**Santa meets the people during last year’s Santa Parade. PHOTO: DAN HUTCHINSON**

Taupō is getting ready to sparkle this Saturday with the return of the Tremains Santa Parade, followed by Christmas in the Park at the Tongariro North Domain, a day of festive fun for the whole whānau.

This year’s message is simple: “Christmas in the Park is back - Taupō’s largest pre-Christmas experience.

Follow the Tremains Santa Parade to the North Domain for carols, carnival games, bouncy castles, food vendors $1,000’s in spot prizes and giveaways… and more.”

A big morning out

Tremains Santa Parade starts at 10am

From 10am, the Tremains Santa Parade will wind its way through Taupō’s town centre in a colourful procession of community groups, schools, clubs, and businesses.

Expect festive floats, marching groups, music, and of course a special appearance from Santa himself.

The parade begins on Lake Terrace and immediately makes its way North up Ruapehu St, turns left at Tamamutu St and finishes up at Tongariro North Domain, where the celebrations continue with an afternoon of free and low-cost activities for families.

“The Tremains Santa Parade is about bringing our community together to celebrate,”
says a Tremains spokesperson.

“We love seeing local businesses, schools, clubs, and volunteers all jump in to create something special for Taupō.”

**The Tremains Santa Parade makes its way up Ruapehu St in December 2024. PHOTO: DAN HUTCHINSON**

Follow the parade to Christmas in the Park

As the last floats arrive, the focus shifts to Christmas in the Park on the North Domain, transforming the space into a lively, family-friendly celebration.

Families can look forward to:

Christmas carols and live entertainment on stage
A Community Carnival zone with games and activities
Bouncy castles and children’s attractions
A range of food vendors and treats
Plenty of spot prizes and festive surprises throughout the afternoon
The event is whānau-friendly and designed so that most activities are free or very low cost, making it accessible for as many people as possible.

“Naumai haere mai, We want everyone in Taupō to feel welcome! Whether you’re a long-time local or new to town,” says event organiser Gemma Smyth from the Easterfest Trust.

“Follow the parade, grab some kai, enjoy the music, and know that by joining in you’re also supporting local charities and community groups.”

Community at the heart

Behind the scenes, local volunteers, churches, community organisations, and businesses have been working together for months to bring the event to life.

“Christmas in the Park is a beautiful example of what happens when a community pulls together,” says Julian Bishop from Volunteer Great Lake Taupō (VGLT).

“From the Community Carnival games to the staging and logistics, volunteers are at the heart of it all. It’s about connection, generosity, and celebrating what makes Taupō special.”

All of the activities and carnival stalls are run by local charities and not-for-profit groups, giving them a chance to raise funds and connect with the public in a fun, positive way.

Event details

Event: Tremains Santa Parade & Christmas in the Park
Date: Saturday 6 December
Parade: From 10.00am - Taupō town centre, finishing at Tongariro North Domain
Christmas in the Park: Following the parade at North Domain, Taupō
Cost: Free entry, family-friendly, low-cost activities