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Your ultimate Christmas travel guide for Perth

Perth transforms Christmas into a sun-soaked celebration, where Indian Ocean beaches meet festive light displays and outdoor gatherings replace winter traditions. This guide helps you navigate Western Australia's capital during its warmest, brightest holiday season.

Top things to do

1. Follow the Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail

Best for: Families, photographers, couples seeking Perth's signature festive experience

Perth's premier Christmas event features 22 vibrant light installations spanning 3.5 kilometres through the CBD and Northbridge. Experience Christmas Tree Lane at Yagan Square, the immersive Moodjar Sentinels honouring Nyoongar culture, and the interactive Elfie Selfie at Elizabeth Quay.

Where: Perth CBD and Northbridge

When: 28 November to 28 December 2025, nightly 6:00pm to 1:00am (projections start approximately 7:45pm)

Around the corner: Take a shorter family-friendly route called "The Merry Mile" or join free walking tours led by iCity volunteers, with Santa visits at Council House.

Tip: Visit on weeknights between 7:45pm and 9:00pm for best photos without weekend crowds; the trail is fully wheelchair accessible.

2. Experience the Lotterywest Festive Lights

Best for: Thrill-seekers, families with older children, spectacle lovers

Witness a massive 500-piece drone show combined with fireworks launching from the Elizabeth Quay footbridge, creating one of Perth's most spectacular visual celebrations.

Where: Elizabeth Quay

When: 13 and 14 December 2025, show starts 8:00pm

Around the corner: Explore Elizabeth Quay Fun Fair running from 6 December to 9 January 2026, featuring rides and waterfront entertainment.

Tip: Arrive by 7:15pm to secure prime viewing positions along the waterfront; public transport is recommended as parking fills quickly.

3. Attend the Alinta Energy Christmas Pageant

Best for: Families with young children, tradition seekers, first-time visitors

Join Western Australia's beloved tradition since 1972, featuring spectacular floats, marching bands, dancers, local celebrities, and the grand arrival of Santa Claus through Perth's city streets.

Where: Perth CBD streets

When: 6 December 2025, kicks off 7:00pm

Around the corner: Continue to Yagan Square after the parade to enjoy the Christmas Tree Lane light installation and festive atmosphere.

Tip: Claim viewing spots along the parade route by 6:15pm; bring small folding chairs or picnic blankets for children's comfort.

4. Visit Santa's Christmas Village

Best for: Families with children aged 3-10, heat avoiders, interactive experience seekers

Perth's ultimate all-indoor Christmas wonderland features hands-on activities, immersive festive décor, and relief from summer heat at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Where: Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre, Pavilions 2 & 3

When: 6 to 24 December 2025 (ticketed event, advance booking required)

Around the corner: Walk to Elizabeth Quay train station for easy transport connections, or enjoy three hours of free weekend parking nearby.

Tip: Book tickets online in advance as sessions sell out; visit morning sessions on weekdays for shortest queues and coolest temperatures.

5. Enjoy WASO Lotterywest Christmas Spectacular

Best for: Music lovers, families, anyone seeking Perth's premier free concert

Experience Western Australia's biggest festive concert featuring the West Australian Symphony Orchestra with over 150 musicians and singers performing carols and movie hits.

Where: RAC Arena

When: 20 December 2025, showtimes at 2:00pm and 7:00pm

Around the corner: Perth CBD is a short walk away, with numerous dining options for pre-concert meals or post-show drinks.

Tip: Free tickets must be booked through Ticketek or WASO website; book immediately when released as both sessions reach capacity within days.

6. Spend Christmas Day at Cottesloe Beach

Best for: Traditional Australian Christmas seekers, beach lovers, social atmosphere enthusiasts

Join thousands at Perth's most iconic beach, packed with festive-dressed locals enjoying their annual holiday tradition of beachside celebrations with Santa hats and sunny weather.

Where: Cottesloe Beach

When: Christmas Day, 25 December 2025

Around the corner: Visit nearby Bathers Beach or Leighton Beach for quieter alternatives with similar facilities and beautiful sunsets over the Indian Ocean.

