Creative Christmas: Sydney Family Arts Events for the Holidays

Posted on by Cristin

Make merry memories this season in Sydney with arts activities for families. From carols to dance, theatre, concerts and craft, it definitely seems like the most creative time of the year. Here are some ideas of ways to get artsy with the kids this Christmas.

City of Sydney Carols

City of Sydney Christmas Carols are a fantastic time for families, including performances by some of our favourite Australian children’s musicians, as well as craft and other family fun. This year, the concerts will be:

Storytime Ballet: The Nutcracker


“The perfect introduction to ballet, Storytime Ballet: The Nutcracker is led by an engaging narrator and runs for under an hour to keep your little ones captivated. Dressing-up in your favourite ballet-inspired outfit and dancing in your seat are warmly encouraged!”
Where: Sydney Opera House
When: 18 December – 4 January
Tickets: $65 – 79

Christmas at Darling Harbour

Creative Christmas festivities happen throughout December, including
-A jet-ski Santa and marching band at Cockle Bay Christmas Spectacular – 6 December
–Christmas Festival – 13 December – including a concert with “performances from Lenny Pearce (Toddler Techno), Sydney Harmony and Christine and Zipporah Anu to name a few, with TikTok sensation Jayden Rodrigues” as MC.
–Christmas Picnic – 20 – 21 December – “entertainment, food trucks, market shopping, kids’ activities and festive fun.”

St Mary’s Cathedral

” The forecourt of St Mary’s Cathedral will come alive each night with food and gift stalls, live entertainment, and captivating roaming performers. Experience stunning light projections that bring the beloved Christmas song “The Little Drummer Boy” to life, transforming the cathedral into a beautiful spectacle.”
Where: St Mary’s Cathedral
When: 17 – 25 December – light show begins at 8:30p.m.

Carols on the Pier (Australian Chamber Orchestra)

“Celebrate the magic of Christmas with the Australian Chamber Orchestra at Carols on the Pier. This joyful concert brings families and musicians together, featuring the exquisite voices of the Luminescence Chamber Singers. Experience the beauty of world-class classical music alongside beloved carols and share in the spirit of the season as you sing along to favourites. After the performance, enjoy free Christmas craft activities for children and soak up the festive atmosphere in the foyer with seasonal refreshments and stunning waterfront views. From little ones to grandparents, Carols on the Pier is a celebration of joy, togetherness and the wonder of Christmas.”
Where: The Nielson (Pier 2/3)
When: 18 – 22 December
Tickets: $49

Rudolph’s Red Nosed Adventure (The Metropolitan Orchestra)

“Join that most famous of reindeer Rudolph as he travels all the lands looking for his bright red nose. This wonderful world premiere performance will engage all audience members with a variety of Christmas music within the intimate setting at the newly refurbished Balmain Town Hall. Conductor Sarah-Grace Williams and The Metropolitan Orchestra (TMO) will be joined by animated Children’s performer and entertainer Nat Jobe in this fabulous new Christmas show that will leave everyone glowing with the special magic that this wonderful time of year brings.”
Where: Balmain Town Hall
When: 29 – 30 November
Recommended Age: 6 months – 9 years
Tickets: $20 – 24

Santa Claus: The Musical

“It’s Christmas Eve – after 1,000 years of faithful service, Santa and Mrs. Claus announce their decision to hang up the big red suit and train a replacement. Enter Nick: a website designer and single dad to tech-savvy daughter, Bee. … From sleigh bells to snowflakes, this enchanting new musical promises laughter, warmth and a touch of Christmas magic that will stay with you long after the final curtain.”
Where: Teatro at the Italian Forum
When: 11 – 28 December
Recommended Age: All ages
Tickets: $65 – 75

Rhythm N Bubs: Christmas Month

If you have Under 5s at home, bring them to Darling Quarter on Wednesdays for free musical fun. “This weekly experience is led by a team of passionate music educators from Mini Musica, Angie Who and the team at Cheeky Tunes, showcasing a range of musical performances inclusive to all.”
December is Christmas themed.
Where: Darling Quarter
When: Wednesdays 3, 10, 17 December
Free, drop in

The Spirit of Christmas Concert

“Celebrate the spirit of Christmas with the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra and Choir as they fill The Concourse with joyful music and holiday cheer. From cherished carols and timeless classics to delightful surprises and revelations, experience the enchantment of the season with family and friends in this heart-warming Christmas concert. Don’t miss out on what promises to be our most uplifting performance of the year – it’s our special Christmas gift to our wonderful audience, who bring so much joy and energy to every concert. We can’t wait to see you there, with bells on!”
Where: The Concourse (Chatswood)
When: Sunday 14 December
Tickets: $45 – 99

Taronga Zoo Christmas Concert

“Set in the idyllic grounds of Taronga Zoo with magical views across Sydney Harbour, this family friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas and enjoy a spectacular summer night of entertainment featuring a special guest all the way from the North Pole!”
Where: Taronga Zoo
When: 13 December
Tickets: $36 – 43.30

Local Carols

The best carols are your local carols! Check your local council listings to see when the carols closest to you will be on so that you can pack the kids, a picnic, round up your friends and neighbors and sing along.

Wishing you a merry and creative festive season, Sydney!

For the stay-home days, here is some craft inspiration from the Artsplorers’ archives!

Perfect soundtrack for Christmas Craft is one of these 6 Great Kids’ Christmas Albums or our Artsplorers’ Spotify Christmas Playlist