Experience the magic of Christmas on Macquarie Street and in the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. The Noël Light Trail starts at Hyde Park Barracks where the Nutcracker pirouettes from book to building. It runs down to a beautifully lit Macquarie Street towards the Conservatorium of Music, now a reimagined gingerbread house. Follow the lights into the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney to the Parade Ground, home to the whimsical Digital Christmas Forest, markets, entertainment, and the Noël Christmas Skyshow.

Just like a magnificent Christmas gift, a wonderful evening at Noël Sydney takes consideration and planning. For those who prefer the simplest and fastest trip into town, public transport offers large transport hubs within short walking distance of Macquarie St and Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.

Martin Place and Circular Quay are the closest transport hubs to Noël Sydney with frequent trains, buses, ferries and light rail services all a stone’s throw away. You may also consider Town Hall and Wynyard which are also nearby. Should you need help planning, the elves at Transport NSW are at your service – simply visit transportnsw.info.

The Digital Christmas Forest at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is home to much of the joyous program and true to every garden occasion, a picnic blanket is a most wonderful addition. Leave the picnic basket at home, though, and indulge in the delicacies and drinks the magic makers will so happily serve you after a tap of your credit/debit card. Contactless purchases are always preferred.

People of all ages are welcome to join in the festivities. However, if you have a little one that requires a pram, it is recommended that you attend on weeknights. It won’t be as crowded, and they’ll get a much better view.