Christmas is only six weeks away and the community is encouraged to #DoItInDouglas this festive season with a jam-packed calendar of events setting the scene for a jolly end of 2020 in the Douglas Shire.

The Douglas Shire Council and the Douglas Chamber of Commerce today released the ‘December in Douglas’ program which includes late night shopping with Santa in Port Douglas, the return of a popular Mossman street party and a Christmas Sunday Market. 

The program kicks off with the lighting of our Christmas Trees on November 20 and includes a full schedule of family friendly activities to welcome Christmas and encourage people to support local businesses. Scroll down for full program.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said the line-up of events was one of best in recent memory.

“December in Douglas is shaping up to be a really special time for our community and I encourage everyone to enjoy what is on offer,” he said.

“Many of these events are designed to get people out and about, enjoying the Christmas atmosphere and buying their Christmas presents locally.”

Douglas Chamber of Commerce President Liz Ross added: “This is a time to reflect on the year, and take the time to support the community and individuals around us in celebrating the festive season in whatever way you can manage – whether it be shopping local, buying local, giving local. It all helps,” she said.

“If we think of the wonderful book written by Bryce Courtney, the Power of One. It is about recognising that we as individuals can make a difference, if we put our heart and soul into it.

“Help our local community, help one person, help many, just help. So, join in all the festivities, support local businesses and support your neighbours and loved ones at this important time of year.”

The Council and the Douglas Chamber of Commerce have released the Do It In Douglas Christmas Newsletter which will be available at key locations across the Shire.

They are inviting the public to grab a free copy which features the Christmas events calendar, and details about each event.

The Do It In Douglas Christmas newsletter can also be accessed online here.

December in Douglas events

The Twilight Christmas Fair at St Crispin’s Café

The events program launches with The Twilight Christmas Fair at St Crispin’s Café on Friday November 27 which celebrates local artists with a Christmas market on the pontoon, Christmas Carols, kids face painting and a hamper raffle.

#LightUpDouglas

Then #LightUpDouglas officially kicks off on Tuesday 1 December as we ask the community to share in the fun of celebrating the best Christmas lights. Tells us about the Christmas Lights in your street on the Light Up Douglas Facebook Events Page and we’ll encourage locals and visitors to pay your street a visit. Council will also share the best of the Douglas Christmas lights on social media.

Mossman Carols and Christmas Night Markets

Mossman Carols and Christmas Night Markets is next on Wednesday 9 December. Held under the beautiful Mossman Raintrees, it is a must-do on the Christmas Calendar. Everyone is encouraged to come along and experience the magic of this special Christmas night, at a local’s favourite market.

Macrossan St Late Night Trading
Friday 11 December will see the spirit of Christmas light up Macrossan St with Santa coming to town, and Macrossan St late night trading. Carols, entertainment, and Santa’s elves will be adding to the magic. This promises to be a special evening for the iconic Port Douglas main street, and we encourage visitors and locals to get behind our retailers, cafes and restaurants as they keep their doors open late for Christmas shopping and celebrations.

Port Douglas Markets Christmas Spectacular

Next up, the famous Port Douglas Markets will share in the spirit of Christmas with a special festive inspired market day on Sunday 13 December. Famous for serving up an eclectic variety of handcrafted goods, locally produced food, and seasonal fresh produce the stall holders will have you covered for Christmas.

Douglas Street Party

The Douglas Street Party will return this year on Friday 18 December in Front St Mossman. The street will be a-buzz with market stalls, food trucks, drinks, and a small stage hosting Carols and performances from local artists. It will be a true celebration of our Shire and we encourage all to come along!

Virtual Christmas Carols

Brought to you by the Douglas Theatre Arts Group, Saturday 19 December will see the first ever virtual Christmas Carols for our Shire. Our talented choir and solo artists will be performing your favourite Christmas Carols in various locations throughout Douglas Shire. Each performance will be filmed to create a unique Douglas Christmas Carols compilation to be streamed online.

Christmas Windows Challenge

The Christmas Windows Challenge is back in 2020! Presented by Douglas Chamber of Commerce and Douglas Shire Council, the Christmas Windows Challenge calls on local businesses to decorate their shop fronts and interior displays. The best Christmas display will be awarded the Mayor’s 2020 Christmas Windows Challenge prize.