Welcome to the perfect holiday guide for Melbourne! Find all the top festive events and attractions right here. Whether you're deeply connected to Melbourne or just making connections, this guide enhances your holiday adventure.
One of the season's highlights is the Carols by Candlelight, where families gather to enjoy classic Christmas carols under the night sky. Another must-see is the Myer Christmas Windows, known for its intricate and captivating displays that enchant both children and adults. And the Christmas Festival is something you definitely don't want to miss with its lively markets and festive activities. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Melbourne
- Carols by Candlelight
- Myer Christmas Windows
- Christmas Festival
- Christmas at the Old Treasury Building
- RACV Christmas Spectacular
- Christmas Projections
- Federation Square Christmas Tree
Melbourne Holiday Light Displays
Christmas Projections
What to Expect:
Animated light projections on iconic city buildings
Description:
Melbourne's Christmas Projections illuminate the city's architectural gems with moving light displays. Historic facades become canvases for vibrant animations, telling holiday stories through color and movement. The projections transform familiar landmarks, offering a fresh perspective on the urban landscape. Watch as Federation Square comes alive with swirling snowflakes and prancing reindeer. This innovative use of technology to celebrate the season showcases Melbourne's reputation as a creative and culturally rich city.
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Federation Square Christmas Tree
What to Expect:
Technologically advanced, interactive Christmas tree
Description:
Federation Square's Christmas Tree stands as a testament to innovation. This cutting-edge installation features thousands of programmable LED lights that respond to sound and movement. Visitors can influence the tree's light display through a specially designed app. The tree's ever-changing patterns create a mesmerizing spectacle against the night sky. This high-tech approach to holiday decor reflects Federation Square's role as a hub for arts, culture, and technology in Melbourne.
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Federation Square Christmas Tree
Melbourne Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Carols by Candlelight
What to Expect:
Massive outdoor concert with celebrity performers
Description:
Melbourne's iconic Carols by Candlelight transforms the Sidney Myer Music Bowl into a sea of flickering lights. This beloved tradition, dating back to 1938, unites thousands of voices in joyous song. Celebrity performers take the stage, belting out classic carols and contemporary hits. You can join the chorus, singing along to your favorite holiday tunes. The event supports Vision Australia, continuing its long-standing commitment to charitable causes.
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RACV Christmas Spectacular
What to Expect:
Large-scale Christmas variety show with acrobatics and music
Description:
The RACV Christmas Spectacular dazzles audiences with its grand-scale production. Acrobats soar through the air, dancers twirl in sparkling costumes, and singers belt out holiday classics. This extravaganza combines elements of circus, theater, and concert into one unforgettable show. Marvel at the elaborate set designs that transform the stage into various Christmas scenes. The Spectacular evolved from smaller community events, growing into one of Melbourne's largest holiday productions.
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Melbourne Other Holiday Activities
Myer Christmas Windows
What to Expect:
Animated window displays telling a different story each year
Description:
The Myer Christmas Windows captivate passersby with their intricate, animated displays. Each year unveils a new narrative, bringing beloved stories to life through moving figurines and detailed scenery. This Melbourne tradition, spanning over six decades, draws crowds eager to witness the latest tale. Peek into each window to discover the unfolding story, marveling at the craftsmanship behind every miniature scene. The windows have become a cherished part of Melbourne's cultural landscape since their debut in 1956.
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Christmas Festival
What to Expect:
Month-long celebration with diverse events across the city
Description:
Melbourne's Christmas Festival invigorates the entire city with a month of diverse celebrations. From pop-up markets to outdoor cinema screenings, the festival offers something for everyone. Street performers enliven the city corners, while food stalls tempt with seasonal treats. Explore the festival's many facets, including art installations that reimagine holiday themes. This citywide event emerged from Melbourne's efforts to revitalize its urban spaces and foster community engagement during the holiday season.
