Auckland Live Christmas in Aotea Square 2025. The best FREE family events for kids
Auckland Live Christmas in Aotea Square is back for 2025, and this year the whole square will transform into a bright festive hot spot filled with FREE performances, workshops, music, circus fun, creative play and hands on activities for children of all ages.
From 28 November to 21 December 2025 families can enjoy 22 events as well as creative play zones, giant games, sunny spaces to relax, and two stunning installations by Angus Muir Design. Whether you are planning a big family day out or popping in while Christmas shopping, here are the very best things to do with kids at Christmas in Aotea Square.
TOP PICKS FOR KIDS
Arthur Christmas Outdoor Movie Screening
A firm family favourite, Arthur Christmas plays on the giant outdoor cinema screen in the middle of the square. Kids can settle into beanbags, enjoy free popcorn, face painting, and games all while soaking up the warm evening atmosphere.
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The Elves are AWOL by The Dust Palace
This lively twenty minute circus and magic show is packed with aerials, trapeze, comedy, and cheeky elf chaos. There are also circus workshops for kids to try which are always a hit.
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K Pop Dance Party
Perfect for tweens and teens who love K Pop. Learn choreography from KPop Demon Hunter then stay for a full dance party led by Elit is.
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Christmas Karaoke with Friends
Kids can step up to the microphone and sing their favourite festive songs with help from a live pianist. It is cheerful, relaxed, and welcoming for all ages.
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Yuletide Ukulele with The Nukes
A gentle hands on workshop for younger children to try simple festive tunes on the ukulele with Aotearoa’s favourite ukulele trio.
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Meet the Artists and Friends featuring A Taste of Art Battle
Watch artists paint huge works in real time as they compete in a colourful speed painting showdown. Children love the excitement of seeing art created right in front of them.
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CREATIVE AND HANDS ON EXPERIENCES
Imagination Playground
Younger children will love the big blue loose play blocks, perfect for building, stacking, climbing, and creative discovery.
Giant Connect Four and Games
Simple, relaxed fun for all ages, ideal for families spending a day in the city.
NYEGE. A Festive Wellness Carnival
A bright celebration of movement, rhythm, dance, yoga, live drumming and Afro diasporic energy led by Black Creatives Aotearoa. A vibrant inclusive experience for families.
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ACTIVE FUN FOR KIDS WHO LOVE TO MOVE
Line Dancing Extravaganza
Start the season with cheerful easy line dancing that kids can jump into straight away.
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Circus Workshops with The Dust Palace
Alongside The Elves are AWOL, children can try circus skills which makes a great active break from Christmas shopping.
K-Pop Dance Party
The K-Pop Dance Party is a high energy, lively, and confidence boosting for older kids.
RELAX, PLAY AND EXPLORE ALL MONTH LONG
Alongside the scheduled events, children can explore the free play areas every day of the programme. You will find:
Imagination Playground for younger children
Giant Connect Four and casual games
Beanbags and deck chairs in sunny spots
Kai from The Terrace and the Container in the Square
Two stunning installations return this year:
The Pavilion, co created by Angus Muir and Matt Liggins, lights up the square with a festive kaleidoscope glow and becomes the main stage for many performances.
The Neon Star, a four metre tall light sculpture by Angus Muir, shines from the Queen Street steps and makes an amazing backdrop for family photos.
LIVE MUSIC AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY VIBES IN THE SQUARE
Auckland Live brings some of Aotearoa’s favourite musicians to the city across Thursday and Friday evenings. These create a warm backdrop for families spending time in the square.
Performances include:
There are also comedy sets from Courtney Dawson and Janaye Henry which create an upbeat city atmosphere before the big weekend events.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Dates: 28 November to 21 December 2025
Location: Aotea Square
Cost: Everything is FREE
Bring the kids, pack sunscreen, and enjoy a bright festive day out with Auckland Live in the heart of the city.
