WHAT’S ON CHRISTMAS ISLAND
From colourful cultural festivals to soft adventure, sporting and citizen science events our annual calendar offers something for every traveller
WHAT’S ON CHRISTMAS ISLAND
Amidst Christmas Island's pristine beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and warm community, there's a lesser-known treasure waiting to be discovered, the island's one of a kind events. Plan your visit around one of Christmas Island’s events to immerse yourself in the distinct charm and cultural richness of the island. Explore the annual featured events below and the monthly calendar to uncover a diverse array of activities, spanning cultural celebrations, sporting events, and nature-inspired gatherings. Christmas Island's events capture the island's spirit in a unique way, unlocking a richer, more immersive experience that adds to the unforgettable charm of Christmas Island.
Upcoming events.
Discover the latest Christmas Island events that will immerse you in the vibrant culture and island way of life. It’s something very special when the friendly community of Christmas Island come together in their events. Come and join the island culture.
christmas island ACKER GOLF OPEN
16TH MAY - 18TH MAY 2024
If you fancy hitting a club amidst a spectacular backdrop with red crabs crawling the greens, the Christmas Island Golf Open is the event for you. Hosted by the Christmas Island Golf Club and sponsored by Acker, experience playing golf on one of the most remote Australian Golf Courses, meet the locals and enjoy a series of competitive events which will ensure you get the most of your visit to the island.
There’s something timeless about watching a movie outdoors, and the experience becomes all the more magical when you add a beautiful backdrop of an Indian Ocean setting. The Christmas Island Outdoor Cinema was built in the 1970s and is still operating today. Join local families and visitors under a sky full of stars to watch cult classics and new releases screening at the iconic Christmas Island Cinema.
christmas island outdoor cinema
SATURDAY NIGHTS* (WEATHER & SCHEDULE PERMITTING)
Experience the natural wonder of Australia’s Christmas Island, as you run through the jungle of the Christmas Island National Park and down to the stunning coastal terrace, spotting extraordinary wildlife that is found nowhere else on the planet. This scenic and challenging road and trail event finishes at the iconic Flying Fish Cove. Hosted by the Shire of Christmas Island, the Christmas Island Marathon is Australia’s northernmost running event.
There’s an event for everyone – the 42.2km full marathon (runners and relay), 21.2km half marathon (runners and walkers), a 5km dash and a 2km family fun walk.
christmas island marathon
17TH AUGUST 2025
Bird & Nature Week 2024
26TH AUGUST – 2ND SEPTEMBER 2025
Explore the unique birdlife on Christmas Island during our annual Christmas Island Bird & Nature Week. Bird lovers are offered the opportunity to get up close and personal to nature and all Christmas Island has to offer. Experienced & passionate guides, working in research and specialising in birds, help bring guests and the unique fauna and flora on Christmas Island closer together.
This citizen science program has you alongside working scientists as they band birds, collect data and highlight their subjects of expertise – all in a safe, low impact and educational atmosphere.
territory week
6TH OCTOBER 2024
On 1st October 1958, the sovereignty of Christmas Island was transferred from the UK to the Commonwealth of Australia and Christmas Island became an Australian Territory. Territory Week celebrates the nature and culture of Christmas Island and the way of life of its people.
For a Territory Week program please visit the Christmas Island Visitor Centre Facebook page closer to the event.
Christmas Island’s mass red crab migration is one of the most incredible natural phenomonons on the planet. Every year, millions of these large crabs emerge from the forest and make their way to the ocean to breed, swarming across roads, streams, rocks and beaches. It’s a truly spectacular sight that world-renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough described as one of his greatest TV moments. The exact timing and speed of the migration is determined by the phase of the moon and first rainfall of the wet season. Red crabs always spawn before dawn on a receding high-tide during the last quarter of the moon. Incredibly, they know exactly when to leave their burrows to make this lunar date.
RED CRAB MIGRATION
CHRISTMAS ISLAND MARKETS
A delightful fusion of local creativity and community spirit comes alive at the Christmas Island Markets. Held at the Christmas Island Recreation Centre, this gathering of stalls presents a small yet eclectic selection that captures the essence of the island's vibrant culture. Wander through an array of stalls showcasing the talents of the local community, offering a unique blend of art, homewares, plants, jewelry, homemade delicacies, clothing, and exclusive island creations. These markets are more than just a shopping experience; they are a window into the heart of Christmas Island, providing an opportunity to connect with the island's rich cultural tapestry.
WHILE YOU’RE HERE
Now that you’ve experienced Christmas Island’s Events, it’s time to explore what else there is to do on your holiday on island.
CHRISMAS ISLAND ITINERARIES.
How to experience the best Christmas Island has to offer... from wandering to secluded stretches of paradise and encountering those bucket list wildlife moments, to taking the plunge to depths you’ve never ventured.