Melbourne, Australia's cultural hub, transforms into a vibrant Christmas wonderland during the summer months. Unlike its European counterparts, the city embraces outdoor celebrations, with families often opting for barbecues and beach outings over traditional indoor feasts.
The festive spirit permeates the air as workplaces host merry gatherings in the lead-up to Christmas Day. Melbourne's streets come alive with dazzling decorations, twinkling lights, and bustling markets. Festival-themed carnivals add to the joyous atmosphere, offering entertainment for all ages.
Top things to do in Melbourne during Christmas
#1 Larger-than-life Christmas projections and installations
Christmas is serious business in Melbourne! The city goes all out, transforming its landmarks into a festive wonderland. You'll be gobsmacked by the massive 17.5-meter Christmas tree in Federation Square. Wander around and you'll spot reindeers, stars, and Nutcracker soldiers popping up all over the place. The installations in The State Library and Town Hall are worth checking out! Head to Kristina Court in Pakenham for a rooftop mega tree and a dazzling light show.
#2 Have a Rollicking Time at Melbourne’s Christmas Carnival
Melbourne hosts a Christmas Carnival on the banks of Birrarung every year starting on the 14th of December. Walk in for free and spend an entire evening playing carnival games, chomping down fair food, and driving the dodgems. The star of the carnival night is the Sky Flyer that treats you to panoramic views of the city. The Carnival starts at 2pm every day and goes on till 10pm. The last day is 24th December.
#3 Enjoy the Sound and Light Show at Federation Square
Join the crowds of Christmas revellers as they gather to watch the city’s 16.5 LED Christmas Tree light up every evening. The evenings also feature a spectacular sound and light show, carol-singing choirs, food stalls and twinkling decorations. Sing along with Christmas choirs and grab a bite at one of the Square’s many food stalls.
#4 Have a Musical Christmas with Carols and Concerts
Melbourne casts a musical spell on you during the festive season with a carol-filled Christmas Eve at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl - a celebrated annual tradition. There is also the “Noel! Noel!” Concert Series performed by the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and the Brandenburg Choir on 16th December. The kids too can spend the holidays on a musical note with “Classic Kids: A Symphonic Christmas” at the Arts Centre Melbourne.
#5 Witness Christmas at the Cinema in Melbourne
Catch classics at various venues across the city during Christmas as well! At Capitol Theatre, from 2nd December onwards, you can enjoy “The Elf”, “The Polar Express”, “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms” and other gems. All the proceeds will go to Make Room, an initiative that supports the homeless. To make the most of a summer Christmas, pack a picnic and head to Federation Square. From the 20th of December, the venue will screen a Christmas-themed film a day till the 24th of December. The line-up includes “How The Grinch Stole Christmas”, “Miracle on 34th Street”, and “It’s A Wonderful Life”. For the complete theatre experience, buy your tickets at the box offices at Nova Cinemas and Palace Cinemas.
#6 Check out the Christmas Experiences for Children in Melbourne
Whether you are looking to entertain your little one or the child in you, Christmas in Melbourne does not disappoint! The Docklands Christmas Maze is where the kids are enlisted to help Santa find his elves. The maze is filled with giant Christmas presents that are thrown in as obstacles and the winners walk away with prizes too! At Argyle Square, you can roller skate in a decked-up rink. And at Puffing Billy, bundle for The Polar Express ride as the attraction makes a comeback this year!
#7 Set Your Sights on the Christmas River Show
Starting off on November 24th and on till Christmas Day, the River Show is a local favourite. You can sign up for 15-minute shows every night and watch water fountains, lasers, light projections and music in a spectacular showdown on the South Bank.
#8 A Fun Family Outing at Christmas Under The Big Top
The Burnley Oval transforms into a cheery wonderland when Christmas Under The Big Top comes to town. A particular favourite with families, you can spend a day watching performances by the Circus Royale. Meet up with Santa Claus’ elves and Mrs. Claus for storytelling sessions and write last-minute letters to Santa, trying to convince him to put you on his ‘Nice’ list. Elmo and the Cookie Monster also sprinkle a bit of Sesame Street fun. On your way out, pick up specially-baked treats and crafts that will stay with you for the rest of the season.
#9 Head Over to AdventurePark for the Christmas Festival of Lights
A short drive from Melbourne, AdventurePark hosts Victoria’s largest Christmas Festival of Lights each year. More than 3.3 million lights and over 1000 installations enthral you at the Park. The fairytale-like experience continues with themed-park rides, performances and other razzle-dazzles. Don’t miss the Elf Trapeze Show and an animated musical featuring polar bears and other festival characters. And when you need an adrenaline high, head over to the park’s rides, including the Crazy Coaster, Wave Swinger, Ferris Wheel, Speedway Cars and more.
#10 Go on a Shopping Spree at Melbourne’s Christmas Markets
Impress your loved ones with thoughtful gifts from Christmas markets and pop-ups in Melbourne. Browse through hundreds of stalls to pick up vintage clothing, handmade jewellery, ceramics, homewares, toys, books and more. The markets are also a perfect place to stock up on baked goodies from local bakeries. Your shopping experience is further enhanced by choir singers, refreshing drinks and delicious food from market stalls and food trucks.
#11 Eat Out and Drink Up at Melbourne’s Best Restaurants and Bars
The city’s thriving restaurant and bar scene go all out to spread the joy of eating and merrymaking during the season. Special menus and offers mean you’ll have your pick of fashionable cocktails, specially crafted burgers, high teas with caviar and champagne, and festive desserts that satisfy every sugar craving.
#12 Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with Baked Goodies
When it comes to desserts, Melbourne embraces traditional recipes. Bakers around town serve up buttery panettones, flaky mince tarts, boozy cakes, and more!
#13 Checkout Hoppers Crossing Community Displays
The Hoppers Crossing Community Displays are a festive highlight, showcasing elaborate decorations and light shows created by local residents. You can explore the neighborhood by car or on foot to admire dazzling displays featuring animated figures, synchronized music, and intricate designs. Whitsunday Drive is particularly renowned for its festive spirit. Other notable streets include Picardy Court, Hogans Road, Julier Crescent, Gildon Court, Wilson Crescent, Bellbridge Drive, and Goates Court.
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