Adelaide is ushering in the festive season with a whimsical twist this year, inviting residents and visitors to embark on a magical ‘Santa Course’—a journey through a series of ten colossal Santa figures, each standing as a merry monument to the many hats worn by Saint Nick.
From the towering heights of Rundle Mall to the bustling streets of North Adelaide, these larger-than-life Santas—some stretching up to 9 metres into the sky—are not just a sight to behold but an interactive experience. They illuminate the cityscape, turning it into a vibrant canvas that celebrates the spirit of Christmas in a grandiose fashion.
Among these inflatable, glowing figures is the beloved giant Santa of Adelaide Central Market, a city icon that has returned to its former glory after a meticulous restoration. Each Santa in the series has a unique story, a set of quirks and tasks that they’re eager to share with the adventurers on the trail.
There’s Santa the Spy, vigilantly checking his list (twice, of course), and Santa the Navigator, charting the course for the big night. Not to forget Santa the Wrapper, the master of ribbons and bows, and Santa the Snacker, the connoisseur of Christmas confections.
As families and friends wander from one Santa to the next, they’re invited to scan QR codes to uncover these festive tales and secrets.
This digital interaction isn’t just for fun—it’s also a chance to win one of three family prize packs, each brimming with over $1,000 worth of Adelaide’s finest culinary, entertainment, and shopping experiences.
Adding to the enchantment are Rundle Mall’s swinging bells, a creation by Amigo Amigo. These aren’t your ordinary bells; they’re interactive installations set amidst a forest of Christmas trees adorned with thousands of sparkling lights.
They beckon children and adults alike to swing into the season, setting off a captivating symphony of colors, lights, and chimes.
“This year’s decorations offer an entirely new Christmas experience that will capture the imaginations of the young, and young at heart, and bring festive joy to Rundle Mall and the city,” Adelaide Economic
Development Agency’s Executive Manager Rundle Mall, Andrew White says.
“Hundreds of thousands of people visit Rundle Mall each year to soak up the Christmas spirit and we’re pleased that we’ve been able to create the brand new interactive Santa Course that extends not just through the Mall but right across the CBD and North Adelaide.
“There is lots of interactivity to this year’s Christmas decorations, from downloadable activities and quests to complete to live performances, so we encourage people to visit Rundle Mall’s social media throughout November and December to find out what’s happening and when.
“Christmas is about more than just shopping, so we’re pleased to offer a free, magical experience that
all families can enjoy in the city while they tick off their gift list.”
Names and locations of the 10 giant Santas:
- Santa the Classic – Adelaide Central Markets
- Santa the Chatterbox – Festival Plaza
- Santa the Snacker – Adelaide Oval
- Santa the Slacker – Adelaide Aquatic Centre
- Santa the Curator – State Library of South Australia
- Santa the Suit – Adelaide Botanic Garden
- Santa the Wrapper – Lot Fourteen
- Santa the Navigator – Rundle Mall (near adidas)
- Santa the Spy – Rundle Mall (near Woolworths)
- Santa the Snapper – Rundle Mall (near Bank SA)
For more info, head here.
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