Portside Wharf will welcome the holiday season this December with a month-long program designed around festive entertainment and family-friendly activities. The Hamilton precinct’s Moments That Make Christmas celebration will run across three themed weekends, offering Santa photos, elf face painting, roaming carollers, and the return of The Claw Box lucky dip.
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Throughout December, participating restaurants will also offer Kids Eat Free* on Thursdays, adding an extra incentive for families to enjoy an evening meal at the riverside precinct during the festive period.
Weekend 1: Santa Photos (6–7 December)
The first weekend of celebrations began with Santa’s arrival at Portside Wharf. Visitors who spent 50 dollars or more at a precinct retailer received a free photo with Santa.
This opening weekend marked the start of the precinct’s festive program, giving families an opportunity to visit the riverside precinct, shop, and take part in the early holiday atmosphere.
Weekend 2: Elf Face Painting and Family Fun (13–14 December)
The second weekend, held on 13–14 December, will focus on activities for children. Roaming elves will be present throughout the precinct, providing free festive face painting from 12 pm to 4 pm on both Saturday and Sunday.
This weekend features simple, family-oriented activities designed to offer children a light and enjoyable festive experience.
Weekend 3: Roaming Carollers and The Claw Box (20–21 December)
The final weekend of the program will run from 20–21 December. Roaming carollers will perform from 12 pm to 4 pm, adding a musical element to the precinct during the afternoon.
Running across both days, The Claw Box will return as part of the festivities. The lucky dip style machine will offer visitors a chance to win gifts provided by Portside Wharf retailers, adding an element of surprise to the final weekend’s activities.
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A Festive Season at the Riverside
Across all three weekends, the precinct will host a variety of entertainment and activities centred on joy, generosity, and connection, themes highlighted as part of this year’s Christmas program. Visitors can stay updated by following @portside.wharf on Instagram.
Published 9-December-2025
