Sydney: Christmas On The Rocks

THE ROCKS, SYDNEY’S HISTORIC CORE AT THE CITY END OF THE HARBOUR BRIDGE, TRANSFORMS INTO A FESTIVE WONDERLAND IN THE LEAD UP TO CHRISTMAS.

A European-style Christmas market at the height of Sydney’s summer season might seem like a festive faux pas, but it’s proof Australians really do like things upside down.

Wander down the cobblestoned streets and laneways of The Rocks – the birthplace of modern Sydney – in December and you’ll really think you’re in a northern hemisphere winter wonderland.

Fairy lights, a giant snow globe, Christmas trees and twinkling baubles adorn the historic precinct as The Rocks Christmas Markets transforms the city’s oldest neighbourhood.

As you enter The Rocks from First Fleet Park stairway you’ll notice ambient lighting, Christmas trees, lamp post decorations and fairy lights adorning George Street.

Nurses Walk, which runs parallel to Harrington Street and George Street, has seven-foot Christmas trees, Nutcracker statues and star lanterns festooning the laneway.

This harbourside hub is the place to go for last minute Christmas gifts with dozens of stalls selling yuletide treats and goods, as well as jewellery, cosmetics, clothing, homewares, artwork, gingerbread, chocolate and even loose-leaf tea.

There’ll be live music and street performers, as well as some of the city’s best gourmet street food, including burgers and paella to ice cream and donuts.

Getting There

The Rocks Christmas Market is located at Playfair Street and George Street, just minutes from the ferries, trains, buses and light rail at Circular Quay and Wynyard. The market is open on Friday 4-9pm, Saturday 10am-9pm and Sunday from 10am-6pm from December 3 to 19.

🎄 And Don’t Miss… 🎄

The Bastille Festival Christmas Market, usually held as Christmas in July, will pop up at The Rocks from December 17-20 this year. It’s the perfect chance to experience French culture and maybe bring something French to your table this Christmas. There’ll be an oyster and champagne bar, a wine and cheese cellar as well as a Wine Tasting Tour. For $37 per person, you’ll sample five premium wines from the country’s most famous wine regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Côtes du Rhône, Loire and Provence.

Check out the one-day Ultimate Christmas Market at Sydney’s Entertainment Quarter at Moore Park on Sunday December 5. The Market, normally held every Wednesday and Saturday, takes on a festive feel for one day only between 10am and 4pm. Santa will also make a special appearance.

The Sydney Vegan Market, Christmas Edition will be held on Sunday December 19 at Sydney Olympic Park from 9am-4pm. Traditionally held on the third Sunday of every month, Sydney Vegan Market brings together more than 100 stalls selling 100 per cent plant-based food and drink, homewares, fashion, art and cosmetics.

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