Tip: Arrive before 8:00am to secure BBQ spots and shaded areas; bring all supplies as shops close, and swim only between red and yellow flags.

7. Explore Fremantle Markets

Best for: Gift hunters, foodies, culture seekers wanting authentic local atmosphere

Browse over 150 stalls at these historic markets selling fresh produce, street food, art, homewares, and unique gifts in Fremantle's vibrant heritage precinct.

Where: Fremantle Markets, South Terrace

When: Open throughout December except 25 December and 1 January

Around the corner: Walk to Fremantle Arts Centre to explore the Bazaar Makers Market (5-7 December) featuring high-quality designer crafts in beautiful gardens.

Tip: Visit Friday evenings or Saturday mornings for best selection and atmosphere; parking is easier on Sundays after 12pm.

8. Attend Carols in the City

Best for: Families, traditional Christmas lovers, anyone wanting fireworks finale

Celebrate at Perth's major free carols event featuring a Kids Santa-land, food vendors, live performances, and a spectacular fireworks display to close the evening.

Where: Supreme Court Gardens

When: 20 December 2025, 6:30pm to 9:30pm

Around the corner: Walk through the nearby Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail installations for extended festive atmosphere after the fireworks.

Tip: Arrive by 6:00pm with picnic blankets and folding chairs; bring battery-powered fans as evening temperatures remain warm.

9. Shop at Perth Makers Market Twilight Christmas

Best for: Unique gift seekers, craft enthusiasts, anyone supporting local makers

Browse over 80 Western Australian makers and stallholders featuring handmade gifts, live music, food trucks, and a special Santa appearance at this twilight market.

Where: Supreme Court Gardens

When: 29 November 2025, 4:00pm to 9:00pm

Around the corner: Continue your evening by walking through the nearby CBD section of the Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail, starting at Yagan Square.

Tip: Bring reusable shopping bags and cash for smaller stalls; arrive around 5:00pm for best selection before evening crowds.

10. Visit Christmas Party at the Zoo

Best for: Families with young children, animal lovers, anyone avoiding beach crowds

Meet Santa, spot a live Elf on the Shelf, dance to music on the main lawn, and enjoy close encounters with Perth Zoo's animals during this special festive event.

Where: Perth Zoo, South Perth

When: Multiple dates in December 2025 (check Perth Zoo website for specific times)

Around the corner: Walk to Mends Street Foreshore for riverside dining and Swan River views, or catch the ferry to Elizabeth Quay from South Perth.

Tip: Book tickets online as sessions have capacity limits; morning sessions are cooler and animals are more active during feeding times.

11. Attend Community Carols by the Lake

Best for: Families with children of all abilities, accessibility-conscious travellers

Join Perth's highly accessible carols event featuring children's activities, an animal farm, wheelchair basketball demonstrations, and a dedicated chill-out zone for sensory breaks.

Where: Lake Monger

When: 7 December 2025

Around the corner: Walk around Lake Monger's scenic 3.5-kilometre path, popular with birdwatchers spotting black swans and other wildlife.

Tip: This event is specifically designed for inclusive access; contact organizers in advance if you need specific accessibility support or parking.

12. Experience S&R Orchard Christmas Festival

Best for: Instagram enthusiasts, families, anyone wanting Christmas photo opportunities

Transform your visit into a magical experience with themed props, falling "snow" effects, fruit picking, animal farm encounters, and tractor rides at this popular orchard.

Where: S&R Orchard, Walliston

When: Throughout December 2025 (specific dates to be announced, typically early December)

Around the corner: Explore Perth Hills wine region, with multiple wineries and breweries offering tastings and lunch service throughout December.

Tip: Book online as sessions sell out; visit weekday mornings for best lighting and fewer crowds for photos; wear closed-toe shoes for orchard walking.

