Every year in Australia, the month of December tends to revolve around the Christmas season. However, if you don’t celebrate the holiday, you might be left wondering what you can do to entertain yourself when 25 December rolls around.
While many establishments close for the day, such as retail stores and shopping malls, most of them re-open on 26 December with awesome Boxing Day sales. That said, there are heaps of venues that remain open on Christmas Day. Whether you’d prefer to see a film at your local cinema or soak up the sun at the beach, there are many spots you can visit to enjoy the day your way. Before visiting, always check the location’s official website or social media for updates on opening hours or current restrictions.
Let’s take a look at which venues are open on Christmas Day in your city.
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What’s open in Sydney on Christmas Day?
Sydney’s hospitality scene is just as vibrant on Christmas Day as it is on any other day of the year. There are several restaurants and bistros that keep their doors open to patrons the entire day.
Weather permitting, you can always head to any of Sydney’s stunning beaches and spend the day there. While Bondi, Coogee, and Bronte are all great choices, you may want to check out Milk Beach, Maroubra, or Store Beach for a slightly quieter, more secluded experience.
If you’re keen to see Australia’s wildlife up close and personal, Taronga Zoo is the perfect spot to visit. The zoo remains open on Christmas Day and boasts a variety of cool creatures from across the world, including koalas, kangaroos, elephants and giraffes.
Or, check out the latest blockbuster at the Ritz Cinemas in Randwick. On Christmas Day there will be screenings of everything from action-comedy, Dunki, to the classic Fiddler on The Roof.
What’s open in Melbourne on Christmas Day?
There’s no shortage of fun things to do on Christmas Day in Melbourne. Enjoy the summer heat by walking through the Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens or visiting the Peninsula Hot Springs.
If you would rather escape the heat and seek refuge in the air conditioning, go see a movie at the Lido, Classic, or Cameo Cinemas. You can enjoy the show as you snack on some classic movie treats.
What’s open in Brisbane on Christmas Day?
Located in the heart of the city, Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens offer a scenic and relaxing environment. Grab a few friends, pack some food and drinks, and head down for a picnic in the park.
Alternatively, you can catch a CityCat ferry to soak in the city views from the water. Afterwards, grab a drink or a bite to eat at any of Brisbane’s restaurants remaining open on Christmas Day.
What’s open in Adelaide on Christmas Day?
Open 365 days a year, the Adelaide Zoo offers a unique alternative to celebrating Christmas. From 9:30 am to 5 pm, you can check out a wide range of exhibitions and learn all about the animals.
Adelaide is also home to some beautiful metropolitan beaches, including Glenelg, Brighton and Henley. Since Christmas falls in the summer in the Southern Hemisphere, the beach is one of the best spots to enjoy the weather. Put on your swimsuit, soak up that sea breeze and spend the day in the sand.
What’s open in Perth on Christmas Day?
On the west coast of Australia, you’ll find some of the most stunning beaches in the country: Cottesloe Beach, Mettams Pool, Bathers Beach – and the list goes on. Whether you’re keen to sunbathe or hit the surf, these beaches are open to the public every day of the year. There are also a few restaurants and cafés open on Christmas Day if you don’t feel like cooking a meal yourself. While enjoying your meal, a little extra patience with the staff goes a long way, as they may be sacrificing their own family time to serve you.
What’s open in Canberra on Christmas Day?
Known as the ‘bush capital’, Canberra has plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy on Christmas Day. Head to Black Mountain, Mount Majura, or Mount Ainslie and take in the breathtaking views from the peak. Before heading off, make sure you understand how to bushwalk safely and that you’re being sun safe.
In Canberra, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and cafes open on Christmas Day, but it’s wise to book your table in advance to avoid disappointment. Most of these establishments include a public holiday surcharge to compensate their staff adequately.
What’s open in Darwin on Christmas Day?
Just outside the Northern Territory’s capital city, you will find the biodiverse Kakadu National Park. While the flooding of the tropical summer season closes some of its attractions, there are some – such as Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) and Yellow Water – that remain open year-round (including on Christmas Day).
If you’d rather stay in the city, consider spending the day at Mindil or Vesteys Beach. Be sure to stick around for sunset – the views from these shores will take your breath away.
What’s open in Hobart on Christmas Day?
Lovers of the great outdoors should head to Wellington Park on Christmas Day. There, you can enjoy an array of activities, including bushwalking, bike riding, and rock climbing. The park is open all day, every day, and has no entry fees. It’s important to note, however, that the park closes on any day with a Severe, Extreme, or Catastrophic fire danger within the area or surrounding areas.
You can also head to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens to enjoy the fresh air and the gorgeous flowery surroundings. While the garden gates are open on Christmas day, remember that the shop and restaurant are closed, so bring your own food and drinks.
What else is open on Christmas Day?
While there are certain exceptions, most chemists, supermarkets and bottle shops will be closed on Christmas Day. With this in mind, it’s recommended to do all your shopping beforehand and stock up on any supplies you might need.
If you’re hoping to visit your campus on Christmas Day, make sure to check your education provider’s website to see which facilities are open and bring your ID card with you to gain entry into accessible buildings.
