Christmas in Palmy is going big this year. We're combining the magic of the parade and the Christmas concert into one extra special day. Bring the whānau, grab some kai, and celebrate Christmas together in the heart of Palmy.

Christmas Parade, 2pm to 3pm
Santa's coming to town! The Christmas Parade kicks off at 2pm from Railway Land and winds its way through Church Street, around The Square, down Main Street South and back to Railway Land.

Expect colourful floats, festive music, and plenty of Christmas cheer for the whole whānau.

Want to be part of the parade? Sign up at pnchristmasparade.org.nz

We're looking for 60 floats. And there's a decorated bike category for the kids, too.

Otherwise, grab a spot along the route and enjoy the fun.

The parade is proudly brought to you by Palmerston North City Council and managed by the Lions Club of Kairanga.
A Very Palmy Christmas Concert, 3.30pm to 7.30pm
After the parade, stick around Te Marae o Hine for Palmy's biggest Christmas party. This year's concert brings a modern, rocking vibe, headlined by Lavina Williams.

Expect Christmas tunes with a twist, plus:

Kids' fun: bouncy castles and more
Christmas market stalls and food trucks
And of course... a special visit from Santa.

Win a Playhouse thanks to Master Builders

Make sure you stop by the Master Builders' Playhouse Raffle at A Very Palmy Christmas! The Master Builders team has created an incredible handcrafted playhouse - built and supplied thanks to the generosity of sponsors - and it could be yours.

Raffle tickets are just $5 each, with all proceeds going directly back into supporting the Arohanui Hospice. Come along, grab a ticket, and support a great cause - you might just take home the ultimate backyard upgrade!

We’re excited to share that the concert will be interpreted in NZSL from 530pm - 730pm, helping make the event more accessible for our Deaf community.

Event programme

2.00pm - Festive activities begin
Bouncy castles, under 5s area, craft activities, and write a letter to Santa

3.30pm-5.30pm - Community and youth performances
High energy dance groups, community choirs, including Danceworks, Parkland School, Anomaly, Red Star Dance, Manawa, Carson & Amani, Maximum Dance, Rose Academy, Unity Singer and High School Musical Cast)

5.30pm-7.30pm - Headline concert: Lavina Williams
A high-energy set featuring upbeat Christmas favourites and rock 'n' roll classics to get the crowd moving.
Accessibility: The headline concert will include NZSL interpretation, with support from the local Deaf community.