1. Overview
From June 27 to July 26, 2025, the charming village of Greytown, located in the Wairarapa region of New Zealand, transforms into a magical winter paradise. Under the theme “Christmas Carnival”, the town bursts to life with enchanting lights, themed installations, workshops, performances, and delightful winter-themed experiences for people of all ages.
This month-long celebration perfectly blends the cozy traditions of a northern-hemisphere Christmas with Kiwi creativity, showcasing Greytown’s reputation as New Zealand’s most stylish small town.
- Festival Dates: Friday, June 27 – Saturday, July 26, 2025
- Theme: “Christmas Carnival” – celebrating the best of classic Christmas and local festive flair
- Location: Main Street, Cobblestones Museum, local shops, cafes, and performance venues across Greytown
- Admission: Many events are free; some workshops and shows require tickets
🔔 Book Early – Popular Events Sell Out Fast!
Some events during the Greytown Festival of Christmas 2025 require bookings in advance, especially workshops, performances, and special tours. Tickets are limited and many sessions are expected to sell out quickly, so we highly recommend reserving your spot early.
👉 Book now via the official website:
https://www.greytownvillage.com/greytown-festival-of-christmas-programme-2025
2. Highlights
✨ Illumination Night Walk
Wander through Cobblestones Museum’s glowing gardens and experience a night filled with fairy lights, glowing installations, and even fake snowfall! Held twice each evening (5:30 PM & 7:30 PM), this is a favorite for both families and photographers.
🎠 Carousel Fun Zone
Enjoy the nostalgia of an old-fashioned carousel, perfect for kids and the young at heart. Hosted by Holmes Construction, this magical setup runs across two weekends during the festival.
🍸 Cocktails & Constellations
Held every Thursday night in July (3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th), this elegant evening invites you to sip cocktails under the stars with expert-led stargazing sessions.
😂 Cocktails & Comedy
Two nights of laughter await:
- July 2: Paul Ego & Lesa Macleod-Whiting
- July 23: Jeremy Elwood & Sowmya Hiremath
Enjoy a drink and a good laugh with top New Zealand comedians.
🎨 Arts & Crafts Workshops
Unleash your creativity every weekend with hands-on workshops:
- Wreath-making (dried flowers or foliage)
- Christmas-themed crochet
- Handmade letterpress stationery
- Giant paper flower making
- Miniature exhibitions (July 5–6)
🔥 Festive Bonfire Inferno at Molewood Orchard
On July 12, cozy up by the fire under the stars at this beautiful orchard setting. Expect mulled drinks, warm nibbles, and heartwarming community vibes.
🖋️ Mrs Floss’ Sip & Scribble Cafe (July 20)
A cozy afternoon of tea, sweet treats, and creative journaling — this sold-out event is perfect for those who love slow, mindful experiences.
🕯️ Carols by Candlelight (July 19)
A classic Christmas caroling event under candlelight. Bring your family and join the locals in a heartwarming singalong session.
🚜 Tractor & Truck Light Parade (July 19)
A spectacular display of illuminated vehicles! Watch tractors, vintage trucks, and quirky cars parade through the town in a dazzling light show.
🏡 Mid-Winter Christmas House Tour
On July 18 and 20, explore beautifully decorated private homes and discover creative holiday decor ideas in this exclusive guided tour.
🎭 Agatha Christie: The Count & The Curse
A unique live radio-style stage performance inspired by Agatha Christie. Shows run July 15–17 and 22–24, with matinee options on July 20 and 27.
🎬 Crown Picture Theatre
Catch a family-friendly festive film every afternoon at 4 PM in Greytown’s pop-up movie theatre.
🤹♀️ Kids’ Circus School & Giant Knitting
- Kids can try circus tricks in a safe, fun environment.
- Giant knitting workshops bring families together in a cozy, creative experience.
🧀 Fondue Chalet & Pinot Noir Mardi Gras
Enjoy cheese fondue nights and wine tastings hosted by Alexia Urban Winery, adding delicious flavor to the festival season.
💌 Cross-Stitch & Letterpress Workshops
Dive into the world of handmade design with cross-stitch postcard workshops and vintage letterpress printing sessions.
🌱 Christmas Terrarium & Winter Wellness
- July 24: Create your own winter-themed terrarium
- July 25: Attend a wellness workshop focused on self-care during the colder months
🎉 Grand Finale: Christmas Carnival (July 26, 3PM–9PM)
The final day brings a grand community celebration, with street performers, food stalls, stage shows, and fireworks. A fitting farewell to an unforgettable winter journey.
3. Insider Tips
🏨 Stay in Style: The White Swan Hotel
- Enjoy wine tastings every Thursday 5–7 PM
- Packages include a midweek stay, festive cocktails, s'mores, and a limited-edition plush toy (from NZD 409)
- The perfect place to relax after a night of festival fun!
🏛️ Visit Cobblestones Museum
Take a step back in time at this local heritage museum — the backdrop for many light displays and a great daytime stop for families.
🍔 Don’t Miss the Food Trucks
Local food vendors and pop-up stalls offer everything from hearty winter dishes to sweet Christmas treats.
4. Suggested Weekly Itinerary
🗓️ Week 1 (June 27 – July 3)
- Join the Illumination Night Walk
- Attend a candle-making or dried flower wreath workshop
- Watch the first comedy show on July 2
- Grab dinner from a food truck after sunset!
🗓️ Week 2 (July 4 – July 10)
- Visit the Miniature Exhibition
- Try your hand at vintage embroidery or flower paper crafts
- Attend Cocktails & Constellations (July 10)
- Visit The White Swan for wine tasting
🗓️ Week 3 (July 11 – July 17)
- Bonfire Inferno at Molewood Orchard (July 12)
- Attend the Agatha Christie live radio play
- Craft your own Christmas cards or learn giant knitting
🗓️ Week 4 (July 18 – July 26)
- Don’t miss the Tractor Parade and Carols by Candlelight (July 19)
- Explore decorated homes during the House Tour (July 18 & 20)
- Join the final Christmas Carnival Celebration on July 26
5. Practical Information
- Many events are free, but book early for ticketed workshops and shows to avoid missing out.
- Evening and weekend events tend to be busiest — plan ahead and arrive early.
- Parking is limited during peak times. Consider using shuttles or staying overnight.
- Dress warmly and bring a camera — the night lights are Instagram-worthy!
🎁 Summary
- When: June 27 – July 26, 2025
- Where: Greytown, Wairarapa, NZ
- Who: Perfect for families, couples, tourists, creatives, and Christmas lovers!
- Why Go?: Unique winter festival with a magical mix of lights, laughter, and community
❄️ Final Words
The Greytown Festival of Christmas 2025 is more than just an event — it’s a celebration of joy, creativity, and community spirit. Whether you're looking for twinkling lights, warm fireside moments, crafty fun, or festive cheer, Greytown welcomes you with open arms and holiday magic.
📸 Mark your calendars, wrap up warm, and come create unforgettable winter memories in one of New Zealand’s most charming towns!