It’s the most wonderful time of the year – and South Australia’s got the events to prove it. From Christmas markets and pageants to fireworks, festivals and dance, here are 25 ways to make your festive season sparkle.
Christmas pageants
Throughout December
There’s nothing better than Christmas festivities in the regions! Santa will be travelling far and wide, from Barmera (12 December), to Ardrossan (19 December), Cowell (December 24) and more, you don’t want to miss the Christmas pageant in your closest town. Watch the floats glide past, sing along to carols and don’t forget to wave to the jolly man in red. Plus many of the parades include family-friendly activities such as face painting, fireworks and food stalls.
Get into the Christmas spirit
Co-Opera presents Sullivan’s The Zoo
1-3 December
With the unique backdrop of the Adelaide Zoo, Co-Opera brings the music of Sir Arthur Sullivan (most well-known for the Gilbert and Sullivan operettas) to life. The Zoo is a fun, lively, 40-minute show which tells the story of two pairs of lovers and the obstacles in the way of their romances. Don’t miss the welcome drink and pre-show canapes on arrival!
Adelaide 36ers v Brisbane Bullets
5 December
The Adelaide 36ers take on the Brisbane Bullets in a high-stakes NBL clash at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. Expect fast plays, fierce defence and plenty of noise from the stands as both teams chase a win. The Sixers will look to capitalise on their home-court, while the Bullets aim to break their stride. It’s a must-see matchup on Adelaide’s basketball calendar.
Dougstock Six
5-6 December
South Australia’s most eclectic backyard festival returns for two days of live music, art and community vibes on a picturesque Willunga property. There’ll be indie, jazz, psych-rock and soul acts, food trucks, open-air bars and plenty of room to dance barefoot under the stars. It’s BYO-camping, all-about-connection and definitely one for your summer bucket list.
High Tea at Martindale Hall
5-7 December
Step back in time and treat yourself to an afternoon of treats, tea and timeless charm at Martindale Hall. Savour a beautifully curated selection of sweet and savoury delights, thoughtfully paired with hand-crafted teas. Then wander the grand halls and gardens of this Clare Valley icon – your ticket includes full entry to explore it all.
Summer Cinema Sessions at Skillogalee
6 December – 16 January
Lights, vines, action! Summer Cinema Sessions are back at Skillogalee, with three classic films – Bridesmaids, Home Alone and Grease – screening under the stars on the scenic Clare Valley estate. Settle in on the picnic lawns with local wine, tasty snacks, and that unbeatable summer vibe – or upgrade to the Dinner + Show experience for a three-course meal, reserved seating, and movie-time service at the Barrel House.
Wakeboard SA Round 4
6 December
Get ready for adrenaline-fuelled action at Round 4 of Wakeboard SA’s 2025/26 comp. Join the excitement at Bowhill Riverfront from 8:30am as South Australia’s best wakeboarders hit the water. Spectators can expect jaw-dropping tricks, high-flying jumps and fierce competition throughout the day. Bring your family and friends, grab a spot by the river and cheer on these incredible athletes as they show off their skills.
Culture: The Generation of Rave
6 December
One of Adelaide’s biggest outdoor electronic festivals is back at Bonython Park – and it’s louder, brighter and wilder than ever. Culture: The Generation of Rave – Wasteland Edition drops three brand-new stage designs, world-class DJs and a full sensory light show. Expect bass that rattles your ribcage and a sea of neon-clad ravers living their best lives. Strictly 18+, so bring your mates and your stamina.
Glitter Pines
6-21 December
This world premiere Adelaide exclusive is a magical, immersive, interactive, all-ages Christmas light and story experience like no other. Set in a glowing forest filled with hundreds of illuminated Christmas trees, LED screens, immersive effects and original music, it’s a heartwarming adventure that follows a traveller making his way home for Christmas – by hot air balloon. With dancing reindeer, snowstorms and a forest that comes to life, Glitter Pines is perfect for families, dreamers and holiday lovers of all ages.
Live in Lincoln
6 December
Get ready, Port Lincoln! This Aussie grassroots music festival is bringing a powerhouse line-up of indie and rock talent to Centenary Oval. With headliners like Bad//Dreems, Gyroscope and Magic Dirt, plus a lineup of emerging artists and DJ sets, it’s set to be an unforgettable live music experience. While you’re there, why not explore local beaches, dramatic Eyre Peninsula coastline walks, fresh seafood and wildlife adventures before or after the tunes.
Oprah Winfrey in Conversation
6 December
Oh no she didn’t! The queen of chat hits South Australia’s shores for a one-night-only, intimate conversation that fans won’t want to miss. Oprah – a legend in her own right – will take to the stage to reflect on her trailblazing career, offering rare insights, personal stories and the lessons she’s learned along the way. This is her first return to Australia in a decade, making it a truly unmissable event for audiences hungry for inspiration, laughter and unforgettable moments.
It’s good to talk
Victor Harbor Half Marathon
7 December
Kick off your summer and chase that year-end PB at the Running Company Victor Harbor Half Marathon! This flat, fast and seriously scenic course takes you along the stunning Encounter Bay coastline, across the Granite Island Causeway, and back to finish at Warland Reserve. With ocean views worth a million bucks (and no brutal hills in sight), it’s the perfect run to wrap up your year. Stick around afterwards to soak up Victor Harbor’s seaside vibes, coastal views and local charm.
