Have a Wonderful Christmas

in Nouméa

The end of the year in the Southern Hemisphere also marks the beginning of the hot season and the summer holidays. Forget Christmas trees, snow, and furry boots: in New Caledonia, we celebrate the holidays under the sun in a tropical atmosphere. New Caledonians are still very attached to the spirit of Christmas. In December, the cities and towns are decked out in their finest Christmas decorations, and a host of events, including artisanal and gourmet markets, bring public spaces to life in a relaxed, festive air.

Embark on a Tropical Christmas Adventure in Nouméa: Unveiling the Ultimate Holiday Escapade!

Christmas in Nouméa

Admire the Christmas lights

In Nouméa, the festive season kicks off with the launch of the Christmas lights between mid-November and early December. Feel free to take a stroll around the city to enjoy the magic of the decorations along the bays (Baie des Citrons, Anse Vata, Orphelinat) and major thoroughfares, on the islet of Sainte-Marie, and on the highly decorated Place des Cocotiers (Coconut Square), where the town hall is organising a month of free festivities.

At Christmas, the people of Nouméa add to the magic by decorating their homes and balconies, and offer tours open to all. The flame trees, in bloom during this season, are also decked out in their magnificent red dresses to join in the festivities.

Embark on a magical journey

around Nouméa

To bask in merry vibes of Nouméa, a number of service providers organise tours around the city. We particularly recommend the famous Petits trains de Noël (Little Christmas Train) tour, a 1½ hour escapade through the glimmering bays (hello, Baie des Citrons and Anse-Vata!) and twinkling streets of the capital. Brace yourself for a magical finale with a visit to none other than Santa’s House, where the jolly man himself dishes out traditional sweet treats.

Decorated with love and care, and kept operational by the Martin couple for more than 30 years, the “Maison du Père Noël” in Anse-Vata is local favourite, attracting throngs of New Caledonians every evening. But hold your reindeer – if you’ve got wheels, there are other decked-out houses in the conurbation (Dumbéa, Mont-Dore) that open their doors to the public for free, not just during the Christmas season, but also for other festive occasions like Easter and Halloween.

The Little Christmas Trains generally run during the week preceding 25 December, with four departures per evening (6.30pm – 7pm – 7.30pm – 8pm) from the Gare Maritime.

Enjoy the mesmerizing Entertainment Extravaganza

At the Place des Cocotiers...

In December, the “Nouméa Féérie” municipal festival that transforms the Place des Cocotiers into a buzzing hub of excitement! Take pleasure in the free nightly performances by local and international artists at the music bandstand from December 1st to the 23rd . Following the serenade, take a gentle stroll through the enchanting “Festival of Lights,” which illuminates the square every evening until the 31st of December.

On the eve of December 24th, Santa himself rolls into Place des Cocotiers with the mayor handing over the keys to the town, a dazzling light parade, music, and more. It’s a showstopper that families from near and far can’t resist. And hey, we’ve got everyone covered – there are reserved spaces for our PRM (people with reduced mobility) pals throughout this month-long festival of festivities!

…and just about everywhere in Nouméa

From magical shows at cultural hotspots like museums, the Conservatoire and the Aquarium des Lagons, to family movie screenings at the municipal swimming pools, concerts, choirs and treasure hunts in parks, heritage estates and shopping complexes, the Christmas merriment takes place all over Nouméa!

Most of the celebrations are free of charge and happen outdoors, offering you a golden ticket to a day filled with entertainment beneath the open sky. And after soaking up that sunny goodness, round off your day with a refreshing evening out, surrounded by family and friends

Stock up on original and tasty gifts

At Christmas markets

‘Tis the season for Christmas markets to pop up all over the metropolitan area, in squares, parks, shop gardens, shopping arcades, etc. . Beyond being the perfect excuse for a relaxing stroll, these markets are treasure troves for discovering unique creations by local craftspeople and artisans. Adorn your Christmas table with savoury delicacies like lobster, fresh fish, and tropical fruits, not to mention local specialties crafted with skill (think venison charcuterie, pickles, jams, honey preparations, coconut sweets, and more).

Christmas sweets and treats from renowned confectioners and chocolate-makers are also available for purchase. These maestros, carrying on the tradition of the French masters, set up shop at places like the Nouméa market, ensuring that your festive season is brimming with flavours that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy!

Ring in the New Year

in a tropical atmosphere

Evening in a bar in the Baie des Citrons, Noumea

Gear up for the ultimate New Year’s Eve bash – a celebration that rocks everyone’s world in New Caledonia! . After indulging in a delicious meal in one of the capital’s restaurants, take your pick from the swanky lineup of bars and clubs in Nouméa – we’re talking MV Lounge, La Barca, Bodega, XO Club – all geared up to give you a New Year’s celebration you’ll be talking about for ages!

For a unique and unforgettable experience, head to one of the beachfront parties (Îlot Canard, Kuendu Beach…) to spend the last night of the year with your toes in the sand, encased in the tropical ambiance of the Pacific Jewel.

The little extra

To fully grasp the Christmas spirit, take the plunge into the sea sporting a fun Christmas bonnet! It’s a splash of holiday cheer that’ll gift you with memories to last a lifetime such as encounters with turtles, playful dolphins, and a parade of tropical fish – it’s like swimming in Santa’s own underwater workshop.

Why wait any longer to embark on an unforgettable tropical adventure under the radiant sun of New Caledonia? Your dream holiday is just a heartbeat away!