With Christmas just around the corner, Macquarie Centre’s award-winning ‘Santa’s Secret Garden’ is making its much-anticipated return this festive season. This uniquely Australian Christmas experience with a breathtaking showcase of native landscapes will be open to shoppers from 16 November to 24 December .
Australia’s first-of-its-kind living and breathing Christmas set is crafted using over 260 native and drought-tolerant plants, creating an immersive journey from the beach to the bush. The lush greenery, coastal pathways and tropical plant features have earned the installation multiple accolades, including Landscape Design of the Year for Commercial Design, GOLD Commercial Design, Educational Play Space, GOLD Plantscape Design and SILVER Sydney Design Award 2020.
A Magical Experience
Since 2020 Santa’s Secret Garden has attracted more than 16,000 customers and this year’s set will continue to offer a magical experience for families as they stroll through a scenic boardwalk, illuminated glow worm cave and lush native surroundings on their way to meet Santa. The set is carefully maintained by a dedicated gardener specialising in native plants, ensuring its beauty and sustainability throughout the season.
As part of Macquarie Centre’s commitment to the community, the native trees and plants from the set will be donated to St Gabriel’s School, the 100-year-old school is dedicated to supporting children with diverse needs. The school provides specialised education for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, blind or with low vision, as well as those with Autism and intellectual disabilities ranging from mild to moderate.
Inclusive Santa Photography Sessions
In keeping with Macquarie Centre’s inclusive approach, Santa’s Secret Garden will continue to support diverse customer needs with a range of photography sessions, including Sensitive Santa (for children with sensory sensitivities) and Pet Photos. This year, the Centre is thrilled to introduce Auslan Santa, a special experience for deaf children, ensuring everyone can share in the joy of Christmas.
With more than 360 stores including international and Australian brands, dining options, fresh food choices and a cinema, Macquarie Centre makes the shopping experience easy and enjoyable this festive season.
For more information around Macquarie Centre’s Christmas program, visit the Macquarie Centre website, Instagram or Facebook page.
Leave a Reply