Nine Fun Christmas Activities in Christchurch
Christmas in Christchurch is where hot girl summer meets the festive spirit. This December is all about finding fun ways to celebrate the end of the year with friends and family.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are plenty of festive activities to get you in the Christmas spirit on the South Island. Here’s a list of nine must-do Christmas activities in Christchurch, each guaranteed to make your holiday season better than the last.
Christmas Activities in Christchurch
1. Stroll Through the Christmas Light Show on Shands Road
Nothing says “festive cheer” quite like twinkling lights, and the Christmas Light Show on Shands Road delivers this in spades. Running every evening from late November to Christmas Eve, this dazzling display is a local favourite. It attracts thousands of visitors every year!
Imagine walking through a glowing wonderland with every house dressed with lights, synchronised to the season’s biggest hits (hello Mariah!). It’s not just a visual treat; it’s a whole experience to enjoy with your young family, partner or friends.
Be sure to bring a gold coin donation, as all proceeds go to local charities. This spectacle is a must-see on your list of Christmas activities in Christchurch.
2. Attend the Christmas Show Parade
The VIP Frames & Trusses Christmas Show Parade is one of the most anticipated events of the festive season in the city. Scheduled in November, this parade is a joyous explosion of colour, music, and holiday spirit.
Picture this: floats adorned with Christmas scenes, marching bands filling the air with holiday tunes, and Santa himself waving to the crowds. It’s a full-on festive celebration that draws people from all over the city. The parade route winds through the city centre, making it accessible and easy to find a great spot to watch. Be sure to get there early to grab a front row seat!
3. Catch “The Holiday” Concert at Christchurch Town Hall
If your idea of Christmas includes watching a classic Christmas movie, then “The Holiday” concert is a must-attend event. The Christchurch Town Hall will host a live orchestra playing the beloved soundtrack of The Holiday while the movie itself plays on a big screen.
It’s an immersive experience that adds a layer of magic to an already heartwarming film. Whether you’re on a date or out with friends, this concert is a fantastic way to get into the holiday spirit (pun intended). Don’t miss out on this unique blend of cinema and live music this Christmas in Christchurch!
4. Explore the Templeton Christmas Market
Markets are a unique part of Christmas, and the Templeton Christmas Market is one of Christchurch’s finest. The market has rows of stalls brimming with handcrafted gifts, artisan foods, and festive decorations.
It’s the perfect place to pick up special gifts for loved ones or perhaps treat yourself to some holiday goodies. The market also features live entertainment, face painting and a visit from Santa, making it an event the whole family can enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a special ornament for your tree or just want to soak up the festive atmosphere, this market is not to be missed.
5. Get Crafty at a Christmas Candle Making Workshop
Looking for a more hands-on activity this Christmas? Look into joining a candle making workshop this Christmas. These workshops offer a chance to create your own Christmas-scented candles like cinnamon, pine, and vanilla. Your creation will be perfect for setting the festive mood at home.
Guided by expert candle makers, you’ll learn the art of candle making from scratch, including how to mix fragrances and pour wax. It’s a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, and you’ll leave with a beautiful, handmade candle that makes for a thoughtful gift or a personal treat. It’s one of the top Christmas activities in Christchurch this year.
6. Enjoy Festive Cocktails on a Rooftop
Christchurch’s summer weather makes it the ideal time for a rooftop gathering, and what better way to celebrate the season than with some festive cocktails? Head to one of the city’s trendy rooftop bars, where bartenders are shaking up Christmas-themed drinks that are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy.
Imagine sipping on a spiced mojito or a cranberry gin fizz while overlooking the city’s skyline at sunset – pure bliss. It’s a fantastic way to unwind after a day of holiday shopping or to kick off a night out with friends. Make sure to book a table in advance, as these spots fill up fast during the festive season!
7. Have a Christmas Picnic in Hagley Park
Embrace the great outdoors with a Christmas picnic in Hagley Park in Christchurch. Pack a hamper full of festive goodies and a bottle of bubbly, and find a shady spot under one of the park’s shady trees.
It’s the perfect way to enjoy Christmas lunch or dinner al fresco, surrounded by the park’s natural beauty.
Bring along a Bluetooth speaker to play some Christmas tunes, and maybe even a Frisbee or cricket set for some post-picnic fun. Whether you’re with family, friends, or your special someone, a picnic in Hagley Park is a wonderfully relaxed way to celebrate Christmas.
8. Experience Christmas at the Races
Combine your love of Christmas and horse racing at Riccarton Park’s “Christmas at the Races”. This event is a Christchurch holiday staple, offering a thrilling day at the track with a festive twist.
Dress to the nines, gather your friends, and enjoy a day filled with exciting races, live entertainment, and plenty of food and drinks. Whether you’re a seasoned race-goer or there for the bar, the electric atmosphere and the chance to celebrate with friends make it a must-do. And who knows? You might just have a winning streak to add a little extra cheer to your Christmas season.
9. Sip, Paint and Celebrate at Pinot & Picasso
We saved the best till the very last. Add a creative twist to your Christmas celebrations with a sip and paint session Pinot & Picasso Christchurch CBD. Gather your friends, bring the bubbly and celebrate the end of the year by creating your own masterpiece.
With a glass of wine in one hand and a paintbrush in the other, you’ll be guided through creating your very own masterpiece, festive or not! The studio hosts a variety of art classes over the holiday period including festive sessions, Textured Art, Neon Nights and kids classes.
These sessions are a fun and relaxed way to get into the holiday spirit, and you’ll leave with a unique piece of art that you can proudly display with your Christmas decorations or gift to someone special. Just be sure to book early, as these sessions fill up quickly during the festive season! It’s one of the best Christmas activities in Christchurch for all ages.
Book a Sip and Paint Christmas Session in Christchurch
From festive parades to creative workshops, Christchurch offers so many fun activities to make your Christmas truly special. Whether you’re looking to embrace the summer sun or soak in the holiday cheer, there’s something for everyone. So, don’t miss out on these fantastic Christmas activities in Christchurch. Book a sip and paint workshop at Pinot & Picasso Christchurch CBD today!
