Categories > Guides and Tips
The Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Perth: Things to Do
- What is there to do on Christmas Day in Perth?
- What are the major landmarks with festive lights and decorations in Perth?
- St George's Terrace
- Hay Street Mall
- Yagan Square
- What are the popular Christmas markets and shopping destinations in Perth?
- Twilight Hawkers Market
- Perth Upmarket
- Westfield Booragoon (a.k.a. Garden City Shopping Centre)
- What are the Christmas-themed activities for families and friends in Perth?
- Santa's Magical Kingdom
- Ice Skating at Elizabeth Quay
- What are the best Perth beaches and parks to visit during the festive season?
- Cottesloe Beach
- South Beach
- Scarborough Beach
- Where are the most festive places to drink and dine in Perth?
- The Globe
- The Aviary
- Wildflower
Preparing for the most wonderful time of the year in Perth? Let’s go through our comprehensive guide so you can make the most of your stay in this festive city.
What is there to do on Christmas Day in Perth?
You may celebrate Christmas Day in Perth by visiting festive beaches, exploring Christmas markets, dining at themed restaurants, and enjoying various holiday events with family and friends.
Are you ready to celebrate this season and be jolly? Check out these festive locations and activities in detail below.
What are the major landmarks with festive lights and decorations in Perth?
Photo source: Canva
It’s that time of year again, when the streets of Perth come alive with festive lights and decorations. We believe the city creates a magical atmosphere that can fill your heart with holiday cheer!
To get you started, here are some major streets and landmarks in Perth that are known for their dazzling displays.
St George’s Terrace
Photo source: www.visitperth.com
| ADDRESS | St Georges Terrace, Perth, WA 6000 |
| WEBSITE | https://visitperth.com/see-and-do/public-spaces/venues/st-georges-terrace |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: (08) 9461 3333 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: VisitPerth Instagram: visitperth |
For us, St George’s Terrace is an iconic street in the heart of Perth’s central business district that transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season.
We think you might enjoy the towering buildings along St George’s Terrace. They’re adorned with shimmering lights, while the trees lining the street twinkle with colourful decorations.
Moreover, you and your loved ones may take a leisurely stroll along this illuminated boulevard and soak in the festive ambience.
We recommend taking advantage of the nearby parklands as well! Just a short walk from St George’s Terrace, you’ll find beautiful open spaces such as Supreme Court Gardens and Elizabeth Quay.
| Travel tip: Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic when you find a cosy spot in the park! We think it’s a wonderful way to extend your time in the area and create lasting holiday memories as you bask in the enchanting atmosphere. |
Hay Street Mall
Photo source: www.visitperth.com
| ADDRESS | Hay Street Mall, Perth, WA, 6000 |
| WEBSITE | https://visitperth.com/en/shopping/shopping-destinations/Venues/hay-street-mall |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: (08) 9461 3333 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: VisitPerth Instagram: visitperth |
Located in the bustling shopping district of Perth (What is the shopping scene like in Perth, and are there any must-visit shopping areas or malls?), we believe Hay Street Mall turns into one of the most festive havens during the holiday season.
During Christmas, the mall is adorned with vibrant lights, giant baubles, and garlands, which we feel creates a joyful atmosphere for shoppers and visitors alike.
You can get into the holiday spirit as you explore the diverse range of shops and boutiques. For us, this is perfect for finding unique gifts for your loved ones.
And there’s no need to rush, so we suggest taking your time to browse. Indulge in some well-deserved retail therapy while enjoying the festive ambience.
| Friendly tip: Before shopping, take some time to scour your favourite stores’ websites. There may be some special holiday promotions and discounts you should make a mental note of to save more money later! |
Yagan Square
Photo source: www.archdaily.com
| ADDRESS | Corner Wellington Street and William Street, Perth, WA, 6000 |
| WEBSITE | https://developmentwa.com.au/projects/redevelopment/yagan-square/overview |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: (08) 9482 7499 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: YaganSquare Instagram: yagansquare |
Nestled in the heart of Perth, we think Yagan Square is a vibrant public space that comes alive with festive cheer during the holiday season.
We like that the square is transformed into a magical wonderland with dazzling lights, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and charming festive installations.
