Your 'Eggnog Sunrise' - Top Events on the Sunshine Coast in December

by Nikkii Joyce (subscribe)

Whether you enjoy your eggnog in the morning and your OJ at night or vice versa, find out here the best reasons to see the sun rise and where you can catch a glimpse of Santa on the Sunshine Coast this festive season with my what's on guide for the month of December.

NIK'S PIK * "Mooloolaba Christmas Boat Parade" – If there's one event I look forward to more than my annual White Christmas Bing Crosby movie night on Christmas Eve, it's this spectacular boat parade. The water comes to life in a literal sea of colours as everyone from Santa to Rudolph makes his appearance, often more than once and in varyingly different forms, waving and singing to the crowds.

Afternoon activities begin with Dragon Boat Racing at Helen Penny Gardens from 12.30pm, with the fun-filled activities continuing right up until the main event at 8.30pm. Bring your family and bring your friends for my pick of the best festive fun on the coast this Christmas. The Wharf Mooloolaba, Parkyn Parade, MOOLOOLABA. Viewing locations also around the Mooloolah River. ღ ☃ ♒ ☾ ♫ free www.christmasboatparade.net

SATURDAY, 1ST






Brightwater Movie Night 'Fred Claus' Enjoy a free Christmas movie screening plus carols and fireworks. The fun starts from 5pm and includes a very special visitor and a fabulous fireworks display. 5pm start. Regional Sports Field, Dianelle Drv, MOUNTAIN CREEK. ღ ☃ ♒ ☾ free

"Coolum Xmas Festivity" - Bring the family and enjoy outdoor movie 'Arthur Christmas', Christmas Carols and the lighting of the Coolum Christmas Tree. From 6.30pm. Tickle Park, David Low Way, COOLUM BEACH. ღ ☃ ♒ ☾ free

"The Christmas Tree Trail" - Bigger and better than ever, the Sunshine Coast's annual Christmas Tree Trail is currently lighting up the region at various locations from Pomona to Caloundra. This isn't your average trail, with trees ranging in size and species and dazzling decorations that have to be seen to be believed. Various locations through until Christmas Day. ღ ☃ ♒ ☾ free

"Carols at Cotton Tree" - Come along to this jam-packed family night of festive entertainment. Sing along to all your favourite carols by such celebrities as Cassi Hilbers, Kelsie Rimmer and Wayne Wiltshire. Rumour has it, Santa himself is scheduled to make a brief appearance. And finally see the night out with a bang with a fireworks extravaganza that must be seen to be believed. 6pm. Cotton Tree Park, The Esplanade, COTTON TREE. ღ ☃ ♒ ☾ free

Movie night "Lore" - Nambour Arthouse Cinema screens this incredible story of five children in 1945 who embark on a journey which challenges every notion of family, love and friendship under the darkened backdrop of war-torn Germany. 7.30pm. Adults $13.50, Child $8.50 Nambour Arthouse Cinema, Centenary Square, Currie St, NAMBOUR. ღ ☾

SUNDAY, 2ND

"Cotton Tree Markets" For 20 years, Cotton Tree Markets have brought the talents and wares of local artisans, designers and inventors to the community - just a hop, skip and a jump from one of the most picturesque stretches of coast. Fashion, jewellery, original artworks, homewards as well as performances by street entertainers. 7am to 12noon. King Street, COTTON TREE. ღ ☼ free

"Markets on Bulcock" - Unique arts and crafts, family entertainment, fresh produce and flowers plus 50 specialty shops. 8am to 1pm. Bulcock St, CALOUNDRA. ღ ☼ free

Tourism and Leisure Expo- As one of the state's premier tourist destinations, the Sunshine Coast Tourism and Leisure Expo is set to be packed to the brim with information on activities and events for the tourists, the locals and everyone in between. 9am - 2pm. The Big Pineapple, Nambour Connection Rd, WOOMBYE. ღ ☼

"The Mummy Tree Markets" - A boutique market with over 65 stalls showcasing wares and services for "cool" families. Children's entertainment,delicious food and all undercover. Noosaville State School Hall, 79 Beckmans Rd, NOOSAVILLE. ღ ☼ free

"Caloundra's Indoor-Outdoor Market" - A treasure trove of the best quality produce including fruit & veg, Asian vegetables, Maleny yoghurt and cheeses, organic skin-care, plants, herbs and pesticide free vegetables. As well as all your regular collectables, arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing. Funds raised go to Dicky Beach Surf Lifesaving Club. Currimundi State School, Buderim St, CALOUNDRA. ღ ☼ free

