Celebrate the festive wonders of Port Macquarie with our ultimate guide. From Port Macquarie residents to holiday guests, our guide highlights the season's top events and activities.
Popular events during the holiday season include The Nutcracker, a timeless ballet that enchants audiences of all ages with its magical story and stunning choreography. There's also Christmas Carols by the Beach, where attendees can enjoy beautiful melodies while soaking in the coastal atmosphere. And the 2024 Christmas Fair is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a vibrant market filled with local crafts, delicious food, and festive entertainment. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Port Macquarie
- 2024 Christmas Fair
- The Nutcracker
- Christmas Carols by the Beach
- IRONMAN (if scheduled in December)
- Port Macquarie Running Festival (if scheduled in December)
- ArtWalk (if scheduled in December)
- Monthly Markets
- Local Artisan Markets
- Koala Conservation Hospital Christmas Activities
- Sporting Events
See these and even more events listed below!
Port Macquarie Holiday Markets and Shopping
2024 Christmas Fair
What to Expect:
Local gift shopping and communal Christmas artwork.
Description:
The 2024 Christmas Fair in Port Macquarie features Artisan markets, communal Christmas artwork, food trucks, and live entertainment. Enjoy Christmas carols and watch Santa make an appearance as the Christmas tree is lit to kick off the festive season.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: 2024 Christmas Fair
Local Artisan Markets
What to Expect:
Vibrant marketplace with eclectic mix of local artisans and producers.
Description:
Local Artisan Markets in Port Macquarie feature vibrant marketplaces showcasing unique handmade arts and crafts, gourmet foods, locally grown produce, flowers, vintage clothing, and handmade jewelry.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Local Artisan Markets
Monthly Markets
What to Expect:
Vibrant marketplace with local artisans and fresh produce.
Description:
Port Macquarie's Monthly Markets offer a diverse array of local produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods. Each market is a vibrant showcase of the region's talent and community spirit, featuring everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to unique jewelry and clothing.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Monthly Markets
Holiday Exhibitions
What to Expect:
Showcase of local artisans and seasonal items.
Description:
Explore a variety of holiday exhibitions showcasing local artisans, crafts, and seasonal items. These events offer a unique opportunity to discover unique gifts and experience the community's creative spirit.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Holiday Exhibitions
Port Macquarie Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Nutcracker
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
Witness the timeless tale of The Nutcracker, brought to life by international ballet stars with breathtaking snowflakes and iconic characters.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: The Nutcracker
Christmas Carols by the Beach
What to Expect:
Traditional carols sung by local choirs and musicians along the beach.
Description:
Christmas Carols by the Beach is a community event featuring traditional carols sung by local choirs and musicians along the beach, creating a joyful atmosphere.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Christmas Carols by the Beach
ArtWalk (if scheduled in December)
What to Expect:
Celebrating local art and culture with live music and exhibitions.
Description:
ArtWalk in Port Macquarie is a vibrant event showcasing local artists and their work, featuring live music, exhibitions, and cultural performances.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: ArtWalk (if scheduled in December)
Theatre Performances
What to Expect:
Classical piano performances with humor and timeless masterpieces.
Description:
The Glasshouse Port Macquarie hosts a diverse range of theatre performances, including classical piano masterpieces, award-winning stage comedies, and musical tributes to iconic artists. These shows feature renowned artists and offer unique insights into their practices, making them a must-see for theatre enthusiasts.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Theatre Performances
Port Macquarie Other Holiday Activities
Koala Conservation Hospital Christmas Activities
What to Expect:
Interactive educational exhibits focused on koala conservation.
Description:
Celebrate the holiday season at the Koala Conservation Hospital, where you can learn about koala care and conservation while enjoying interactive exhibits and educational activities.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Koala Conservation Hospital Christmas Activities
Sea Acres Rainforest Centre Holiday Activities
What to Expect:
Ranger-guided tour through a rare coastal rainforest.
Description:
Explore the lush canopy of Sea Acres Rainforest Centre on a ranger-guided tour, discovering rare coastal rainforests and learning about Birpai culture.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Sea Acres Rainforest Centre Holiday Activities
Port Macquarie Running Festival (if scheduled in December)
What to Expect:
Unique combination of running distances along the iconic Port Macquarie Breakwall.
Description:
The Port Macquarie Running Festival is a two-day event featuring various running and walking distances, including a half marathon, 10km, 5km, and 3km events, as well as kids' fun runs. The event takes place in the picturesque Port Macquarie Town Green area, with courses spanning from Town Beach to Settlement Point.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Port Macquarie Running Festival (if scheduled in December)
IRONMAN (if scheduled in December)
What to Expect:
Unique triathlon course with a swim in the Hastings River and a bike ride along the Pacific Ocean.
Description:
IRONMAN Australia in Port Macquarie offers a unique triathlon experience with a swim in the Hastings River, a bike ride along the Pacific Ocean, and a run through the scenic coastal region of Port Macquarie. The event features energetic sideline support from the local community and includes various amenities such as personalized race kits, course nutrition, and post-race food.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: IRONMAN (if scheduled in December)
Sporting Events
What to Expect:
Financial support for young athletes competing at various sporting levels.
Description:
The Wayne Richards Sporting Scholarship is a $5,000 Council contribution to local athletes aged 13-21 competing at State, National, or International sporting levels. It assists with registration fees, equipment, and travel costs for events outside the Port Macquarie Hastings Local Government Area.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Sporting Events
Community Events
What to Expect:
Inspiring cycling short films celebrating adventure and joy.
Description:
The Big Bike Film Night 2024 in Port Macquarie features a 2.5-hour showcase of captivating cycling short films, including visually stunning adventures, inspiring documentaries, and heartwarming stories that celebrate the joy and adventure of cycling.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Community Events
Movies
What to Expect:
Inspiring cycling stories from around the world.
Description:
The Big Bike Film Night 2024 in Port Macquarie features a 2.5-hour showcase of cycling short films, including visually stunning adventures, community documentaries, and inspiring stories that celebrate the joy and adventure of cycling.
Where: Port Macquarie | More Info: Movies
Cruises
What to Expect:
Unique river cruises with diverse activities and entertainment options.
Description:
Port AdVenture Cruises offers a variety of cruises along the Hastings River, including dolphin spotting and sunset cruises. The cruises cater to different groups, such as seniors and retirees, with activities like bingo and trivia, and entertainment cruises featuring live music. Private party cruises are also available for special events.