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The Full Trail: A complete adventure through all 20 stunning installations (4km)
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The Merry Mile: A family-friendly 1.6km route specially designed for little legs and families short on time
You’ll also find Free family entertainment on December 6, 7, 13, 14, and 20-24 with special appearances by Santa himself!
Get ready to explore 20 spectacular installations that will make your family’s Christmas truly unforgettable! From interactive light displays to magical photo opportunities, each stop along the trail offers something special. Pack your sense of wonder and join us as we guide you through every dazzling destination on Perth’s beloved Christmas Lights Trail.
Whether you’re following the full trail or taking the family-friendly Merry Mile route, here’s everything you need to know about each magical installation. Remember, every twinkling light tells a story, and every display has been carefully created to bring Christmas joy to visitors of all ages!
Your Magical Trail Awaits…
1. The Jewel Tree
Presented by DevelopmentWA
Location: Yagan Square
Towering an impressive 7 metres into the sky, the Jewel Tree is a must-see attraction that will leave your little ones spellbound! This contemporary take on the traditional Christmas tree features stunning cascading lights that create a magical light show after dark. Kids will love watching the twinkling display while parents can capture perfect photo opportunities beneath this enchanting installation. It’s a perfect spot to start your Christmas lights adventure and create lasting family memories.
2. Festive Chandeliers
Location: Forrest Place
Look up and be amazed! The Forrest Place Stage has been transformed into a magical wonderland with spectacular custom-made outdoor chandeliers twinkling overhead. These stunning light installations create the perfect festive atmosphere that will have children pointing skyward in amazement.
3. Christmas Medley
Presented by Lotterywest
Location: Forrest Place
Get ready to sing along! Watch in wonder as beloved Christmas carols come to life through an amazing light show projected onto one of Perth’s stunning heritage buildings. Your kids will be mesmerised as they watch familiar Christmas tunes transform into a spectacular visual feast right before their eyes. It’s the perfect opportunity to introduce little ones to traditional Christmas songs while enjoying a stunning light show. Shows begin at dusk (approximately 7:45pm)
4. City of Perth Christmas Tree
Location: Forrest Place
Prepare to be dazzled by Perth’s most spectacular Christmas tree! Standing an incredible 14 metres tall (that’s about as high as a 4-storey building!), this magnificent centrepiece will have your children’s eyes sparkling with wonder. Decorated with an amazing 13,000 lights and countless colourful ornaments, it’s truly a sight that will take your breath away!
5. Santa’s Presence
Presented by Forrest Chase
Location: Forrest Chase (upstairs, Myer entrance)
Ho Ho Whoa! Get ready to meet a Santa that’s larger than life! Towering over 6 metres tall (that’s taller than a house!), this spectacular Santa installation outside Myer’s upper level will leave your little ones absolutely amazed.
This isn’t your ordinary shopping centre Santa – he’s a giant festive friend that creates the perfect backdrop for memorable family Christmas photos. Watch your children’s faces light up with joy when they spot this enormous jolly fellow watching over Forrest Chase!
6. Perth City Skyline
Location: Murray Street Mall
Say cheese! This beloved installation is back by popular demand, offering families the ultimate Perth Christmas photo opportunity. Featuring a beautifully illuminated backdrop of our city’s iconic skyline, this is your chance to capture that perfect family Christmas photo for this year’s memories!
7. Proximity State
Created by Miles Dunne
Location: Murray Street Mall
Get ready to step into a world where YOU control the magic! This incredible interactive light installation will have your kids squealing with delight as they discover how their movements create amazing light and sound effects. It’s not just about looking at pretty lights – it’s about being part of the show!
Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail 2024.
Stop 7: Proximity State
8. The Willows
Presented by Raine Square
Location: Raine Square
Step into an enchanted wonderland where rainbow-coloured willow trees create a magical forest experience your children won’t forget! This stunning installation transforms Raine Square into a fairy-tale setting where graceful, light-draped branches sweep down like nature’s own Christmas decorations.
9. Grazing Reindeer
Presented by Central Park
Location: Central Park
Nestled amongst the trees of Central Park, this magical reindeer creates an enchanting scene that looks like it’s stepped straight out of a Christmas storybook. Perhaps it’s taking a rest before helping Santa on Christmas Eve?
10. Christmas Bauble Tree
Location: Hay Street Mall
Get ready to discover a Christmas tree with a spectacular twist! This isn’t your ordinary Christmas tree – it’s a dazzling creation made entirely of giant, glowing baubles that light up the heart of Hay Street Mall. Your little ones will be amazed by this modern masterpiece that puts a fresh spin on holiday traditions!
11. Christmas Kookaburra
Presented by enex
Location: Hay Street Mall
G’day to our festive feathered friend! This delightful Christmas Kookaburra brings a uniquely Australian twist to the Christmas lights trail, combining our beloved native wildlife with holiday magic. Perched proudly on display, this jolly bush character is sure to bring huge smiles to little faces!
12. Crystal Castles
Presented by London Court
Location: Hay Street Mall
Step into a world of wonder where sparkling crystals dance in the sky! Suspended majestically outside the enchanting London Court, this spectacular crystal creation transforms the historic streetscape into a magical light show that will leave your children spellbound.
13. The Christmas Halos
Presented by Exchange Tower
Location: Sherwood Court
Get ready for some festive fun at one of the trail’s most Instagram-worthy spots! Hidden away in Sherwood Court, these magical Christmas Halos and glowing Ring Swings create an enchanting play space that combines interactive fun with stunning photo opportunities.
