And just like that, we’re almost at the end of the year. If you’re feeling anxious about 2025 coming to a close, why don’t you fill the first month of summer with as many memorable experiences as you can? There are so many things to do in Melbourne this December, from outdoor cinema experiences to seeing the fireworks. With Christmas on the way, Melbourne is also shining with with festive magic, with markets, projections, carols and more. Let’s get started!
The best things to do in Melbourne and Victoria this December
Let loose at Melbourne’s newest entertainment hub, Spiegel Haus
Nights out in Melbourne’s CBD just got a whole lot livelier, as Spiegel Haus has thrown open its doors to reveal a grand array of cabaret, magic, music, comedy, and plenty more entertainment. They’ve given Secret Melbourne exclusive access to share the secrets of your new favourite nightlife venue, and we’re positively giddy over what’s in store. See our Spiegel Haus primer here, and don’t forget to follow along on Instagram for giveaways, sneak peeks, and much more! Oh, and when you’re visiting Spiegel Haus, make sure to snap a shot in the Secret Lounge or at the photobooth and tag us on socials; we’ll share a selection of our favourites from time to time.
Feel dazzled by the decorations around Melbourne
Melbourne has been transformed into a bright and colourful wonderland for the holidays. See cool projections and twinkling displays, including a new 60-metre decoration above Bourke Street Mall. Swing by Fed Square to see the iconic 17.5 metre tree, and keep exploring the city for more merry decorations. Learn more about it here.
Enjoy a Japanese-inspired cocktail while watching a magic show at Maho Magic Bar
Maho Magic Bar is back in Melbourne, taking up residence at Spiegel Haus this summer. The neon-lit Japanese bar is a feast for the senses, with some of Japan’s best magicians dazzling audiences with tricks and illusions. Of course, the bar is well stocked with Japanese spirits and a menu offering up cocktails, wine and beer – as well as non-alcoholic options. Maho Magic Bar is open now until February 15 with various times available from Tuesdays-Sundays (and family-friendly matinees on some days before 4pm). Get your tickets now!
Have a magical time at Harry Potter: The Exhibition
Feel like you’ve Apparated from Melbourne to Hogwarts at Harry Potter: The Exhibition. See authentic props and set pieces from the films, and go on your own magical journey. Conjure your own Patronus, test your Quidditch skills and more! Find it at the Fever Exhibition and Experience Centre in Brunswick.
Feel delighted by the Crown Christmas River Show
This popular show made its debut last year, and is coming back bigger and brighter than ever. Now 130 metres long, you can expect water fountains, lasers, lights and projections, set to a festive soundtrack mixed by Melbourne DJ Grant Smillie. The Crown Christmas River Show will take place each night from 9pm to 11pm, from November 28 to December 25.
Watch movies under the stars at Moonlight Cinema
Enjoy the summer nights by watching festive favourites and new releases at Moonlight Cinema. Find it on the lush Central Lawn at Royal Botanic Gardens from Wednesday December 3.
Eat something delicious at the Asia Street Food Festival by the Yarra
The Asia Street Food Festival by the Yarra is coming back to Melbourne this December. Wander over to Alexandra Gardens, and taste your way through over 200 dishes from over 40 traders. When you’re not sampling the food, soak in the atmosphere with fire performances, lion dances, music and more. It’s all happening from Thursday December 4 to Sunday December 7. Entry is free!
See a movie at Sunset Cinema
Spend a leisurely evening on the Heritage Lawn at Abbotsford Convent, and watch movies under the stars at Sunset Cinema. The season will run from December 4 to January 4.
Embrace the warmer nights at the Summer Night Market
The iconic Summer Night market has returned to Queen Victoria Market. Sip on cocktails, feast on delicious food, browse through stalls, enjoy live entertainment and more. Find it on Wednesday nights from now until March 11.
Celebrate Christmas Filipino-style at Queen Victoria Market
Have fun with an authentic Filipino Christmas experience at Queen Victoria Market. Make lanterns, see a parade, watch cultural performances, browse through the food stalls and more. Pasko sa Melbourne is on from 1pm to 7pm on Friday December 5.
Watch Dr Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas Live In Concert
Watch the Christmas classic, Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, accompanied by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Hear James Horner’s familiar score performed live as the film unfolds. The concert will take place at Hamer Hall on Friday December 5 and Saturday December 6. Learn more here.
