Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight
Experience the magic of Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight, a beloved Australian tradition held at Melbourne's Sidney Myer Music Bowl. This spectacular Christmas Eve event features a star-studded lineup of performers singing festive carols, all while raising vital funds for children with low vision. Join thousands in person or tune in to the live broadcast for an unforgettable celebration of the holiday season.
What to Expect
Australia's largest annual fundraiser for children's vision services.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Street parking is extremely limited. The Arts Centre car park is available (paid), but can fill quickly. Four wheelchair accessible parking spaces are available on Linlithgow Avenue (first-come, first-served).
- Accessibility: The Sidney Myer Music Bowl provides access arrangements for patrons in wheelchairs, Companion Card holders, people with low vision, and people requiring hearing aid support. Accessible seating and platforms are available, and assistance can be arranged through Ticketek or Arts Centre Melbourne. Registered assistance animals are welcome.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Melbourne
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, christmas enthusiasts, supporters of vision australia
Vibe
Festive, heartwarming, traditional, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Tickets available for Christmas Eve and Rehearsal Night
- Subscription to Carols Club for presale access
- Proceeds support Vision Australia's children's services
Location
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 3 hours (main event)
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
King's Domain Park
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Vision Australia
Food & Drink
Food and non-alcoholic drinks can be packed for personal consumption. Alcohol, food, and refreshments will be available for purchase from vendors on the night via contactless card payment only.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early with a picnic blanket and low chairs (under 20cm height) to secure a good spot on the lawn for General Admission.
- Consider attending the Rehearsal Night on December 23 for a preview of the show at a potentially lower ticket price.
- Since the venue is cashless, ensure you have a contactless payment method ready for any food, drink, or merchandise purchases.
- Dress in layers, bringing sunscreen and a hat for the afternoon, and something warm for the evening as temperatures can drop.
- Utilize public transport as parking is very limited and roads may be closed; plan your journey via PTV.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Carols by Candlelight start?
Gates open at 4:00 PM, with rehearsals starting shortly after. The main event on Christmas Eve commences at 8:00 PM, and patrons are asked to be seated by 7:45 PM. The event typically concludes around 11:00 PM.
Can I bring my own candle?
No, personal candles are not permitted for safety reasons. Special battery-powered candles will be available for purchase at the venue, with proceeds supporting Vision Australia.
What items are prohibited at the venue?
Prohibited items include alcohol, glass, metal cutlery, tents, professional cameras, flame-lit candles, and hard-sided coolers. Please check the venue's full list of restrictions before attending.
How can I arrange accessible seating?
Accessible seating can be arranged by purchasing online via Ticketek or contacting Arts Centre Melbourne. Companion Card holders may receive a complimentary ticket for their companion.
Where can I watch or listen to the event if I can't attend in person?
The event is broadcast live on Channel 9 and 9Now on Christmas Eve, with replays on Christmas Day. Several radio stations also simulcast the event, and Vision Australia Radio offers audio description.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.