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Your ultimate guide to Christmas Eve events in Sydney

Ahh Christmas Eve. It’s one of the rare days of the year when distinguishing who in Sydney actually likes their family becomes quite clear. And hey, we’re not judging either way. If you wanna wear a set of matching candy cane pyjamas with your Mum at the age of 26, all power to you.

Whatever your agenda may be, you should know that just because Santa’s already started his rounds, doesn’t mean the party stops. And as far as social events go, Sydney pubs are where they’re at.

While most infamous parties do go down in the East, we can’t forget to specially shout out the Greenwood Hotel and The Newport for doing the lord’s work on the other side of the bridge. And whether you’re looking for a sunset sesh or hoping to kick on later, there really is something for everyone on this very special day of Jesus’ birth.

Ok, all set? Here’s your ultimate guide to Christmas Eve events in Sydney.

Cloey Hotel

Renowned for Jacob Elordi appearances and Christmas Eve antics alike, the Cloey Hotel consistently goes off. Like, every year. You’ll have to prepare yourself for a tipple of day drinking if you want to come even 100m from the venue, as lines will be out the door early. Bondi Lines claims dance floors will kick off around 5pm, so do with this information what you will.

• WHEN: Opening hours 10am to 12am
• WHERE: Clovelly Hotel, Clovelly
• HOW MUCH: Free entry
• CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Bondi Public Bar

The ultimate place to see and be seen for Bondi influencers and British backpackers, Bondi Public Bar is also ramping up the festivities with their ‘Santa Hat Party’. Drinks start from $7, and it’s the perfect place for those looking to roll off the beach and into a margarita. You can BYO Santa hat, but some may or may not be being provided.

• WHEN: From 5pm to late.
• WHERE: Bondi Public Bar, Bondi
• HOW MUCH: Free entry.
• CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Coogee Bay Hotel

Ahh, Sydney’s crown jewel. The pub that never seems to get a break from the news headlines is obviously partaking in Christmas Eve festivities. Perfect spot to sip in the sun before heading to the Cloey or the Pav, and also offers ideal people watching opportunities. This one’s likely to be packed earlier rather than later.

• WHEN: Opening hours 6.30am to 4am
• WHERE: Coogee Bay Hotel, Coogee
• HOW MUCH: Free entry
• CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Coogee Pavillion

While it may be rare to spot anyone actually from the East or over the age of 22 years, Coogee Pav also consistently delivers when it comes to festive shenanigans. Ideal for those wanting to kick on from CBH (see above) but can only be bothered to walk the 20 metres. Lines will be 100% painfully long if you leave it too late. Rooftop Sessions will be running daily until Sunday 5 January.

• WHEN: Opening hours 7am to 12am
• WHERE: Coogee Pavillion, Coogee
• HOW MUCH: Free entry
• CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Greenwood Hotel

A rare occasion that a non-Eastern suburbs venue makes a notable appearance on the Christmas calendar. After regular (and infamous) stints at the Greengate Hotel, the organisers have reportedly moved the event over to North Sydney’s own Greenwood. If history is anything to go by, expect 19-year old private school boys in white linen shirts. Whether that’s a deterrent or not is really up to you.

• WHEN: From 4pm to 12am
• WHERE: Greenwood Hotel, North Sydney
• HOW MUCH: Free tickets through Bondi Lines
• CHECK IT OUT HERE.

The Newport

While it might be somewhat of a trek to anyone not living on the B1 line, The Newport might as well be Mecca for Northern Beaches Christmas Eve goers. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if the overwhelmingly large venue plays host to 80% of the population under 25. Consistently delivers good music, great dance floors and a smacking pizza to get you through the evening. You will, however, need to get there on the earlier side if you want any chance of making the trip worth your while.

• WHEN: Music from 12pm to late
• WHERE: The Newport, Newport
• HOW MUCH: Free entry
• CHECK IT OUT HERE.