Way back in 2003, the Burstow family had a dream of spreading the joy of Christmas and raising money for important community causes through a dazzling light display, and they named it Burstow’s Christmas Wonderland.
The initiative met with warm enthusiasm, and has since become a Toowoomba tradition; so much so that in 2007 it was renamed to Toowoomba’s Christmas Wonderland, to reflect the widespread support from the community. Currently the Lions Club of Toowoomba West are in charge of hosting the event, and they still raise donations for local organisations.
This year promises to be bigger and better than ever. In fact, last year, over 60,000 visitors were awed by the luminous display, which meant over $85,000 in donations! The major beneficiaries for 2025 will be Toowoomba Hospital Foundation, The Toowoomba Hospice and Lifeline Darling Downs & South West Queensland.
What to expect
Other than a wonderland of lights, Toowoomba’s Christmas Wonderland has entertainment and magic for all.
Every day will see the Botanic Gardens that are home to the display fill up with music, with offerings ranging from the traditional, like the Toowoomba Caledonian Society Pipe Band and St Mary’s College Concert Band and Choir, to local talents like Belinda Tigell Music, and all-in-one acts like Matthew Peter as Elvis.
There will be a myriad of dance groups of all ages performing everything including modern dance, ballet and even Highland dancing, so you will have something to watch as you marvel and the twinkling lights.
Not only that, but the event offers free ice cream and popcorn for the little ones! And if you’re only a kid at hear, don’t worry: there is also a BBQ’s with mouth-watering sausage sizzles, Lions Club Christmas cakes and puddings for sale, tea and coffee, and even Christmas raffles!
See the full program here.
Practical information
Toowoomba’s Christmas Wonderland is a family-friendly event held from Saturday, December 6 to Wednesday, December 24, from 7pm to 10pm (except on Christmas Eve, when it closes at 9pm).
Entry is gold coin donation or “Tap & Go” payment at any of the three entry points on Lindsay Street, Campbell Street or Godstall Street.
📍Queens Park Botanic Gardens, 43 Lindsay St, East Toowoomba