Perth is buzzing with a fantastic lineup of events this week, offering everything from beloved Christmas traditions and world-class art exhibitions to swinging jazz and high-energy pop concerts. Whether you're looking for a free family outing or a special night out, the city has something to captivate every interest.
Family Festivities and Free Fun
The festive season kicks into high gear with the return of a cherished Western Australian tradition. The Alinta Energy Christmas Pageant lights up St Georges Terrace on Saturday, December 6, starting at 7pm. This spectacular parade features local stars, dance troupes, cultural groups, and costumed characters, all leading up to the main event: a visit from the big man in red. For the best views, find a spot east of the starting point at the corner of St Georges Terrace and William Street, along the route to Victoria Avenue. This iconic event is completely free to attend.
For more free entertainment, head to Yagan Mia Wireless Hill Park in Ardross on Saturday afternoon. From 4:30pm to 7pm, enjoy the Melville Summer Music series with performances by alt-pop/indie rock act Dolce Blue and Fremantle's alt-folk Americana band, Lloyd and the Leftovers. It's the perfect opportunity for a picnic, with food trucks on site to complete your summer evening.
Culture and Comedy Highlights
Art lovers have a major event to mark in their calendars. A landmark retrospective of internationally acclaimed WA ceramicist Pippin Drysdale opens at the Art Gallery of WA on Saturday, December 6. Titled 'Infinite Terrain', the exhibition runs until April 6, 2026, and offers a rare glimpse into four decades of the Fremantle-based artist's practice. Drysdale's work, known for its sweeping lines and glorious colour that evokes vast landscapes, is drawn from the WA Art Collection and significant loans. Admission is free.
If you need a good laugh, Queensland comedian Mel Buttle brings her new stand-up hour, 'Taking My Sunglasses Off To Hear You Better', to the Astor Theatre in Mt Lawley on Saturday. Famous for her viral online character Lyn, Buttle delivers sharp, relatable observations on motherhood and suburban life. Shows are at 5pm and 7pm, with tickets priced at $59 via Ticketek.
For a unique gift, the Canning Arts Group's annual Christmas Art Sale runs from Friday, December 12 to Sunday, December 21 at the Canning Arts Centre in Riverton. Browse a beautiful selection of pottery, paintings, and handcrafted gifts, with free entry.
Live Music and Nightlife
This week offers an eclectic mix of musical performances. On Sunday, December 7, soak up the sublime sounds of the Ali Bodycat Big Band in the lush gardens of Government House from 4pm. Bodycat, joined by some of Perth's finest musicians, will perform swinging jazz classics with her trademark warmth and sophistication. Tickets range from $60 to $70.
For a night of electrifying dance music under the stars, don't miss Ministry of Sound Classical at Kings Park on Friday, December 12 at 5pm. The Ministry of Sound Orchestra, conducted by Vanessa Perica and backed by DJ Groove Terminator, will reimagine iconic club anthems with a live orchestral twist. Tickets are $183.38 via Ticketmaster.
Finally, get ready for a shot of pure pop energy as Lime Cordiale takes the main stage at the mega-venue ICF in Northbridge on Friday, December 12 at 6pm. Supported by Great Gable and Ullah, the band promises a night of summer fun in the venue's three-storey amphitheatre. Tickets are $84.96 from Eventbrite.
