The magic of Christmas has returned to Hunter Valley Gardens

It's almost time for one of the Hunter Valley's biggest festive traditions to return, with millions of twinkling lights set to transform Hunter Valley Gardens into a Christmas wonderland.

Christmas Lights Spectacular returns from Friday October 30 to Sunday January 31, bringing illuminated displays, amusement rides, live entertainment and festive treats for the whole family.

This year's event introduces three new and expanded displays, giving returning visitors even more to explore.

Step into the Celestial Snowfields, a winter-inspired wonderland filled with glowing constellations, celestial angels and shimmering blue and silver lights.

Over at Gingerbread Way, expect candy canes, glowing sweets and a whimsical gingerbread house, while the expanded Planes, Trains & Automobiles precinct features illuminated vehicles, skiing reindeer and a classic Aussie ute.

Entertainment for the whole family

Beyond the millions of lights, there's plenty happening throughout the Gardens to keep the whole family entertained.

Little ones can settle in for the Nutcracker Story Time Experience on selected evenings, with sessions at 6pm, 7pm and 8pm, while roving performers, Bizarre Haus and the Christmas House Band bring even more festive fun to the program.

Those visiting later in the season can look forward to New Year's Eve fireworks at 9pm on 31 December, followed by Summer Sunset DJ Sessions on selected Saturdays throughout January.

For families chasing a little more excitement, the Gardens' amusement rides will also be operating nightly from 6pm to 10pm.

Take a spin on the Ferris wheel, hop aboard the carousel, brave the superslide or enjoy the teacups and swing chairs. Rides cost $6 each, or $30 for a six-ride pass, with height and age restrictions applying.

Food, drinks and festive treats

Food stalls will be serving everything from woodfired pizzas, burgers and loaded fries to Mexican food, dumplings, gelato, donuts and other sweet treats.

Returning for its second year, The Evergreen Tavern will also be open inside the Gardens' marquee, offering a relaxed spot to grab a drink or bite to eat before or after exploring the lights. 

Serving beer, wine, cold drinks, burgers, loaded fries and kids' meals, it's an easy place to settle in and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Tickets

Christmas Lights Spectacular runs nightly from 5:30pm to 10:30pm, with last entry at 9:30pm.

Night entry tickets:

Adults (16+): $42
Children (4–15): $31
Children (3 and under): Free
Family pass (2 adults + 2 children): $128
Family pass (2 adults + 1 child): $104
Family pass (1 adult + 2 children): $97
Extra child with family pass: $28

For those wanting to make a full day of it, combined Day/Night passes are also available, giving visitors the chance to explore Hunter Valley Gardens during the day before returning for the lights after dark.

Day/Night entry tickets:

Adults (16+): $60
Children (4–15): $48
Children (3 and under): Free
Family pass (2 adults + 2 children): $195
Family pass (2 adults + 1 child): $161
Family pass (1 adult + 2 children): $141
Extra child with family pass: $46

Amusement rides:

Single ride: $6
Six-ride pass: $30

Christmas Lights Spectacular 2026

When: Friday 30 October 2026 – Sunday 31 January 2027
Where: Hunter Valley Gardens, Pokolbin
Time: 5:30pm–10:30pm (last entry 9:30pm)
Cost: Adults $42 | Children (4–15) $31 | Children 3 and under free | Family passes from $97
Rides: $6 each or six for $30
To book, visit Hunter Valley Gardens.