Concerts Caroline Bay Carnival

Caroline Bay Carnival 2025
When: 26 December 2025 – 11 January 2026
Where: Caroline Bay, Timaru, South Canterbury, New Zealand

The Caroline Bay Carnival’s summer concert series runs from 26 December 2025 to 11 January 2026, offering free daily entertainment at the iconic Soundshell. The programme features a lively mix of tribute acts, local favourites, and returning Carnival regulars — including Fleetwood Mac, ABBA Heaven!, Shane Hales & Suzanne Lynch, The Groomsmen, Liberator Rock Band, Suzanne Prentice, The Backbeats, Oxo Cubans, and a Robbie Williams Tribute showcase.

New Year’s Eve features extended performances from Liberator Rock Band, leading into the fireworks celebration. The second week highlights popular community traditions such as the Band Rotunda concerts, capped off with the Carnival’s final show on 11 January, featuring Dee May & The Saints.

Caroline Bay Carnival:

• A long-standing summer tradition — the 115th annual carnival
• Family-friendly entertainment: carnival rides, sideshow games, and competitions
• Live music concerts every evening at the iconic Soundshell, from tribute acts to classic Kiwi performers
• Special talent quest on 3–4 January 2026 featuring dance, singing, and bands in a new inclusive format.
• Fireworks spectacular on New Year’s Eve

Why Go:
This is a classic Kiwi carnival that’s been running for over a century. It’s a perfect holiday destination for families, offering nostalgic fun, beachside charm, and live entertainment in a relaxed coastal park setting.

Visiting Timaru in summer means long warm days by beautiful Caroline Bay, one of New Zealand’s safest swimming beaches. The town comes alive with outdoor concerts, coastal walks, markets, and classic holiday events like the Caroline Bay Carnival. With its relaxed vibe, scenic harbour, and great cafés, it’s an easy and refreshing South Island getaway.