"Sounds of Xmas" - Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with this performance by the Sunshine Coast Choral Society. All your Christmas traditional and modern favourites will be performed including "Fantasia on Christmas Carols". Afternoon tea included in ticket price. $20 adults, $10 students. 2.30pm start. St John the Baptist Anglican Church, 176 Currie St, NAMBOUR. ღ ♫

Movie night "Searching for Sugar Man" In the late '60s, a musician was discovered in a Detroit bar by two celebrated producers who were struck by his soulful melodies and prophetic lyrics.Malik Bendjelloul's standout production in this year's Sundance Film Festival where it scooped the special Jury Prize and Audience Award, witness for yourself yourself the greatest 70s rock icon who never was. 4.30pm start. Nambour Arthouse Cinema, Centenary Square, Currie St, NAMBOUR. Ⓐ ☾

MONDAY, 3RD

"Sounds of Xmas" - Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with this performance by the Sunshine Coast Choral Society. All your Christmas traditional and modern favourites will be performed including "Fantasia on Christmas Carols". Afternoon tea included in ticket price. $20 adults, $10 students. 2.30pm start. St John the Baptist Anglican Church, 176 Currie St, NAMBOUR. ღ ♫

TUESDAY, 4TH

"Sounds of Xmas" - Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with this performance by the Sunshine Coast Choral Society. All your Christmas traditional and modern favourites will be performed including "Fantasia on Christmas Carols". Afternoon tea included in ticket price. $20 adults, $10 students. 2.30pm start. St John the Baptist Anglican Church, 176 Currie St, NAMBOUR. ღ ♫

THURSDAY, 6TH

"Christmas Market" - Find the perfect gift at this specialty Christmas market. Handmade gifts combined with live music and delicious food and drink, your support will also help take care of young men and women with a disability. 10am to 2pm. Compass Caloundra, Central Park Rd and Arthur St, CALOUNDRA. ღ ♫

"Embody Performing Arts" - Enjoy the end of year dance concert. Adults $25, children 12 yrs and under $18. 6.30pm. Nambour Civic Centre, Centenary Square, Currie Street, NAMBOUR. ღ ☾

FRIDAY, 7TH

"Friday Cooking Classes" - The weekly cooking class takes on a festive theme today with recipe swaps and top tips for Christmas Party Planning. Regular classes are a 1 hour demonstration. $15pp includes cake and coffee, tasting and recipe to take home. 10am. How to Cook, 68th Sixth Avenue, COTTON TREE. Ⓐ ☃

"Noosa Professional Dance Academy" - Indulge yourself with the dance troupe's end of year show. Adults $30, child $25. 6.30pm. Nambour Civic Centre, Centenary Square, Currie Street, NAMBOUR. ღ ☾

"Greenzone Disco" - It's the coast's latest hit with coast tweens. A disco where no pass outs allowed and restricted to children aged between 8 to 12. Entertainment includes a DJ, great prizes and giveaways.$6 per child. 6pm to 8pm. The J Noosa, 60 Noosa Drv, NOOSA HEADS. ☪ ☾ ♫

"Sundale Carols by Candlelight" - Santa is making an appearance at these Nambour carols designed to excite all the senses. Another great family night out on the coast. 5.30pm start. Sundale Carden Village, 32 Doolan St, NAMBOUR. ღ ☃ ♒ ☾ ♫ free

"Arthouse Movie - The Angels' Share" - Director Ken Loach brings to life the story of new dad Robbie, who narrowly avoiding jail, vows to turn over a new leaf. A visit to a whisky distillery inspires him and his mates to seek a way out of their hopeless lives. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Nambour Arthouse Cinema, Centenary Square, Currie St, NAMBOUR. ☾ ♫

SATURDAY, 8TH

"Cooran Acoustic Night"[/I" id="ccblink" target="_blank"> - The final night of the year comes to a spectacular finale with an evening to delight the summer sense. With delightful organic catering settle back and enjoy the talents of both amateur and professional artists alike. 2pm. Tickets $4ea. Cooran Hall, King St, COORAN. ღ ♫

[I]"Noosa Professional Dance Academy" - Indulge yourself with the dance troupe's end of year show. Adults $30, child $25. 6.30pm. Nambour Civic Centre, Centenary Square, Currie Street, NAMBOUR. ღ ☾

"Arthouse Movie - The Angels' Share" - Director Ken Loach brings to life the story of new dad Robbie, who narrowly avoiding jail, vows to turn over a new leaf. A visit to a whisky distillery inspires him and his mates to seek a way out of their hopeless lives. 7.30pm. Nambour Arthouse Cinema, Centenary Square, Currie St, NAMBOUR. ☾ ♫

