Celebrate in Style: Best Christmas Activities to Enjoy in Melbourne
You’re in the right place if you’re looking for the best Melbourne Christmas activities.
Melbourne shines brightly during the holiday season, offering something for every traveller, tourist, and local to enjoy. There’s no shortage of fun, from light displays to festive theatre shows.
I’ve explored the city during the holiday season and found the best spots you shouldn’t miss.
Here’s a guide to some of the best activities that capture Melbourne’s holiday cheer.
🌟 Admire Dazzling Christmas Lights and Projections
Melbourne’s city centre comes alive with Christmas lights and projections. The iconic Melbourne Town Hall is a must-see, illuminated with festive designs, creating a captivating sight.
Wander down Bourke Street Mall to see giant candy canes and festive koalas lighting up the area.
Check out the Giant Reindeer and the Christmas Star at Evan Walker Bridge for those venturing into Docklands.
These free light displays offer great photo opportunities, making it easy to soak in the holiday spirit without spending a cent.
🌟 Visit Melbourne’s Christmas Markets
Christmas markets are a festive tradition in Melbourne, and there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by strolling through stalls filled with unique gifts and handmade crafts.
The Queen Victoria Christmas Market is a favourite for both locals and tourists. You’ll find one-of-a-kind Christmas ornaments, locally made products, and delicious seasonal treats.
Fed Square also hosts smaller Christmas pop-ups, where you can discover even more festive treasures, including gin from the Four Pillars Gin pop-up shop and Christmas goodies like puddings and marmalades.
🌟 Experience the Christmas Carnival
The Christmas Carnival at Birrarung Marr is a must-do for families or anyone looking to have fun.
Ride the Ferris wheel, race dodgems, and play classic carnival games surrounded by festive decorations.
The carnival runs from mid-December to Christmas Eve and is an excellent option for a festive day out.
With free entry and tickets for rides available for purchase on-site, it’s a lively addition to Melbourne’s Christmas celebrations.
🌟 Catch a Christmas Performance
Melbourne’s arts scene doesn’t take a break during the holiday season, with plenty of Christmas-themed shows to enjoy.
For fans of classic stories, A Christmas Carol at the Comedy Theatre is a festive favourite.
This interactive show is a great way to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit while enjoying Charles Dickens’ timeless tale.
Suppose you’re after something more musical, the Noël! Noël! Concert series by the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra will fill you with joy.
It takes place at the Melbourne Recital Centre and combines traditional Christmas carols with a live orchestra for a truly magical experience.
🌟 Wander Through Melbourne’s Myer Christmas Windows
The Myer Christmas Windows have been a tradition in Melbourne for over 60 years and are a highlight for visitors during the festive season.
Last year, the windows celebrate the beloved Australian TV show Bluey. The displays bring scenes from Bluey to life, capturing the fun and excitement of a classic Aussie Christmas.
Located in the city’s heart, these windows are perfect for families and anyone who loves an excellent festive display.
They’re free to view and can be seen daily from early morning until late at night, making them an easy addition to your Christmas itinerary.
🌟 Enjoy Carols by Candlelight
One of Melbourne’s most beloved Christmas traditions is Carols by Candlelight at Sidney Myer Music Bowl.
Held on Christmas Eve, this magical evening brings together locals, visitors, and families to celebrate the holiday with carols, performances, and candlelight.
It’s a Melbourne staple and the perfect way to wrap up your Christmas experience in the city.
Tickets for this event sell out quickly, so it’s best to book in advance. But even if you miss out, the event is broadcast live, so you can catch the festive spirit from wherever you are.
🌟 Skate Around the Christmas Roller Rink
For something a little different, head over to Argyle Square in Carlton, where the Christmas Roller Rink pops up each December.
It’s a fun, active way to embrace the festive season, with Christmas tunes playing in the background.
Entry is free, and skate hire is available for a small fee. The rink is open for a limited time before Christmas, and it’s a great way to mix a little nostalgia with holiday fun.
Skate around and enjoy the festive atmosphere in the heart of the city.
🌟 Watch a Christmas Movie at the Christmas Cinema
There’s something about watching a Christmas movie that instantly brings the festive spirit. Melbourne’s Christmas Cinema at the Capitol Theatre screens family-friendly classics like Elf, The Polar Express, and The Grinch throughout December.
Tickets are just $5; the proceeds go to a charity project supporting homelessness. It’s a cozy way to enjoy the holidays and give back to the community.
Christmas Festivals Melbourne FAQs
How do they celebrate Christmas in Melbourne?
Melbourne celebrates Christmas with vibrant light displays, festive markets, and various outdoor events. Locals and visitors alike enjoy activities such as Christmas carols, markets, and dining with family and friends. Iconic locations like Federation Square and Bourke Street Mall are decked out in festive decorations.
What are popular Christmas activities?
Popular Christmas activities in Melbourne include admiring the Christmas lights and projections at Melbourne Town Hall, visiting the Myer Christmas Windows, attending Carols by Candlelight at Sidney Myer Music Bowl, and exploring Christmas markets like Queen Victoria Market. The Christmas Carnival and festive performances are also favourites.
What shows are on in Melbourne in December?
Melbourne in December features Christmas-themed performances such as A Christmas Carol at the Comedy Theatre and the Noël! Noël! Concert series by the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra. There’s also Love Actually in Concert at Hamer Hall and The Nutcracker ballet at the Arts Centre Melbourne.
Does Melbourne have a Christmas parade?
Melbourne does not have a traditional Christmas parade, but the city offers plenty of other festive activities, including Christmas light display markets, and cultural performances. The Christmas season is filled with unique events such as carol concerts, outdoor markets, and themed attractions across the city.
Melbourne at Christmas Final Thoughts
Melbourne truly comes alive during Christmas with festive lights, markets, and events that will get anyone into the holiday spirit.
Whether you’re a tourist, traveller, or local, there’s no shortage of Melbourne Christmas festival activities to explore and enjoy.
From light shows to markets and performances, the city offers something for everyone this season.
Ready to plan your holiday adventures? Head to this Melbourne Page for more travel tips and guides to make the most of your Christmas in Melbourne.
