This December, the city of Ipswich is bursting with festive cheer, from holiday markets and Christmas carnivals to spectacular lighting displays and heartwarming carols for the whole community to enjoy.
But the fun doesn’t stop there – Ipswich is also serving up a tasty smorgasbord of live music, movie screenings, art exhibitions, thrilling car racing, and even special appearances by some of your favourite rugby league stars!
Make sure these amazing events are on your must-do list this month!
A jam-packed festival of Christmas events
Santa’s elves have been hard at work with Council staff to bring you the biggest and brightest Christmas in Ipswich Festival yet, with more than 40 magical events for families to enjoy. Don’t miss the dazzling lighting installation at the St Nicholas Precinct (December 12-21), take in the best entries from the City of Ipswich Christmas Lights Competition on a comfortable, air-conditioned coach tour (December 19-20), and capture a keepsake family photo in front of the stunning City Christmas Tree in d’Arcy Doyle Place, glowing nightly from now until January 5.
Sing your heart out this Christmas
It’s beginning to look – and sound – a lot like Christmas in Ipswich! From sweet renditions of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer to crowd favourites like We Wish You a Merry Christmas, these festive community carols are sure to put a twinkle in your eye. Carols will be held in local Council libraries as well as parks and outdoor spaces in Raceview, Ripley, Springfield Central, Booval, Pine Mountain, Marburg, Goodna, and Redbank.
Tick off your shopping list at these Christmas markets
Unwrap a world of unique gifts, tasty bites, and festive fun by visiting one of Ipswich’s many Christmas markets this December!
With your tote bag and Christmas wish list in hand, this is your opportunity to find the perfect gift for your loved ones (or a little something special just for you), with plenty of artisan makers selling their homemade and one-of-a-kind items.
You could spend hours wandering through Santa’s Sugar Plum Pop Up at Arttime Gallery and Fine Art Supplies (5-26 December); The Ipswich Handmade Expo Christmas Extravaganza at the Nicholas Street Precinct (December 6 8am-12pm); Thrifts and Sips of Christmas at Soul Nook on 6 December 11.30am-4.30pm; The Enchanted Christmas Twilight Event at the Ipswich Showgrounds (December 6 from 4pm); Top of Town Christmas Shopping Night on 6 December 5pm-8pm: Off The Wall Art Exhibition with art for sale at the Ipswich Community Gallery (12-21 December); Christmas Thrifty Threads Preloved Market at the Ipswich Showgrounds (14 December 7am-12pm); Orion Twilight Christmas Markets at Orion Springfield Central (23 December 9am-midnight); and the Riverlink Christmas Market at Riverlink Shopping Centre (23 December 9am-9pm).
Share the magic of Christmas across generations
Christmas magic is for everyone, and this month is overflowing with joyful experiences for children, grandparents, and everyone in between! Pose for photos with Santa and his reindeer at Yamanto Central, enjoy carnival fun at the Marburg Christmas Carnival and Rosewood Christmas Festival, or spend a night laughing till you’re your tummy hurts at Frantic, Festival Frolics, and Stitch in the ’Swich. You can also test your knowledge at the FRIENDSmas trivia night at Hotel Commonwealth, or visit your local library and learn how to make your own Christmas ornaments using recycled books.
Cool down with a dive-in movie
There’s something extra magical about settling in for a movie under the stars, but add a lagoon, some floaties, and a warm summer evening, and you’ve got the perfect family night out. Don’t miss out on seeing a free family dive-in movie at the Orion Lagoon on December 6, with a beloved Christmas feature film to be shown on the big screen. The movie will begin at sundown. All the details can be found on the Orion Springfield Central Facebook page.
Enjoy a sweet treat with Mrs Claus
Cozy up with Mrs Claus for free milk and cookies while she shares heart-warming Christmas stories that are sure to bring giggles, wide-eyed wonder, and plenty of festive cheer while she visits Booval Fair! On December 11, enjoy a special supper with her in the evening, or join her and Buddy the Booval Kangaroo for a magical morning tea on December 15.
Meet Santa and his barnyard friends in Haigslea
Join Santa for a magical day in the country at Ewe Nique Hobby Farm in Haigslea on December 14! Kids can feed the animals, enjoy treats like a sausage sizzle, cupcakes, and ice blocks, and try their luck with the lucky dips. Each child takes home a special gift, and Christmas feed buckets are available to share with the furry friends. Bookings are essential.
Thousands of bikers to bring Christmas cheer
Motorcycle enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The Ulysses Club – Lockyer Branch is hosting the 30th Annual Ipswich Toy Run on December 14, starting at Brassall Shopping Centre and finishing at the Ipswich Showgrounds. Spectators are welcome to line the streets and wave to the riders as they pass by. Bring along a toy or donate and help spread holiday cheer – all proceeds on the day and from registration to participate in the ride support The Salvation Army Ipswich and the Ulysses Club Arthritis Research Fund (UCARF).
