Chopper-flying Santa set to touch down for Mossman's ultimate Christmas celebration
XMAS EXTRAVAGANZA
The festive season is officially ready to light up the Douglas Shire, with the much-loved Christmas Extravaganza returning to the Mossman Showgrounds on Friday, 4 December 2026, from 3.00pm to 8.30pm.
Locals can expect an action-packed afternoon and evening designed to bring neighbours together and kick off the holidays with festive carols, market stalls, food trucks, free children's entertainment and a grand entrance from the man in red himself.
Jointly organised by Mossman Support Services Youth Centre and Douglas Shire Council, with The Tin Shed on board as the Major Event Partner, the event continues to build on a cherished regional tradition.
Brody Andrews, Mossman Youth Centre coordinator and event organiser, said keeping the celebration free and accessible is essential given current cost-of-living pressures.
“Our main hope is for The Tin Shed's Christmas Extravaganza to bring the community together for a fun, welcoming, and inclusive event where everyone can create lasting memories,” Brody said.
“Given the financial pressures many families are experiencing, keeping the event free ensures everyone can enjoy the festivities and make lasting memories.”
Building on a popular format, the program delivers back-to-back family entertainment throughout the afternoon and evening.
One of the night's biggest highlights arrives at 5.00pm, when Santa trades his traditional sleigh for a helicopter, touching down directly at the showgrounds.
Children will then have the chance to meet Santa and snap photos from 5.00pm to 7.00pm.
“Santa's helicopter arrival has become one of the most exciting and anticipated parts of the event,” Brody said.
“We’re fortunate to have Nautilus Aviation back on board this year to help bring Santa to the event in style.”
The program also features free amusements, face painting, and active play areas for kids.
From 6.00pm, the Christmas Carols stage program takes over with performances by local talents until 8.00pm, leading up to a dramatic fireworks finale by Explosive Art at 8.10pm.
Behind the scenes, local support helps keep the gates open to all without admission fees.
Joining major partner The Tin Shed, Club Mossman and Newsport have signed on as Gold Sponsors, alongside Silver Sponsors Williams Cete and Explosive Art, and Bronze Sponsors Mossman Hardware and David Kempton.
In-kind support is provided by Uptown Hire, alongside Nautilus Aviation's aerial transport.
“Events like this simply wouldn't be possible without the generosity of our sponsors, local businesses, community organisations, and everyone who contributes their time and resources,” Brody added.
“Seeing hundreds of people come together and the excitement makes all the work worthwhile.”
For more information and event details, visit the Facebook Event page.
