Celebrate the charm of the holidays in Dunedin with our comprehensive guide. For those born and raised in Dunedin and those just arrived, our guide is your ticket to seasonal wonder.
Popular Events: Kick off the celebration at the enchanting Christmas at Larnach Castle, where the historic grounds are transformed into a festive wonderland adorned with stunning decorations and twinkling lights. The Dunedin Christmas Parade is a spectacle in itself, showcasing local talent and community spirit through vibrant floats and performances. And the Green Island Market Day is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a delightful selection of artisan goods and festive treats. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Dunedin
- Green Island Market Day
- Christmas at Larnach Castle (Otago Peninsula)
- Dunedin Santa Parade
- Dunedin Christmas Parade
- Dunedin Symphony Orchestra Christmas Concert
- Christmas in the Octagon
- Carols by Candlelight
- Dunedin Public Art Gallery Christmas Exhibition
- Christmas at the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum
- Badjelly the Witch Glow Show
See these and even more events listed below!
Dunedin Holiday Light Displays
Taieri Christmas Market
What to Expect:
Community-driven Christmas lights display competition.
Description:
The Taieri Christmas Market in Mosgiel is a vibrant celebration featuring a Christmas lights display competition, heritage bus rides, and community activities that bring the community together.
Where: Taieri | More Info: Taieri Christmas Market
Dunedin Holiday Markets and Shopping
Green Island Market Day
What to Expect:
Community event with local vendors, food, and live music.
Description:
Join us for a fun family day out at the Green Island Market Day, featuring over 100 stalls, school performances, food trucks, games, and arts and crafts.
Where: Dunedin | More Info: Green Island Market Day
Port Chalmers Christmas Market
What to Expect:
Celebrating local craftsmanship with unique, handmade gifts.
Description:
The Port Chalmers Christmas Market at the Edgar Centre features high-quality, New Zealand-made products from local artisans, showcasing a diverse range of gifts and seasonal items.
Where: Port Chalmers | More Info: Port Chalmers Christmas Market
Dunedin Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Badjelly the Witch Glow Show
What to Expect:
Unique blend of science, puppetry, and music.
Description:
Badjelly the Witch Glow Show is a reimagined, nonsensical tale featuring puppetry, music, and science, bringing a delightful experience for children and nostalgic fun for adults.
Where: Dunedin | More Info: Badjelly the Witch Glow Show
Carols by Candlelight
What to Expect:
Traditional Christmas celebration with live music and community participation.
Description:
Carols by Candlelight is a traditional Christmas event in Christchurch, featuring the Salvation Army Band, guest performers, and a combined Christchurch choir. It brings together people of all faiths, age groups, and cultures to celebrate family and community spirit.
Where: Dunedin | More Info: Carols by Candlelight
Dunedin Symphony Orchestra Christmas Concert
What to Expect:
Classical music celebration with the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra.
Description:
The Dunedin Symphony Orchestra presents a festive Christmas concert featuring a diverse range of classical music, showcasing the orchestra's mastery and the joy of the season.
Where: Dunedin | More Info: Dunedin Symphony Orchestra Christmas Concert
Dunedin Public Art Gallery Christmas Exhibition
What to Expect:
Exclusive behind-the-scenes tours and private viewing of Rita Angus' Lake Wanaka.
Description:
The Dunedin Public Art Gallery's Christmas Exhibition features a private viewing of the major 2022 donation, Rita Angus' Lake Wanaka, along with behind-the-scenes tours of the gallery collection. Members can enjoy champagne, strawberries, and Christmas nibbles while exploring the artworks.
Where: Dunedin | More Info: Dunedin Public Art Gallery Christmas Exhibition
Christmas at Larnach Castle
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration in a historic castle setting.
Description:
Celebrate the holiday season at Larnach Castle with special events and unique dining experiences amidst beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
Where: Otago Peninsula | More Info: Christmas at Larnach Castle
Dunedin Other Holiday Activities
Christmas at the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum
What to Expect:
Interactive exhibits and special activities for families.
Description:
Celebrate the holiday season at Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, where families and children can explore interactive exhibits and enjoy special activities amidst the rich history of Dunedin.
Where: Dunedin | More Info: Christmas at the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum
Dunedin Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Largest free community event in Otago.
Description:
The Dunedin Santa Parade is a free community event that has been bringing Christmas spirit to the city since 1998. It features captivating floats, music, marching, community groups, local businesses, sports teams, and of course, Santa Claus. The parade travels down George Street before ending in the Octagon.
Where: Dunedin | More Info: Dunedin Christmas Parade
Dunedin Santa Parade
What to Expect:
Unique blend of Kiwi culture and holiday cheer.
Description:
The Dunedin Santa Parade is a free community event in Otago, featuring Christmas-themed floats, music, marching, community groups, local businesses, and sports teams, culminating in a festive celebration with Santa Claus.
Where: Dunedin | More Info: Dunedin Santa Parade
Christmas in the Octagon
What to Expect:
Unique floats and performances blending New Zealand culture with holiday cheer.
Description:
The Dunedin Santa Parade is a free community event that has been bringing Christmas cheer to the city since 1998. It features enchanting floats, music, marching, community groups, local businesses, sports teams, and of course, Santa Claus. The parade travels down George Street before ending in the Octagon.