A Midwinter Wonderland: Countdown to Christmas in July at The Rocks

Christmas in July Festival

Sydney may be known for its sunny skies and beachy Christmases, but come July, it turns into something completely unexpected—a winter fairy tale set in the historic heart of the city. With just seven days left until the Christmas in July Festival opens at The Rocks, the event team has written an open letter to the big man himself. Because once a year just isn’t enough when it comes to spreading festive cheer.

A Winter Village by the Harbour

From 11 to 20 July, The Rocks transforms into a snowy, European-inspired Christmas market—complete with cobblestone laneways, glowing fairy lights, rustic wooden chalets, and the smell of pine in the air. At Snow Lane, you’ll even find a gentle flurry of artificial snow, making it feel like you’ve stepped straight into Strasbourg or Salzburg—without the 20-hour flight.

Cheese Lovers Rejoice

The comfort food offering is a star attraction, and this year’s menu is set to outdo itself. Expect melting raclette scraped over potatoes, sizzling bratwursts, buttery gnocchi tossed in a flaming cheese wheel, lobster rolls for those with a luxe palate, and decadent Nutella crêpes. With more than 20 food vendors, no one’s walking away hungry.

Warm Up With Mulled Wine and Hot Chocolate

It may not be Arctic-level cold, but Sydney’s winter chill is enough to call for something warm in your hands. Sip steaming mulled wine (spiced to perfection), toast marshmallows over live fire pits, and indulge in creamy hot chocolate served with handmade canelés. These drinks aren’t just beverages—they’re an experience.

Markets Made for Magical Gifting

The artisan market brings together boutique creators offering handcrafted jewellery, woollen knits, festive decorations, perfumes, candles, and gourmet delicacies. It’s the ideal place to get ahead on your holiday shopping—or to treat yourself to something special, because why not?

Live Music and Roaming Festivities

At the heart of the festival is a full program of free live entertainment. Think soulful jazz, festive folk, roaming performers, and the occasional dancing Santa. With more than 15 concerts lined up across the event’s ten days, the cobbled streets will be alive with sound, spirit and spontaneous fun.

Introducing Australia’s First Fire Pit Cinema

Christmas in July Festival

In what may be the most magical feature yet, the festival is launching Australia’s very first Fire Pit Cinema. Set in front of Cadmans Cottage, small groups can gather around their own private fire pit, snuggle under blankets, and watch Christmas movie favourites beneath the stars. Films like Home Alone, Elf, and Love Actually will warm your heart as much as the mulled wine warms your hands. Yes, there will be marshmallows.

A Christmas Wish From Sydney

Whether you're writing your own letter to Santa or just in need of some winter enchantment, Christmas in July at The Rocks offers a full-sensory celebration of warmth, wonder and togetherness. It’s Sydney’s answer to a northern Christmas—and it’s wrapped in twinkling lights and served with cheese.

Plan Your Visit

Event: Christmas in July Festival
Dates: 11–20 July 2025
Location: The Rocks, Sydney
Website: www.christmasinjuly.com.au

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/