Queenstown Christmas Markets

About

The Queenstown Christmas Markets transform the stunning lakefront Earnslaw Park into a festive wonderland where families can celebrate the holiday season in true Kiwi summer style. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range, this annual market offers a unique experience of Christmas festivities in warm weather with local crafts, delicious food, and entertainment. It's the perfect way for traveling families to experience New Zealand's distinctive summer Christmas culture while enjoying the region's natural beauty.

What to Expect

Families will discover rows of market stalls selling local arts and crafts, handmade gifts, and festive decorations throughout Earnslaw Park and the adjacent Mall area. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly with live entertainment, carol singers, and often visits from Santa Claus adapted to the Southern Hemisphere summer setting. Children can explore various stalls while parents shop for unique New Zealand-made gifts, and the lakefront location provides plenty of open space for kids to move around safely. The markets blend traditional Christmas cheer with Queenstown's outdoor lifestyle, creating a festive yet casual vibe perfect for families in holiday mode.

Highlights for Kids

• Meeting Santa Claus in a uniquely New Zealand summer setting with mountain and lake views
• Live entertainment including carol singers, local musicians, and sometimes roaming performers
• Watching street entertainers and buskers along the pedestrianized Mall area
• Browsing unique handmade New Zealand gifts, toys, and crafts from local artisans
• The spectacular lakefront location with views of the Remarkables mountains providing a stunning backdrop for festive photos

Pro Tips for Families

1. Remember it's summertime Christmas in New Zealand — pack sunscreen, hats, and light clothing rather than winter gear, though evenings can cool down so bring layers
2. Visit early in the event season (late November) for a more relaxed experience before peak tourist crowds arrive in mid-December
3. Bring New Zealand dollars in cash as some smaller vendors may not accept international credit cards, and ATMs in central Queenstown can have queues during busy periods
4. The lakefront setting is perfect for combining your market visit with a playground stop or beach time at Queenstown Bay Beach, just a short walk away

Best Time to Visit

Weekday evenings typically offer a more relaxed atmosphere with smaller crowds compared to weekend afternoons when both tourists and locals flock to the markets. Arrive around 4-5pm to enjoy the markets in comfortable temperatures as the afternoon heat subsides, and stay into early evening when the setting sun over the lake creates a magical atmosphere. If visiting on weekends, arrive when markets open (usually mid-morning) to beat the lunchtime rush.

Food & Drinks

The markets feature diverse food stalls offering everything from traditional festive treats to international cuisine and New Zealand specialties like meat pies, hangi-inspired dishes, and local ice creams (perfect for warm summer weather). Kid-friendly options typically include hot chips (fries), sausages, fresh fruit, and sweet treats. Many stalls offer fresh fruit smoothies and juices alongside coffee for parents. Budget approximately NZ$15-25 per person for market food, and note that prices can be slightly higher than regular cafes due to the tourist location and special event setting.

Parking & Access

The Queenstown CBD has limited parking during peak season, so consider using the public parking buildings on Athol Street or Man Street (budget NZ$2-4 per hour). Free parking is available at the Queenstown Events Centre with a 20-minute walk or quick bus ride into town. The markets are extremely stroller-friendly with flat, paved pathways throughout Earnslaw Park and the pedestrianized Mall area. For international visitors, Queenstown is compact and highly walkable — if staying in central Queenstown accommodation, walking is easiest. The Connectabus public transport system offers convenient access from accommodation areas around Queenstown and Frankton.