Christmas at the Cathedral
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Artistic rendering – Event may differ

Christmas at the Cathedral

Experience the magic of Christmas at this beloved annual festival in Sydney. From December 12th to 25th, the forecourt of St. Mary's Cathedral transforms into a festive wonderland. Be captivated by stunning light projections retelling 'A Christmas Carol' on the cathedral's facade, browse unique gifts from artisan stalls, and savor delicious food and drinks. Enjoy live entertainment and roaming performers each night, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere for all ages.

What to Expect

Light projections on St. Mary's Cathedral

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: FREE
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Other Christmas Events Near Sydney

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, and individuals seeking a festive christmas experience.

Vibe

Magical, festive, community-oriented, awe-inspiring.

Energy Level

Low to moderate; involves walking and standing.

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (5/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate; outdoor event, but projections are visible in most weather. check forecasts.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Retelling of 'A Christmas Carol' through light projections
  • Live entertainment and roaming performers nightly
  • Food and gift stalls

Tags

holiday light displayscommunity celebrationfamily friendlyfestive atmosphereseasonal activitiesholiday traditionfestive foodlocal artisansChristmas decorationsholiday season

Featured Video

Location

St Mary's Cathedral
St Marys Rd
Sydney, NSW
2000

Event Details

Duration

14 days

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

City Centre

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney

Food & Drink

Food and drinks available from festival stalls

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive before 8:30 PM to witness the official lighting of the cathedral projections.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday evening for a potentially less crowded experience.
  • Explore the 'Gifts' and 'Food and Drinks' sections of their website for a preview of what to expect.
  • Use public transport to reach the venue, as parking in the city center can be challenging.
  • Check the event's social media pages for any last-minute updates or special announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main attraction of the event?

The main attraction is the breathtaking light projections onto St. Mary's Cathedral, which retell the classic story 'A Christmas Carol'.

Is there an entry fee for the event?

No, Christmas at the Cathedral is a free family event for everyone to enjoy.

What kind of stalls can visitors expect?

Visitors can expect festival stalls offering a variety of gifts and delicious food and drinks.

What are the operating hours?

The festival runs nightly from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, with the lights turning on at 8:30 PM.

Is the event suitable for children?

Yes, it is described as Sydney's favorite free family Christmas event, with activities and a festive atmosphere suitable for all ages.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 2, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

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