You and your family may love taking a leisurely stroll through Yagan Square. Here, you can enjoy the festive music and immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere.
| Our recommendation: While exploring Yagan Square, we suggest sampling the delicious treats offered by the various food vendors and pop-up stalls. Treat yourself to some mouthwatering street food or a cup of hot chocolate to enhance your festive experience. |
What are the popular Christmas markets and shopping destinations in Perth?
Photo source: Pixabay
The holiday season in Perth for us is a shopper’s paradise – it has a plethora of Christmas markets and shopping destinations to explore!
So, get your shopping bags ready, and let’s dive into these popular spots that will have you ho-ho-ho-ing with joy.
Twilight Hawkers Market
Photo source: Twilight Hawkers Market Facebook Page
| ADDRESS | 1/7 Forrest Pl, Perth, WA 6000, Australia |
| CONTACT INFO | Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: PerthTwilightHawkersMarket Instagram: twilighthawkersmarket |
| OPENING HOURS | Friday: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM |
Want to discover more food options? During the holiday season (usually from October to March), this vibrant market takes place every Friday evening in Forrest Place.
We believe the Twilight Hawkers Market is a foodie’s dream come true – they have a wide array of street food stalls offering tasty dishes from around the globe!
Just make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds and secure a table or picnic spot. Grab a plate of mouthwatering cuisine, find a cosy spot to sit, and enjoy the live music that fills the air.
For us, this is the perfect place to indulge in delicious food, soak up the festive atmosphere, and tickle your taste buds while trying new things!
| Travel tip: We recommend bringing cash in small denominations. While some food stalls at the Twilight Hawkers Market accept card payments, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. So, make sure to stop by an ATM before heading to the market and be prepared for a cash-friendly culinary adventure! |
Perth Upmarket
Photo source: www.rtrfm.com.au
| ADDRESS | 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley WA 6009, Australia |
| WEBSITE | http://www.perthupmarket.com.au/ |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: +61 432 897 516 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: perthupmarket Instagram: perthupmarket |
| OPENING HOURS | Open 24 hours |
If you’re in search of unique and handmade gifts, we believe Perth Upmarket is the place to be.
Held on the beautiful grounds of the University of Western Australia, we love that this carefully curated market showcases the works of talented local artisans and designers.
From exquisite jewellery and fashion accessories to beautiful homeware and artwork, we believe you’ll find an array of one-of-a-kind pieces that will capture your heart.
Don’t forget to chat with the artists and makers as well – they often have fascinating stories behind their creations!
| Friendly recommendation: While it’s good to be spontaneous sometimes, we suggest making a shopping list beforehand and prioritising your preferred stalls. With so many areas to explore, it may be easy to get overwhelmed. |
Westfield Booragoon (a.k.a. Garden City Shopping Centre)
Photo source: www.helloperth.com.au
| ADDRESS | 125 Riseley St, Booragoon WA 6154, Australia |
| WEBSITE | https://www.westfield.com.au/booragoon |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: +61 8 9449 6300 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Instagram: westfieldbooragoon Twitter: westfieldau |
| OPENING HOURS | Monday – Wednesday, Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
For us, this bustling mall in Booragoon transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season.
Westfield Booragoon, formerly known as Garden City Shopping Centre, boasts an impressive lineup of festive decorations.
This includes towering Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and whimsical displays that we feel bring the magic of the season to life. We believe this is perfect for kids and kids at heart who want to spend a cool and comfortable Christmas.
You may also treat yourself to a hot beverage at one of the cosy cafes when you need a break from the shopping frenzy.
| Travel recommendation: Weekday mornings are a great time to visit Westfield Booragoon if you prefer a more relaxed shopping experience. This way, you can beat the crowds, browse through the wide variety of stores, and take your time selecting the perfect gifts. |
What are the Christmas-themed activities for families and friends in Perth?
Photo source: Canva
For us, the holiday season is all about spending quality time with loved ones. Good for us, Perth offers a sleigh-load of Christmas-themed activities that are perfect for families and friends.
Get ready to jingle all the way with these festive adventures below.
Santa’s Magical Kingdom
Photo source: Santa’s Magical Kingdom Perth Facebook Page
| ADDRESS | Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood, WA, Australia |
| WEBSITE | https://www.santasmagicalkingdom.com.au/ |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: +61 1800 556 688 |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: santasmagicalkingdomperth Instagram: santasmagicalkingdomperth |
No matter your age, we think there’s still a part of you that wants to see Santa. If you do, step into a world of enchantment and wonder at Santa’s Magical Kingdom!
