Fill your calendar and get ready for a weekend packed with festive fun, family entertainment and plenty of Christmas spirit. Think of it as Christmas opening ceremony – Dunedin style!
From all-star entertainment at Christmas in the Garden, to the much-loved Dunedin Santa Parade, and the epic Z Manu Comp making waves at Steamer Basin (Wharf), there’s something happening all weekend. Bring the whānau, round up your friends and get ready to celebrate – Dunedin’s Christmas spirit is on full display!
Christmas in the Gardens
Location: Dunedin Botanic Gardens
When: Saturday 5 December - 3:00pm - 8:00pm
Celebrate the start of the festive season at Christmas in the Gardens, a free, family-friendly afternoon packed with live entertainment, games, activities and Christmas cheer. The DKCM Christmas All Stars are back to lead an exciting line-up of entertainment on the bandstand, joined by Rainbow Rosalind, The Prince of Purple, Hot Steppers and The Andy P Band.
There’ll be something for everyone, with live music, performances, family games and activities, and a very special visit from Santa. Bring along a picnic, or grab something delicious from the food trucks or Aster Café, then settle in and enjoy the festive atmosphere with whānau and friends.
Entertainment
- Welcome from MC Melanie Kerr
Rainbow Rosalind
Prince of Purple
Hot Steppers
5:25pm - The Andy P Band
– Headliners DKCM Christmas All Stars with a special guest… Santa!
For more information and postponement dates click here.
Dunedin Santa Parade
Location: George Street
When: Sunday 6 December - 3:00pm
Dunedin's iconic Santa Parade is filled with enchanting and captivating floats, music, marching, community groups, local businesses, sports teams, and of course the man in the red suit himself - Santa!
Parade starts
Free buses to and from the city centre from 12am - 6pm. To travel for free, passengers will need to tell the bus driver they’re going to or from the parade. They will not need to tag on or off with their Bee Card.
Z Manu Comp
Location: Steamer Basin (Wharf)
When: Saturday 5 December 10am - 2:30pm
Get ready for an action-packed day of epic bombs, big splashes and all-round good vibes. As well as the main comp, there are two Push Play sessions where anyone can give it a go, whether you’re keen to try your first Manu or just want to jump in for the fun of it.
Push Play Session
Get ready to make a splash with our FREE Push Play Manu sessions! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying out your first Manu, everyone’s welcome. Bring your friends, whānau, or even the neighbours – no experience needed, just come have fun! Sessions are at 10am and 12:15pm.
To see the full timetable click here.
