Unwrap joy with a feast fit for Santa himself.
Unwrap joy with a feast fit for Santa himself.
Christmas on the Gold Coast is right around the corner, and if you’re anything like us, the thought of tackling a big festive feast after a morning of opening presents and popping bubbly sounds downright exhausting.
Luckily, there are plenty of local spots ready to handle the heavy lifting for you. Hang up the apron, ditch the dishes, and let the pros serve up a day of delicious indulgence with no cleanup required. Here’s your guide (north to south) to the best Christmas Day feasts on the Gold Coast. Word to the three wise men – these tickets are flying faster than Santa’s sleigh, so grab yours before they’re gone!
Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove
Offering two decadent dining experiences, spend your Christmas Day situated among Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove’s stellar surrounds and get amongst some fanciful fare to mark the occasion in the most delicious of ways.
If the thought of festive fine dining sparks a whole lot of joy for you – we present to you, option numero ono: the long, and lavish – Degustation Lunch. Secure your spot at this little advent affair for an all-inclusive experience hosted at The Fireplace, and prepare to sip and savour your way through your Christmas Day for $489pp.
If you’d rather take the night off following a jam-packed day of festivities (aka keep the arvo open for a very necessary nap) the Seafood Buffet Dinner option will be enticing on every level. With two convenient seatings available at 5 pm and 8 pm, get cosy at Cove Cafe and sidle up to a mouthwatering spread of traditional Christmas fare fused with modern Australian flavours. Tickets from $229 per person, children aged 5 to 12 are priced at $99 per child (ages 0-4 free with a paying adult).
Where: Sanctuary Cove, Manor Cir, Hope Island
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort
This year, Main Beach’s stellar Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, is poised to throw not one but two tantalising Christmas Day events – take your pick of the family-style feast in Horizon’s Room or the seafood buffet luncheon in Terraces Restaurant… either way, yule be left feeling rather jolly indeed.
From 12pm – 3pm, prepare to tuck into all the traditional festive provisions and trimmings – savour hot and cold seafood, succulent roast meats, seasonal roast vegetables, wholesome summer salads and decadent desserts.
Tickets for the Family-style feast event start at $129 for kids (ages 0-4 free) through to $259 for adults. Seafood buffet luncheon tickets are $319 per adult including a glass of champagne on arrival.
Where: Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
RACV Royal Pines Resort
Another festive contender for your consideration – round up your kin and revel in the Chrissy Day array at RACV Royal Pines, for an indulgent spread hosted within the impeccable surrounds of the Royal Benowa Ballroom.
Kicking off from from 12:00 pm, this year’s proceedings include a 3-hour beverage package along with all the traditional festive fare – delight in fresh Australian seafood, carved meats, and a selection of hot dishes, salads and desserts. Tickets start from $$49 for children aged 2-4 (ages 0-2 free) up to $298 per adult. Click here for all the details.
Where: Ross St, Benowa
QT Gold Coast
Families looking to converge for some magical (and mouthwatering) Christmas mems, look no further than the luxe QT luncheons – both the Ballroom and Bazaar (dinner also available) will be abuzz with beverage packages, a sumptuous spread of roasted meats, fresh seafood and decadent desserts. Christmas cheer also comes courtesy of a festive cocktail on arrival, and for kids under 12, a gift from Mr Claus himself.
Alternatively, avid foodies can treat themselves to an exquisite gastronomic experience at the adults-only Christmas Lunch at Yamagen. Get in the spirit with a meticulously crafted 7-course menu, a masterclass in Japanese dining with a showcase of seafood dishes with a Christmas twist. Tickets from $299 pp + BF, including an arrival cocktail and curated beverage pairings.
(Pssst – Santa called, he said you should go ahead and upgrade to the Premium Whisky/Wine/Sake Pairing, it is Christmas after all). Get all the details here.
Where: 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Hyde Paradiso
This Dec 25, have a cracker of a (carefree) Christmas Day with all of the cheer and none of the tears, and lock in a spectacular seaside buffet lunch at Hyde Paradiso.