Christmas fun at Little Humpty’s
Celebrate the holidays with Santa, festive games, and cute camels at the Summer Land Camel’s Little Humpty’s Christmas Party in Harrisville on December 17. Kids can enjoy a guided farm tour, cuddle and pat friendly camels, or upgrade to a camel ride, and win some cool prizes (including prizes for the best Christmas outfit!)
Join Ipswich Orpheus Chorale for a night of Holiday Harmonies
Packed with music, magic, and merriment, Ipswich Orpheus Chorale is closing out the year with a festive variety show full of heartwarming classics and toe-tapping favourites everyone knows and loves. As part of their final show, Holiday Harmonies, guests will be treated to stunning performances of Ed Sheeran’s Perfect, James Taylor’s Fire and Rain, and Annie Kwok’s Wind of Fire, plus captivating piano duets and solos, a thrilling magic act, and a showcase of quartet and solo performances by talented ensemble members. Three big shows will be held on December 6-7, including a matinee, at the George Hogg Performance Venue in East Ipswich. Tickets are available here.
Raise a glass at Stoney Creek Brewing
Get ready for a festive tasting experience like no other at Stony Creek Brewing! Their Twelve Beers of Christmas (beginning on December 6) features a new handcrafted beer each day, taking you on a journey from light, refreshing styles to rich, full-bodied flavours.
Join the party at Orion Hotel’s big birthday bash
The Orion Hotel in Springfield is turning 10, and to celebrate, you’re invited to the huge party they are throwing! Held on December 6, the day will include face painting and balloon twisting for the kids from 12-2pm, followed by live music and DJs from 6pm till late, plus lots of tasty dishes and ice-cold drinks from their menu.
Meet your favourite Bronco players
Calling all Broncos fans! Don’t miss meeting Adam Reynolds, Billy Walters, and Ezra Mam when they appear live at the Springlake Hotel on December 17. Hear every untold story from the 2025 Premiership season, meet the players behind the historic flag, and enjoy a night of laughs, insights, and fan-favourite moments. Tickets start from $49 for early bird, $59 for general admission, and the show and selfie Package is $99, which includes entry and a selfie with all three stars. Click here to reserve your seat.
Relive The Traveling Wilburys impressive song collection live on stage
Get ready to sing along to hit songs like Handle With Care, End of the Line, Last Night and more as the legendary hits of the Travelling Wilbury’s, featuring legendary artists Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, and Roy Orbison, come alive on stage at Ipswich Civic Centre on December 13!
Kick up some dust at Rosewood Rocks
Enjoy a summer afternoon soaking up original rock and country music at the upcoming Rosewood Rocks music festival, featuring an exciting line-up of local and regional artists including Kathleen Turner Overdrive (KTO), Damien J. Johnson Trio, Milly and the Maths Show, The Rebel’s Grace, Georgia Scarlett, and Dead Head Redemption. This free event kicks off at the Rosewood Hotel at 3pm on December 6.
Movies and popcorn under the stars
Get ready to roll out the picnic blanket and enjoy a magical evening under the stars at the Family Fun Day Outdoor Cinema on December 13 at Creative Hearts Co in Brookwater. The night will feature two movies (starting at 6:30pm and 8:15pm), along with arts and crafts, face painting, food trucks, ice cream, popcorn, and a coffee van. BYO snacks are welcome, but no alcohol is permitted. This ticketed event is a wonderful way to enjoy a family-friendly evening while also supporting the animal rescue organisation, Second Chance Companions.
Get ready to sing, laugh, and win at Music Bingo
If you love singing and a little friendly competition, Music Bingo is for you! Head along to the Hotel Commonwealth on December 3 for this exciting twist on the classic game, where numbers are replaced by song titles and artists. Expect to hear hits like YMCA, Love Shack, Bohemian Rhapsody and more, which you’ll mark off your bingo card as they play. Grab your friends for a pregame dinner or drinks beforehand.
A night of rock ‘n’ roll nostalgia
Having been crowned the Number 1 Elvis Tribute Artist in the world in 2000, Dean Vegas might just be the next best thing to the King himself! Join him as he Shakes, Rattles and Rolls on stage at Brothers Leagues Club on December 6, performing all of Elvis’ biggest hits including Jailhouse Rock, Suspicious Minds, Hound Dog, and Blue Suede Shoes. Best of all, entry is free and no reservations are required.
A celebration of dolls, art, and community
For lovers of dolls and artistry alike, The Art Dolls of Australia Convention is the ultimate event for collectors, artists, and anyone fascinated by these lifelike creations. Held at the Ipswich Turf Club on December 7, this convention is not only a way to purchase authentic and high quality reborn baby dolls, silicone babies, clothing, accessories, and supplies, but also a way to help raise funds for Mater Little Miracles.
