Christmas has snuck up on us yet again, and it’s time to start searching for those perfect gifts your family deserves.
Christmas markets in Australia are a great way to discover unique presents your loved ones are sure to cherish for years to come. Originating in Europe, Christmas markets have become a beloved tradition worldwide. Here in Australia, you'll find incredible festive markets offering handcrafted merchandise from some of our most talented artisans.
Our markets offer much more than just shopping. Enjoy delicious food stalls, entertainment, and a lot of holiday cheer. So, head to one of these incredible Christmas markets in Australia located right here on our home soil and remember to stay safe this holiday season.
Should you find yourself planning a trip to one of the best Christmas Markets in Australia, make sure you keep your holidays merry and bright by protecting yourself with domestic travel coverage.
Why Visit Christmas Markets in Australia?
Australia’s Christmas markets are unique because they bring a local twist to a global tradition. Instead of snowy streets and roasted chestnuts, you’ll often find sunny outdoor venues and fresh, seasonal delicacies. Here’s what makes them worth exploring:
1. Support Local Businesses: Many stalls feature small Australian artisans, so every purchase supports local creators.
2. Holiday Atmosphere: The festive music, twinkling lights, and cheerful crowds make these events unmissable.
3. Unique Gift Opportunities: Skip mass-produced goods for one-of-a-kind presents your loved ones will treasure.
4. Community Spirit: These events bring people together, making them perfect for families, friends, and solo explorers alike.
Top Christmas Markets in Australia 2024
1. Hahndorf Christkindlmarkt, South Australia
📅 When: 13th to 15th December 2024
⏰ Time: 3pm to 10pm
📍 Location: Corner of Main Street & Auricht Road, Hahndorf
You may not have heard of the small town of Hahndorf, but situated just outside of Adelaide’s CBD, you’ll find a lovely European-style Christmas market. Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, Hahndorf offers historic German architecture and food along its Main Street throughout the year.
What to Expect:
- Over 50 artisanal stalls with gifts, crafts, and food.
- Authentic German treats like bratwurst and glühwein.
- Free entry and nightly Carols by Candlelight.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to enjoy Hahndorf’s quaint Main Street before the market opens.
2. BrisStyle Twilight Markets, Brisbane, Queensland
📅 When: 6th and 20th December 2024
⏰ Time: 4pm to 9pm
📍 Location: King George Square, Brisbane, Queensland
Brisbane holds numerous Twilight Markets throughout the year, but the Christmas one is always a fan favourite. Running from 4pm to 9pm on December 6th, 2024, this market doesn’t exactly classify as twilight like most of its other markets. You won’t find any mass-produced goods here, nor will you find anything imported from overseas. Instead, you will find unique 100% handmade products from talented local artisans.
It is one of those rare times when you can actually meet the person who has made the gifts or goods you purchase.
You can easily walk to the markets from the Queen Street Mall and Central Train Station, where you will find the markets above the King George Square Busway.
What to Expect:
- Unique, high-quality crafts from Queensland’s best artisans
- Workshops where you can create your own gifts
- Delicious bites from local food trucks and live music for a festive vibe.
Insider Tip: Bring reusable bags to carry your purchases and reduce waste.
3. Le Jolly Market, Sydney, NSW
📅 When: 13th - 22nd December 2024
⏰ Time: 5pm to 10:30pm
📍 Location: Belmore Park, Haymarket
Le Jolly Market brings the magic of a European Christmas to Sydney, located conveniently next to Central Station. With charming wood-hut chalets, Live Carols, locally sourced artisan products and snowfall, this winter wonderland is a must-visit. Enjoy food and drinks as you stroll through the festive stalls.
What to Expect:
- Artisanal gifts perfect for unique stocking fillers
- Gourmet food and drink, including French-inspired pastries
- A romantic atmosphere ideal for evening strolls.
4. Mornington Racecourse Twilight Christmas Market, Victoria
📅 When: 14th December 2024
⏰ Time: 3pm to 8pm
📍 Location: Mornington Racecourse, Victoria
The Mornington Racecourse Twilight Christmas Market is perfect for those looking for handmade, homemade, and homegrown goods. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with local artisans showcasing their unique products.
What to Expect:
- Local farmers and artisans showcasing their best goods
- Kid-friendly activities and festive music
5. Salamanca Market, Tasmania
📅 When: Every Saturday
⏰ Time: 8:30am to 3pm
📍 Location: Salamanca Place, Hobart
Salamanca Market is a Hobart institution, offering over 300 stalls of unique gifts, food, and entertainment. It's the perfect place to find quirky presents and enjoy the festive spirit.
What to Expect:
- Local delicacies like Tasmanian honey, cheeses, and wines.
- Handmade crafts, including ceramics and textiles.
- Vibrant street performances and a cheerful holiday atmosphere.
Insider Tip: Check out nearby Battery Point for scenic views and cosy cafes.
6. Martin Place Christmas Markets, Sydney, NSW
📅 When: 28-30th November, 1, 5-7, 12-14, 19-21 December 2024
⏰ Time: 11am to 9pm
📍 Location: Martin Place, Sydney, NSW
The Martin Place Christmas Markets are a festive highlight in Sydney, transforming Martin Place into a winter wonderland with twinkling Christmas lights, live music, and holiday-themed stalls. These markets offer a curated selection of artisanal crafts, unique Christmas gifts, and sustainable products, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind presents that capture the holiday spirit.
Don't miss the chance to visit Sydney's main Christmas tree nearby. This stunning tree is the tallest in New South Wales, adorned with over 110,000 LED lights, a 3.4-meter colour-changing star, and 330 specially created glossy baubles. Its 800 branches are decorated with 15,000 flowers representing nine different kinds of Australian flora, including banksia, waratah, and bottlebrush.
Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets
- Plan Ahead: Check the dates and times of the markets you want to visit.
- Stay Safe: Keep your holidays merry and bright by protecting yourself with domestic travel coverage.
- Bring Cash: Some stalls may not accept card payments
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
- Enjoy the Experience: Take your time to explore, enjoy the food, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
