With the festive season officially upon us, the Darwin CBD is coming alive with all things Christmas.

From today, all of the good boys and girls of Darwin will be able to pen their letters to Santa in his special Post Office, as well as taking a ride in his sleigh. 

It’s all part of the Activate Darwin Christmas Tunnel, which opens to the public at 5pm today.

The display is an immersive experience located in the Smith Street Mall that has been specially designed for families.

Inside, Territorians can explore a series of rooms including the mouth-watering Candyland, with plenty of opportunities for festive season photos to send to loved ones who are interstate and overseas.

The Christmas Tunnel is free to enter, however Territorians will be required to use the Territory Check In App to gain entry.

The hub will be open from 10am – 2pm Monday to Saturday until Christmas Eve.

Residents are being encouraged to shop local this festive season, to keep Territorians in jobs, and the economy ticking over as the NT continues to make its comeback from the coronavirus crisis. The Christmas Tunnel will be instrumental in driving foot traffic into the CBD to support small businesses.

Several local businesses are also running Christmas events in Darwin city with shopping nights, photography workshops and cocktail masterclasses planned through December. Further details can be found at: https://activatedarwin.nt.gov.au/.  

Quotes attributable to Small Business Minister, Paul Kirby:

“It’s been a tough year for Territorians, but soon some of us will be able to kick back and enjoy a well-deserved break with loved ones. To those that are working through – thanks for your dedication and hard work.

“The Christmas Tunnel will not only increase visitors to the city, but it will encourage Territorians to spend some dollars with local businesses.  

“When you buy local, you are supporting local jobs – so why not send a taste of the Territory to your relatives down south?”

“We have moved heaven and earth to protect jobs and small businesses during the coronavirus crisis, and we will keep doing whatever it takes, to ensure we are the comeback capital of Australia.”