"Ultimate Elton John Experience - I'm Still Standing" - A musical journey showcasing the flamboyant entertainer's 30 years of incredible success. Greg Andrew's uncanny resemblance to the colourful entertainer will have you believing this is the real deal. 8pm Noosa RSL & Citizens Memorial Club, Memorial Av, TEWANTIN. ☾ ♫

SUNDAY, 9TH

"Cotton Tree Markets" For 20 years, Cotton Tree Markets have brought the talents and wares of local artisans, designers and inventors to the community - just a hop, skip and a jump from one of the most picturesque stretches of coast. Fashion, jewellery, original artworks, homewards as well as performances by street entertainers. 7am to 12noon. King Street, COTTON TREE. ღ ☼ free

"Markets on Bulcock" - Unique arts and crafts, family entertainment, fresh produce and flowers plus 50 specialty shops. 8am to 1pm. Bulcock St, CALOUNDRA. ღ ☼ free

"Caloundra's Indoor-Outdoor Market" - A treasure trove of the best quality produce including fruit & veg, Asian vegetables, Maleny yoghurt and cheeses, organic skin-care, plants, herbs and pesticide free vegetables. As well as all your regular collectables, arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing. Funds raised go to Dicky Beach Surf Lifesaving Club. Currimundi State School, Buderim St, CALOUNDRA. ღ ☼ free

"Family Day - Indigenous Art" - Bring the children to explore traditional indigenous art inspired by the works of Lorna Fencer. A variety of activities to inspire creativity for hours. 11am to 2pm. Sausage sizzle. No bookings required. Noosa Regional Gallery, Pelican St, TEWANTIN. ☪ ♒

"Lights on the Lake" - A spectacle for the whole family to enjoy which culminates in a parade of decorated and colourfully lit kayaks and canoes paddling in a circular procession along Currimundi Lake to the joy of Christmas carols sung by the entertainers. Plenty of entertainment for young and old, children's games and activities, food stalls, music, arts and craft stalls.4pm to 8pm. Crummunda Park, Coongarra Esp, WURTULLA. ღ ☃ ♒ ☾ ♫ ☼ ✘ free

"Arthouse Movie - The Angels' Share" - Director Ken Loach brings to life the story of new dad Robbie, who narrowly avoiding jail, vows to turn over a new leaf. A visit to a whisky distillery inspires him and his mates to seek a way out of their hopeless lives. 4.30pm. Nambour Arthouse Cinema, Centenary Square, Currie St, NAMBOUR. ☾ ♫

FRIDAY, 14TH

"Summer Nights Market" - The first of five Friday nights gets underway at Eumundi Markets, so settle back with a relaxing meal at the end of a long week and enjoy some laid back free entertainment under the stars.Music from Sassy Jazz and Harii Bandhu, and a visit from Santa and Christmas carollers Movie of the night - 'The Grinch'. 5pm - 9pm. Eumundi Markets, Eumundi Rd, EUMUNDI. ღ ☃ ♒ ☾ ♫

"Arthouse Movie - The Angels' Share" - Director Ken Loach brings to life the story of new dad Robbie, who narrowly avoiding jail, vows to turn over a new leaf. A visit to a whisky distillery inspires him and his mates to seek a way out of their hopeless lives. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Nambour Arthouse Cinema, Centenary Square, Currie St, NAMBOUR. ☾ ♫

SATURDAY, 15TH

"Kids Gingerbread House Class"- Introduce your kids to a family tradition they'll look forward to every holiday season with this festive special in "How to Cook" Classes. Ticket price covers Wilton Gingerbread House Kit, parent/guardian attends for free (children under 8 must be accompanied) and kids will take their decorate house home to enjoy. 9am to 11am. $50 per child. How to Cook, 68 Sixth Avenue, COTTON TREE. ☪ ☃ ☺

"Mooloolaba's Christmas Boat Parade" - The must-see event of the festive season returns in 2012 as a bigger floating light spectacular than ever before. Activities begin with the Sunshine Coast Dragon Boats in the early afternoon before the evening's main event. From 12.30pm. The Wharf Mooloolaba, Parkyn Pde, MOOLOOLABA. ღ ☃ ♒ ☾ free

"Arthouse Movie - The Angels' Share" - Director Ken Loach brings to life the story of new dad Robbie, who narrowly avoiding jail, vows to turn over a new leaf. A visit to a whisky distillery inspires him and his mates to seek a way out of their hopeless lives. 7.30pm. Nambour Arthouse Cinema, Centenary Square, Currie St, NAMBOUR. ☾ ♫