14. Glow
Location: Perth Town Hall
As you step through this immersive wonderland, you’ll be surrounded by sparkling lights while cheerful Christmas music fills the air. It’s like walking through a tunnel of stars, with every step bringing new magical moments!
Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail 2024.
Stop 14: Glow
Family Rest Stop
Next to Glow at Perth Town Hall
Hooray! We’ve found the ultimate pit stop for tired little legs and hungry tummies! This fantastic rest area has everything families need to recharge and refresh during their Christmas lights adventure. It’s the perfect place to take a break while enjoying the magical ‘Glow’ installation nearby. Open Friday and Saturday nights in December plus special opening: December 22-24
15. A Celebration of Light
Location: St George’s Cathedral
Watch in wonder as Perth’s amazing story comes to life through spectacular light projections! This stunning display celebrates our beautiful city’s special connection to the stars above and shows how Perth shines bright despite being one of the world’s most isolated cities. Begins at dusk (approximately 7:45pm)
16. Mooditj Yongas (Solid Kangaroos)
Location Council House
Hop on over to see one of the trail’s most beloved installations! This adorable mob of illuminated kangaroos has bounced back to the Council House grounds, bringing a uniquely Western Australian touch to our Christmas celebrations. The name ‘Mooditj Yongas’ comes from Noongar language, meaning ‘Solid Kangaroos’.
These gorgeous light-up roos have become a Perth Christmas tradition, delighting families year after year with their charming presence. They’re the perfect blend of Australian wildlife and festive magic!
17. Council House Light Show
Location Council House
Get ready for an exciting Christmas treasure hunt in lights! Every night, Council House transforms into a giant glowing Christmas card, filled with all your favourite festive symbols. But wait – there’s a special surprise hidden among the displays. Can your eagle-eyed little ones spot it?
18. Corroboree in Light
Presented by Lotterywest
Location: Barrack Square
Experience something truly special this Christmas as Barrack Square comes alive with an extraordinary celebration of First Nations culture. This breathtaking display combines beautiful Nyoongar-inspired animations, traditional music, and stunning lights to create an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
19. PERTH Sign
Location: Barrack Square
Look what’s blooming in Barrack Square! Our city’s name lights up the night with a gorgeous Aussie twist, decorated with beautiful illuminated gumnuts and waratahs. This isn’t just any ordinary sign – it’s a celebration of our city wrapped in native Australian flowers!
This stunning photo spot combines city pride with our amazing native flora, creating the perfect backdrop for your family Christmas photos. It’s where Perth meets the bush in the most magical way!
20. Castle of Light
Presented by DevelopmentWA
Location: Elizabeth Quay
Step into a fairy tale come true at Elizabeth Quay! This spectacular illuminated castle is every child’s dream come to life – a magical fortress made entirely of twinkling lights that transforms the waterfront into an enchanted Christmas kingdom.
Your little princes and princesses will be absolutely spellbound as they venture through this dazzling structure, where every turn reveals new magical light displays. It’s like walking through pages of a magical storybook!
Looking for a magical and hassle-free way to experience Perth’s Christmas Lights Trail? Peddle Perth’s Christmas Lights Tour offers families an enchanting rickshaw adventure that takes the stress out of navigating the city’s festive displays. In just 45 minutes, their experienced riders will whisk you past 20 stunning installations, while you sit back and enjoy Christmas carols playing through their speakers. Perfect for families with young children or tired legs, these tours eliminate the common complaints of “I’m tired!” or “Can you carry me?” that often come with walking tours. Their friendly riders not only transport you in comfort but also act as photographers, capturing precious family moments against the backdrop of Perth’s twinkling lights. With options for both standard and family-sized rickshaws, plus the choice of your favourite Christmas tunes, it’s a festive experience that combines comfort, convenience, and Christmas magic in one unforgettable ride. Find out more by visiting their website.
The City of Perth Christmas Lights Trail
Whether you choose to explore Perth’s dazzling Christmas Lights Trail on foot or hop aboard a magical Peddle Perth rickshaw ride, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable family experience in the heart of our city. From the towering Jewel Tree to the interactive Proximity State, each installation brings its own special magic to Perth’s summer evenings.
Remember these helpful tips for your visit:
- Bring your camera to capture those precious family moments
- Plan your visit around sunset (around 7:15 pm) to see the lights at their best
- Pack water and snacks, especially for little explorers
- Consider parking at CPP car parks, which offer free parking from 6pm.
- ️Even in summer, evenings can get cool, so bring light jackets
- Check the entertainment schedule to catch the special performances
- ️Download the Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail Map
The Christmas Lights Trail runs from November 22nd, 2024, until January 1st, 2025, giving you plenty of opportunities to experience the magic multiple times. Whether you tackle the full trail or stick to the family-friendly Merry Mile, each visit can offer a new perspective and fresh memories to treasure.
Don’t forget to share your magical moments with us by tagging #Buggybuddys and #ChristmasLightsTrail in your social media posts!
From all of us at Buggybuddys, we wish you and your family a sparkling and joy-filled Christmas adventure in the City of Light! ✨
Find more things to do in Perth this Christmas
Find more Christmas Lights in Perth
- About the Author
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After spending 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie McNichol made the move to Perth in 2010. As the Co-Founder and Editor of Buggybuddys, she has been able to use her experience and passion for helping families to create a trusted online resource for parents across Perth.
Jennie is the proud mother of two daughters, aged 16 & 14 and is a big advocate of the family-friendly lifestyle that Perth has to offer.
Looks fantastic can’t wait to check this out with my kids next weekend!