The spirited affair that is A Sanctuary Cove Christmas packs a lot into its program, with special events happening all across the five days. The Christmas Carnival is taking over the The Marine Village for every day of the event, transforming the area into a festive wonderland loaded with family-friendly fun for all ages – think train rides, animal farms, face painting, circus workshops and jumping castles. As per last year, Santa’s Grotto will be open for business so you can get a special snap with the man himself – did we mention that pets are welcome too? Last year’s extremely well received Dinner By Candlelight returns to The Marine Village on the Wednesday evening, with a selection of the precinct’s restaurants getting the mood lighting going for a night of pure ambience. The likes of Ioesco, Black Angus and Thai House will be putting on an indulgent Christmas-inspired feast packed with festive flavours.

Thursday evening is definitely one to mark in your calendar – the free Carols on the Green concert will illuminate the Village Green with a line-up of stellar live performers. Kicking off at 5:30 pm, the evening will include jubilant performances by the Swing Force Big Band, the Paradise Carollers, plus Frosty the Snowman with his rendering of the classic Christmas jams we know and love. Hang around for the intermission to catch the adorable buggy parade and a special performance by everyone’s favourite Man in Red (with Rudolph by his side, naturally). If you need to tick some names off your nice list, the Village Night Markets will also be popping up on the Thursday between 5:30–8:00 pm – shop from boutique pop-ups along the boardwalk and nab the sort of presents that will make you everyone’s favourite this year.

A Sanctuary Cove Christmas is free to attend – for more details, head to our Event Guide.