From the city's free Christmas Lights Trail to whole streets lit up in the suburbs, here's my guide to the best Christmas lights in Perth this year.
The most magical time to explore Perth after dark
Every December, I make a point of heading out on a warm evening to see the Christmas lights. It’s become a bit of a tradition in my family, and it’s one of my favourite free things to do in Perth.
Here’s my guide to the best Christmas lights in Perth for 2026, from the city’s big light trail to the suburban streets that go all out.
“Taking my nieces and nephews out to see the Christmas lights has become one of my favourite December traditions. Their faces when they see a whole street lit up never gets old.”
Alex Hamilton, Editor
The Christmas Lights Trail, Perth CBD and Northbridge
The City of Perth’s free Christmas Lights Trail is the big one. In recent years, it has taken in more than 20 stops across the Perth CBD and Northbridge, running nightly from 6pm until early January.
There’s also a shorter route designed for younger children, which is perfect if little legs get tired. The lights are usually switched on in mid-November at the GPO in Forrest Place.
Check the City of Perth website for this year’s trail map and dates.
Make a night of it in the city
The city’s Christmas program is packed with free events, so it’s worth timing your visit around one of them. In past years, highlights have included the Christmas Pageant on St Georges Terrace, Carols in the City at the Supreme Court Gardens, and visits with Santa at Council House.
The Twilight Food Market also runs in Forrest Place every Friday from 4.30pm to 9.30pm, so you can grab dinner before walking the trail. Note that it won’t run on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day, which both fall on a Friday this year.
South Perth Christmas Lights Trail
Across the river, the City of South Perth runs its own self-guided Christmas Lights Trail through December. It features city installations alongside decorated homes and businesses, including the finalists from its Christmas Lights Competition.
Grab the trail map from the City of South Perth website before you go.
Suburban streets that go all out
Some of Perth’s best displays are put on by locals who spend months planning their lights. Streets and homes that have been popular in recent years include:
- La Salle Road, Alexander Heights: a long-running street display with interactive elements.
- Samson Court, Duncraig: a street-wide display, including a home with a music-synced light show.
- Kennack Vista and Aromatic Crescent, Atwell: colourful lights, inflatables and music.
Displays change from year to year, so check a site like Christmas Light Search for the latest addresses before you head out. Many homeowners also collect donations for charity, so it’s worth bringing some coins.
Tips for a great night out
- Go after 8pm, when it’s properly dark.
- Weeknights are much quieter than the week before Christmas.
- Park a short walk away and respect residents’ driveways.
- Bring water, insect repellent and a torch for the walk back to the car.
Light up your December
Whether you walk the city trail or drive around the suburbs, seeing the Christmas lights is a free and festive night out for the whole family.
Looking for more summer ideas? Check out our guide to Cottesloe with kids and Perth’s best free activities.
Featured image: Gnangarra, CC BY 2.5 AU via Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The City of Perth Christmas Lights Trail, the South Perth trail and the suburban street displays are all free to visit. Some homeowners collect donations for charity, so bring a few coins.
