Eumundi Christmas Twilight Market
These markets draw crowds from across South-East Queensland, and have become a yearly tradition for many families. Expect an artisan vibe from local businesses and creators with a dash of Christmas spirit. A special addition to this year’s event is A Serene Christmas presented by Kindred Resonance. Kindred Resonance is a unique musical collaboration between two cousins, cellist Jane Tallon and pianist Richard Goldsworthy.
When: Friday, December 17, 5pm to 8.30pm.
Where: 80 Memorial Drive, Eumundi.
Tickets: Free entry.
Mooloolaba Christmas Boat Parade
The Mooloolaba Yacht Club Christmas Boat Parade is a Christmas lights display with a difference, as you’ll find decorated hulls alongside houses. Join in by entering your boat in the parade, grabbing a spot along the canals to watch with family and friends, or cheering on the boats from your Christmas-dressed yard or balcony – this parade is for everyone.
When: December 18, from 7pm.
Where: Mooloolaba Yacht Club and surrounds.
Tickets: Free entry.
Festive garden
This December, experience The Festive Garden, a new walk-through Christmas lights experience at the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden. You’ll find Christmas lights in a magical setting, Santa and his elves, face painting and roving entertainment, all for free. Entry is via a free park-n-ride shuttle which runs between the University of the Sunshine Coast Transit Centre and the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden. The shuttle will depart from the USC Transit Centre.
When: December 18 to 21, 6pm to 9pm.
Where: Maroochy Bushland Botanic Garden.
Tickets: Free entry, tickets required via Eventfinda.
The Making of a Botanic Garden Exhibition
The Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden that we know and love has not always looked the way it does today. Some of the best known and most iconic garden areas have undergone quite a change over time. The Friends of Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Gardens reveal to you how the transition has been achieved during a 25-year realisation period through the collaboration between the community, the council, and the Friends.
When: Monday to Saturday, 10am to 1pm, until December 22.
Where: Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden, Palm Creek Road, Tanawha.
Tickets: Free event.
Kawana Carols By The Beach
Can you hear the sleigh bells ringing? It’s almost that time of year and Kawana Carols By The Beach is sure to be a huge hit again in 2021. As one of the most-anticipated events of the season, Kawana Carols puts on a show, with entertainment, food and fun for the whole family, with a special visit by you-know-who. Bring a rug, and your best sing-a-long voice and get ready for a great time.
When: December 19, 3pm.
Where: Kawana Surf Life Saving Club, 99 Pacific Boulevard, Buddina.
Tickets: Free entry.
Australia’s Biggest Welcome Back Party
The Sunshine Coast’s 21 craft breweries are celebrating the border opening. Every venue will offer something special to welcome back visitors, including special drinks and new food. In Eumundi, free stubby coolers are up for grabs with every beer purchase, with brewery tours available at Brouhaha Brewery and Kenilworth to take you behind the scenes. Expect live music at Moffat Beach, Heads of Noosa and Blackflag Brewing, while Boiling Pot will launch a new seasonal beer. Guests at any of the breweries also have the chance to win a year’s supply of craft beer.
When: Friday, December 17, 4pm to 9pm.
Where: Various Coast craft breweries.
For more: Visit Sunshine Coast.
Violent Soho – Best Night Ever
Need a party to see off 2021? South-East Queensland’s favourite end-of-year punk rock blowout is back. With only a handful of live performances since their chart-topping album Everything Is A-OK was released in April 2020, Brisbane rock lords Violent Soho are ready to see out the year as they headline the event alongside Teenage Joans, The Grogans and Blussh.
When: Saturday, December 18, 4pm.
Where: NightQuarter, 8 The Avenue, Birtinya.
Tickets: $109.90 via Oztix.
Help keep independent and fair Sunshine Coast news coming by subscribing to our free daily news feed. All it requires is your name and email. See SUBSCRIBE at the top of this article.