Christmas is coming, and excitement is in the air. As the weather warms up, and we all begin to wind down to the end of the year, you can almost hear the faint sound of sleigh bells in the distance, as Christmas Day and the holidays get closer and closer.
Geelong is always a buzzing hive of joy and happiness throughout the silly season, with locals and visitors enjoying everything the region has to offer, discovering all of the wonderful things to see, do and experience.
We thought we would make your journey through the region a little easier, giving you some great ideas to explore ‘A Local Christmas’.
If you have a long list of people to buy for, or looking for that ideal last-minute Christmas gift, there are some fantastic places to shop and pick up those perfect items. Piccadilly Christmas Market will be running on Saturday the 14th of December from 10am-3pm in Belmont, with over 90 makers showcasing their incredible products. With lots of variety, entertainment and free kids face painting, it’s a great place to start, or finish, your shopping.
Speaking of markets, if you are wanting to shop around and also enjoy a great night out with the family, jam packed with fun and entertainment, then the Golden Plains Twilight Market is an absolute must visit. Running from 4pm – 9pm on Thursday the 19th of December, with over 110 stall holders, live music, free family activities, and so much more, you are sure to get into the Christmas spirit and have a great time.
If you are looking for stunning Christmas decor, or unique ideas for friends and family, then you are in luck! Grandma’s Bottom Drawer in East Geelong is an absolute treasure trove of one of a kind pieces and gorgeous gifts, perfect for everyone, from babies right through to the grandparents. You will find quality and class, and a range of items to browse through, along with free Christmas gift wrapping for all your goodies.
Keeping the unique shopping theme going, Bush Native should definitely be on your list of places to visit. An eco-friendly florist, carrying a range of stunning floral arrangements, skin care and pantry items, let it inspire your creative side and grab yourself some stunning pieces to adorn your home, that your guests will be raving about, all through the holidays.
Sproutwell Decor is another stop on our amazing local Christmas journey, with their incredible pop-up shop running until December 21st. Find the perfect gift for a loved one, and add a touch of Christmas spirit to theirs, or your own, indoor and outdoor living spaces. You’ll find so many stunning pieces, you’ll want to bring them all home with you!
Another fantastic spot to head too is Valley Road Nursery, which is full of all things Christmas for your home and garden. They have a stunning range of tree decorations, giftware and sweet treats and are definitely worth putting on your list of places to check out. They are even stocking some gorgeous, real Christmas trees, but be quick before they sell out.
While we are on the garden nursery path, another must-visit is the gorgeous Fig and Hoe Cafe, located within the grounds of Wombat Gully Plant Farm. Take a break from browsing through their selection of plants and trees, and stop for a coffee or a bite to eat, and squeeze in some last minute Christmas gift shopping while you’re there. They have a great range of decor and giftware, as well as Christmas decorations, ideas and inspiration for you to brighten up your home, and fill your stockings.
Looking for a sweet escape? Freckleberry Chocolate Factory would definitely have to be one of the most decadent places to shop for your Christmas presents, and even stock up for yourself. Their hand crafted range of locally made chocolates are a delight, and there are so many types to choose from. Of course, you can find a huge Christmas themed range, so you can spoil yourself, or someone else. Their beautifully made packs make a great Kris Kringle idea or even a lovely way to thank your kids’ teachers at the end of the year.
And of course, one of the most prominent and incredible events to experience within the region, is at Adventure Park with Christmas In The Sky as part of their annual Christmas Festival of Lights. For an absolutely spectacular summer experience, you will see the night sky lit up with 500 LED lit drone lights showing stunning animation displays. With so much to see and do for the whole family, this is truly an event not to be missed.
We are sure, with so many wonderful ideas, jam-packed with entertainment, shopping, food and fun, your Christmas spirit will be overflowing, and you will be full to the brim with gift giving inspiration, making this Christmas season the very best yet.