Find all the deets here to secure your spot – and score yourself a sneaky Chrissy morning sleep in while you’re at it – aka cut out the crack-of-dawn pilgrimage to the prawn trawlers altogether.. now that’s a Merry Christmas!
Where: Peppers Soul, Level 2/8 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
voco Gold Coast
We need not spend days toiling away in the kitchen, offload the preparations (read: stress) and let the voco pros handle your Chrissy day proceedings. Indulge in a banquet of iconic Christmas Day fare, such as fresh seafood, summer salads, succulent roast carvery, a variety of hot and cold dishes – complete with a mouthwatering dessert bar for your feasting pleasure. Plus, face painting and a sneaky cameo from the big man in red, for some extra special Christmas magic for the kiddos.
This little Chrissy extravaganza will set you back $289 per person, with children from $89 (ages 0-4 free).. and simultaneously deliver max satisfaction and zero stress in the process. Find out more here.
Where: 31 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The Langham Gold Coast
Are you and/or the fam fans of the finer things? Then look no further than The Langham for your December 25 festivities, friends. As a destination with a rep for all things luxury, our unofficial dealers of decadence are especially equipped to deliver a swanky Christmas Day.
The Christmas Lunch Buffet in Akoya includes a 2 hour beverage package, ocean views and a seafood buffet for $449 per adult and $210 per teenager. Or if you’d prefer to spend the day at the beach and feast in the evening the Dinner Buffet is $319 per adult and $80 per child (ages 0-4 free).
Alternatively, the swoon worthy Diamond Ballroom Family Christmas Lunch buffet includes fresh local seafood, a crudo and oyster bar, live barbeque with premium meats such as wagyu steaks (feat. sausage sizzle for the littles) salads, desserts and more. This stellar shindig kicks off from 12pm, with tickets ranging from $155 per child (ages 0-4 free) to $495 per adult inc. premium beverage package.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Rd, Surfers Paradise
Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach
Assemble your nearest and dearest for a delicious ripper of a Christmas celebration at the Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach this year. They will host a most extraordinary Christmas Day lunch, ensuring every dish and decoration is taken care of. We’re talking a mouth-watering buffet selection of exquisite seafood and carvery, an array of starters, salads, and a wealth of traditional Christmas desserts and Australian cheeses. These tickets are limited so jump on now and book and then all you have to do come Christmas is sit back, relax and let lunch be served. Go here for all the delicious details.
Where: 81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
The Star Gold Coast
Who better equipped to handle our merry munches than the veritable recreation wonderland that awaits at The Star? They literally spend 365 days a year honing their impeccable hosting skills… and an atmosphere primed for fun and frivolity is kind of their whole schtick.
Check out the epic array of shindigs on offer here for the ‘star’ on the top of a tree-mendous Chrissy Day. Pssst, there are even gourmet hampers available for stress-free hosting.. (feel free to steal all the glory, our lips are sealed).
Where:1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach
Words by Belinda Symons
Christmas is right around the corner! We’ll give you a minute for the inevitable “where did the time go” freak out. Ok, now that we’ve cracked open that Santa sack, let’s talk about how to make this season extra merry and bright. Those wishful letters to the North Pole are great, but we need something a bit more… substantial. And before you accuse us of jumping the gun a bit with talk about Christmas this is one event you need to know about way ahead of time.
Enter the annual Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre’s (GCCEC) Christmas extravaganza (with its free-flowing drinks. More on that later). Arguably the hottest ticket in town. And one that is guaranteed to sell out- consider yourself warned.
If you’re new in town, let us introduce you to the GCCEC’s tradition of hosting the Gold Coast’s most magical Christmas event. They’re like the Martha Stewart of throwing Christmas parties, without the insider trading. Year after year, the GCCEC finds new ways to sleigh their advent event, surpassing expectations and leaving attendees awestruck.
Is anyone else taking notes? We could all use a few tips to make our own holiday celebrations as festive and fantastic!
Whether you’re rounding up friends and fam or toasting another year of toiling with some corporate-style cheer for the work crew, the GCCEC Christmas event needs to be on your radar as you ponder the perfect festive season celebration for your fellow comrades. It’s been almost two decades since their first iconic event, and the city’s favourite Noel party has only grown in popularity, completely selling out tickets for the past five years—even over COVID!Needless to say, they are quite the spectacle.
