
Forget snow and sleigh rides – this Christmas is all about sand, sunshine, and serious festive fun!
Christmas at South Bank brings the magic of the season, Queensland style. Think outdoor movies under starry skies, Santa photos with a classic Australian twist, and hands-on wreath-making workshops. But the real stars? Giant elves who’ve ditched the North Pole for long summer days. They’re roaming South Bank, each with a story to share and a dash of mischief to spread. Spot them if you can…they’re big, bold and brimming with Christmas cheer!
Discover it all at South Bank –where Christmas comes to play in unexpected ways.
Turns out Santa’s not the only one making a list this year – the giant elves have made their own and it’s all about South Bank fun!
The North Pole has come to Brisbane this Christmas - giant elves are on the loose, swapping snow for sunshine and spreading festive joy at South Bank! Find them all and uncover the magic of a summer Christmas before they jingle off back to Santa’s workshop.
You’ll find Sandy at Streets Beach, Barbie on the Northern Little Stanley Street Lawns, Pixie on the Southern Little Stanley Street Lawns, Lizzy at Flowstate, Lillie at Picnic Island Green, Skipper at Riverside Green, Chip at Riverside Terrace, Whitney at River Quay, Lorri near Rainforest Green, Jingle at Liana Lounge, Bravo at the QPAC Balcony, and Sunny at the Brisbane Sign. Each elf has a moment to share, so make sure to visit them all and uncover their summer story.
Eat, drink and create! Join Dead Puppet Society at Flowstate for a merry, hands-on Christmas celebration.
Deck the halls, pull up a bench and step into the festive spirit with a Christmas-themed workshop led by the creative masterminds of Dead Puppet Society. Guided by their talented artisans, you’ll dive into a hands-on session to craft your very own native flora–inspired Christmas wreath using laser-cut materials inspired by the floral species found throughout South Bank.
For craft lovers, this experience is the perfect way to end the year with friends, plus you’ll head home with a one-of-a-kind treasure made entirely by you!
Once your masterpiece is complete, enjoy one full hour of canapés, featuring jamon serrano, Calabrian salami, marinated olives, quince, pickles, Manchego and camembert. Continue the celebrations with drinks from the cash bar, offering a selection of Yalumba wines, Aperol spritz, festive mocktails and more.
Available 4pm - 6:30pm and 6:30pm - 9pm daily. Spaces are limited, so book your tickets here!
This is a 14 + event.
Experience the Most Wonderful Time of the Year through the magic of the Lost Worlds Cinema, curated by Brisbane International Film Festival. As twilight settles over South Bank’s Rainforest Green, the green becomes a screen with a hidden open-air cinema lighting up the night.
Rediscover Christmas classics and contemporary comedies covering every shade of the festive season.
Movie schedule and tickets available here.
Celebrate the magic of the season with a festive photo alongside your loved ones with a unique South Bank touch. This year’s Santa photos embrace the beauty of our local flora, adding a distinctive charm to your holiday memories.
And good news for animal lovers, Pet Photos with Santa are back by popular demand! Pet sessions are available on select days and times, so be sure to book the correct session when reserving your spot.
Plus, join Mrs Claus to hear magical stories, and get into the spirit of the season by joining in on Christmas themed crafty fun.
Pet Santa photo sessions
December 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23
9:00am – 9:30am only
Bookings available here. ($30. Located at Riverside Green Pavilion)
Join Mrs. Claus to hear magical stories that bring the festive season to life before unleashing your little one’s creativity at Christmas themed craft workshops.
Join in and create special keepsakes including Christmas stockings, festive artworks and much more!
Little Stanley Street will be transformed into a bustling festive village lined with Christmas decorations and market stalls. Explore a variety of unique, handcrafted gifts including jewellery, homewares and more.
Open daily on Little Stanley Street from 10am-9pm.