Ho Ho Ho: How to Have a Very Merry Christmas in Melbourne

"Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring-ting-tingling too!" Melburnians, welcome to the festive season. We're here to show you how to make Christmas in Melbourne as bright as can be.

There are plenty of activities unfolding across the city to get you into the Christmas spirit! From high teas to markets and theatre productions, the city is bursting with festive cheer.

Here's our top pick of the best Christmas activities in Melbourne, so you can celebrate the end of the year with family, friends, and loved ones while doing something fun that Santa will approve of!

A Christmas Carol

Get ready for a heartwarming holiday experience with A Christmas Carol, returning for its third magical season! This Tony Award-winning adaptation by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) and directed by Matthew Warchus (Matilda the Musical) brings Dickens' timeless tale to life with festive cheer. Immerse yourself in a joyful journey of redemption, filled with 12 delightful Christmas carols, music, and merriment. A truly magical way to celebrate the season! 

Until 29th December

Book here

Comedy Theatre, 240 Exhibition Street, Melbourne

A Very Naughty Christmas

All is merry and bright—and a little bit naughty— in St Kilda this month as A Very Naughty Christmas returns this silly season. Australia’s favourite adults-only Christmas comedy features a cheeky Santa showing off more than just holiday cheer, paired with hilarious performances and festive fun. This must-see show is the fantastic mix of comedy, music, and mischief to spice up your holiday celebrations.

5^th to 15^th December

Book here

1/135 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

F Christmas

A Christmas show that actually sleighs. This holiday season, get ready for the ultimate queer, comedy-filled, and fabulously reimagined Christmas show. F Christmas is an all-singing, all-dancing variety extravaganza that’s not to be missed.

Brought to you by Melbourne’s Fat Fruit and directed by Susie Dee, this spectacular features aerial elves, a tap-dancing turkey, a singing Grinch, and a cheeky cabaret routine with a candy cane. With a live band and more surprises, it’s the camp, ultra-maximalist Christmas pageant of your dreams. 

Until 15th December

Book here

Merlyn Theatre, 113 Sturt Street, Southbank

The Nutcracker

Experience the magic of ballet with The Nutcracker, returning to Hamer Hall this December. