The much-loved Glenelg Christmas Pageant returns this November

After a one-year break, the Glenelg Christmas Pageant is back on Sunday 22 November, with colourful floats, live entertainment and Santa's grand arrival.

Great news for families who love a festive tradition. After taking a break last year, the beloved Glenelg Christmas Pageant is returning on Sunday 22 November 2026 from 10.30am.

Around 30,000 people are expected to line Jetty Road, Glenelg as the community event brings colourful floats, live entertainment, music and Santa’s grand arrival to Holdfast Bay.

The pageant will depart from Partridge Street, travel along Jetty Road and finish at Wigley Reserve. If you want a good spot along the route, aim to be behind the blue honour line by 10.15am. Kids can enjoy some pre-pageant chalk drawing while they wait.

Colourful floats and crowds at the Glenelg Christmas Pageant

Santa photos and family fun

Once the pageant wraps up, head to the Bay Discovery Centre Gallery to meet Santa, share your Christmas wish list and grab a free photo. The Big Man in Red will be there from 11.30am to 3pm. Bookings are essential, so secure your spot online.

Over at Moseley Square from 11am to 3pm, the Youth Maker Markets will feature up to 20 stalls showcasing the wares of young entrepreneurs, artists, makers and creatives. Emerging young musicians will also perform from around 11.30am when the pageant concludes.

Jimmy Melrose Park will be buzzing with family fun activities from 11am to 3pm, with more details to be revealed soon.

Accessible viewing areas

A dedicated, step-free accessible viewing area will be available in Moseley Street. An additional viewing area will be set up opposite the stage near Chapel Plaza, offering clear visibility of the MC and Auslan interpreter throughout the event.

Bookings are not required for these spaces, but organisers ask pageant-goers to be respectful and leave them available for those who need them. Portable accessible toilets will also be at this location, with additional accessible parking in Elizabeth Street.

Glenelg Christmas Pageant 2022 (165)

Getting there

If you’re driving, the Glenelg precinct has more than 3,000 on- and off-street parking spaces. You can also catch the tram to the Brighton Road stop.

Prefer to walk? Park a few streets away and enjoy a stroll from the Patawalonga, Glenelg South or Glenelg East.

Event details

  • What: Glenelg Christmas Pageant
  • When: Sunday 22 November 2026, 10.30am to 11.30am
  • Where: Jetty Road, Glenelg
  • Cost: Free
  • More info: holdfast.sa.gov.au

 

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