This year’s theme is ‘Deck The Halls’, and we can assure you, no cookies or milk have been left on the table.
That’s your queue to book the babysitter —we have festivities to attend to.
Get set for a night of unforgettable Christmas merriment that’ll make even the North Pole jealous! A sumptuous four-course dinner and 4.5 hours of free-flowing premium refreshments sets the stage for an evening of festive delight. The dance floor awaits with your favourite decade hits from Stu Campbell and Magic Carpet Ride followed by live entertainment to keep the good times sleighing into the night.
Santa’s elves have nothing on the party planners here at GCCEC—it’s inevitable the evening will be packed with more cheer than a sleigh full of presents.
All this for a very jolly $195 per person! I think it goes without saying that just like Santa on Christmas night, these tickets don’t stick around long. But don’t get your tinsel in a tangle! Tickets are still available, but they won’t be for long. Don’t miss out on the chance to jingle all the way to a night of holiday magic! The jolly man himself has even awarded this event 5 stars (credible stuff).
Grab your tickets here.
Where: Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, 2684-2690 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
When: Saturday, 14th December 2024
Website: www.gccec.com.au
Instagram: @gccec
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY GOLD COAST CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE
The silly season is upon us, and if your office party plans are still as non-existent as snow on the Gold Coast, don’t panic just yet – The Star Gold Coast is here to save your festive bacon (and your reputation). With a sleigh-load of Christmas party options to suit any crowd, from intimate gatherings to large-scale extravaganzas, The Star is making sure your year ends on a high note.
From mouthwatering menus to the perfect party atmosphere, these all-inclusive and custom celebration packages are the ultimate gift to your team (and let’s be real, to yourself).
Whether you’re after a sit-down feast or a glamorous cocktail party, they’ve got options that’ll make even the Grinch crack a smile.
Cucina Vivo
Cucina Vivo is serving up a buon natale with its multi-course set menu and delicious roaming canapés. With festive food starting at just $99 per person, this is one gift you won’t want to re-gift.
Want a little extra sparkle in your glass? Add a two-hour beverage package for $40 per person.
Garden Kitchen & Bar
For a more laidback, garden-style gathering (we are on the Gold Coast, after all), Garden Kitchen & Bar has you covered. Whether you’re vibing a sit-down feast or a standing celebration filled with bite-sized delights, this venue is bringing summer Christmas party magic in spades.
Packages start at $99 per person for the festive set menu, or you can opt for the standing celebration menu for just $59 per person.
The beverage package comes in at $40 per person for two hours of festive cheers-ing.
Private Dining
If your party crowd is more about exclusivity and dining in style with a personal touch, The Star’s private dining rooms are the ultimate way to feel like a festive VIP. You can choose from several fabulous venues including Cucina Vivo’s balcony (hello, al fresco vibes), Garden Kitchen & Bar’s chic Conservatory, or even the newest addition, Kiyomi’s exclusive private dining room. Enjoy a dining experience nineteen levels up in Nineteen at The Star’s private dining room. Seating up to 26 guests, the room features a stunning, spacious table and comes equipped with a dedicated wait staff and a private bar.
Whether your group is 10 or 40, The Star can make your Christmas party feel as exclusive as Santa’s naughty list.
Cocktail Parties
Want to jingle all the way into cocktail party territory? The Star’s got options for groups as small as 12 and as big as 900 (yes, 900!), so no matter the size of your business or group, they have a venue to match. Choose from canapés, beverage packages and platters that’ll have your whole team merry and bright.
For those looking to get the best bang for their festive buck, the Mid-Week Festive Cocktail Package is a winner. Available Sunday to Thursday, it’s ideal for parties of 100 or more, and at $128 per person, you’ll get two hours of canapés, a three-hour beverage package, and a three-hour entertainment package.
So, whether you’re planning a cozy dinner with your colleagues or throwing the ultimate corporate bash, The Star Gold Coast has a package to suit every wish list. With sensational nosh, festive drinks, and stunning venues, you’ll have everyone talking about your Christmas party for years to come (for the good reasons).
