What’s on for kids in Canberra this Christmas
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The festive season is officially in Canberra, and with it comes a treasure trove of magical experiences – but what can you do with the kids?
From cookie decorating workshops to special Santa encounters, this year shopping centres and local venues have transformed into Christmas wonderlands brimming with activities that’ll keep little ones entertained throughout December.
And to break down everything that’s happening, we’ve enlisted the help of Sandra from Twincinos – the Canberra mum behind the Instagram page that’s become a go-to source for local parents seeking family-friendly fun.
Since starting Twincinos in 2022 (the name born from countless cafe visits with her twins enjoying babycinos), Sandra has been sharing everything from playgrounds and cafes to weekly events and activity guides. As a busy mum to Dylan, 10, and twins Alicia and Olivia, 7, she understands the need for all the details collated in one spot, without the research.
Here’s her curated guide to what’s happening across Canberra for kids this Christmas.
Santa Photography at Canberra Centre
For families seeking that perfect Santa photo, Canberra Centre on Bunda Street is hosting Santa photography sessions right through until Christmas Eve. The centre has thoughtfully included Baby’s First Christmas sessions and pet photography for furry family members who deserve their moment with the big man too.
There are also Sensitive Santa sessions on Sunday 7 December for children who might find the traditional Santa experience overwhelming – a wonderful initiative that ensures every child can enjoy the magic.
All sessions take place on ground level at City Walk, with various times available throughout the season.
Ground Level, City Walk, City | Find out more here.
Free merry-go-round rides in Garema Place
From Monday 1 to Wednesday 24 December, Civic’s iconic merry-go-round is offering unlimited free rides.
Whether you’ve got little ones who want to ride a dozen times or you fancy a nostalgic spin yourself (we won’t judge), this is the kind of simple joy that makes Christmas special.
Garema Place, City | Find out more here
Christmas at Canberra Outlet
Canberra Outlet is spreading festive cheer throughout December with daily Santa meet-and-greets from Monday 1 to Wednesday 24 December, running from 11 am to 2 pm outside Decjuba and Kathmandu. No bookings needed – just stop by for free festive photos on your own device, with a dedicated Christmas Helper on hand to capture the perfect moment.
From Thursday 18 to Wednesday 24 December, the magic continues with a sleigh photo moment, where the first 100 guests each day will receive a free Gingerbread Plush keychain – an adorably cute keepsake to remember your Christmas visit.
Pet parents can also get in on the festive fun with Pet Santa Sessions on Wednesday 10, Friday 12, and Wednesday 17 December – these free sessions welcome pets of all shapes and sizes to meet Santa and snap a festive photo, with all donations supporting the RSPCA.
Adding to the seasonal atmosphere, live performances will fill The HUB with Christmas spirit. The Brindabella Chorus delivers stunning harmonies on Sunday 14 and 21 December at 11 am, whilst the Youth Girls Choir brings bright and beautiful Christmas melodies on Saturday 20 December at 11 am.
Canberra Outlet Centre, Iron Knob Street, Fyshwick | Find out more here
Christmas Workshops at Majura Park Shopping Centre
Over at Majura Park Shopping Centre, the festive fun extends well beyond photos. Their free Christmas workshops are a hit with creative kids, offering gingerbread cookie decoration sessions on Tuesday 2, 9, and 16 December, and DIY Christmas ornament crafting on Friday 5, 12, and 19 December.
The centre’s also hosting a delightful Brunch with Santa on Sunday 7 December from 11 am until 11.45 am and from 12 pm until 12.45 pm, where little ones can enjoy special kids’ meals from Muffin Break while meeting Santa himself. It’s a first-come, first-served situation for brunch spots, so arriving early is wise!
Professional Santa photos are available for $10, with one high-resolution digital file and 6×8 print included, while those who prefer can take their own snaps with Santa for a gold coin donation on select dates.
18-26 Spitfire Avenue, Majura Park | Find out more here.
Twelve Days of Christmas at Marketplace Gungahlin
Marketplace Gungahlin is pulling out all the stops with their twelve days of Christmas celebrations. Starting on Saturday 6 December, families can enjoy everything from candy igloo making to gingerbread cookie decorating, with different themed workshops running through to Christmas Eve.
Their Santa’s Breakfast offering – complete with individual breakfast boxes and craft activities – creates a memorable start to the day for young ones eager to share their Christmas wishes at the 10 am – 10.45 am sessions.
The centre also kicks things off with Santa’s Arrival Parade on Saturday 6 December from 9 am, spreading Christmas cheer from Grease Monkey through to MarketQuest. Santa photos are available for a gold coin donation to Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation, and all activities are free with bookings essential through the Marketplace Gungahlin website.
30 & 33 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | Find out more here.
Mrs. Claus at South.Point Tuggeranong
South Canberra families will find festive cheer at South.Point Tuggeranong, where Mrs. Claus herself will be roaming the centre between Thursday 18 and Wednesday 24 December from 11 am to 2 pm, sharing stories, spreading joy, and handing out treats.
The centre’s also running daily Christmas craft sessions during this period, from cookie decorating to custom bauble making, giving kids the chance to create handmade treasures. These free drop-in activities opposite Big W run from 10 am to 1 pm, perfect for a mid-morning creative session.
Santa photography sessions are also running through to Christmas Eve at various times – check the South.Point website for pricing and booking details.
Corner Anketell and Reed Streets, Tuggeranong | Find out more here.
