What To Do In Hobart for Christmas
Quick Answer: Top Things to Do in Hobart at Christmas
The most popular Christmas activities in Hobart include the Myer City of Hobart Christmas Pageant, the Salamanca Christmas Market, the Tasmanian Made Christmas Festival, community carols, Mount Wellington lookout, Hobart Waterfront Walk, Christmas dining at Wrest Point and Waterline, Hobart Historic Cruises, and scenic day trips to Richmond, Huon Valley, and Bruny Island.
To move easily between events and Christmas hotspots, car hire in Hobart orcar rental at Hobart Airport is highly recommended.
Hobart at Christmas is shaped by warm summer weather, average temperatures of 12–22°C, and long daylight hours (up to ~15 hours). The waterfront, Salamanca district and CBD become more vibrant, but the city still holds its relaxed coastal character. Navigating the festive period is easiest with a vehicle, allowing you to travel freely between events, beaches, lookouts and nearby towns.
#1
Festive Events & Celebrations
Christmas Window Display Competition
Every December, Hobart retailers participate in the Christmas Window Display Competition. Each window features a themed design, ranging from classic Christmas scenes to modern, creative displays. This creates a festive walking trail through the CBD and pairs well with holiday shopping or dining.
Community Christmas Carols
Community Christmas carols take place in parks, church courtyards and suburban venues across Hobart. Choirs, community groups and volunteers lead the songs, while food stalls and family-friendly activities add to the festive feel. This is a relaxed way to enjoy Hobart Christmas activities for families.
- When: Saturday 6 December 2025
- Where: Across the city
Calendar
- Carols in the Park – Saturday 6 December
- C3 Beyond Carols – Wednesday 10 - Monday 15 December
- Carols at John Turnbull Park – Saturday 6 December
- Carols at St David's Cathedral – Saturday 20 December
- Carols at Mount Stuart Hall and Elizabeth Mall!
#2
Christmas Markets & Holiday Shopping
Tasmanian Made Christmas Festival
The Tasmanian Made Christmas Festival focuses on handmade Tasmanian goods including jewellery, timber crafts, homewares and seasonal produce. Artisan stalls and food vendors create a festive atmosphere, ideal for meaningful Christmas shopping away from mass-produced items.
- When: December 6–7
- Where: PW1, Salamanca Place, Hobart
Salamanca Christmas Market
Salamanca Market becomes especially vibrant throughout December. With 250–300 stalls, buskers, Christmas-themed products and Tasmanian-made gifts, it is one of the best places for Hobart Christmas shopping. The market operates every Saturday at Salamanca Place, regardless of public holidays.
- When: Saturdays from 8.30 am to 3 pm
- Where: Salamanca Place
#3
Outdoor Christmas Activities
Mount Wellington (kunanyi) Summit Lookout
Mount Wellington (kunanyi) provides sweeping views of Hobart, the River Derwent and surrounding ranges. Christmas brings warm weather and clear skies, while the summit can be up to 10°C cooler than the city. Short tracks near the lookout make it a rewarding but easy outdoor experience.
Hobart Waterfront Walk
The Hobart Waterfront Walk stretches from Constitution Dock to Salamanca Place and is a relaxed Christmas activity. Boats, heritage buildings and local eateries create a scenic route perfect for sunrise or sunset walks. Christmas visitors often enjoy seafood stalls, ice-cream stands and scenic harbour photography.
#4
Christmas Dining, Cruises & Seasonal Experiences
Hobart Historic Cruises
Hobart Historic Cruises travel along the Derwent River, passing key waterfront landmarks. Their steady pace and light commentary make them ideal for a low-effort Christmas activity with scenic views.
Christmas Dining at Wrest Point
Wrest Point offers long Christmas lunches, casual bites and evening drinks. Its waterfront views and festive atmosphere make it a popular choice for holiday dining. Restaurants cater to both families and adults seeking a relaxed Christmas meal in Hobart.
Christmas lunch at Waterline
Waterline, situated at the marina, offers fresh, seasonal dishes and a serene setting perfect for Christmas lunch or holiday meals. Its waterside views and light, summery menu align perfectly with Hobart’s warm December evenings.
#5
Day Trips Ideal for Christmas
Richmond
Richmond is known for its Georgian architecture, historic bridge and boutique shops. Located 25 minutes from Hobart, it’s an ideal Christmas outing for families or travellers looking for a peaceful rural experience.
Huon Valley
The Huon Valley features orchards, cider houses and farm gates. Warm Christmas weather makes it ideal for scenic drives and food-focused travellers seeking local produce and cool-climate wines.
Bruny Island Ferry
A short drive to Kettering followed by a 20-minute ferry crossing takes visitors to Bruny Island. The island offers beaches, wildlife, coastal lookouts and popular seasonal produce—making it a memorable Christmas day trip.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Christmas in Hobart
Plan for Christmas Crowds
Popular Christmas events and markets become busier, especially on weekends. Arriving early helps secure parking and avoids congestion. A car also lets you switch quickly between busy areas and quieter spots like Sandy Bay or Nutgrove Beach.
Keep Your Phone Charged
Christmas in Hobart involves QR-code menus, online bookings and map navigation. Carrying a power bank ensures you stay connected while moving through events and markets.
Prepare for Weather Changes
Mount Wellington can become windy and significantly cooler, even in December. Bring sunscreen, water and a light jumper. If you need gear, camping gear hire in Hobart offers an easy solution for travellers.
Make the Most of the Waterfront
The waterfront is busiest at midday and during cruise ship arrivals. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or at sunset. With a car, you can easily adjust your timing and visit nearby beaches if crowds grow.
Ready to Explore Hobart This Christmas?
A car is the simplest way to explore Hobart at Christmas. Markets, beaches, lookouts and popular day trip destinations are far more accessible with your own vehicle. Travellers arriving by air can collect a car directly at Hobart Airport, while those staying centrally can use car hire in Hobart CBD for added convenience and flexibility.
The beauty of this city is how much it offers in such a compact space. Hiring a car in Hobart gives you the flexibility to take the scenic route, linger in the places you love, and find your own version of Tasmania. And at Alice Car Rental, that’s exactly what we’re here for. We are here to help you explore this island your way, with honest service and local know-how to back you up.