Get inked at the Australian Tattoo Expo
Over 350 tattoo artists from Australia and around the world are coming for the Australian Tattoo Expo. Look forward to live tattooing and stay entertained with DJ sets, live fire shows and more. Find it at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from December 5 to 7. Learn more here.
Check out Oz Comic-Con’s Xmas Edition
This fantastic pop culture event is back, and just in time for Christmas. At Oz Comic-Con’s Xmas Edition, you’ll find plenty of fun things to see and do, such as exhibits, cosplay, gaming, entertainment and more. Find it at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on December 6 and 7. See more here.
Strut your way to NGV’s Westwood | Kawakubo exhibition
Head to NGV and chart the careers of two influential fashion designers – Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo, founder of Comme de Garçons. Marvel at over 140 designs, including pieces from the NGV collection and loans from international museums and private collections. The Westwood | Kawakubo exhibition will open at NGV International on Sunday December 7, and run until Sunday April 19.
Party at NGV Friday Nights
The popular NGV Friday Nights are back this summer, in celebration of the exhibition about Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons. Stay out late and enjoy the exhibition, then stick around for live music, food and drinks. The festivities will take place every Friday night from December 12 until April 17, and will run from 6pm to 10pm.
Enter a courtroom drama in The Jury Experience
You’ve been called for jury duty. In this live theatre courtroom drama, you’ll listen to the case and decide who is guilty or not guilty. There’s a few different sessions around Melbourne of The Jury Experience for you to try.
Play a round of mini-golf at Pixar Putt
Pixar Putt is coming to Marvel Stadium from December 11 to January 18. See plenty of interactive putt-putt holes inspired by the stories and characters of Pixar, such as Toy Story, Cars, Monsters Inc., The Incredibles and more. While you’re there, explore the North Pole activation in celebration of Christmas.
Marvel at the dazzling DIVA exhibition
Celebrate legendary performers like Maria Callas, Judy Garland, Elton John, Lady Gaga, Prince and more at the DIVA exhibition. See over 250 objects, including costumes, photography, jewellery, art and more. Find it at the Australian Museum of Performing Arts from December 11 to April 26. Learn more here.
See something incredible at Arts Centre Melbourne
There’s lots of lovely Christmas things to do at Arts Centre Melbourne this December. Listen to the annual Christmas Melodies concert in Hamer Hall on December 8. Have fun with the whole family with Classic Kids: A Symphonic Christmas on December 13 and 14. And have a laugh with A Fountain Lakes Christmas Carol from December 9 to 21. See what’s coming up here.
Dare to try a frightful Darkfield experience
Step into a shipping container at Arts Centre Melbourne, and feel swept away on an immersive audio journey. Darkfield is back in town with a new experience. In Invisible, you’ll be guided by The Invisible Man as he teaches you how to disappear, and the consequences. Otherwise, try discover two worlds, to realities and two outcomes to your journey on the popular Flight experience. Learn more about it here.
Experience the magic of a Candlelight concert
The candlelit performances have taken place at venues like The Athenaeum and The Astor Theatre as well as at The Timber Yard, the Meat Market and Fed Square. With more venues being added to the growing list, there’s a Candlelight concert around every corner.
Candlelight concerts in December include performances of Christmas favourites, the best of Hans Zimmer and more. See what’s on here.
Check out the reimagined Tasma Terrace
The historic Tasma Terrace has a fresh new gallery, shop and heritage library for you to explore. Swing by to see garments from the National Trust’s Costume Collection at their inaugural exhibition, from now until December 13.
See art and food collide in the 7 Paintings dining experience
Feast your way through seven courses, inspired by beloved artists like Banksy, Van Gogh, Michelangelo and Dali. 7 Paintings is now open, and takes place on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. You’ll find it at Mr Tompkins restaurant inside Rendezvous Hotel.
Feel enchanted by the Myer Christmas Windows
Stroll over to Bourke Street Mall and take part in this beloved Melbourne tradition. Take a peek inside the Myer Christmas Windows this festive season, and marvel at a fantastic display of LEGO. This year, follow the travels of a child’s letter from a Melbourne post office to Santa’s North Pole workshop. You can check it out every day from now until Sunday January 11.