SUNDAY, 16TH

"Cotton Tree Markets" For 20 years, Cotton Tree Markets have brought the talents and wares of local artisans, designers and inventors to the community - just a hop, skip and a jump from one of the most picturesque stretches of coast. Fashion, jewellery, original artworks, homewards as well as performances by street entertainers. 7am to 12noon. King Street, COTTON TREE. ღ ☼ free

"Markets on Bulcock" - Unique arts and crafts, family entertainment, fresh produce and flowers plus 50 specialty shops. 8am to 1pm. Bulcock St, CALOUNDRA. ღ ☼ free

"Caloundra's Indoor-Outdoor Market" - A treasure trove of the best quality produce including fruit & veg, Asian vegetables, Maleny yoghurt and cheeses, organic skin-care, plants, herbs and pesticide free vegetables. As well as all your regular collectables, arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing. Funds raised go to Dicky Beach Surf Lifesaving Club. Currimundi State School, Buderim St, CALOUNDRA. ღ ☼ free

"The Arty Pants Kids' Festival" - Enjoy the second annual interactive family fun day which encourages parents and children to engage together in the discovery and exploration of the creative, performing and visual arts. Acts include Scooby Doo and Peppa Pig as well as numerous workshops and other activities. $15 or $50 for family. 10am to 3pm. The Events Centre, 20 Minchinton St, CALOUNDRA. ღ ♒ ☺

"Arthouse Movie - The Angels' Share" - Director Ken Loach brings to life the story of new dad Robbie, who narrowly avoiding jail, vows to turn over a new leaf. A visit to a whisky distillery inspires him and his mates to seek a way out of their hopeless lives. 4.30pm. Nambour Arthouse Cinema, Centenary Square, Currie St, NAMBOUR. ☾ ♫

MONDAY, 17TH

"Kids Gingerbread House Class" - Introduce your kids to a family tradition they'll look forward to every holiday season with this festive special in "How to Cook" Classes. Ticket price covers Wilton Gingerbread House Kit, parent/guardian attends for free (children under 8 must be accompanied) and kids will take their decorate house home to enjoy. 10am to 12noon. $50 per child. How to Cook, 68 Sixth Avenue, COTTON TREE. ☪ ☃ ☺

"Green Art Workshops" - Get your kids out of your hair and enjoying some creative flair at the Sunshine Coast Council's series of workshops. On the agenda are gorgeous environmentally friendly 'green' decorations and gifts with a different project every class. Ages 5 -15. $5 per child. Bookings essential. Multiple locations and numerous times across the SUNSHINE COAST. ☪ ☃ ☺

"Kawana Waters Uniting Church Christmas Festival" - See the Christian Christmas story brought to life. The traditional nativity scene will be played out every night for a week with free Christmas Cake, craft stall and sausage sizzle. 7pm to 9pm. Kawana Waters Uniting Church, Thunderbird Drv, BOKARINA. ღ ☃ ☾ free

TUESDAY, 18TH

"Learn to Play the Didjeridoo" - Hands on classes teaching students basic playing skills, sounds, tones and vocals, rhythms and tempos and circular breathing technique. Practice didgeridoos provided. Instructor Scott uses unique tips and approaches from across the world, Scott teaches students to make basic sounds and tones to get playing in a remarkably short time.Ages 6 and up. $10 per student.Classes at 9am, 10.30am and 6.30pm. The J Noosa, 60 Noosa Drive, NOOSA JUNCTION. ☪ ☺

"Green Art Workshops" - Get your kids out of your hair and enjoying some creative flair at the Sunshine Coast Council's series of workshops. On the agenda are gorgeous environmentally friendly 'green' decorations and gifts with a different project every class. Ages 5 -15. $5 per child. Bookings essential. Multiple locations and numerous times across the SUNSHINE COAST. ☪ ☃ ☺

"Kids Gingerbread Man Class" - Introduce your kids to a family tradition they'll look forward to every holiday season with this festive special in "How to Cook" Classes. Ticket price covers Wilton Gingerbread House Kit, parent/guardian attends for free (children under 8 must be accompanied) and kids will take their decorate house home to enjoy. 10am to 12noon. $50 per child. How to Cook, 68 Sixth Avenue, COTTON TREE. ☪ ☃ ☺

