Hastings has got Christmas all wrapped up, here are just some of the ways you can get festive for the holidays.
Christmas at the Park
Saturday 3 December
Mitre 10 Sports Park, Gates open 3pm
Held every year, Christmas at the Park is a free, outdoor Christmas festival for everyone to enjoy. This year’s star attraction is a live performance from Kiwi icon Dave Dobbyn, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. A full day of fun, entertainment gets underway at 4pm with kids obstacle courses, free face painting and loads more. Food vendors are onsite so grab a bite there or pack a picnic. (Please note this is an alcohol free event)
Giant Reindeer
Saturday 3 - Thursday 22 December
Albert Square, Hastings CBD
Stop by Albert Square and say hi to the resident reindeer. They can’t eat your
carrots but they will stand very still for you Christmas selfie!
Santa’s Grotto
Thursdays & Fridays in December (excl. 15th), 4pm-7pm
Saturday 3, 10 & 17th, 11am-3pm
Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre
Come meet the man himself. Have a chat about your christmas list, snap a pic, post a letter to the North Pole, meet Santa’s Elves or try some of the Christmas activities on offer. Leave a present under the Giving Tree which will be gifted to Women’s Refuge. Santa wants everyone to enjoy the Grotto so if you require a low-sensory experience call 06 871 5289 to book.
Santa’s Workshop Digital Lightshow
Friday 9 - Tuesday 27 December
Albert Square, 7.30-11pm
Discover the wonder of Santa’s workshop as the world-class digital lightshow projection unfolds before your very eyes. This lightshow has been specially created for Hastings so don’t miss your chance to see this unique specialeffect Christmas experience. (Show runs approx. 4 mins and is best viewed when dark)
Carols on the Green
Sunday 4 December
Havelock North Village Green 4-6pm
Soak up the sounds of Christmas with Bay Cities Symphonic Band, Men in Black jazz ensemble, Rhonda Browne soprano, Joyful Noise Singers, Kapa Haka and carol singing. Keep an eye out for Santa and the Sausage sizzle.
Carols in Cornwall Park
Saturday 17 December
Cornwall Park, 4-6pm
Join the fun at the ever popular carols in Cornwall concert. Sing along with all the Christmas classics, enjoy live performances or just listen as you soak up the beauty of the park. There will be kids’ activities on offer including the splash pad, and food vendors to snack from.