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Christmas at the Old Treasury Building
What to Expect:
Victorian-era Christmas celebrations in a historic building
Description:
Christmas at the Old Treasury Building transports visitors to a Victorian-era celebration. The grand 19th-century edifice, once home to the colony's gold vaults, now hosts period-accurate holiday displays. Admire the meticulously decorated rooms, each reflecting the Christmas customs of yesteryear. You can participate in traditional Victorian games and crafts. This event offers a glimpse into Melbourne's colonial past, showcasing how early settlers adapted their European traditions to the Australian summer.
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Christmas at the Old Treasury Building
Nearby Events
Santa's Magical Kingdom (Caulfield)
What to Expect:
Interactive Christmas-themed amusement park
Description:
Santa's Magical Kingdom in Caulfield transforms into a Christmas-themed amusement park. Thrilling rides and games cater to all ages, while performers dressed as beloved holiday characters roam the grounds. Try your hand at gingerbread decorating or take a spin on the Rudolph Coaster. This unique attraction blends the excitement of a fairground with the spirit of the season. The Kingdom's concept was inspired by similar parks in Europe, bringing a new twist to Australian holiday celebrations.
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Crown Christmas Atrium Spectacular (Southbank)
What to Expect:
Luxury hotel's atrium transformed into an opulent Christmas display
Description:
Crown Melbourne's atrium bursts with opulence during its Christmas Spectacular. Towering trees adorned with thousands of ornaments create a forest of glittering splendor. Intricate light installations weave through the space, casting a warm glow over the marble floors. Snap a photo beside the life-sized gingerbread house, a confectionary marvel. This lavish display reflects Crown's status as a premier entertainment destination, elevating holiday decor to an art form.
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Crown Christmas Atrium Spectacular
The Big Design Market (Carlton)
What to Expect:
Curated market featuring independent designers and artisans
Description:
The Big Design Market in Carlton showcases the best of independent design. Over 230 designers and artisans display their unique creations, from handcrafted jewelry to bespoke furniture. The market's carefully curated selection ensures quality and originality in every stall. Sample gourmet foods while browsing the eclectic mix of products. This event highlights Melbourne's thriving design scene, which has gained international recognition for its innovation and creativity.
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Royal Botanic Gardens Christmas Program (South Yarra)
What to Expect:
Nature-inspired Christmas activities in a botanical setting
Description:
The Royal Botanic Gardens' Christmas Program offers a verdant twist on holiday celebrations. Guided twilight walks reveal the gardens' nocturnal inhabitants, while workshops teach eco-friendly gift wrapping techniques. Create your own botanical Christmas decorations using materials found in the gardens. This unique program emphasizes sustainability and connection with nature during the festive season. The Gardens, established in 1846, continue to play a vital role in Melbourne's cultural and scientific life.
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Royal Botanic Gardens Christmas Program
Werribee Open Range Zoo Christmas (Werribee)
What to Expect:
Christmas celebrations with exotic animals in a safari-like setting
Description:
Werribee Open Range Zoo's Christmas celebration brings holiday cheer to the savannah. Observe zebras and rhinos roaming freely as you embark on a safari bus tour decked with tinsel. Zookeepers offer special talks about how they make the season special for the animals. Join in creating enrichment gifts for the zoo's residents. This unique event combines wildlife conservation education with holiday fun, reflecting the zoo's commitment to both animal welfare and public engagement.
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Werribee Open Range Zoo Christmas
Healesville Sanctuary Christmas Celebration (Healesville)
What to Expect:
Australian wildlife-themed Christmas activities
Description:
Healesville Sanctuary's Christmas Celebration spotlights native Australian animals in holiday-themed encounters. Watch kangaroos unwrap Christmas treats or see how platypuses react to festive enrichment activities. Participate in a 'Bush Christmas' scavenger hunt, learning about indigenous plants used in traditional celebrations. The event emphasizes conservation and appreciation of Australia's unique fauna. Healesville Sanctuary has been at the forefront of native wildlife care and education since its establishment in 1934.
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Healesville Sanctuary Christmas Celebration