Your perfect Christmas itinerary

Day 1: Christmas Eve

Start with a calm, practical Christmas Eve morning:

  • Preview the Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail in daylight to map your evening route and photograph installations without crowds.
  • Stop at Supreme Court Gardens to browse any remaining Christmas Eve market stalls.
  • Walk through Yagan Square to see Christmas Tree Lane and the GeomeTree installation.
  • Visit Fremantle Markets for last-minute gifts and fresh produce before early closure.
  • Buy all Christmas Day supplies today, as Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi are fully closed on 25 December.

Spend the afternoon outdoors or cooling off near the coast:

  • Explore Kings Park, including bushland trails and panoramic river views.
  • Use the free Summer of Free Public Transport (starts today) to move easily around the city.
  • Visit Perth Zoo for cooler-temperature animal encounters.
  • Head to Cottesloe Beach for a gentle swim or a relaxed early dinner before Christmas Day crowds.
  • Reserve a Christmas Eve dinner at a waterfront venue, as walk-ins may be limited.

Experience Perth’s festive lighting after dark:

  • Return to Yagan Square around 7:45pm when projections begin.
  • Walk the full 3.5 km Lights Trail through the CBD and Northbridge, stopping at Moodjar Sentinels and Elfie Selfie.
  • Join an iCity volunteer tour if operating that night.
  • Head back early to rest for Christmas Day, or

Attend midnight mass at St Mary’s Cathedral for a traditional Christmas Eve service.

Day 2: Christmas Day

Begin Christmas Day early before heat and crowds peak:

  • Arrive at the beach before 8:00am to secure shade and BBQ facilities.
  • Choose your style:
  • Cottesloe for the classic festive atmosphere
  • Trigg, Bathers Beach, or City Beach for quieter settings
  • Bring everything you need (food, drinks, umbrellas, sunscreen) as all shops remain closed.
  • Swim only between red and yellow flags for lifesaver supervision.
  • Non-beach alternative: Perth Zoo’s Christmas buffet or indoor attractions that remain open.

Pace your day around the heat:

  • Enjoy your pre-booked Christmas Day lunch at a waterfront or inner-city restaurant.
  • If staying at the beach:
  • Take frequent shade breaks between 1pm–4pm
  • Stay hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol before swimming
  • Families: Consider returning to accommodation during peak heat for rest and cooling.

End your Christmas Day with a calm coastal or city walk:

  • Watch an Indian Ocean sunset at Cottesloe or Scarborough.
  • Prepare a simple Christmas dinner at your accommodation using Christmas Eve supplies.
  • Take a slow evening stroll along the Swan River foreshore or through Kings Park as temperatures drop.
  • Unwind early before continuing your Perth holiday toward New Year’s Eve.

