Have yourself a merry little Christmas in Geelong for 2026, with a festive program of traditional favourites, cultural celebrations and new experiences from 21 November to 7 January.
Opening night will feature two Christmas icons - Denis Walter Carols by the Bay and the lighting of the Floating Christmas Tree at Geelong Waterfront next Saturday.
Another program highlight is Pasko sa Geelong , meaning Christmas in Geelong, celebrating the warmth of a Filipino Christmas and all communities that make up our region.
Supported by a Community Christmas Events Grant, the free festival will feature a parade, performances, music, and a variety of food and market stalls.
Fritzie Punsalang of the Filipino Australian Friendship Association of Geelong Inc. said the event, taking place on 29 November at Geelong Racecourse, was one of the biggest regional gatherings of its kind, attracting around 7,000 people in 2025.
Christmas is a special time for our community, and Pasko sa Geelong brings people together to celebrate the traditions, food and cultures that make our region so vibrant. Come hungry and enjoy a diverse feast of food, music, dance and activities. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the festivities and share in the Christmas spirit.
Returning favourites in the Christmas in Geelong 2026 program include:
- Opening night (21 November from 6.30pm) - Denis Walter Carols by the Bay celebrating 30 years and the lighting of the Floating Christmas Tree, with carols, special guests, aerobatic display and fireworks.
- Floating Christmas Tree (21 November to 7 January, 8.30pm to midnight) - six-minute sound, light and water show playing every 15 minutes nightly.
- City Hall projections (21 November to 7 January, dusk to 11pm) - the 'Geelong Festive Carillon' animation transforms the building into a whimsical mechanical musical instrument each night.
- School Christmas Trees (21 November to 7 January) - 30 uniquely decorated trees created by local primary schools on display at Johnstone Park.
- Santa mornings at the Carousel (4-5, 12-13 and 18-23 December, 9-9.45am) - children can share a special festive moment with Santa. Bookings essential.
- Late nights at the Carousel (12 and 19 December, 6-8pm) - enjoy the rides, festive craft activities and Christmas atmosphere. Entry to the pavilion is free, with ride tickets available to purchase on site.
- Christmas on the Bellarine (18 December, 6-8pm) - an evening of family fun at Bellarine Arts Centre.
- National Wool Museum - a range of Christmas activities for all ages on selected dates.
New highlights are:
- New nativity scene at Geelong Botanic Gardens and decorations - including giant bells - across the municipality.
- Geelong City Night Market (4 December, 4-9pm), in addition to the Geelong City Market Christmas edition (19 December).
- Christmas in the Gardens (20 December, 2-6pm) - afternoon of family fun and screening of a Christmas movie at Geelong Botanic Gardens.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM said Council was proud to bring some Christmas cheer to the community.
Geelong really is the Christmas capital of Australia, and we invite everyone to share in the festive spirit. I know it's a challenging time for many, so I hope this Christmas provides an opportunity to connect with those around us, look out for one another, support local businesses where you can and enjoy some special moments together. On behalf of the City of Greater Geelong, I wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas and a peaceful start to the new year.
Christmas is also a great time to support the people and businesses that make our communities what they are. Through our Go Local, Give Local campaign, we're encouraging residents to shop and celebrate locally this season. As part of this, our Big Red Bows are back for businesses to dress up their shopfronts and help spread this important message.
For the full Christmas in Geelong 2026 program, including event times, locations and other community activities, visit our Christmas page .
