Gear up for scorching hot summer days this December, as we celebrate the end of another year. Whether it’s watching an iconic Australian yacht race, catching Nicki Minaj on tour, enjoying a music journey through The Beatles hits, or catching comedian Russell Brand at a live show, December is jam-packed with activities.
What: Nicki Minaj’s “Pink Friday: Reloaded Tour 2012”
The rapper with signature bold wigs hits our shores with an Australian to promote her second album, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded. The five-act concert showcases Nicki’s unique blend of hip-hop, pop, rap and R&B.
When: Various dates
Where: Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth
More info: premier.ticketek.com.au
NSW
What: The Rocks Village Bizarre
The intimate cobblestoned laneways of The Rocks come alive with the strange performers and burlesque beauties. Plan ahead with online information about the acts or just show up for a surprise adventure
When: Every Friday until Dec 21st
Where: The Rocks, Sydney
More info: www.therocks.com/sydney-Things_To_Do-Village_Bizarre.htm
What: Pitt St Mall Light show
The city of Sydney is inviting its residents for the official lighting of Pitt St Mall by Mayor Clover Moore. Leichhardt Espresso Chorus will be on hand to entertain with carols.
When: Dec 6th Where: Pitt St Mall, Sydney
More info: whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/events/16510-pitt-street-mall-light-show
What: Sydney to Hobart Race
This iconic Australian summer sporting event, the Rolex Sydney Hobart is a sight to behold. The annual ocean yacht is considered one of the most difficult in the world.
When: Dec 14th
Where: Sydney Harbour, Sydney
More info: rolexsydneyhobart.com
What: Pacha Sydney
Every Saturday night Pacha will take over The ivy and transform the venue into its colourful Ibiza counterpart. Line-ups include major DJ acts including Sneaky Sound System, Kaz James and Tommy Trash.
When: Saturdays
Where: The ivy, Sydney
More info: www.pachasydney.com
VIC
What: Rooftop Cinema
Catch an arthouse, classic or recent flick at this cinema on a rooftop in the heart of Melbourne. Make it a night with dinner and drink from the fully licensed bar and café.
When: Various dates
Where: Melbourne CBD, Melbourne
More info: www.rooftopcinema.com.au
What: Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight
This annual family event is a sight to see and hear as thousands of candles light up the summer night sky and top artists take to the stage with a mix of the season’s contemporary and traditional favourite carols. Sponsored by Myer and Nine Network, the event turns 75 this year.
When: Dec 24th
Where: Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne
More info: www.visionaustralia.org/carols
What: Stereosonic
Major acts Calvin Harris, Avicii, Tiesto and Example take to the stage for this summer, staple festival.
When: Dec 1st
Where: Melbourne Showgrounds, Melbourne
More info: www.stereosonic.com.au
QLD
What: Gotye
After performances in some of the most iconic venues around the world, Gotye returns home for a special Australian concert series, featuring a 10 piece live band.
When: Dec 12th
Where: Riverstage, Brisbane
More info: www.ticketmaster.com.au
What: JLO – Dance Again World Tour
Jennifer Lopez is set to tour Australia for the first time every with stops in Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Jennifer’s career has spanned 13 years now with continual catchy hits.
When: Dec 13th
Where: Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane
More info: www.premier.ticketek.com.au/Shows/Show.aspx?sh=JENNIFER12#.ULiQjc3ndd4
ACT
What: RENT
Everyman Theatre presents one of our generation’s most iconic musicals RENT to Canberra audiences.
When: Various dates
Where: Everyman Theatre, Canberra
More info: www.canberratheatrecentre.com.au
TAS
What: The Falls Music and Arts Festival
This three-day camping festival will feature more than 60 music and entertainment acts.
When: Dec 29th – Jan 1st
Where: Marion Bay, Tasmania
More info: www.fallsfestival.com.au
SA
What: Xmas Show – Let It Be Beatles
Enjoy a three-course meal as you enter onto a Beatles musical journey, with a selection of some of their hits throughout the years.
When: Dec 7th
Where: The Gov, Adelaide
More info: www.moshtix.com.au
WA
What: Russell Brand: I Am A Walrus On his third Australia stint, funnyman Russell Brand performs at Perth Arena as part of his “I Am A Walrus” tour. Sure to be hilarious, the tour may be one of his last for some time.
When: Dec 2nd Where: Perth Arena, Perth
More info: www.ticketek.com.au