Celebrate the Festive Spirit at these Christmas Events in Christchurch

Christmas is a magical time of the year, and what better place to celebrate the festive season than in the beautiful city of Christchurch? With its vibrant atmosphere and stunning scenery, there is a wide range of exciting activities and Christmas events in Christchurch that will fill you with holiday spirit. From the Christmas parade to enchanting light shows, there are plenty of events and activities this November and December. So, grab your Santa hat, book a couple nights’ stay at an accommodation in Christchurch and get ready to immerse yourself in the festive summer cheer!

Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park Christchurch

If you’re looking for a truly magical Christmas experience, then Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park in Christchurch is the event for you. Held in the picturesque North Hagley Park on Saturday 25 November 2023, the Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park is one of New Zealand’s biggest free outdoor musical extravaganzas.

Invite your friends and family for an extraordinary evening of top-notch entertainment featuring some of the best performers from Aotearoa. This nation’s favourite Christmas celebration wraps up with a stunning display of fireworks. It’s the ideal way to kick off the holiday season on the most joyous night of the year!

After a night of festive music, entertainment and fireworks, there’s no better place to relax and rest than our comfy Christchurch accommodation, Parkview on Hagley. Located right next to Hagley Park, our hotel offers unparalleled views of the park and is just a stone’s throw from all Christmas events in Christchurch.

Christmas Parade in Christchurch

The Mainfreight Christmas Show Parade is back for another festive celebration at the Canterbury Agricultural Park (The Showgrounds) on Sunday 26 November 2023, starting at 11am. As one of the most beloved Christmas events in Christchurch, it brings the whole community together to celebrate the holiday spirit. With an Amusement Park, over 80 Christmas market stalls, 35+ food vendors and large picnic areas, it’s the perfect place for a family day out. You can join in the fun by participating in various activities and games or simply sit back and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

And don’t miss out on the Christmas Parade in Christchurch at 2pm on the day that will fill your heart with the true spirit of Christmas! The parade features colourful floats, marching bands, and cultural and community groups. As you watch the procession, you can’t help but feel the excitement and anticipation in the air. The streets are lined with joyful onlookers eagerly awaiting the arrival of Cinderella, Superman, Batman, Mickey Mouse and, of course, Santa and Mrs Claus.

Christchurch Christmas Light Show

Prepare to be mesmerised by the enchanting Christchurch Christmas Light Show, which will be open from 2 December to 30 December 2023. The Shands Road is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, reindeer, gingerbread houses, and little elves, creating a magical atmosphere that will leave you in awe. As you walk through the illuminated trails in the Xmas village, you’ll be transported to a world of fantasy and wonder. The Christchurch Christmas Light Show is a visual feast for the eyes, and it’s going to be extra special with the new addition to the Xmas village – we can’t wait for December to arrive!

Check out the best Christmas markets in Christchurch

In addition to the Christmas Parade in Christchurch, Christmas in the Park, and the enchanting light shows, Christchurch offers an abundance of Christmas-themed markets.

These bustling markets are filled with stalls selling unique gifts, handmade crafts, and delicious festive treats. It’s the perfect place to find that special something for your loved ones while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

• Christmas Encraftment Market, 25 & 26 November 2023 10am – Experience a one-of-a-kind shopping adventure that allows you to shop for high-quality, locally crafted goods, all while indulging in delectable cuisine and refreshing beverages. Come to the Encraftment Market, discover the extraordinary talents of local artisans and skilled workers and depart with a piece of their creativity and expertise. Admission is completely free!
• Christmas Market at The Palms, 16 December 2023 9am – 6pm – The Palms is welcoming families to come to the shopping centre and explore the stalls from local crafters, florists, creators, bakers and artists. There will also be face paints for the little ones, and the older kids can interact with cartoon characters such as Cinderella. Oh, and there’ll be plenty of music from bands and singers!
• North Canterbury Creative Market – Christmas market, 17 December 11am – 3pm – The North Canterbury Creative Market is the largest market of the year, featuring more than 100 stalls where talented artisans proudly display their unique creations. Come and immerse yourself in a day brimming with artistic inspiration, a sense of belonging to a vibrant community, and an array of delightful shopping opportunities.

Christmas Lunch and Dinner

Apart from checking out all the exciting Christmas events in Christchurch, don’t forget to elevate your Christmas celebrations with a sumptuous lunch or dinner! Whether you seek a traditional Christmas feast or a modern culinary experience, the city hosts several restaurants that promise an exceptional dining affair.

Gather your friends and family and enjoy a buffet at Crowne Plaza, Garden Hotel, or Scenic Hotel Cotswold. Alternatively, check out our guide on the Top 10 Restaurants in Christchurch for an Unforgettable Culinary Experience (make sure you check their Christmas hours beforehand!).

Conclusion

Christmas is a time to come together, spread joy, and embrace the festive spirit. And there’s no better place to do that than in Christchurch. From the lively Christmas in the Park in Christchurch and enchanting light shows to delicious food and drinks, the city offers a truly magical Christmas experience.

And what better way to complement this experience than by staying at Parkview on Hagley? Relax in our well-appointed accommodation in Christchurch NZ, equipped with everything you need for a cosy stay after a day filled with Christmas delights. So mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and make your way to Christchurch for an unforgettable holiday season.