CHRISTMAS ON PARADE

Ho, ho, ho, folks! Santa’s en route to the Top End, switching out his frosty North Pole digs for the hot, built-up tropics of Darwin.

WORDS TIERNEY WHITE

A Very Darwin Christmas Pageant returns for a fourth year, set to delight as an entourage of floats parade through Darwin, starting at the Esplanade, working its way down Knuckey and Cavenagh Streets, before landing on Bennett Street where a main stage and Christmas Concert awaits. 

Last year, 53 Christmas-themed floats from local community groups, schools, sporting clubs, religious organisations, and businesses hit the streets, wowing little ones and their families, and getting all into the festive spirit. 

Five-year-old Finn, who was four at last year’s big event, says he loved it. 

“I liked seeing the floats and when they threw lollies at us. And I got to see Santa.” 

Christmas parades originated in Darwin back in the 70s, and after a decades-long hiatus, were reintroduced in 2022 by City of Darwin in an effort to give the community a free, family-friendly festive experience during the build-up season. 

Lord Mayor Peter Styles says it’s a highlight of the festive season. 

“The pageant brings people from all parts of our community into the city to share in the fun and spirit of Christmas ... It’s also a great opportunity to showcase local creativity, and celebrate the community that makes Darwin such a special place.” 

The pageant ends at the Bennett Street end of Smith Street Mall, where attendees can see the Lord Mayor’s Lighting of the Christmas Tree, and enjoy the Christmas Concert at the main stage. 

With roving entertainment for the duration of the event, live music, Christmas carols, and dancing, it’s sure to get y’all feelin’ festive.

A Very Darwin Christmas Pageant
WHEN SAT 15 NOV | 4-9PM 
AT DARWIN CITY 
COST FREE 
INFO averydarwinchristmas.com.au

_{Image: A Very Darwin Chirstmas Pageant 2024}