Katikati’s Arts Junction is turning into a festive hub, with Christmas in the Junction – a reimagined Santa’s Grotto from previous years bringing movies, music, stories, festive displays and, of course, Santa, all under one roof.

From Monday, December 15, to Sunday, December 28, the programme will offer something for everyone, said Katch Katikati events manager Kylie Watkins.

Local groups will join forces to transform the space, with festive displays from Katikati Floral Art, Western Bay Library, the Combined Churches and Katch Katikati.

Watkins said the team looks forward to this transformation every year.

“We love turning our Junction Theatre into a festive space for everyone to enjoy,” she said. “It’s a place to soak up the feeling of Christmas and always puts a smile on everyone’s face.”

Santa will join the fun too, making guest appearances for photo and selfie opportunities from December 17-24.

Watkins said there’s no need to book – families can simply drop in during the advertised times, grab a picture, and take a moment to chat with the man in red.

On December 15 and 22 movie-lovers can enjoy special cinema days in the Junction Theatre. Morning screenings include The Grinch plus recent release The Bad Guys 2. In the afternoons, audiences can revisit the timeless charm of White Christmas and recent release The Life of Chuck.

A programme highlight would be the Kids’ Christmas Shows on December 20-21, brought to the community by Katikati Open Air Art.

Families are invited to step into a world of imagination with Miss Amelia: Little Raconteurs Storytime, an interactive show where stories are brought to life through music, movement and play.

For Katikati Open Air Art, the shows are about more than Christmas entertainment. “As part of our commitment to nurturing creativity in our community, we want to introduce our youngest artists to the world of storytelling, performing arts and imagination,” the team said. “This Christmas show is a gift to local families – a chance for little ones to engage with the arts in a fun, accessible and meaningful way.”

Christmas in the Junction will be open seven days a week, only closing Christmas Day.

For Santa visiting times, opening hours and full movie and show details, visit: katikati.org.nz/christmas-in-katikati-2025 or phone (07) 549 1658.

Christmas in the Junction is presented by Katch Katikati, Katikati Floral Art Group, Western Bay Library and the Combined Churches with support from the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund, said Watkins.

“Come and experience the magic of the festive season at Christmas in the Junction – we can’t wait to share the cheer of the festive season with you.”