Whether you’re new in Sydney for the holiday season, or you’re a seasoned veteran looking for some more inspiration to get into the holiday spirit, we’ve compiled our ultimate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day round up of the most festive frivolities.

CHRISTMAS EVE

It has been argued many a time, by friends, acquaintances and colleagues about Christmas Eve celebrations here in Sydney. It goes without saying that if you’re an expat living in Sydney, the mass exodus of Sydney-siders leaving the city to spend time with their families leaves the city feeling a little ‘less festive and full’. Sydney orphans are a plenty, so it is with this in mind that we’ve got our heads together to provide a round up or our top picks to make you forget that you’re not with your family at this special time of year.

Lord Dudley, Woolhara

Originally being from the UK, Christmas Eve is somewhat of a staple, Christmas Eve is for the adults and Christmas Day is for the kids! I found when I first moved here however that the same sentiment wasn’t echoed here in Sydney.

Many years were spend searching for the ultimate place to celebrate Christmas Eve in style, with red wine, festive songs and Christmas spirit by the truck load. Time and time again, we were left more than a little disappointed! That was until two years ago, when we decided to head to the Lord Dudley in Woolhara. Think old fashioned English pub, decor, atmosphere and cask ale offering to boot (along with a stunning seasonal sunday roast that is incredible!). Neighbours from nearby Paddington, Edgecliffe and Double Bay pile in in their festive jumpers and santa hats to down red wine and sing along to the xmas sound track.

The atmosphere is electric and for the slightest moment you can forget that you’re on the other side of the world from your loved ones and family.

This is our ultimate pick if you’re looking to replicate you Christmas Eves of years gone by!

Red & White Cruise – 7pm

Why not celebrate Christmas with a four hour cruise on the harbour featuring four international DJ’s.  For more info, click here

Cost: General Admission: $40pp

Golden Age Cinema, Screening of Scrooge – 7pm
Round up your sharehouse, friends, families and travelling orphans to spendDecember 24th celebrating A Murray Christmas Eve at Golden Age. What better way to procrastinate on your present wrapping than with a screening of Bill Murray’s holiday classic Scrooged, and Charlie Heart playing yuletide tunes live on the Golden Stage? There will be a special menu on offer too, including Christmas ham toasties, fruit mince pies, and delicious cocktails, including the bar’s famous boozy egg-nog. For those who stick around after the film, there will be some festive surprises in store on the night… Book in quick!

El Circo, Slide – 7pm

Looking for a quirky way to enjoy Christmas Eve here in Sydney? Look no further: El Loco is offering a nine course degustation and plethora of escapism entertainment at its very best.

Featuring circusa acts, stunning cabaret perfomacnes and captivating burlesque entertainment, you know you want to click here for more info
Slide, 41 Oxford St, Darlinghurst
Degustation menu & show: $129pp

 

CHRISTMAS DAY

 

Bondi Beach

Screen Shot 2015-12-21 at 11.50.54 AM

Christmas Day in Sydney wouldn’t be complete (especially for us Brits) without a dip in the sea on Bondi Beach. Whilst the polar opposite of everything we’re used to on Xmas Day, there us no denying that there’s a great atmosphere and seasonal cheer.

 

Christmas Lunch at Q Dining

ECQ Bar

Enjoy Christmas celebrations in style at a stunning waterfront venue with breathtaking views.

A beautiful 3-course menu lunch featuring dishes like Seared Hawkesbury Calamari, Squid Ink Tapioca, Daikon, Apple; Quinoa and Chestnut stuffed Turkey, Bourbon and Cherry Sauce as well as Christmas Plum Pudding, Brandy Anglaise, Muscatel Ice Cream; by Executive Chef Daniel Simpson, will be available.

Complemented by bottomless Veuve Clicquot, a wonderfully indulgent Christmas is guaranteed.

Relax this Christmas as Q Dining serves up a memorable day for the whole family.

Details:

–          Friday, 25 December Christmas Day

–          12.30 pm to 3.30 pm

–          $249 per adult; $124 per child (5 to 12 years)
–          3-course menu including bottomless Veuve Clicquot or non-alcoholic beverages (for those below 18 years old)

 

Watson’s Bay

Christmas Lunch at the Watson's Bay Hotel

Christmas Lunch at the Watsons Bay Hotel

The season of indulgence is fast approaching! Join us for a festive 4 course Christmas Day feast, with paired Cape Mentelle wines to match!

Adults $299

Children under 18 – $125pp

No charge for children under 5*

Bookings essential:

reservations@watsonsbayhotel.com.au

 

CHRISTMAS DAY AT MANTA

We loved Wooloomooloo here at Sydney Social 101 and think this would be a stunning location on the water to enjoy an Christmas Lunch.

Click here to request a menu:

Manta Xm

 

For more information about Christmas in Sydney please visit www.sydney.com or www.visitnsw.com

 

About The Author

Lisa Hollinshead
Editor & Director

Boss lady over here at Social 101. Lover of all things that inspire creativity, individuality and happiness! Former party gal, now mama to a beautiful baby boy!

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