Festive Sparkle Across the Beaches

The Northern Beaches is lighting up this festive season with a bright line-up of free, family-friendly celebrations to mark Christmas and welcome the New Year.

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins says the annual events are a much-loved tradition that bring the community together.

“Council loves bringing people together to enjoy the spirit of the Christmas season,” Mayor Heins said. “These events are about supporting our community, all while having fun with family, friends and neighbours.”

Festivities begin on Thursday 4 December with the Christmas Choral Concert at Manly Oval. Pack a picnic, pick up dinner from one of Manly’s great local restaurants or grab a bite from the food trucks onsite. Then sit back under the stars for an evening of carols featuring the Northern Beaches Orchestra, the Community Christmas Choir and talented local artists. Plus, the first 2,000 guests can enjoy free popcorn thanks to Cunninghams Real Estate.

“Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without carols,” Mayor Heins said. “Our Choral Concert is always a highlight of the season.”

The celebrations continue on Friday 12 December with Christmas by the Beach at Dee Why, where families can enjoy a festive stage show, free Santa photos and face painting, again thanks to Cunninghams Real Estate.

“Christmas by the Beach is set to be a wonderful event,” Mayor Heins said. “Expect a lively Christmas stage show featuring Boskar the Polar Bear, a sing-along with Rock Paper Sisters, and a dance party hosted by Jayden Rodrigues for kids of all ages. It’s a joyous family night that captures the Northern Beaches spirit perfectly.”

To wrap up 2025, New Year’s Eve fireworks will light up four spectacular locations across the Beaches.

Council will host 9pm family fireworks at Dee Why Beach and Frenchs Forest, while Manly Cove’s fireworks are presented by Manly Wharf with Council’s support. Over at Bayview, Merivale will once again host the dazzling display with 9pm and midnight fireworks, also supported by Council.

“Our fireworks continue to delight residents and visitors alike while supporting local businesses and our economy,” Mayor Heins said.

Event details

Christmas Choral Concert – Thursday 4 December
Manly Oval, Manly
‍6.30–8.30pm (gates open 5pm)

Christmas by the Beach – Friday 12 December
James Meehan Reserve, Dee Why5–7.30pm (gates open 4pm)

New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Wednesday 31 December

Ted Jackson Reserve, Dee Why – 9pm

Lionel Watts Reserve, Frenchs Forest – 9pm

Manly Cove, East Esplanade, Manly – 9pm

Winnererremy Bay, Bayview – 9pm & midnight (to be confirmed)

For more details and updates, visit the Northern Beaches Council website.

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