St John Ambulance Carols by Candlelight
Adelaide’s most loved Christmas tradition is back for its 82nd year!
St John Ambulance Carols by Candlelight returns to Elder Park / Tarntanya Wama on Saturday 12 December 2026, bringing thousands of South Australians together for a spectacular celebration of music, community and Christmas under the stars.
Leading the 2026 line-up is beloved Australian singer, songwriter and performer Samantha Jade, who is returning to Carols after a huge year starring as Vivian Ward in Pretty Woman: The Musical. A long-time Carols favourite, Samantha has become one of the event’s most popular performers and is affectionately known by organisers as “our angel on top of the tree”.
Families and friends are encouraged to don their favourite Christmas outfits and head to Elder Park early to enjoy a free afternoon and evening of entertainment.
Gates open at 3:00pm, with the Experience Adelaide Pre-Show Concert kicking off at 5:00pm. St John Ambulance Carols by Candlelight begins at 8:30pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks finale.
There’s plenty more to look forward to, with additional artists, program highlights and broadcast details set to be announced in the lead-up to the event.
It’s the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season with family and friends, while supporting St John Ambulance SA as they raise vital funds to continue saving lives across South Australia.
WHERE: Elder Park / Tarntanya Wama
WHEN: Saturday 12 December 2026
TIME: Gates open at 3:00pm | Pre-show concert from 5:00pm | Main concert at 8:30pm
COST: Free
Tips for families:
- Get in Early: Gates open from 3:00pm, so arrive early to find a good spot and enjoy the afternoon entertainment before the main event gets underway.
- Pack a Picnic: Bring along a picnic blanket and some snacks and settle in for an afternoon and evening of Christmas entertainment under the stars.
- Dress for the Weather: Adelaide’s December weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers, sunscreen and anything else you might need to keep the family comfortable throughout the afternoon and evening.
- Keep the Kids Safe: With thousands of people expected at Elder Park, make sure little ones know where to meet if they get separated from the group and keep an eye out for St John Ambulance SA staff if you need assistance.
- Stay for the Fireworks: The night wraps up with a spectacular fireworks display, so make sure you stick around until the very end!
- More Details Coming: More artists, program highlights and broadcast details will be announced closer to the event, so keep an eye out for updates.
