‘Tis the season to put up the tree, wrap the presents and unwind with family and friends after another big year. Make the most of Christmas in the Hunter Valley this festive season. We have compiled a list of festive events and where to dine on Christmas Day.
Cessnock Christmas Carols in the Park: Friday, December 1st
Can you hear those sleigh bells jingling? Cessnock City Council’s Carols in the Park returns in this Friday, December 1st at Cessnock Sportsground. Country music star and local resident Tara Naysmith returns to the Carols stage in 2023 as our host. Santa’s Little Helpers – a 14-piece big band comprised of talented musicians from across the Hunter – are also back for another year of musical magic under the guidance of Musical Director Greg Paterson. Of course, the night would not be complete without a visit from the man himself; and, as in years past, the night will culminate with a spectacular fireworks display that is sure to delight and amaze. A selection of food trucks will be on hand to help feed the hungry masses, and for those keen to get a jump on their Christmas shopping there’ll be markets stalls stocked with gift ideas, all expertly curated by Hunter Events Group.
Festive Fleurs at Winmark Wines: Sunday, December 3rd
Enjoy a fabulous pre-Christmas catch up with your girl gang or simply treat yourself to a hands-on workshop and lunch at the gorgeous Winmark Wines & Art Gallery in the Hunter Valley’s picturesque little corner, Broke. This sustainable luxe floral design workshop led by renowned eco floral artist, Ashleigh from The Naked Florist, regularly seen in VOGUE, will teach you the art of either wreath making or festive table floral designs, or perhaps both! It's your choice…Relax in the spectacular surrounds of Winmark’s prized historic vineyard and 2023 Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year. Enjoy a barista made coffee from Winmark’s Coffee Cart, take a stroll in the Sculpture Park, browse the Art Gallery & Gift Store and sip award winning Chardonnay over lunch superbly catered by Sea Salt & Sage.
Dashville’s Xmas Weekender: Friday 8th and Saturday 9th December
Dashville’s Xmas party is your Xmas party! So gather your crew and join the Dashville gang for a day, night or weekend of festive fun. And as many would know, Dashville is the perfect place for a good quality relaxing family catch up. So, we say come join us, connect and unwind amongst the serenity. Let us take the stress out of the obligatory Christmas gathering or family portrait by creating the perfect option for a group catch up, with a weekend long offering, full of fun times, live music, markets, portraits and picnic vibes aplenty.
Boydell's Summer Christmas Gathering: Sunday December 10th
A summery celebration for those that love to gather family & friends to celebrate the year's end, Christmas & impending holidays or simply as an excuse to catch-up.
We’ve made pre-Christmas entertaining easy. Gather your family & friends and relax and let the Boydell’s team spoil you with a delicious Summer Christmas Menu, and the sounds of ambiant live music. SUNDAY 10 December Available from 11.30am for all day dining. $130pp to include a summery Christmas three course menu. Bookings Essential.
Christmas on John Street, Singleton: Friday December 8th
Deck the halls, hang the stockings and get ready to rock around the Christmas tree – Christmas on John Street is back in 2023, transforming Singleton's Town Centre on Friday 8 December from 5.30 - 9.30pm. A massive evening of music, food and fireworks is on everyone’s list, and Santa will be checking it twice with free photos at the Singleton Rotary’s North Pole grotto.
John Street will become Santa Claus Lane, overrun with street performers, performances from Singleton Town Band and local dance groups, food trucks, market stalls and laneway bar, plus kid's activities. Retailers will also be open for late night shopping so you can check off all the items on your Christmas list. The evening will finish off with a bang with a fireworks display.
Christmas Lights Spectacular: November - January
Be dazzled by over four million Christmas Lights at the Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular! Step into a wondrous world filled with amazing light displays, from festive themed gardens featuring twinkle tree trails and candy cane tunnels, to the classic story book walk, there is so much magical fun to be had.
Where to eat: Christmas Day
Take the hassle out of Christmas lunch and book in at one of the many restaurant open and ready to cater to your needs this Christmas day.
Restaurant Botanica
Get ready to have your Christmas Day lunch plans sorted this year with Restaurant Botanicas festive menu (that could even rival the North Pole's feast 🎅). Indulge in a bountiful Plateau de Fruits de Mer, succulent MBS4+ Short Ribs, and classic desserts, just to name a few. And don't worry about finding a place to rest after your scrumptious feast – they still have a few rooms available over the Christmas weekend. Click here to learn more or book now.
eRemo Restaurant
Join us for a spectacular Italian-influenced Christmas Day lunch at éRemo Restaurant. Head Chef Jayden Casinelli has put together a delectable 5-course Avido festive menu, including an incredible series of dishes that will make for an exceptional and memorable Christmas day dining experience. Much in the spirit of both Italian and Christmas dining, dishes are served share style in courses per table, complete with a glass of sparkling shiraz upon arrival. Join the festivities for $249 per person, with a tailored menu for teenagers 13 – 17 years old for $179 and a children’s menu $59 for children 12 and under. For more information please call 1300 590 075 or email reception.guesthouse@spicersretreats.com, or book here.
Redsalt Restaurant at Rydges Resort
Get ready to jingle your taste buds at the most spectacular Christmas Buffet Lunch of the year. This is a festive feast that will even make Santa jealous. Our talented chefs have prepared a mouthwatering lineup of traditional favourites and seasonal delights, to be enjoyed with a 3 hour beverage package. Dive into succulent roasts and carves – cooked in front of your eyes – that will melt in your mouth accompanied by all the trimmings that scream holiday cheer. But that’s not all, our buffet is a seafood lover’s dream, with plump oysters, juicy prawns and more that will make you say, “Ho Ho Ho”! Click here to learn more.
Chateau Elan at the Vintage
Make Christmas Day unforgettable this year with a festive buffet lunch at Château Élan. Our chefs will create a delicious feast that will tantalize your taste buds, and our staff will take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones! Click here to learn more.
