9 ways to make Christmas special while on holiday

“Home for the holidays” – ahhh yes, it’s a classic feeling. And during the festive season, there’s certainly a lot of that going on. But what about if you find yourself away from home for the holidays – without the usual things you’re used to? Well, all is not lost. Here are some of the things happening in this part of the world for you to enjoy if your home IS the holidays (at Holiday Haven) this festive season…

Christmas Markets and Fairs

Nothing says holidays quite like filling a basket with delicious local produce or browsing unique wares in small country towns. Not only will you pick up a tasty picnic and plenty of other goodies, but you’ll also be able to tick a few items off your last minute shopping list. Pay a visit to the Kangaroo Valley Christmas Market on 9 December and Long Beach Christmas Fair on 11 December. And for more local market and fair times, check out the local what’s on guide here.

Santa Snaps

For kids who have only been used to spotting (and sitting with) the jolly red-suited fellow in air-conditioned shopping malls up until now, the novelty of a photo with Santa on the beach could be the perfect memento to your trip. Check out Jervis Bay Beach Santa website for more details. Alternatively, beautiful Terrara Gardens alongside the Shoalhaven River will be hosting photo sessions for your family in its Terrara Christmas Wonderland themed greenhouse in the afternoons in the week before Christmas.

Walk the Wonderland

Speaking of wonderlands, if you’re heading into Nowra’s heart for a spot of shopping or a meal, don’t miss their annual Christmas Wonderland. It is happening again this year at Junction Court, the vibrant revitalised pedestrian-friendly zone at the corner of Kinghorne and Junction streets. This walk-through outdoor precinct is open 24 hours every day leading up to Christmas and is a great way for the whole family to get into the Christmas spirit. There will be local entertainment throughout the day and kids will be able to send a letter to Santa too. And did we mention how magical it looks when all lit up at night? #festive #blessed

The Santa Ride

A firm favourite on the Husky calendar since 2005, the Santa Ride fundraiser for local firies is a brilliant way to celebrate the silly season. What started as a bit of a joke has so far raised over $85k for the Rural Fire Service, and YOU can join in the fun simply by donning a jolly red suit and hopping on a bike. In 2022, the ride begins Saturday 17 December at the neighbouring Vincentia boat ramp at 2pm sharp, ending as all good rides should, at the pub. The record to date is 627 Santas – can it be beaten this year?

Parades, Concerts and Carols

If you’d rather wave at a parade than be in one, then get yourself to one of the Christmas Parades taking place at this time of year – including the Berry Merry Christmas on 10 December in Berry and Community Carols at Ulladulla Civic Centre that same day. For music-lovers, a free seniors Christmas Concert happens in Nowra on 13 December, wFor a little bit of everything festival, get yourself to the Christmas Fair and Carols at Culburra Beach also on the 17th – And for those looking for a music festival vibe to start their Christmas weekend in style, Local Motion on Friday 23rd will bring together local artists and DJs and homegrown talent from Australia to the South Coast – at beautiful Pyree Hall, between Nowra and Greenwell Point, while the annual RFS Santa Run will delight kids on the streets of Culburra and other villages on Christmas Eve.

Crafty and Tasty Kids Treats

At first glance, a library may not seem the place to spend the holiday season, but there are some great events going on in libraries around the region. These include a range of “Christmas Craft Mornings” for ages 5-12 in Ulladulla Library on 20 December, Nowra Library also on 20 December and Sanctuary Point Library on 22 December. In Nowra, kids will also enjoy decorating waffle cones with icing and lollies to make their own “Yummy Christmas Trees” on 21 December. And while it’s a little further to travel, how could we deny the Potter-head in your life taking part in Gerringong Library’s Yule Drinks on 20 December – yes, butterbeer is on the menu!

Get Active

Most people see this time of year as a chance to put their feet up. But if you’re one of the few who prefer a more active endeavour, check out the Callala Bay Triathlon Festival on 17 December. This much-loved “Boutique Triathlon” takes place on the northern shores of Jervis Bay, Callala Beach and is a pristine location with a laid back feel. Distances include Standard, Sprint, Super Sprint, Aquabike (Swim, Bike only) and a TriKidz, ensuring there is something for all ages and abilities! If competing’s not your thing and you simply want to make a splash, the Christmas Pool Party at Nowra Aquatic Centre could be for you. Or if boats are more your jam, head to the Vincentia Sailing Club for the Round the Bay Rally Boxing Day Spectacular!

Dine in Style

All that activity will surely build up an appetite, and ‘tis the season to put away the scales until January. For an event to start the season in style, enjoy live music from Gordon Barr and delicious food and wine at the Coolangatta Estate banquet on 17 December. There are also a number of other Christmas-themed meals on offer, including Christmas Eve Lunch at Queen St Eatery in Berry. Of course, on the big day, if you’re staying at a Holiday Haven Park, look out for food trucks on site at this time of year – or why not simply fire up the BBQ and enjoy an outdoor feast in style while the kids play.

Rides, Slides and More!

Finally, this is the place to be for family fun – with the Husky Carnival (one of the best on the coast) kicking off on Boxing Day just outside Huskisson and running every evening (6-10pm) right through until late January. This hugely popular permanent fixture has rides and games to delight the whole family – a must-do event during your stay in the region. On New Year’s Eve, head to Berry Showground for a Fireworks Spectacular and Family Fun Night with carnival rides and slides, and live entertainment throughout the night (think ‘Psychedelic/Woodstock’ era) and the fireworks at 9pm to end the year in style!