Brisbane in summer is hot and joyful, and it is a fantastic place to spend the holiday season. If you enjoy the warmer weather and city environment, then the capital city of Queensland should be on your list of places to visit. You will be spoiled by the shopping and entertainment districts, and also by the convenience of the Gold Coast which is located nearby. There is lots of fun in Christmas time in Brisbane, whether you are on your own or celebrating with the entire family. Spend Christmas by the Beach There are many ways to enjoy Christmas by the beach in Brisbane, as they are only a short drive away from the city. The entire strip of the Sunshine Coast is perfect for locals and tourists alike, and you will also enjoy scenic beach landscapes close to Noosa National Park and around the Alexandra Headland. The summer is hot in Brisbane, so there is no better way to cool off than with a swim at the beach. Brisbane area is renowned for its beautiful coastlines and pristine white sand. There are beaches that are safe for young children to swim in, beaches that are supervised by lifeguards, and also patches of coastline for water sports, including surfing. Christmas at the beach near Brisbane can simply mean enjoying the holidays by the surf and sand, but the beach is also an enjoyable option for Christmas day itself. If you want to escape the complications of a Christmas at home, then head to your closest beach and enjoy a picnic there. Many locations also have barbeque facilities, picnic shelters and children’s playgrounds. There are many shops nearby, and most beaches are easily accessible by public transport, but please remember that many venues will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. You can enjoy a wonderful Christmas on the sand, just bring a scrumptious Christmas lunch, lots of sunscreen and you can even celebrate the occasion with your own Christmas decorations and portable Christmas tree. Remember the sun is very hot at this time of the year, so you might even want to pack in some zinc cream that is coloured in reds and greens for the festive season. Carols in the City Carols in the City of Brisbane are a joy for the entire family. They are held every year during the middle of December and they will lift your spirits and get you ready for the Christmas season. Enjoy your favourite Christmas tunes and join in the songs as they are performed by professional and well-known artists on stage. All children will be delighted by the positive atmosphere and be entertained by the music, performances, Christmas decorations, Christmas trees and Christmas lights. Magic will be in the air, and this will be one night that you will remember for the rest of the year to come. Carols in the City is held on the Riverstage which is easily accessible by public transport. You can drive there yourself; however parking might be difficult to find in this area. If you are catching public transport to the carols, ensure that you arrive early and allow plenty of time for your journey. There may be delays and busy crowds as many people will have the same idea as you. Also remember that there are free showbags for visitors to the carols, however they are limited in supply and only the first 6000 visitors will receive them. Shopping in Brisbane City There is shopping galore in Brisbane City and you will find plenty of places to visit for Christmas gifts and edible treats, just make sure that you beat the crowds and get in early as the city centre of Brisbane becomes very crowded as it gets closer to Christmas Day. Queen Street Mall is located in the heart of Brisbane and there is plenty of space to wander around the shops, which can almost seem like an endless stretch. All of your favourite stores will be here, including the mainstream fashion outlets. Queen Street Mall in Brisbane also includes the Myer Centre which is a favourite of Brisbane locals. South Bank Markets are filled with arts and crafts, and this can be the perfect place to pick up gifts and souvenirs from Brisbane and Australia, that are unique and handcrafted. If you have a special gift to by, you may also find something entirely original in these markets to spoil a friend or family member. Visit the South Bank Markets for Christmas and you will find a huge range of beautiful wares to choose from. Enjoy the City of Brisbane in Christmas and get in the spirit of the season, just ensure that you leave time to wander the streets and stores for viewing of the Christmas displays, including a massive solar powered Christmas tree, nativity displays, Christmas lights and Christmas decorations.