Image: Martin Place, Sydney @Tourism Australia
1. Martin Place Christmas Markets – Sydney, NSW
Right in the beating heart of Sydney, Martin Place turns into a glittering Christmas hub each December. With the city tree towering overhead, the smell of gingerbread drifting through the air, and local makers selling everything from candles to jewellery, it’s the perfect mix of big-city energy and Christmas cheer. Stop by, grab a festive treat, and soak up the sparkle.
Vibe: City lights, festive buzz, perfect for an after-dark wander.
2. The Makers & Shakers Market (Christmas Edition) – Rozelle, NSW
Forget cookie-cutter gifts – this boutique market is for people who love finding something original. Held at White Bay Cruise Terminal, The Makers & Shakers Market brings together some of Australia’s best independent designers, artists, and food stalls. There’s music, a relaxed crowd, and more creativity per square metre than most shopping centres can dream of.
Vibe: Stylish, handmade, proudly local.
3. The EQ Christmas Markets – Moore Park, NSW
If you’re the type who loves to browse with a coffee in one hand and a snack in the other, this one’s for you. The Entertainment Quarter fills with 150+ stalls of fashion, gifts, plants, and homewares – basically everything you didn’t know you needed until now. It’s lively, colourful, and family-friendly, with plenty of food trucks and festive tunes to keep the vibe high.
Vibe: Big day out, all-in-one shopping and eating.
4. Byron Twilight Christmas Market – Byron Bay, NSW
Image: Byron Bay, Northern NSW @Tourism Australia.
Byron does Christmas the only way Byron knows how – barefoot, musical, and full of good vibes. You’ll find handcrafted gifts, local art, and gourmet food trucks under twinkling lights, with live music setting the mood as the sun dips behind the palms. It’s as relaxed as Christmas shopping gets – just bring your tote bag and your best “coastal cool” energy.
Vibe: Laid-back, creative, effortlessly festive.
5. Bangalow Christmas Markets – Bangalow, NSW
Just inland from Byron Bay, the Bangalow markets are a local legend. The town comes alive with handmade crafts, fresh produce, and stallholders who’ve been part of the community for decades. It’s got that classic country Christmas feel – think mistletoe, live music, and homemade fudge – all with that easy Northern Rivers charm.
Vibe: Rustic, wholesome, and a little bit magical.
6. Christmas Markets GC Broadwater Parklands, Gold Coast, QLD
Palm trees, ocean breeze, and fairy lights – this market is pure Gold Coast Christmas energy. The Broadwater Parklands transform into a festive wonderland filled with artisan stalls, food trucks, live entertainment, and family activities. It’s perfect for an evening stroll, and even better with an ice cream in hand.
Vibe: Family fun meets coastal sparkle.
7. HOTA Twilight Christmas Market – Surfers Paradise, QLD
Over at Home of the Arts (HOTA), this twilight market blends creativity and Christmas spirit in one gorgeous spot. Expect food trucks, live performers, handmade gifts, and the kind of warm, easy-going crowd that makes the Gold Coast feel like one big festive street party. It’s the ideal combo of shopping, music, and summer-night atmosphere.
Vibe: Artsy, relaxed, full of personality.
8. Vocalescence Christmas Market – Upper Coomera, QLD
A smaller, community-style market that’s big on heart. Locals come together for crafts, carols, and sweet treats, all with a friendly, laid-back feel. It’s the kind of place where you’ll bump into Santa, buy homemade jams, and leave smiling. Perfect for those who prefer a calmer alternative to the big crowds.
Vibe: Wholesome neighbourhood Christmas spirit.
9. Sunshine Coast Christmas Twilight Market – Mooloolaba, QLD
The Sunshine Coast knows how to throw a summer market. This one takes over the Mooloolaba Esplanade at sunset, with food stalls, beach tunes, handmade gifts, and that sea breeze everyone needs in December. Grab dinner, take a twilight stroll, and soak in the easy coastal Christmas vibe.
Vibe: Warm nights, ocean views, pure holiday mood.
10. Eumundi Christmas Market – Eumundi, QLD
Image: Eumundi, Sunshine Coast @Tourism Australia
Eumundi’s famous markets get even better during the festive season. Local musicians, artisan makers, fresh local food, and an unbeatable community feel make this a must-do if you’re up the coast. Wander under the trees, find one-of-a-kind gifts, and maybe stay for a long brunch – it’s the Sunshine Coast at its most charming.
Vibe: Iconic, artistic, and full of colour.
11. BrisStyle Twilight Market – King George Square, Brisbane, QLD
This is Brisbane’s ultimate Christmas market moment – hundreds of local creators filling King George Square beneath the city’s massive Christmas tree. There’s live music, a lively crowd, and enough handmade treasures to fill Santa’s sleigh. If you’re downtown, it’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend.
Vibe: Festive city night with local flair.
12. Made Local Market (Christmas Edition) – Brisbane Showgrounds, QLD
Part market, part design showcase, this event is heaven for lovers of handmade and homegrown. With everything from ceramics to prints to gourmet snacks, it’s the kind of place you’ll spend hours exploring – and probably leave with a bag full of “gifts for other people” that mysteriously end up staying with you.
Vibe: Modern, creative, full of inspiration.
13. Festive Markets at Queen’s Wharf – Brisbane, QLD
Brisbane’s newest entertainment precinct puts on a show with its pop-up Christmas markets. Expect boutique gifts, local bites, and live music under the city lights. It’s glitzy, vibrant, and feels more like a summer festival than a shopping trip – exactly what December nights should be.
Vibe: Polished, lively, and a bit glam.
14. Christmas Markets at The Mill – Newcastle, NSW
A charming regional option that’s worth the drive if you’re cruising north from Sydney. Local artisans fill this heritage space with handmade crafts, seasonal goodies, and live performances that make the atmosphere truly special. It’s a beautiful mix of nostalgia and community spirit.
Vibe: Regional warmth and genuine festive joy.
15. Milton Christmas Twilight Market – Brisbane, QLD
Cribb Street transforms into a Christmas street party packed with local food, artisan stalls, and live tunes. It’s a perfect Friday-night hangout spot where you can eat, shop, and unwind under the fairy lights. A little bit retro, a lot of fun, and full of that Brisbane summer energy.
Vibe: Street festival meets Christmas magic.
So, Where’s Your Christmas Market Stop?
Whether you’re starting your trip in Sydney, cruising through Byron, or soaking up the Gold Coast sunshine, these Christmas markets deliver everything we love about an Aussie summer – food, music, laughter, and a festive glow that hits differently by the water. So, grab your reusable bag, throw on your comfiest sandals, and get festive the Aussie way – relaxed, sunny, and a little bit sparkly.