Get into the holiday spirit by watching A Christmas Carol
Five time Tony Award winner and West End sensation, A Christmas Carol, is returning to the Comedy Theatre in Melbourne. This classic Christmas tale by Charles Dickens is a must-see, with interactive elements, merry music, and a message of hope.
Feel the sparks at the Museum of Desire
At the Museum of Desire, you’ll find over 20 sensory-rich experiences that explore desire and pleasure. Feeling curious?
Explore Our Wondrous Planet at Melbourne Museum
Explore our planet’s incredible range of natural environments, from polar ice flats to colourful reefs, at the multisensory gallery, Our Wonderous Planet. See over 800 animals from the museum collection, learn about interconnected ecosystems and hear stories from First Peoples around the world. This permanent gallery is now open at Melbourne Museum. See more here.
Have a stellar time at the Star Wars Galactic Café
Transport your taste buds to a galaxy far, far away at the Star Wars Galactic Café in Melbourne Museum. This stellar cafe is a first for Star Wars fans in Australia. Dine aboard a Corellian Star Cruiser, then explore the LEGO Star Wars exhibition.
See rare objects from the Galloway Hoard at Melbourne Museum
See one of the most significant Viking Age discoveries ever found from the United Kingdom, right here in Melbourne. Found in southwest Scotland in 2014, the Galloway Hoard was buried around AD 900 during a time of upheaval in the region. This treasure trove of jewellery and unique objects offers a fascinating insight into this period of time. Treasures of the Viking Age: The Galloway Hoard will be on display at Melbourne Museum from now until Monday January 26.
Lock in plans to check out Alcotraz
In this interactive experience, you’ll smuggle liquor into prison and receive up to four personalised cocktails. Alcotraz is now open in Melbourne.
Try to escape Prison Island
Challenge yourself and your teammates to escape Prison Island. Instead of breaking out from a single room, you’ll take on a series of tasks in multiple cells and race against the clock. Find it at The District Docklands.
Play your way through the Game Worlds exhibition at ACMI
This exciting exhibition will put you inside the worlds of 30 videogames, and 20 of them will be playable. Explore pioneering games from the 1970s and continue on to beloved modern titles. Expect original concept art, rare objects, playable demos and more. Game Worlds is now open at ACMI and will stay in town until February 8 in 2026.
Feel the beat at MJ The Musical
The Tony Award-winning show, MJ The Musical, is now playing in Melbourne. Set in 1992, this production offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Michael Jackson’s Dangerous World Tour. Hear over 25 of MJ’s greatest hits, including Beat It, Thriller and Smooth Criminal. Find it at Her Majesty’s Theatre. Learn more here.
See the penguins in St Kilda
See a colony of adorable little penguins for free from the new 150-metre elevated platform at St Kilda Pier. Just note that you will need to make a booking before you go.
Have a sublime time at the Malibu Barbie Cafe
A cheerful Malibu Barbie Cafe has popped up at Chadstone. Treat yourself to themed dishes and drinks, then have fun at the roller rink. The cafe will stay at The Social Quarter in Chadstone until summer 2026.
Have a jolly time at Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland
Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland is taking over Caulfield Racecourse with multiple themed zones, festive characters and fun activities. Check it out from November 28 to December 24. Learn more here.
Set sail on Titanic: A Voyage Through Time
Experience the tragedy of the Titanic like never before with this virtual reality experience. Dive to the wreck site, then journey back in time to explore iconic spaces around the ship, such as the Grand Staircase. Along the way, you’ll meet characters based on real passengers and crew members. Titanic: A Voyage Through Time is now open at 206 Bourke Street in Melbourne.
Feel swept away by ANASTASIA The Musical
Journey to the past to St. Petersburg and Paris when the spectacular musical, ANASTASIA, comes to Melbourne. Inspired by the rumours of Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov’s escape in the early days of the Russian Revolution, as well as the beloved animated film from 20th Century Fox, this Broadway sensation will make its Australian premiere at the Regent Theatre. See it from December 20.
Celebrate the 40th Australian anniversary of Cats the Musical
Pounce over to Hamer Hall and have a purr-fect time at Cats the Musical. The show is on from December 21.