Festive Fun at Amaroo Village Shopping Centre
For those venturing north, Amaroo Village Shopping Centre is hosting Festive Fun on Saturday 13 December, with sessions at 10 am, 10.45 am, 11.30 am, and 12.15 pm where children aged four and up can craft their own beeswax Christmas candles. Santa and his elf will be making surprise appearances too, wandering the centre for impromptu festive selfies and handing out sweet treats.
It’s completely free, though bookings are required through the centre’s Facebook event page.
1 Pioneer Street, Amaroo | Find out more here.
Canberra Christmas Park
The spirit of giving shines brightly at Canberra Christmas Park in Farrer, open from Friday 5 December until Sunday 14 December from 6 pm until 11 pm. This much-loved charity event brings the community together with its spectacular light displays, live entertainment, and multicultural food festival running across the final weekend.
Entry is just $5 per person or $15 for a family of five, with all tree sponsorship funds supporting St. Anthony’s Bread Charity. Family tree sponsorships start from $69, while business sponsorships are $300 per tree.
The grand opening night on Friday 5 December features a Christmas tree blessing and carols, while the Saturday offers kids’ entertainment including face painting, balloons, and children’s rides.
262 Beasley Street, Farrer | Find out more here.
Creative Play at Q Gallery Art Hub
For budding artists, Q Gallery Art Hub in Ainslie offers Creative Play sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout December from 9.30 am until 11.30 am, featuring Christmas wreaths, paper crafts, and gingerbread man activities for children aged 18 months to six years.
Sessions cost $20 for one child or $30 for two children. Their special Kids Christmas Craft Workshop on Monday 22 December from 10 am to noon invites young creators aged six to 12 to explore paper crafting techniques while making their own Christmas decorations at $30 per child – a hands-on holiday adventure where crafting meets festive fun.
Book tickets through the Eventbrite or Q Gallery websites.
13a Edgar Street, Ainslie | Find out more here.
Christmas Workshops at The H Dispensary
The H Dispensary in Griffith has curated an enchanting program of Christmas workshops running from Saturday 20 December through to Christmas Eve. From Christmas Tea Parties ($12.99) to herbal bauble making ($11), crystal jewellery crafting ($39) to magical elf gardens ($11), the offerings blend creativity with natural elements in unique ways.
Sessions cater to different age groups, with activities for little ones as young as three right through to teenagers. There’s even a Christmas Body Butter and Lip Balm Making workshop ($35) for older kids wanting to create their own festive beauty products!
Book tickets through The H Dispensary website.
6 Barker Street, Griffith | Find out more here.
Christmas Movies at The Sunset Cinema
When the sun sets, families can head to The Sunset Cinema at the Australian National Botanic Gardens for classic Christmas films under the stars. From Elf to Home Alone, Love Actually to The Holiday, these screenings capture that special holiday magic.
Gates open at 6.30 pm, giving everyone time to settle in with blankets and snacks before the films begin around last light. Tickets are $28 for adults, $24 for concession or students, $16 for children aged three to 12, with under-threes free.
It’s outdoor cinema at its finest, with Canberra’s summer evenings providing the perfect backdrop for festive favourites. Book tickets at The Sunset Cinema website.
Eucalypt Lawn, Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton | Find out more here.
Wrap Party at National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery is offering a creative twist with their Wrap Party drop-in sessions every Sunday until 21 December, from 10 am until 4.30 pm. Children can design their own wrapping paper inspired by Kaylene Whiskey’s vibrant artwork – a completely free activity that celebrates generosity and connection while keeping little hands busy. All materials are provided, welcoming all ages and abilities.
King Edward Terrace, Parkes | Find out more here.
Christmas on the Rails at Canberra Miniature Railway
For train enthusiasts, Canberra Miniature Railway in Symonston presents Christmas on the Rails on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 December. These evening sessions from 5 pm to 9 pm feature unlimited rides across two different tracks, accompanied by mesmerising light shows that transform the railway into a twinkling wonderland.
Tickets are $15 online or $20 at the gate, with children two and under free. It’s an affordable outing that combines Canberra’s love of trains with Christmas magic. Book tickets through the Canberra Miniature Railway website.
501 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Symonston | Find out more here.
Christmas at Westfield Belconnen
Westfield Belconnen is hosting Friday Night Christmas Carols on Friday 5, 12 and 19 December as well as Kids Christmas Workshops from Saturday 20 until Wednesday 24 December, all on Level 1.
Full details are still being finalised – check the Westfield Belconnen website for updated information and timings.
Benjamin Way, Belconnen | Find out more here.
Christmas at Westfield Woden
Westfield Woden is bringing the festive cheer with Santa photography running through to Christmas Eve at various times, including Sensitive Santa sessions on Sunday 7 December (though spots are very limited), and pet photography on Friday 12 and 19 December.
Santa’s Breakfast on Saturday 6 December will be held from 8.30 am until 9.30 am and 10 am until 11 am, offering children a delicious menu of treats while enjoying a Christmas show performance at $10 per child – this event is exclusive to Westfield members, with bookings via the Westfield app.
Mrs Claus’ Gingerbread Workshop runs on Sunday 7 December from 11 am to 2 pm, where children can get creative with delicious gingerbread treats. The Adopt a Christmas Teddy workshop on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 December from 10 am to 1 pm lets kids create and take home their very own Christmas teddy. Both workshops are free and exclusive to Westfield members, with membership ID checked at entry. All activities take place on Level 1 near JD Sports.
The Amosa Family Christmas Performance also appears on Saturday 6 December from 12 pm until 2 pm near Sportsgirl, bringing that same festive musical magic to Woden shoppers.
Keltie Street, Woden | Find out more here.
Feature image: Ben Calvert Photography.
