European Mid-Winter Christmas
Christmas comes early at Riverside!
Every July, Riverside Market transforms into a magical European-inspired Christmas wonderland for one of our biggest and most anticipated events of the year, the Riverside European Mid-Winter Christmas Festival.
Bringing the warmth, joy and magic of Christmas to the middle of the New Zealand winter, this much-loved annual celebration invites the community to experience Christmas in July with festive entertainment, winter treats, seasonal activities and plenty of Christmas cheer.
🎄 CHRISTMAS IN JULY
Inspired by the charm and traditions of a classic European Christmas, the festival brings a touch of winter magic to Christchurch.
The market is transformed with festive decorations, giant Christmas displays, snowfall effects and magical photo opportunities, creating a winter wonderland for visitors of all ages.
With Christmas music filling the market and festive characters roaming throughout the event, there's a special atmosphere around Riverside that makes the festival feel like Christmas has truly arrived early.
🎶 FESTIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Each year, we bring together a wonderful programme of local musicians, choirs, dance groups, brass bands and children's ensembles, creating a lively and festive atmosphere throughout the market.
Visitors may also encounter St. Nicholas, elves and other Christmas characters roaming the market, bringing smiles to children and families and making the day feel extra magical.
❄️ WINTER FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
There's something for everyone to enjoy, from snowfall and winter-themed activities to children's crafts, games, performances and festive experiences.
The festival is designed to be enjoyed by the whole family, with plenty of opportunities to make memories, take photos and experience the magic of Christmas together.
🛍️ SHOP, EAT & CELEBRATE
Christmas in July is also a celebration of local traders, makers and producers.
Alongside Riverside's permanent vendors, visitors can discover special Craft and Farmers Markets, handmade products, fresh produce, unique gifts and seasonal offerings.
And of course, no European Christmas would be complete without delicious winter treats! Guests can warm up with favourites such as hot chocolate, mulled wine, winter soups, French pastries and other festive food and drinks from our traders.
✨ BIGGER, BETTER & MORE MAGICAL EVERY YEAR
The Riverside European Mid-Winter Christmas Festival is one of our biggest events of the year, and every July we aim to make it more wonderful than the last.
While the heart of the festival remains the same, each year brings new entertainment, activities, decorations and surprises for visitors to discover.
🎅 A RIVERSIDE CHRISTMAS TRADITION
The Riverside European Mid-Winter Christmas Festival takes place every July, giving Christchurch families and visitors the chance to experience the magic of Christmas during the heart of winter. It's a celebration of food, culture, entertainment, local businesses and community, wrapped up in the magic of Christmas.
Christmas may be six months away — but at Riverside, we celebrate it every July.