Located at Claremont Showground, this immersive Christmas extravaganza can make your hearts merry and bright. From dazzling light displays to thrilling rides and an international circus, we believe there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Also, make sure to bring your best camera to capture the magical moments with Santa and his helpers!
| Travel tip: Check out Santa’s Magical Kingdom’s promo code online on their social media pages before buying a ticket. For us, more savings means more money for festive food and gifts later! |
Ice Skating at Elizabeth Quay
Photo source: Elizabeth Quay Facebook Page
| ADDRESS | The Esplanade, Perth, WA, Australia, Western Australia |
| WEBSITE | https://developmentwa.com.au/projects/redevelopment/elizabeth-quay/see-do |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: +61 (8) 9482 7499 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: ElizabethQuayPerth Instagram: elizabethquay |
Want another fun activity for kids and adults? Lace up your skates and glide into the holiday spirit at the ice skating rink at Elizabeth Quay!
We believe this outdoor ice skating experience offers endless laughter and fun for all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a first-timer, it’s an activity that can create lasting memories.
So, put your best gloves and favourite warm socks to good use and keep yourself cosy while you’re on the ice!
| Friendly advice: It’s best to plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid long lines and have more space to showcase your best ice skating moves. Consider visiting during the weekdays or earlier in the day for a more relaxed skating experience. |
What are the best Perth beaches and parks to visit during the festive season?
Photo source: Canva
While others may dream of a white Christmas, some are all about sunny beaches and lush parks. If you’re among the latter, you’re in luck because Christmas in Perth can be a time for sun, sand, and outdoor fun!
So, grab your Santa hat and sunscreen as we explore these festive beach and park destinations in Perth below.
Cottesloe Beach
Photo source: Canva
| ADDRESS | Cottesloe, WA, 6011, Australia |
| WEBSITE | https://www.westernaustralia.com/en/attraction/cottesloe-beach/56b2678fd5f1565045daabd8 |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: +61 8 9483 1111 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: ExtraordinaryWesternAustralia Instagram: westernaustralia Twitter: westaustralia |
Picture-perfect and brimming with festive vibes, we believe Cottesloe Beach is a must-visit during the Christmas season.
Here, you can sink your toes into the soft sand, catch some rays, and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze. With crystal-clear waters and stunning views, we feel it’s among the best spots for a beach day with friends and family.
Just make sure to secure a prime beachfront spot. This is where you can relax with some colourful beach towels, a beach umbrella, and plenty of sunscreen – so you won’t have any painful visits to your dermatologist (dermatologist perth) later.
After a dip in the sparkling ocean, we also suggest taking a stroll along the promenade. You can even indulge in some tasty fish and chips from one of the local beachside cafes!
| Friendly tip: Don’t forget to stay hydrated! For us, it’s best to bring a reusable water bottle filled with ice-cold water, and you’re good for the day. |
South Beach
Photo source: www.visitperth.com
| ADDRESS | S Beach Promenade, South Fremantle, WA 6162, Australia |
| WEBSITE | https://visitperth.com/see-and-do/beaches/south-beach |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: (08) 9461 3333 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: SouthBeachFremantleWA Instagram: xxx |
| OPENING HOURS | Monday – Thursday, Saturday – Sunday: 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM, Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
We recommend those who love a laid-back and family-friendly beach experience to head over to South Beach in Fremantle.
With its calm waters, grassy picnic areas, and shady trees, we think it’s a fantastic destination for a relaxed day by the sea.
But peaceful doesn’t mean dull – you can pack some beach toys and games to keep everyone entertained. Entertain yourselves by building sandcastles, playing beach cricket, or challenging your friends to a game of frisbee.
Of course, it’s smart to bring a beach umbrella or a pop-up shade tent to create a shady spot to cool off from the summer sun.
| Travel recommendation: Before you leave, we suggest taking a stroll along the nearby South Terrace. This is where you’ll find a range of cafes and restaurants serving up delicious treats for post-beach refuelling. |
Scarborough Beach
Photo source: www.stirling.wa.gov.au
| ADDRESS | Scarborough, WA 6019, Australia |
| WEBSITE | https://www.stirling.wa.gov.au/business-and-tourism/tourism/explore-scarborough |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: (08) 9205 8555 |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: citystirlingwa Instagram: citystirlingwa Twitter: citystirlingwa |
With its lively atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery, Scarborough Beach is one of our favourite destinations for beachgoers and holidaymakers.