Get in the holiday mood with Love Actually in Concert
Watch this heart-warming holiday flick alongside a live orchestra at Melbourne Town Hall on Sunday December 21 and Monday December 22. Learn more about Love Actually in Concert here.
Sing along to some jolly Christmas carols
What better way to embrace the Christmas season than to listen to some merry carols? Head to Sidney Myer Music Bowl on Christmas Eve and take part in the beloved Melbourne tradition of Carols by Candlelight. You could also swing by for the Rehearsal Night on December 23.
Discover the potential of your senses at SENSAS
Round up some friends and tackle some fun challenges at SENSAS. Test all five of your senses in some wacky experiences. This playful space is now open, and is suitable for visitors over the age of 7.
Make a new FRIEND in this cool robot exhibition
Robots of all shapes and sizes have come to Melbourne for the new exhibition, FRIEND, at the National Communication Museum. As you move through the space, you’ll encounter cuddly cushions with wagging tails, an old robot that plays music, little robots that need help and more. This exhibition is on from November 1 to April 26.
See over 100 ancient artefacts at the Hellenic Museum
The Hellenic Museum has teamed up with the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, Greece, to bring a global exclusive exhibition to Melbourne. See 119 ancient artefacts from over a dozen museums and ephorates of antiquities in Greece, including the Acropolis Museum, Hellenic National Archaeological Museum, the Archaeological Museum of Delphi and more. Rituals: Gifts for the Gods is open daily from 10am to 4pm.
Play the ‘Among Us’-style game, Saboteurs
Head to The District Docklands and go on a space adventure at Saboteurs. Play with your friends inside converted shipping containers, complete tasks, and eject any suspicious imposters.
Have fun at this Cherry Picking Festival
CherryHill Orchards are throwing a delightful Cherry Picking Festival. Wander through rows of trees in either Wandin East or Coldstream, eat as many cherries as you like straight from the tree, and pack some cherries to take home. Have a picnic while you’re there, sample some cherry ice cream and treat yourself to some refreshing drinks. Learn more here.
Have a wild time out at this photography exhibition
See some incredible nature photography, on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. Find it at the National Wool Museum in Geelong from December 5 to May 17. Learn more here.
Dazzle your senses with the Christmas Festival of Lights at Adventure Park
Head to Geelong, and bask in the glow of 3.3 million lights at this gorgeous festival. Wander down enchanting trails and glittering bridges in this 50-acre wonderland. On top of the glistening lights, there’s plenty of Christmas activities and entertainment for the family. This special Christmas Festival at Adventure Park will return from November 29. See more here.
Listen to live music on The Blues Train
Head to Queenscliff and hop aboard a steam train. Roam between four carriages, and listen to four, distinct music acts along the way. The Blues Train is back for the season, with shows available on weekends. See more here.
Explore Blue Lotus Water Garden
Spanning over 14 acres, Blue Lotus Water Garden contains over 40 different ponds, lakes and water features. Here, you’ll find the biggest display of lotus and waterlily flowers in the Southern Hemisphere. This dreamy garden will reopen to the public for the summer season on December 26.
Wander through lavender fields
During the hotter months, some stunning lavender farms around Victoria are open for you to explore.
Join a thrilling immersive arcade game experience at 123Boom!
You’ll be on the edge of your seat throughout your time at 123Boom!, an immersive puzzle adventure where you and your team are tasked with diffusing a ‘bomb’ to save the day. To do so, you’ll require teamwork, skill, and problem-solving, all racing against the clock as the story advances and the seconds tick down.
See the fireworks
Editorial credit: Darren Tierney / Shutterstock.com
Stay in the city for New Year’s Eve and watch the fireworks. We’ll keep you updated on the best places to watch them as the end of the year approaches.
Celebrate New Year’s at the Bowl
Ring in 2026 at the new music festival, New Year’s at the Bowl. Look forward to a NYE countdown set from Carl Cox, as well as performances from Confidence Man, Marc Rebillet and more. Find it at Sidney Myer Music Bowl and the surrounding gardens.
Ring in the New Year at Beyond the Valley
End the year in style at Beyond the Valley. Head to Barunah Plains, and listen to an incredible mixture of local and international acts, including global dance music powerhouse Dom Dolla, as well as Addison Rae, Kid Cudi and Turnstile. It’s all happening from December 28 to January 1.