If you can hear the voices of Mariah Carey or Michael Bublé in the distance, it’s because Christmas is just around the corner. And there’s so many holly, jolly activities and decorations coming to the city as part of Melbourne’s beloved Christmas Festival. Get ready for a water and laser show on the Yarra, a themed roller-skating rink, a new location for Santa’s workshop, dazzling projections around the city and much, much more. Most of the events are free to experience, and the Melbourne Christmas Festival will run from November 24 to Christmas Day.
What’s new at the Christmas Festival?
The festival will kick off this year with the ceremonial lighting of the 17.5 metre Christmas Tree at Christmas Square, or Fed Square, on Friday November 24. You’re invited to be there and join in the celebrations, as there will be merry roving performers, a Christmas choir, a DJ and an animated short film for entertainment.
Head to the Yarra and gaze at the inaugural Christmas River Show. This dazzling experience will illuminate Southbank every night of the festival, with water fountains, lasers, lights and projections set to a soundtrack of festive favourites.
Wander down a laneway and discover Santa’s Workshop in Ho-Ho-Howey Place. This laneway will transform into an enchanting Christmas wonderland. Say hi to Santa and take some jolly good photos while you’re there.
More magical things to see and do
The city will come to life with festive decorations. Look forward to interactive pop-ups, laneway takeovers and mesmerising Christmas projections on Melbourne Town Hall and State Library Victoria. At Christmas Square, there will be Sound and Light Shows each night from 9pm.
The Christmas-themed roller rink is coming back to Argyle Square. Entry is free with your own skates, or you can hire equipment for $10. For more festive fun, head to the Christmas Carnival on the banks of the Yarra for thrill rides and carnival treats. Also returning this year is the festival maze at Docklands.
Craving a good Christmas movie? Head to the Christmas Cinema (or Capitol Theatre) for some festive flicks.
Check out The Listies Ruin Xmas, and watch a comedic duo and their hilarious take on the holidays at Melbourne Town Hall.
Stretch your legs and go on Christmas-themed scavenger hunts around the city. There’s heaps of prizes to be won throughout the festival period.
All of the attractions this year are free, except for the Christmas Cinema and The Listies Ruin Xmas. Proceeds for those events will go to the Good Giving appeal for Make Room, a project that creates new pathways out of homelessness.
For more information about the Melbourne Christmas Festival, click here.