Christmas by the Beach Returns to James Meehan Reserve with a Festive Family Celebration

Families will gather at James Meehan Reserve for a seaside Christmas celebration that turns one of Dee Why’s most loved spaces into a festive hub of music, laughter and community spirit. Organised by Northern Beaches Council, the free “Christmas by the Beach” event promises carols, children’s entertainment and beachside dining for locals of all ages.



A Local Christmas Tradition

Dee Why will come alive with festive cheer on Friday, 12 December 2025, from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at James Meehan Reserve. The event will feature live music, Christmas carols, and a lively children’s show. 

Families can relax on picnic rugs or enjoy a variety of food from local eateries and food trucks. The reserve will buzz with laughter, music, and the smell of summer meals. It’s a community celebration made to bring everyone together before the holidays.

Entertainment for All Ages

The event starts at 4 p.m. with Santa photos and face painting. Boskar the Polar Bear will entertain kids in a fun show. Rock Paper Sisters will lead a Christmas sing-along. Jayden Rodrigues will finish the night with a family dance party. The event is designed to keep energy high while staying family oriented and inclusive.

Council staff confirmed that no tickets are needed, and all performances are free. The site offers full accessibility, and assistance animals are welcome. Organisers ask attendees not to bring glass bottles, pets, drones, or large chairs to keep the event safe and comfortable for everyone.

Council’s Message to the Community

Northern Beaches Council says “Christmas by the Beach” reflects its commitment to supporting community connection during the festive season. A spokesperson said the goal is to create a safe and inclusive celebration where residents can relax and enjoy the spirit of Christmas together.

The council encourages attendees to take public transport or walk to the reserve, as parking around Dee Why Beach can be limited. Refill water stations will be available on site, promoting sustainability by reducing plastic waste.

Planning Your Visit

Visitors should arrive early to secure a good spot and bring essentials such as sunscreen, hats and reusable bottles. The event runs from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at James Meehan Reserve, Dee Why Beach. For more details or accessibility enquiries, the Northern Beaches Council Events team can be reached at 1300 434 434 or events@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au.



Christmas by the Beach blends carols, local food, and a coastal vibe. It remains a highlight of Dee Why’s summer calendar. The event celebrates both the season and the community that makes it special.

Published 11-November-2025

Monkey Spanner Brings Ska Energy Back to Dee Why RSL

Ska fans are in for a high-energy night as Monkey Spanner prepares to take the stage at Dee Why RSL. The Sydney-based band, known for delivering authentic 2 Tone Ska, is set to perform on Friday, 28 March, as part of their farewell tour. 



A Celebration of Ska at Dee Why RSL

Following a successful 2024 Australian tour, Monkey Spanner is set to return with an exciting mix of tracks. They will bring tracks from legendary 2 Tone bands such as The Specials, Madness, Bad Manners, The Beat, The Selecter, and The Bodysnatchers. Their setlist also includes reggae influences from Toots & The Maytals, along with elements of classic Rocksteady

The band, originally founded by two British expats, embodies the essence of traditional ska with a full horn section, keys, and guitars, paired with a distinct visual style. Their performances recreate the energy and spirit of the 2 Tone movement, making them a standout act in Australia’s ska scene.

Joining them on the night will be special guests Long Way South and The Upbeat Ambassadors, adding further depth to the event’s lineup.

The Final Tour: ‘The Last Dance’

After captivating audiences across Australia, Monkey Spanner is set to wrap up their national performances with their final tour, “The Last Dance”. Over the years, the band has built a dedicated following, known for their dynamic shows that leave audiences engaged from start to finish.

With their farewell performances now underway, this Dee Why RSL show will be one of the last opportunities for fans to experience their high-energy ska celebrations live.

Excitement Builds Among Fans

Monkey Spanner has earned a reputation for delivering high-impact performances, drawing praise for their lively stage presence, powerful instrumentation, and crowd engagement. Many attendees from previous shows have described their experiences as energetic and unforgettable, with some returning multiple times to see the band in action.

Their ability to bring ska to life on stage, combined with a dedicated fan base, has set expectations high for the Dee Why RSL event. With their farewell tour marking the end of an era, fans are eager to witness one last night of non-stop ska rhythms and dancing.

Event Details and Ticket Information

  • Date: Friday, 28 March
  • Time: Doors open at 8:00 p.m., performance starts at 8:30 p.m.
  • Venue: Dee Why RSL Showroom
  • Age Restriction: 18+
  • Tickets: $53.99 + processing fee


With limited tickets available, those eager to attend are encouraged to secure their spots early for what promises to be a memorable night of ska and live music.

Published 6-Mar-2025