Melbourne will soon sparkle under the lights of the Melbourne Christmas Festival. And in the heart of the city, at Fed Square, you’ll find an amazing line-up of festive events, live performances, picture-perfect moments and more. There will be events celebrating Chanukah, Christmas, First Nations culture and LGBTQIA+ communities, ensuring that there’s something for everyone during this happy time of year.
For the first time, Fed Square is also offering a free gift-wrapping service. You can get all of your presents wrapped on Saturdays and Sundays, from November 25 to December 24 between 1pm and 6pm. Meanwhile, festive events will run at Fed Square from November 24 to December 31.
What festive things can you expect at Fed Square?
Christmas Square
When: November 24 to December 25
Christmas will come to life with plenty of decorations, twinkling lights, and a spectacular 17.5 metre LED Christmas tree. Expect festive soundscapes and light shows every night. Christmas Square will launch on November 24 with giant candy canes, and jolly entertainment like choir performances and DJs.
Koorie Krismas
When: December 2, 10am to 3pm
The annual Koorie Krismas is back. Presented in partnership with Koorie Heritage Trust, you’ll enjoy a visit from Koorie Klaus and performances from First Nations musicians, comedians and dancers. There will also be free workshops for kids, as well as a Koorie Krismas Market, showcasing art, jewellery, clothes and more from the Victorian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
Christmas Films
When: December 20 to 24
Grab a deckchair or picnic rug and watch free Christmas films under the stars. Look forward to all your holiday favourites, like The Polar Express, It’s A Wonderful Life and more.
A Christmas Tale
When: November 24 to 26 and December 1 to 24
This animated Christmas film was created by Melbourne-based artist Beci Orpin. It captures the essence of an Australian Christmas, and will screen alongside a live orchestra on evenings from November 24 to 26. It will also play nightly from December 1 to 24.
Pillars of Light festival
When: December 7 & 8, and 10 to 14
Celebrate Chanukah at Pillars of Light. This event will run for six days, and feature live performances, talks from the community and a ceremonial lighting of the 12ft high Menorah.
Christmas Choirs
When: November 24 to December 24
Listen to the heavenly voices of choristers ring out across Fed Square. This year will feature a diverse range of choir communities and musical styles, including Divine Divas Rainbow Voices Community Choir, Glee Club Singing and more. Find the full program here.
As Camp as Christmas by The Huxleys
When: December 16, 6pm to 11pm
Embrace the camp this year and jingle your bells with duo The Huxleys. Have fun with live cabaret, comedy, choir and dance performances, as well as a free screening of the film, Strictly Ballroom.
New Year’s Eve
When: December 31
Ring in the New Year with DJs and dancing. There will be entertainment on the Main Stage, and bars and restaurants around Fed Square will have special dining packages. Learn more here.