Last updated: November 11, 2024
Looking forward to festive cheer in Southbank? Our guide has everything you need to know! For Southbank regulars and holiday explorers, this guide is your companion for festive fun.
Popular events during this season include the enchanting Carols by Candlelight, where locals gather to sing favourite carols under the stars. Featuring a dazzling display, the Christmas River Show presents a spectacular array of lights and festive displays along the Yarra River. And the Christmas Under the Big Top is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing thrilling performances under a grand circus tent. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Giant digital Christmas tree and iconic landmark light projections.
Melbourne's Christmas Festival transforms the city into a vibrant celebration with a giant 17.5 m digital Christmas tree at Federation Square, light projections across iconic landmarks, and the famous Myer windows featuring incredible decorations.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Christmas Carnival
Enormous LED Christmas tree with nightly sound and light shows.
Fed Square transforms into Christmas Square with a 17.5-metre LED Christmas tree, nightly sound and light shows, and twinkling decorations. The event is presented by the City of Melbourne in partnership with Fed Square.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Fed Square Christmas
Dazzling city decorations and festive events.
Melbourne's Christmas celebrations feature a giant Christmas tree at Federation Square, Myer Christmas Windows, and various markets offering festive shopping and dining experiences. The city is adorned with dazzling decorations and projections, making it a special time for family-friendly activities and catch-ups.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Christmas River Show
Iconic Christmas concert supporting children with low vision.
Carols by Candlelight is a long-standing Christmas event at Melbourne's Sidney Myer Music Bowl, featuring a star-packed lineup of artists and raising funds for Vision Australia's children's services.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Carols by Candlelight
Interactive circus performances and festive activities.
Christmas Under the Big Top is a family-friendly event featuring Circus Royale, carnival games, kids rides, and delightful treats. Interactive experiences include an interactive walkthrough under the big top tent, festive storytelling with Mrs. Claus, and a Christmas show with Elmo and Cookie Monster from Sesame Street.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Christmas Under the Big Top
Heartwarming Christmas concert with classic chorales.
The Noël Noël Concert Series by the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra is a heartwarming celebration of Christmas with timeless carols and rare, soulful works. The event features the Brandenburg Choir and Orchestra in a joyous, uplifting take on the traditional Christmas spirit.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Noël Noël Concert Series
Live orchestra performance accompanying the iconic film soundtrack.
Revisit the classic Christmas-themed British rom-com with a live orchestra performing the hit soundtrack as the film is projected onto a huge screen. Join in as stories of love around Christmas unfold, featuring an all-star cast and celebrating over 20 years of festive favourites.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Love Actually in Concert
Live commentary in an open-air minibus.
Explore the beauty of Melbourne Gardens on a guided tour, admiring rolling lawns and stunning living collections while enjoying live commentary in an open-air minibus.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: The Explorer: Melbourne Gardens
Interactive digital art gallery with cutting-edge technology.
THE LUME Melbourne is a digital art gallery featuring immersive experiences with iconic masterpieces brought to life through stunning projections, immersive soundscapes, and engaging storytelling. It offers a unique space for corporate events, wellness classes, and immersive dining experiences.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: THE LUME Melbourne
Immersive Monopoly-themed games and 4DX cinema experience.
MONOPOLY DREAMS Melbourne offers a fully immersive and interactive Monopoly experience featuring games, challenges, and an exclusive 4DX cinema. Visitors can try to crack Mr. Monopoly's vault, explore Water Works and Electric Company, and enjoy High Tea with exquisite sweet and savory delights.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Monopoly Dreams
Prime fireworks viewing on the Yarra River.
Join Melbourne River Cruises for a New Year's Eve Midnight Fireworks Cruise along the Yarra River. Enjoy stunning cityscape views, a glass of champagne, and a prime position to witness the incredible midnight fireworks display. The event offers a unique way to celebrate the new year with great music, lively atmosphere, and memorable experiences.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: New Year's Eve Midnight Fireworks Cruise
Interactive experiences that let visitors animate shadows, craft optical toys, and create soundscapes.
The Story of the Moving Image is a comprehensive exhibition at ACMI, exploring the evolution of film, television, videogames, and digital art through interactive experiences and captivating stories. It features ancient shadow puppets, Victorian-era magic lanterns, original cameras, iconic costumes, and contemporary art, showcasing the major moments in moving image history.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: The Story of the Moving Image
Examining the significance of everyday objects in family life.
This exhibition at the Old Treasury Building explores the stories behind objects that have shaped family life in Australia over the decades. From smartphones to wedding dresses, it considers how families make and preserve cultural traditions through craft, food, and belief.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Belongings: Objects and Family Life
Immersive night tour exploring the gaol's darker history.
Embark on a spine-chilling journey through the Old Melbourne Gaol, where seasoned guides lead you through decades of unexplained sights, sounds, and encounters in the gaol's cold stone walls.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Old Melbourne Ghost Tour
Panoramic views and cutting-edge VR experiences.
Melbourne Skydeck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Melbourne from 88 levels high, featuring interactive 3D models, VR experiences, and dining options like Bar 88 and Eureka 89.
Where: Melbourne | More Info: Melbourne Skydeck