We like that the long stretch of sandy shoreline provides adequate space for many activities. This includes sunbathing, beach volleyball, and sandcastle building.
You may also embrace the Christmas spirit by joining in on the beachfront events that often take place here during the festive season. Just keep an eye out for beach markets, live music performances, or even yoga classes, so you don’t miss out!
After a day in the sun, treat yourself to a delicious meal or refreshing drink at one of the beachside cafes or restaurants along The Esplanade.
| Friendly tip: Take advantage of the ample parking options available near Scarborough Beach. Alternatively, you may utilise the nearby paid parking areas or explore public transportation options. This involves buses or trains, which can drop you off within walking distance of the beach. |
Where are the most festive places to drink and dine in Perth?
Photo source: Pexels
‘Tis the season to eat, drink, and be merry, and we think Perth has no shortage of festive places to satisfy your cravings.
From cosy pubs to elegant restaurants, here are some of the most festive places to drink and dine in Perth for Christmas.
The Globe
Photo source: The Globe Perth Facebook Page
| ADDRESS | 495/497 Wellington St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia |
| WEBSITE | https://theglobeperth.com.au/ |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: +61 8 9460 9999 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: theglobeperth Instagram: theglobeperth |
| OPENING HOURS | Sunday – Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Wednesday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
Nestled in the heart of Perth’s CBD, The Globe is one of the most charming and historic pubs that exudes Christmas cheer.
We believe the inviting aroma of holiday spices and the warm glow of fairy lights will welcome you inside. With its cosy atmosphere and hearty menu, we feel it’s a nice location to gather with friends and indulge in traditional Christmas fare.
You can also immerse yourself in the festive ambience at The Globe with their performances. They often host special Christmas carol sing-alongs or live bands playing holiday tunes.
| Friendly tip: Don’t forget to try their specialty Christmas pudding paired with a glass of mulled wine for the ultimate holiday treat! |
The Aviary
Photo source: www.theaviaryperth.com.au
| ADDRESS | Level 1/140 William St, Perth WA 6000, Australia |
| WEBSITE | https://theaviaryperth.com.au/ |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: +61 8 9460 9959 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: theaviaryperth Instagram: theaviaryperth |
| OPENING HOURS | Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM |
Take your Christmas dining experience to new heights at The Aviary, located in the heart of Perth’s CBD.
We’re in awe that this rooftop oasis offers stunning views of the city skyline. We think they can also offer a festive atmosphere that will make your taste buds tingle with anticipation!
Whether you’re in the mood for a festive cocktail or a delectable meal, The Aviary has you covered. So, don’t miss their Christmas-inspired cocktails, like the Mistletoe Mojito or the Jingle Bellini, for a sip of holiday spirit.
| Travel tip: Try to secure seats on the rooftop terrace at The Aviary. This way, you can soak up the lively ambiance and enjoy breathtaking views of the city while sipping on your favourite festive concoctions. |
Wildflower
Photo source: www.watoday.com.au
| ADDRESS | COMO The Treasury Level 4, 1 Cathedral Ave, Perth WA 6000, Australia |
| WEBSITE | https://wildflowerperth.com.au/ |
| CONTACT INFO | Phone: +61 8 6168 7855 Email: [email protected] |
| SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook: wildflowerperthau Instagram: wildflowerrestaurant |
| OPENING HOURS | Tuesday & Saturday: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM, Wednesday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM |
Want to elevate your Christmas dining experience? We suggest dining at Wildflower, a rooftop restaurant located in the luxurious COMO The Treasury hotel.
With its sophisticated ambiance and breathtaking views of the city, we feel that it’s the perfect setting for a memorable and elegant Christmas feast.
Here, we think you can enjoy a menu with a festive twist that draws inspiration from Western Australian produce.
| Friendly advice: We recommend requesting a window table in advance to ensure you have the best seat and view in the house. For us, this is the best way you can savour the delicious food and soak in the enchanting ambience of Wildflower. |
And there you go! We hope you can find and enjoy the best things to do in Perth during the festive season!
