Mooloolaba lights up over December with iconic community events, festive parades and magical waterway experiences. Whether you’re into family traditions, live music under the stars, or dazzling displays on the river, here’s everything scheduled for Christmas 2025 in Mooloolaba.
Mooloolaba Christmas Boat Parade
Saturday 20 December 2025
From 7:00 pm onwards
Mooloolaba Canals & Mooloolah River
The much-loved Christmas Boat Parade returns as one of the Sunshine Coast’s signature festive traditions. Locals and visitors line the riverbanks and canals to watch boats of all shapes and sizes, all decked out in Christmas lights and decorations, cruise through the waterways in a dazzling display of holiday cheer. You can watch from shore for free or join a cruise experience for a unique vantage point as the lights reflect off the water.
Tip: Cruises like Whale One and The Boat Mooloolaba offer ticketed on-water viewing with drinks and music – great options if you’re after a festive night out.
Santa’s Arrival & Fireworks at Mooloolaba Beach
Wednesday 24 December 2025 – Christmas Eve
5:30 pm – Santa arrives on the beach
7:15 pm – Fireworks display
Mooloolaba Beach, outside the Surf Life Saving Club
A beloved community tradition for over 60 years, this event sees Santa swapping his sleigh for a surf boat as he makes a spectacular entrance onto Mooloolaba Beach! Stick around for holiday music, family fun and a fireworks show that lights up the sky just before Christmas.
This event is perfect for families and kids – bring beach chairs or a picnic and settle in for an evening by the ocean.
Carols by Candlelight – Mooloolaba
Saturday 20 December 2025
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Mooloolaba Foreshore Park – Northern Parkland
Get into the festive spirit with Carols by Candlelight – a free community event featuring live music, classic Christmas carols and entertainment for all ages. Bring a picnic rug and enjoy an evening beneath the stars with family and friends.
Local performers and children’s activities make this a heart-warming way to share the joys of the season.
Christmas Light Cruises & Evening Cruises
Throughout December 2025
Mooloolaba Canals and River
If you love Christmas lights and a relaxed evening cruise, there are Mooloolaba Christmas Lights Cruises available throughout December. Operators like Cavalier Cruises run festive light tours up the river and through the canals – perfect for families or groups wanting a laid-back experience with stunning water views and glowing holiday displays.
These tours run nightly (subject to booking) and are a great way to enjoy the local canal homes and pontoons all dressed up for Christmas.