December in Wagga Wagga brings free concerts by the river, fireworks over the Murrumbidgee and a CBD dressed for the season. It’s one of the reasons so many families choose to call Wagga home. Here’s what’s on across the city this Christmas.
Wagga RSL Christmas Party on the Greens: Friday 11 December
Wagga RSL’s Christmas Party on the Greens returns on Friday 11 December at the club on Dobbs Street. It’s billed as the biggest community celebration of the year.
The family program includes live local music, rides, face painting, a Christmas craft corner and a visit from Santa. Local food vendors run through the evening, and the night closes with fireworks. Once the family event wraps up, an 18+ after-party continues in the sports bar with more live music.
Christmas with the Con: Saturday 12 December
The Riverina Conservatorium of Music presents its fifth annual Christmas with the Con on Saturday 12 December at the Riverside Precinct Stage, Johnston Street. Entry is free.
This year’s theme is Christmas World Music, with carols and holiday favourites from around the globe. More than 220 musicians will take the stage, including the Conservatorium Orchestra, the Simmons Street Big Band, combined concert bands and mass choirs. Fireworks over the Murrumbidgee follow the orchestra’s Christmas medley.
Bring a picnic rug or grab something from the food vendors. Two big screens livestream the concert, so there’s a good view from anywhere on the lawn. The night also includes the Light a Light of Hope tree lighting, run with Country Hope to support local families.
Carols by Candlelight
Carols by Candlelight with the Australian Army Band Kapooka has become a highlight of a Wagga Christmas. Last year’s event filled Victory Memorial Gardens, with proceeds going to the Specialist Medical Resources Foundation. Keep an eye on local event listings for this year’s date.
Christmas lights in the CBD
Wagga Wagga City Council traditionally decorates Baylis and Fitzmaurice Streets from early December through to the new year. Look out for the illuminated Cypress Pine in Victory Memorial Gardens, the trio of stars in the Civic Centre forecourt and the fairy lights over the Baylis Street pedestrian crossings. Last year’s Twinkle Town installations around Wollundry Lagoon made for an easy evening walk with the kids.
Shop and eat local
Christmas is a good time to back the businesses that make Wagga what it is. Pick up gifts along Baylis Street, book a Christmas lunch at a local club or restaurant, or stock up at one of the region’s weekend markets.
Why it matters if you’re thinking of moving to Wagga
Events like these are part of what sets Wagga Wagga apart from the capitals. Free, family-friendly nights on the riverbank and a busy main street are everyday features of regional city living here. If you’re weighing a move to Wagga or the Riverina, our team can talk you through the suburbs that suit your family.
From all of us at PRD Wagga Wagga, have a safe and happy Christmas.
Talk to the team at PRD Wagga Wagga, Wagga’s trusted real estate agency. Visit prdwagga.com.au or call us today.
FAQs
When is Christmas with the Con 2026? Saturday 12 December 2026 at the Riverside Precinct Stage, Johnston Street. Entry is free.
Is the Wagga RSL Christmas Party on the Greens free? The 2025 event was free. Check the RSL’s listing for 2026 details.
Where can I see Christmas lights in Wagga Wagga? Baylis and Fitzmaurice Streets, Victory Memorial Gardens and the Civic Centre forecourt are traditionally decorated through December.
Are there fireworks in Wagga this Christmas? Yes. Both the RSL Party on the Greens and Christmas with the Con finish with fireworks.
Is Wagga Wagga a good place to raise a family? Wagga offers regional city amenity, a strong community events calendar and more space for your money than the capitals. Our local agents can help you find the right suburb.