But hurry, because just like Santa’s sleigh, these bookings are flying fast. Secure your spot and get ready to eat, drink, and be merry – The Star Gold Coast style! For more information or to book your Christmas party, go here.
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Christmas celebration bookings November – December
Words by Bianca Trathen
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be over 18 years to enter the casino, Atrium Bar and Sports Bar. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT. Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858 gamblinghelpqld.org.au
Imagine a Christmas Day that doesn’t involve an extensive grocery list, meal planning with your in-laws, food prep or cooking. Now, that’s an idea! Well, the Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach has beat us to that thought and one-upped us. They’re here to host a most extraordinary Christmas Day lunch, ensuring every dish and decoration is taken care of. These tickets are limited so jump on now and book and then all you have to do come Christmas is sit back, relax and let lunch be served. Whoever said Christmas is just for kids has officially been refuted.
Celebrate Christmas Day in opulence this year with a luxurious lunch inside the Grand Ballroom at the Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach. Don’t mind if we do! This year’s grandiose event has plenty in store for you and your loved ones, especially the enchanting transformation of the ballroom into a whimsical winter wonderland, making it pure ticket appeal!
Guests are in for a festive feast to remember! We’re talking a mouth-watering buffet selection of exquisite seafood and carvery, an array of starters, salads, and a wealth of traditional Christmas desserts and Australian cheeses. Don’t worry, we’re not about to skim the details- let’s dig into the extravagant Christmas lunch that waits before you!
Clears throat*. For starters and salads, we have freshly baked gourmet boulangerie, an extensive selection of antipasto, and artisanal salads including roasted cauliflower, cranberry and cashew and Persian feta, zucchini and sundried tomato. Then, of course, we have the classics with a Caesar, Niçoise and mixed leaf garden salad.
But wait, there’s more! Indulge in the freshest and finest selection of seafood with Whitsunday Tiger Prawns, freshly-shucked Pacific Oysters and Moreton Bay Bugs (to name a few highlights). For the hot varieties, standouts include pistachio and cranberry stuffed turkey, slow-roasted pork loin with that heavenly Christmas crackle we wait for year-long, and a twice-cooked lamb leg with red wine jus and mint jelly. And it would only be a proper Christmas lunch with carved ham, traditional honey-roasted ham, to be specific.
What’s Christmas without a little boujee booze? Are we right? To accompany the impressive buffet is a three-hour beverage package offering a selection of premium wines from famous winery regions in Australia, like Western Australia and New South Wales, including Cloud Street Chardonnay, Shiraz and Sauvignon Blanc, and Louis Pommery Brut Sparkling (from France). For beer, enjoy James Boags Light and Premium, and Hahn Premium Superdry. Keep things sensible (or not) with tea and coffee, and the kids happy with juice and soft drinks.
The treats don’t stop there (they just get better). End your feast with a variety of traditional sweet Christmas treats and decadent desserts, seasonal fruit and ice-cream. Then, feel the festive spirit take over with live entertainment from ‘Geed Up.’ This fun show from Brisbane blends hilarious comedy, soulful voices, and smooth harmonies with the biggest hits across genres. With a mix of energetic dance, DJ’ing, rapping, and vibrant light shows, ‘Geed Up’ is sure to get everyone laughing and dancing—a perfect fit for the holiday spirit! Watch little eyes light up with a special visit from Santa Claus himself.
Guests can bask in the warm and festive atmosphere alongside loved ones while seated at an intimate, tastefully decorated table of 10. You may even have the pleasure of enjoying Christmas lunch with some new and friendly faces (an underrated experience). For specific seating requests or dietary requirements note them under the “Special Requests” section of the ticket details page.
Tickets (including the three-hour beverage package) are $325 pp. Children aged 13-17 are $250 per ticket, and those aged 5-12 are $138. Children under 4 are free!
This event is destined to sell out so snap up your tickets here.
Where: Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach, Grand Ballroom, Level 1, Broadbeach
When: 12-3pm, Wednesday, 25 December 2024
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY SOFITEL GOLD COAST BROADBEACH
