Countdown to Christmas begins on the Southern Downs

5 November 2026

The Southern Downs and Granite Belt communities are invited to come together for festive fun and all the excitement that comes with the countdown to Christmas.

This December, the Southern Downs will be buzzing with holiday cheer as four family-friendly Council events bring communities together to celebrate the season.
• Warwick Christmas Tree Light Up, Tuesday 1 December, 6pm
• Stanthorpe Christmas Tree Light Up, Friday 4 December, 6pm
• Stanthorpe Carols in the Park, Friday 11 December, 6.30pm
• Warwick Christmas in the Park, Sunday 13 December, from 5pm

Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said the events captured everything people love about Christmas, from the excitement of seeing the Christmas trees light up to singing along to favourite carols with family and friends.

"For many Southern Downs families, Christmas doesn't truly feel like Christmas until the tree lights shine, the carols begin and communities come together to celebrate under the summer sky," Mayor Hamilton said.

"These events have become treasured Christmas traditions for communities across the Southern Downs.

"They mark the beginning of the festive season, bring our communities together and create special memories for families in the lead-up to Christmas."

Warwick Christmas Tree Light Up
Christmas festivities will begin in Warwick as the community gathers to watch the Town Hall's Christmas tree light up. Residents are invited to share in the excitement as the tree illuminates the Warwick CBD and marks the official start of Christmas celebrations on the Southern Downs.

Stanthorpe Christmas Tree Light Up
The festive spirit will continue in Stanthorpe with the annual Christmas Tree Light Up outside the Post Office. Families can come together to enjoy the atmosphere, celebrate the season and watch the Christmas tree shine brightly.

Stanthorpe Carols in the Park
Stanthorpe's Carols in the Park will bring the Granite Belt to life with the sights, sounds and spirit of Christmas. Families can gather in Weeroona Park to enjoy food stalls, free face painting, a Santa Letter Writing Station and complimentary bubble wands and Santa hats thanks to Rose City Shopping Centre, while local bands, school choirs and talented home-grown performers fill the evening with Christmas carols and festive favourites.

Warwick Christmas in the Park
Warwick's Christmas in the Park will transform Leslie Park into a festive playground for children and families. Visitors can enjoy free jumping castles, face painting, a Santa Letter Writing Station, Christmas craft activities hosted by Bunnings and complimentary bubble wands and Santa hats proudly sponsored by Rose City Shopping Centre. Fern Sisters and Brothers will headline a program of local bands, school choirs and performers, providing the soundtrack to an evening of Christmas celebration.

Mayor Hamilton said Christmas events on the Southern Downs were about more than decorations and entertainment.

"From the excitement of a Christmas tree lighting up to the joy of singing carols under the stars, these events capture the country spirit of Christmas on the Southern Downs," Mayor Hamilton said.

"I encourage everyone to come along, support our local performers and community groups, and celebrate the season together."