Lights of Lobethal
12-22 December
South Australia’s brightest Christmas tradition is back! Celebrating more than 60 years of community magic, the Lights of Lobethal Festival transforms this Adelaide Hills town into a twinkling wonderland of light displays, markets, live entertainment and festive fun. Wander through local stalls, enjoy events like the Living Nativity and Carols in the Valley or hop in the car for a magical drive through the town’s dazzling displays.
Adelaide Polo Classic 2025
12 December
Experience fast-paced, 20/20-style polo set against the backdrop of Adelaide’s beautiful CBD. Sip, snack and soak up glamorous fashions on the field, all-day entertainment, and the very best of local wineries, eateries, and experiences. The 2025 Adelaide Polo Classic is where style, sport, and SA hospitality collide.
Gathered Christmas Design Market
12-14 December
This festive favourite is back – and bigger than ever! This year, the Gathered Christmas Design Market moves to Alec Johnston Park on Hahndorf’s Main Street as part of the Hahndorf Christmas Village weekend. Browse stalls packed with local homewares, fashion, art, jewellery, candles, kids’ gifts, food and drinks, all made by talented South Australian creatives. Add live entertainment, great vibes and plenty of Christmas sparkle – and it’s the perfect spot to tick off your Christmas gift list.
Get my Christmas shopping done
Carols by Candlelight
13 December
This beloved South Australian tradition brings families and friends together for a night of festive fun under the stars. From 3pm at Elder Park, enjoy food trucks, a Christmas market, giveaways and preshow entertainment, then settle in for a magical evening of singalongs with Marina Prior, Paulini, Emma Memma, Leo Sayer and more. Pack a picnic rug, bring your best Christmas spirit, and get ready for a night to remember.
NRMA Insurance Men’s Ashes
17-21 December
Cricket fans, get ready – the Ashes are back at Adelaide Oval! Feel the thrill and embrace the electric atmosphere as the world’s fiercest cricket rivalry takes centre stage for this pre-Christmas clash. Grab your mates, don your green and gold and cheer on Australia against England right here at home.
Sundown Soirée Cocktail Party
18 December
Summer starts here! Join the Sundown Soirée poolside at Hotel Alba for cocktails, canapés, live DJ vibes, and a stunning sunset backdrop. With drinks flowing, Mediterranean bites, pool access and gifts for all ticket holders, it’s the ultimate way to celebrate the year in style. Groups of 10+ even score a complimentary stay.
Love Actually in Concert
19 December
Back by overwhelming demand, Love Actually in Concert returns to Adelaide – and it’s as magical as ever. Southern Cross Symphony performs the unforgettable soundtrack live as the world’s favourite Christmas film plays on the big screen. Whether you’re planning a girls’ night out, a date night or simply treating yourself (because, why not?), relive the magic and, remember – just like the movie says, love actually is all around.
Fall in love (actually) this Christmas
Sunday Sounds with Courteney Hooper
21 December
Kick back at McLaren Vale’s Hastwell & Lightfoot winery and soak in the soulful sounds of Adelaide’s multi-award-winning musician Courteney Hooper. Enjoy gorgeous guitar and powerful vocals, alongside delicious platters, wine, beer and cider. Bring your own rug or camping chair for a perfect afternoon of live music with friends.
Bay Sheffield
27-28 December
The Bay Sheffield is back this December – and Glenelg’s foreshore is set to explode with colour, energy and hometown pride. Feel the buzz in the air as Australia’s fastest sprinters battle it out for glory over 120m competing for their share of a $16,000 prize pool. Other races cater for juniors, veterans, para-athletes, men and women over distances from 70-3200m. With beachside vibes, cheering crowds and a festival atmosphere, it’s South Aussie summer at its best.
PolArt Adelaide 2025
27 December – 4 January
Celebrate the colours, music and magic of Polish culture at the 50-year anniversary of this vibrant, all-ages, family-friendly festival. Featuring more than 500 artists from across Australia, New Zealand and the local community, enjoy visual art, dance, music, theatre, literature and more. It’s the perfect way to experience Polish culture, whether you’re a first-timer or reconnecting with your roots.
Day Disco at Paxton Wines
27 December
Get ready to dance among the vines! Funk Fusion brings the beats for a sun-soaked day disco at Paxton Wines. Sip on wine cocktails, local beers, Paxton wines or 23rd St Distillery drinks, and fuel up with wood-fired pizzas, grazing boxes, and gelato from PIZZAta. Free entry – bring your friends, your dancing shoes, and good vibes for the ultimate summer afternoon party.
BBL|15 Adelaide Strikers v Brisbane Heat
31 December
Get ready for the biggest New Year’s Eve party in Adelaide as the Strikers take on the Brisbane Heat at Adelaide Oval. What better way to close out 2025 than with this thrilling clash? Adding to the unforgettable atmosphere, there will also be live entertainment and, of course, fireworks.
Strike out this New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve fireworks
31 December
Start 2026 with a bang! No matter where you are in SA, there’s a spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks celebration nearby to help you welcome the new year in style. Whether you’re celebrating along the coast, or ready to watch a riverfront display, gather with family and friends and join the countdown under a sky bursting with colour and excitement. It’s the perfect way to ring in the new year wherever you are in our state.
