SITE PARTNER:  

Christmas Lights

Government House

Updated: Dec 22, 2025

THIS EVENT IS NOW IN THE PAST. FOR MORE GREAT THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN AND AROUND BRISBANE, PLEASE HEAD TO OUR WHAT'S ON PAGE.

Christmas Lights are back on at Queensland's Government House, lighting up the historic Fernberg Estate and its beautiful gardens with a spectacular free display from December 13-18.

Government House lit up

Held nightly from 6:45 pm to 8:15 pm, this stunning light show has become a holiday tradition for Brisbane families, and is one of the city's best-loved Christmas events. This year’s display features new elements, so even returning visitors will enjoy a fresh experience.

People in grounds of Government House

Wander through the beautifully lit gardens, and don’t forget to snap a pic with the grandly decorated Christmas Tree inside Government House. 

Band playing at Government House

Good to know - Fernberg has been the official residence of the Governor of Queensland since 1910. Each year, thousands pour through the gates to enjoy the bright and colourful Government House Christmas Lights display, which is widely regarded as one of Brisbane’s best.

Need to know – Entry is free via the Service Gate at 168 Fernberg Road, Paddington (pedestrian access only, there is no onsite parking). There is no need to pre-book or register, just turn up and enjoy. No pets allowed, except for assistance dogs, which are welcome.

Government House is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com

Christmas Lights

Government House

168 Fernberg Rd

Paddington

Dec 13-18

6.45-8.15pm

Free entry

Map

168 Fernberg Rd Paddington

Top Things To Do In Brisbane This Week

Ladbrokes Spring Racing Carnival 2026 is bringing colour, fashion and plenty of trackside fun from 10 Oct to 14 Nov
The Plantapalooza plant festival returns to the Saturday Fresh Market
Brisbane Celtic Festival is a lively celebration of Celtic culture,
Experience the most beloved animated movie soundtracks
Horror Movie Campout is a full-on immersive overnight horror camping experience
Discover this northside art trail over two art-filled weekends
The 2026 Let’s Go Explore Caravan and RV Expo is rolling back into Brisbane
Brisbane is in for a serious dose of international wrestling action
EDITOR'S PICK

Botanic By Night: NightGlow

A spectacular after-dark experience has transformed Brisbane's Botanic Gardens into an illuminated wonderland of native wildlife
Botanic By Night: NightGlow
MUST DO

Cinematic: The Wonder of Animation

Queensland Symphony Orchestra brings some of the most beloved animated movie soundtracks of all time to life at Cinematic: The Wonder of Animation
Cinematic: The Wonder of Animation
THIS WEEKEND

Top Things to Do Oct 9-11

Ladbrokes Spring Racing Carnival kicks off, a hilarious take on Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice lands at QPAC, plus a moonlight walk for MS and Anastasia The Musical - here are the top things to do in Brisbane and beyond this weekend:
This Weekend Oct 9-11
COMING UP

What's on in November in & around Brisbane

From Spring Carnival racing and Melbourne Cup events to Supanova Comic-Con, blockbuster theatre, world-first exhibitions and adults-only arts and crafts parties, what's on in November
What's On in November 2026
BEST OF BRISBANE

50+ Best Restaurants in Brisbane

Looking for the best restaurants in Brisbane? Then check out this guide for the must-do dining experiences from the city to the suburbs
Best Restaurants in Brisbane
Best Of Brisbane

Brisbane's Best 50 Bars

Whether you're after breezy drinks by the river, a stiff whiskey in an underground bar, a cosy laneway hideaway or a rooftop with views, here's 50 of Brisbane's best bars
Best Bars in Brisbane
A brand-new Nutcracker is coming to Brisbane
CONTENT RESUMES ON SCROLL
ADVERTISEMENT