You know it's December when streets and suburbs across Sydney turn sparkly. But sometimes, it’s worth heading out of the city. For instance, just over two hours' north of Sydney you’ll find the Hunter Valley Gardens with its Christmas Lights Spectacular – the biggest Christmas lights display in the Southern hemisphere.
Now in its 18th iteration, the Christmas Lights Spectacular is on from now to January 26, 2026 (note: it's closed on Christmas Day) – and is brighter than ever. It's got more than 4.5 million lights sparkling across eight acres, transforming the Gardens into a Christmas wonderland. There are illuminated pathways, immersive installations, festive food stalls and endless photo opportunities – including a towering 3-metre mistletoe (perfect for romantic moments, we say).
What's new in 2025? How about HO HO Harvest where you can wander through the Italian Grotto Garden for the first time; a playful Aussie Christmas cricket display with Santa and the elves playing a match; a Christmas tree farm with a new 6-metre Christmas tree centrepiece; and Santaville, where you can meet Santa and his helpers. Long-time favourites like Candyland, 12 Days of Christmas and family rides like the Spinning Teacups and Ferris Wheel are back.
As for food, they'll have wood-fired pizza, tasty burgers and dumplings as well as sweet treats like donuts, churros and gelato on offer.
Christmas Lights Spectacular is on from 5.30pm till 10.30pm every day, except Christmas (with last entry at 9.30pm). Rides are open from 6pm to 10pm. Kids under three years enter for free; children's tickets start at $31; adult tickets start at $41. Family passes are also available. Rides are $6 each or 6 rides for $30. Keen? You can check out the program and buy tickets here.
Why not make a weekend of it? We suggest exploring the stunning vineyards of the Hunter Valley, or heading east to the beautiful coastal city of Newcastle.
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