Know before you go

Applying sunscreen on arm under clear sky
  • Expect intense summer heat: Daytime highs commonly sit around 30°C and can exceed 40°C during heatwaves.
  • Daily range: Typical maximums 25–36°C; night minimums 14–22°C.
  • High UV risk: Sun protection between 10:00 and 16:00 is essential.
  • Heat management: Reapply SPF 30+ every few hours, wear UV sunglasses and a hat, and seek shade.
  • Packing tip: Bring breathable cotton or linen plus one light layer for cooler evenings.
  • Health tip: Hydrate constantly and monitor forecasts for extreme-heat warnings.
Young children having an adventure and playing in the shallow waves on the beach in the evening sunset at Scarborough beach, Perth
  • Beaches fill fast: Cottesloe and Scarborough reach capacity early on Christmas Day; plan to arrive before 8am
  • Quieter alternatives: Trigg, Bathers Beach, City Beach and Rockingham are less chaotic choices.
  • Evening peak for lights: Lights Trail crowds peak 7–9pm, especially on weekends.
  • Event timing: Pageants and concerts draw large families; arrive early for good spots.
  • CBD note: The CBD is very quiet on 25 December; most shops are closed.
  • Practical tip: Secure BBQs and prime seafront areas early in the morning.
Person in a hotel room with luggage, looking out at a garden view.
  • Accommodation surge: Prices spike from 24 Dec–3 Jan; book 9–12 months ahead where possible.
  • Dining and bookings: Restaurants and wineries fill quickly; reserve tables well in advance.
  • Average spend context: Typical Aussie seasonal spends (gifts ~ $490; food/drinks ~ $506); factor into your budget.
  • Free options: Many major events are free (Lights Trail, pageant, community carols).
  • Transport savings: The Summer of Free Public Transport (24 Dec–28 Jan) can save families ~AUD100.
  • Smart plan: Mix booked experiences with free events to control costs.
Person standing in metro train holding a pole.
  • SmartRider required: Cards available at retail outlets and Transperth InfoCentres; use for trains, buses and ferries.
  • Free travel window: SmartRider users travel free 24 Dec–28 Jan under the summer initiative.
  • CAT and Free Zone: CAT buses run free year-round except on Christmas Day; Free Transit Zone covers City West, Elizabeth Quay, Claisebrook.
  • Holiday timetables: Christmas Day services run reduced public holiday schedules; trains may be 30-minute frequency.
  • Airport transfers: Book taxis and transfers early; demand and queues spike.
  • Event access: Use public transport for Lights Trail and Elizabeth Quay events; parking is limited.
Fine dining table set with wine glasses and warm lighting in a cozy restaurant.
  • Supermarkets closed: Coles, Woolworths and Aldi shut on Christmas Day; stock up on Christmas Eve.
  • Limited retail hours: The CBD is largely closed on 25 December; confirm individual venue hours in advance.
  • Restaurants vary: Many offer Christmas menus but require early booking; some independent venues may open with reduced hours.
  • Fast-food options: Select McDonald’s, Hungry Jack’s, KFC, Domino’s and Pizza Hut outlets operate with varied hours.
  • Regional demand: Swan Valley and Perth Hills venues fill fast; book well ahead.
  • Practical tip: Verify opening times before you travel and make reservations as soon as you plan your trip.
Family enjoying a sunny day at the beach with ocean waves in the background.
  • City safety: Perth is generally safe for solo travellers; stick to well-lit, populated streets at night.
  • Northbridge advice: Northbridge is fine within restaurant/bar corridors; use caution on its outer edges late at night.
  • Everyday precautions: Walk confidently, keep valuables secure, and use official transport options after dark.
  • Beach hazards: Rip currents are the top risk; swim only between red and yellow flags and heed lifeguards.
  • Emergency action: If caught in a rip, stay calm, float, raise an arm and wait for rescue.
  • Child safety: Watch children closely on crowded beaches; bring a meeting point and sunscreen.
Lifeguard in life jacket operating a red rescue boat on a calm lake.
  • Classic Aussie beach day: White sand, turquoise water, public BBQs and lifeguards make beaches a holiday focal point.
  • Crowd timing: Arrive before 10:30am on busy days; seafronts get crowded quickly on weekends and holidays.
  • Lifeguard services: Ask lifesavers about local conditions; swim only where flags are present.
  • Shark protection: Cottesloe runs a protected swimming enclosure October–March.
  • Bring everything: Shops may close on Christmas Day; bring food, water, shade, and reapply sunscreen after swimming.
  • Leave no trace: Take rubbish home or use bins; respect the coastline and facilities.

Extend your visit till New Year's Eve

View of fireworks lighting up the sky over the Matagarup Bridge in Perth, Australia

Staying on after Christmas gives you time to enjoy Perth’s summer atmosphere, festive programming and New Year’s Eve celebrations at an easy pace.

  • NYE highlights: Elizabeth Quay, Fremantle and riverside vantage points host fireworks and events.
  • Longer stay perks: The Summer of Free Public Transport continues through 28 January, easing travel costs.
  • Regional escapes: Rottnest Island, Margaret River and the Perth Hills are great for post-Christmas day trips.
  • Booking urgency: NYE dining and accommodation match Christmas demand, reserve ASAP.
  • Calm recovery days: Spend 26–30 December on slower neighbourhood explorations before NYE crowds peak.

Frequently asked questions about Christmas in Sydney

Perth experiences intense summer heat in December, with temperatures typically reaching 30°C and frequently exceeding 40°C during heatwave conditions. Expect very high UV levels requiring constant sun protection, though evenings cool down pleasantly.