Bringing the family? Plan your weekend with some itinerary suggestions…

Everyday

So many things happening every day of the week. This years’ mascot is the Blue Eyed Penguin, and all through town you’ll find glimpse of our little fella Whetū and his friends. Pop your noggin through the holes in the photo cut out boards, to instantly transform into one yourself! Stop in at The Offering or The White Swan for a hot chocolate to refuel, and while you’re there, do the colouring competition, or decorate a penguin to hang on the Greytown Lands Trust Community Tree.

Then head out for a Gingerbread Man Hunt! Pick up your map from Property Brokers, or view here, then make your way around town in search of Gingey and his friends.

Greytown is very lucky to have our very own boutique chocolatier – with indulgent rich hot chocolate, handcrafted truffles, and unique flavours and shapes that are a total work of art. Try the festival-exclusive Fire and Ice chocolate, created especially for the festival.

Ever wanted to eat drink and be merry in an igloo!? Well, here is your chance. Perfect for the whole family – or a group of friends – this igloo is decked out with all the comforts, set in Aperitif’s private garden with twinkling lights, serving family-friendly food and beverages. It will be an unforgettable experience. Open Tues – Sat, bookings are essential.

There are also some great kids workshops spread through the month, especially over the school holidays. From chocolate making and printmaking to harakeke weaving and stargazing, there are some great activities to try. See the calendar here to find out what’s on when you’re in town.

When dusk falls, wander Main Street and enjoy the sparkling lights and magical projections on our historic buildings, every night from 5.30pm. See the penguins peeking through the windows at the Town Hall, and make them dance! While you’re out, have a look at the amazing window displays by local businesses and vote for your favourite.

Friday

The entertainment steps up a few notches every Friday and Saturday, with live music outside the Town Hall between 4-6pm, and snow flurrying every 30 minutes from 6pm – 8pm. Set to music and lights, complete with dancing penguins, it’s a magical selfie experience! Soak up the atmosphere and grab a bite to eat from the range of food trucks on offer, stay warm by the outdoor heaters, and get a little taste of a White Christmas.

Head back to The White Swan  and enjoy a hot chocolate while the grown-ups have a warm mulled gin or gin cocktail from their secret Gin Garden Bar. There’s more food options here, with thai or dumplings from their resident food trucks, or head indoors and order from the special festive menu. Guaranteed to please, there are plenty of options, including a kids menu with all of their favourites. 

Saturday

The Offering Cafe have an extensive breakfast menu that has something for everyone and every dietary requirement. The ‘What Came First’ – featuring, you guessed it, coated buttermilk chicken and poached eggs, along with hash browns and baby spinach, will start the day right. Kids are also spoilt for choice, with Belgium Waffles, savoury beef mince and smoothie bowls amongst the most popular!

“I’m just going to pop into that boutique back there, I will meet you there soon”. While mum hits, I mean browses the shops, head to the Cobblestones Country Fair, Ride the old fire engine from The Town Hall, anytime between 11am – 2.30pm (just a gold coin donation for a ride). Wander through the Victorian heritage village and market stalls, play some old-school games such as stilt walking, hula hoops and quoits, and even try your hand at milking their cow. Grab some homemade goodness from the Cobblestones café – a Devonshire tea perhaps, or a sausage off the BBQ.

The afternoon calls for some family entertainment. Next stop, the Christmas Grotto – a festive extravaganza with over 20 themed trees, from the Grinch to a tree inspired by Taylor Swift! Entry is by cash donation, or bring some packaged food for our local food bank. Open from 2-6pm.

Then make your way to the sparkling new Laneway Night Markets, lit up by Powerco, from 4pm. Browse the artisan stalls, set amongst music with twinkling festoons, and challenge each other to Cornhole, Ringtoss and other games.

As night settles and your hunger creeps in, head next door to Truckstop – the hub of tasty goodness for the whole family, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Main Street. Smashed burgers, slow cooked meats, Asian street food and donuts are on the menu, along with mulled wine for the grown-ups.

If you’re fortunate to be in town on 20 July, don’t miss the special Carols By Candlelight evening at St Luke’s Church – the perfect way to celebrate the spirit of Christmas, Matariki and all things winter.

Sunday

Sunday morning calls for coffee and treats! Head to The Offering for breakfast while the kids duck across the road to Meeneez for a sweet treat, loaded cookie or gelato. It’s never too early or cold for ice cream!

Please note: not all events and workshops are on every weekend.

Check out the full programme here to see what’s on while you’re in town.