Local communities are preparing for a full schedule of Christmas activities in the lead-up to Santa’s arrival on 25 December, with carols, parades, workshops and gatherings.

​Christmas celebrations begin in Jamberoo on Tuesday, 9 December, with the Jamberoo Community Carols in Reid Park from 6:30pm.

The following night, Wednesday, 10 December, Kiama will host Carols in the Park at Hindmarsh Park from 6:30pm.

Families are invited to roll out a picnic blanket, enjoy a sausage sizzle and sing along as local musicians and school choirs fill the evening with beloved Christmas favourites at these two events.

​Carols continue across the region with the Shellharbour Carols at Croom Regional Sporting Complex on Friday, 12 December with stalls and pre-show activities from 5pm and the festivities finishing at 9pm.

Bomaderry Nowra Lions Club will host Christmas Carols in Harry Sawkins Park on Sunday, 14 December - with the Nowra Town Band and fireworks part of the fun.

Outdoor Christmas Carols will be at Kiama Presbyterian Church on Sunday, 21 December at 2pm, followed by Christmas Eve Carols at Jamberoo Anglican Church on Wednesday, 24 December at 5pm.

​Both churches will also host Christmas morning services at 9am on Thursday, 25 December.

A range of community events will complement the carols program.

Berry’s Grand Christmas Street Parade takes place on Saturday, 13 December at 11.30am along Queen Street, while Gerringong will hold its Street Parade on Saturday, 20 December at 10am. That same afternoon, the Gerringong Bowling Club will run Christmas on the Greens from 4-7pm.

Families can also join the Gingerbread Cookie Decorating workshop at Expressive Art Experience, Kiama Downs, on Saturday, 13 December, from 10am to midday.

For entertainment, Cin Cin Bar hosts The Ultimate Christmas Movie Mystery on Thursday, 11 December at 6pm, offering an interactive Christmas-themed storyline.

Transport enthusiasts can board the Christmas Kiama Picnic Train, operating 20–21 December between Sydney and Kiama from 10am to 7pm.

On Christmas Day, Bella Char Restaurant and Wine Bar in Gerringong will host a Christmas lunch from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

With events spanning music, community gatherings, creative activities and family outings, the region is set for a diverse and engaging Christmas season.