Christmas is approaching, and if you're away from home in Australia, no need to worry – there are lots of  ways to immerse yourself in the holiday cheer.

Christmas Day

While Christmas Eve takes precedence in Europe and Latin America, Australians typically come together on Christmas Day (25 December). If you're into it, you can find a nearby church with Christmas services.

Be sure to verify event details on official websites or social media for the most recent updates, and also be aware of which places are open on Christmas Day.

Food

Aussies love celebrating Christmas with a feast! Despite the summer heat, it's common to enjoy a mix of hot and cold dishes, including fresh seafood, roast turkey, and Christmas pudding.

If you're celebrating with friends, consider a 'potluck' where everyone brings a dish to share. You could even ask guests to bring a traditional Christmas dish from their home country.

Gifts

Gift-giving is a common practice in Australia, mainly among family and friends. Consider saying thanks by giving a small gift or card to your employer, manager, or anyone else you'd like to thank.

For a budget-friendly gift exchange, think about organising a Secret Santa. It involves setting a spending limit, drawing names, and buying a gift for the person you picked. This way, everyone gets a gift without breaking the bank. 

Christmas events

Brisbane

Experience the grandeur of the Christmas tree at Brisbane’s King George Square leading up to Christmas. Lively animated projections adorn City Hall, narrating delightful Australian Christmas stories.

Gold Coast

Check out the MAYOR’S CHRISTMAS CAROLS at HOTA Outdoor Stage and HOTA Parklands. It's a night of music hosted by local presenters and concludes with a fireworks finale.

Melbourne

Watch the charity music event, Carols by Candlelight, on Christmas Eve (24 December), a televised event across the country. Carols by Candlelight takes place at Sidney Myer Music Bowl and all proceeds go towards Vision Australia’s charity work. This year, you can attend the event live by booking tickets or catch the event free-to-air on Channel 9.

The famous Federation Square becomes Christmas Square for the festive season, complete with a 16-metre Christmas tree, Santa’s workshop, free music performances, and awesome restaurants and bars.

Sydney

Explore the Martin Place Christmas tree is a fixture in the middle of the CBD until January 2024. Be sure to swing by and snap a picture while you’re there!

You can also check out Deck the Harbour at Darling Harbour from 28 November to 25 December 2023 and Christmas Wonderlanes at The Rocks, which offers a series of events until 25 December 2023.

Perth

Attend Santa’s Symphony in the Park at the South 9 Parklands on 2 December 2023. Here, you can enjoy festive songs from the amazing Perth Symphony Orchestra and talented vocalists! You can also visit the annual Christmas Lights Trail, which includes two lit paths to follow and 22 installations to explore throughout the CBD and Northbridge.

Adelaide

Experience free performances under the massive Christmas tree in Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga. For more options, check out the other festive events to attend.

Mental Health Support

As the holiday season approaches, we want to remind you about the valuable support available through the Uprise Student Assistance Program, proudly brought to you by Greenwich College and NextED.

In this program, you can privately talk to committed counsellors dedicated to improving your well-being. Uprise counsellors are ready to help you with various aspects, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, relationships, study life effectiveness, exam stress, decision-making, and goal setting.

 As a student at Greenwich College, you have access to up to 3 one-hour therapy or coaching sessions for free. We understand that the festive season can bring unique challenges, and we want you to know you're not alone. Your well-being matters, and our dedicated support is just a message away.

 Wishing you a peaceful and supported holiday season!

Christmas Day