pm, 8pm for tree lighting
Where: Parramatta Square
Cost: Free
Seniors’ Christmas Celebration
When: Tuesday 1 December
Time: 9.30am-12pm
Where: Riverside Theatres
Cost: Free, registration essential. Open to Parramatta LGA residents with a valid NSW Seniors Card only
Carols in Parramatta Park
When: Saturday 12 December
Time: 3-9pm, fireworks display at 9pm
Where: Parramatta Park
Cost: Free entry
Christmas Markets
When: Thursday 17 to Tuesday 22 December
Time: 11am-9pm
Where: Parramatta Square
Cost: Free
This year’s Carols in Parramatta Park is supported by Greater Sydney Parklands and Westfield Parramatta.
The Christmas Markets are supported by Walker Corporation. For more information about the City’s Christmas events and activities, visit www.atparramatta.com
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