Explore one of Australia’s most haunted graveyards
Steeped in history and legend, the Goodna Cemetery is renowned for its chilling tales including eerie encounters with the ‘headless angel’, buried three times, unspeakable crimes, and black magic. If you’re keen to find out more, join historian Jack Sim on a two-hour guided tour of the cemetery (which is actually older than the state of Queensland) after the sun sets on December 6 and again on 20. Reserve your place here if you dare.
Escape the heat with a movie or two
One of the best ways to beat the heat this summer, and the school holidays, is to head to Limelight Cinemas to watch a Hollywood blockbuster or two! There’s plenty of movies screening this month for movie buffs of all ages including the much-anticipated sequel Wicked: For Good, as well as Zootopia 2, Avatar: Fire and Ash, and André Rieu’s 2025 Christmas Concert “Merry Christmas”.
December race days you can’t miss
Join the excitement at the Ipswich Turf Club this December! With race days on December 3, 10, 17, and 24, it’s the perfect chance to experience live horse racing, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and soak up the festive atmosphere with friends and family. Whether you’re placing bets, cheering from the stands, or simply enjoying a day out, the Ipswich Turf Club promises a fun-filled experience for everyone.
Test your bladesmithing skills at this knife making workshop
Join the team from Savage Custom Knives in West Ipswich for a two-day hands-on workshop where you’ll design and forge your very own custom knife. Learn from expert bladesmiths and finish your creation with a striking, vibrant resin handle—perfect for collectors, hobbyists, or anyone looking for a truly unique experience. Click here to book.
Laugh out loud with Aussie larrikin Mickey Wilson
After selling up everything and packing the kids into a caravan, Darwin-born larrikin Mickey Wilson is taking his unfiltered, high-energy comedy on tour where he’ll be making a quick pitstop at The Rusty Nail on December 5 for his show, How Ya Goin? Full of wild stories, self-deprecating laughs, cheeky filth, and brutally honest observations, Mickey is sure to leave you laughing until your sides hurt.
Meet the artists at the Ipswich Art Gallery
If you love art, join curator Dr Greer Honeywill for an insightful curator talk about her new exhibition, titled Lost in Palm Springs, which opens at the Ipswich Art Gallery on December 13. Here, she will share the stories, inspirations, and discoveries that shaped the exhibition, exploring themes of connection, place, and the enduring influence of modernist architecture. The opening night will be held later that evening, where she will also be joined by artist Christopher Bentley, who is the curator behind the Machine, Man exhibition, also on display.
Learn the secrets behind how your favourite spirits are crafted.
Whether you’re a spirit enthusiast or just curious about the process, a visit to Imbibis Distillery is the perfect way to wet your whistle and get an insider look at the art of small-batch distilling. Join Chief Distiller Jason Hannay on December 5 and 19 for a behind-the-scenes experience, showcasing how he selects the finest botanicals to the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. You’ll also enjoy a guided tasting of award-winning gins, vodka, and specialty spirits.
Catch the action at Marburg Trots
If you’ve never experienced the excitement of harness horse racing, now’s your chance! Head to the Marburg Showgrounds on December 7 to watch the Marburg Pacing Association go head-to-head with their horses and carts. Gates open at 11am, with racing kicking off around lunchtime. Enjoy family-friendly surroundings, delicious food from the canteen, cold drinks, and a licensed bar. Best of all, entry is free, so bring the whole family for a day of racing, fun, and country charm!
Get ready to rev your engines in Karalee
Car owners and car lovers, get ready! Head on down to the Karalee Shopping Village on December 13 for an exciting Car Meet and Greet where you can show off your ride, check out others’ wheels, swap stories, and celebrate all things automotive.
Put the pedal to the metal at Queensland Raceway
Queensland Raceway is revving up for a month of high-octane fun! All the fun begins with the QR Moto Ride Day followed by the QR Drift XMAS BASH 2025, featuring dual drift tracks and Short Track action, and Octane Burnouts. For the ultimate rush, try the V8 Race Experience and take the wheel of a powerful race car. All this plus much more awaits you out in Willowbank! Click here to see the full calendar of events.
Ring in the New Year with a spectacular fireworks display
Wrap up the festive season and say goodbye to 2025 with family and friends at one of Ipswich’s awesome fireworks displays on December 31. Grab a blanket, find a good spot, and enjoy the lights, the music, and all the fun as we welcome 2026! More events will be added here.
A note from the author – I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas with your family and friends, and Santa is good to you all! Remember, calories don’t count at Christmas, and that’s what New Year’s resolutions are for! I look forward to seeing you in 2026!
Where to stay…
Stay in the heart of town with Urban Getaway, or book a family-friendly farm stay at Pocket Retreats, or Tallavalley Farm B&B. Stay in Ipswich Central with Quest Ipswich and Oaks Ipswich Aspire Suites. Stay in Springfield at Quest Springfield and the Springfield Lakes Hotel.
For more options see our Accommodation Page.
For more ideas to help you plan your next trip to Ipswich, check out our What’s On page.
