The annual Oatley Christmas Lights Display has returned for its 18th year, with a record 45 homes participating in the beloved community tradition that draws visitors from across Sydney’s south.

This year’s display, which runs nightly from 7:30pm to 10:30pm until January 1, features an expanded route through the streets of Oatley, with participating homes raising funds for Westmead Children’s Hospital through gold coin donations.

A Growing Tradition

What began in 2007 with five neighbours on Mulga Road has grown into one of the St George region’s most popular Christmas attractions. Last year, organisers estimate over 20,000 people walked or drove through the display across the Christmas period.

“We never imagined it would become this,” said display coordinator Gary Mitchell, one of the original five homes. “It started as a bit of friendly competition between neighbours. Now people plan their Christmas around visiting us.”

This year’s 45 participating homes represent a 25% increase from 2024, with several streets joining for the first time.

What to See

The display covers multiple streets in Oatley, with the highest concentration along:

• Mulga Road: The original street and still the centrepiece, featuring the famous “Santa’s Workshop” at number 42
• Waratah Street: New this year, with a coordinated fairy light theme
• Oatley Parade: Family-friendly displays with cartoon characters
• Myall Road: Elaborate animated displays and music synchronisation

Each participating home is marked with a numbered sign, and visitors can collect a map from the starting point on Mulga Road near the railway station.

Highlights this year include:

• A 6-metre inflatable Santa and sleigh at 28 Mulga Road
• Synchronised light-and-music show at 15 Myall Road (shows every 15 minutes)
• Handmade nativity scene at 7 Oatley Parade
• “Outback Christmas” theme at 33 Mulga Road featuring native animals

Community Spirit

The display exemplifies the community spirit that Oatley is known for. Neighbours coordinate themes, share equipment, and help each other with installations. New participants receive mentoring from experienced decorators.

“The Hendersons next door helped us figure out our whole setup,” said first-time participant Rachel Wong. “They lent us extension cords, showed us how to anchor the inflatables. It’s been really welcoming.”

Many homes serve refreshments to visitors, with several coordinating hot chocolate stands and sausage sizzles on weekend evenings.

Fundraising Efforts

Donation buckets are positioned throughout the display route, with all proceeds going to Westmead Children’s Hospital. Last year’s display raised over $12,000.

“Lots of families visiting have had kids treated at Westmead,” Mitchell explained. “Donating feels personal to them. We’re hoping to beat last year’s total.”

The local Scout group assists with donation collection on Friday and Saturday evenings, earning volunteer hours while supporting the cause.

Visiting Tips

With large crowds expected, organisers suggest:

• Walk if possible: Parking is extremely limited; consider taking the train to Oatley Station
• Visit midweek: Friday to Sunday evenings are busiest
• Bring a torch: Footpaths can be uneven in spots
• Bring cash: For donations and refreshment stands
• Be respectful: Remember these are people’s homes; stay on footpaths and keep noise reasonable

The display runs every evening from 7:30pm to 10:30pm through January 1. Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve will feature extended hours until 11:30pm.

A community carol sing-along is planned for December 23 at 8pm at the Mulga Road starting point, with all welcome to attend.