"Kawana Waters Uniting Church Christmas Festival" - See the Christian Christmas story brought to life. The traditional nativity scene will be played out every night for a week with free Christmas Cake, craft stall and sausage sizzle. 7pm to 9pm. Kawana Waters Uniting Church, Thunderbird Drv, BOKARINA. ღ ☃ ☾ free

WEDNESDAY, 19TH

"Kids Gingerbread House Class" - Introduce your kids to a family tradition they'll look forward to every holiday season with this festive special in "How to Cook" Classes. Ticket price covers Wilton Gingerbread House Kit, parent/guardian attends for free (children under 8 must be accompanied) and kids will take their decorate house home to enjoy. 10am to 12noon. $50 per child. How to Cook, 68 Sixth Avenue, COTTON TREE. ☪ ☃ ☺

"Green Art Workshops" - Get your kids out of your hair and enjoying some creative flair at the Sunshine Coast Council's series of workshops. On the agenda are gorgeous environmentally friendly 'green' decorations and gifts with a different project every class. Ages 5 -15. $5 per child. Bookings essential. Multiple locations and numerous times across the SUNSHINE COAST. ☪ ☃ ☺

"Kawana Waters Uniting Church Christmas Festival" - See the Christian Christmas story brought to life. The traditional nativity scene will be played out every night for a week with free Christmas Cake, craft stall and sausage sizzle. 7pm to 9pm. Kawana Waters Uniting Church, Thunderbird Drv, BOKARINA. ღ ☃ ☾ free

THURSDAY, 20TH

"Green Art Workshops" - Get your kids out of your hair and enjoying some creative flair at the Sunshine Coast Council's series of workshops. On the agenda are gorgeous environmentally friendly 'green' decorations and gifts with a different project every class. Ages 5 -15. $5 per child. Bookings essential. Multiple locations and numerous times across the SUNSHINE COAST. ☪ ☃ ☺

"Kids Gingerbread Man Class" - Introduce your kids to a family tradition they'll look forward to every holiday season with this festive special in "How to Cook" Classes. Ticket price covers Wilton Gingerbread House Kit, parent/guardian attends for free (children under 8 must be accompanied) and kids will take their decorate house home to enjoy. 10am to 12noon. $50 per child. How to Cook, 68 Sixth Avenue, COTTON TREE. ☪ ☃ ☺

"Kawana Waters Uniting Church Christmas Festival" - See the Christian Christmas story brought to life. The traditional nativity scene will be played out every night for a week with free Christmas Cake, craft stall and sausage sizzle. 7pm to 9pm. Kawana Waters Uniting Church, Thunderbird Drv, BOKARINA. ღ ☃ ☾ free

FRIDAY, 21ST

"Kawana Waters Uniting Church Christmas Festival" - See the Christian Christmas story brought to life. The traditional nativity scene will be played out every night for a week with free Christmas Cake, craft stall and sausage sizzle. 7pm to 9pm. Kawana Waters Uniting Church, Thunderbird Drv, BOKARINA. ღ ☃ ☾ free

"Summer Nights Market" - The first of five Friday nights gets underway at Eumundi Markets, so settle back with a relaxing meal at the end of a long week and enjoy some laid back free entertainment under the stars.Music from Sassy Jazz and Harii Bandhu, and a visit from Santa and Christmas carollers Movie of the night - 'The Grinch'. 5pm - 9pm. Eumundi Markets, Eumundi Rd, EUMUNDI. ღ ☃ ♒ ☾ ♫

SATURDAY, 22ND
"Christmas Cupcake Class" - Amaze your family and friends this Christmas with your talents in the kitchen learned from this How to Cook workshop. All ingredients provided for you to take home the completed products. $195 pp. 10am to 2pm.How to Cook, 68 Sixth Avenue, COTTON TREE. Ⓐ ☃




SUNDAY, 23RD




WEDNESDAY 26TH - "Boxing Day"

THURSDAY, 27TH

FRIDAY, 28TH





SATURDAY, 29TH

SUNDAY, 30TH





MONDAY, 31ST - "New Year's Eve"



KEY ღ =FAMILY, Ⓐ = ADULTS, ☪=KIDS, ☃ - XMAS EVENT, ❥= LICENSED, ♒ = MULTIPLE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES, ☾ - NIGHT OUT, ♫ = ENTERTAINMENT, B=BEGINNERS, A=ADVANCED, ☼ =OUTDOORS, ☮ = GOLD COIN DONATION, ☺= SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN, ✘ - ALCOHOL FREE

Help us improve  Click here if you liked this article  35

Share: email  facebook  twitter

When: December 2012

Where: Sunshine Coast