Elves, carollers and a forest of twinkling lights will delight visitors at a free Christmas experience at Tanawha.

Sunshine Coast Council’s latest Christmas offering, The Festive Garden, will see the Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens transformed into a Christmas wonderland from December 17 to 21.

Sunshine Coast Council community portfolio councillor David Law said the walk-through experience was free and a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.

“Expect to find Christmas spirit in abundance, beautiful lights in a magical setting, face painting, Santa, letters to the big man himself, elves, entertainment and food trucks,” Cr Law said

“Visitors should allow 1hr30m on site, for a magical experience.

“Getting to the event is simple thanks to a free park and ride service, but bookings are essential.

“We expect thousands will want to attend the new festive experience, so to ensure we can accommodate everyone, we’ve teamed up with Sunbus to deliver a free shuttle.”

Buses will run continuously between the University of the Sunshine Coast and the Botanic Gardens from 5.30pm, with the last bus returning at 9pm each evening.

Visitors should park at the University of the Sunshine Coast, 90 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs and wait for a free shuttle bus to take them to the experience.

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The last bus will leave the University at 8pm and the travel time is about 12 minutes each way.

Access to the experience is via park and ride only – patrons will not be able to park or enter directly from the garden.

The Sunbus Express is accessibility compliant and able to accommodate wheelchairs, strollers, and mobility devices.

For more information, including links to the latest COVID-19 restrictions as it applies to festivals and events and to book, visit Sunshine Coast Events.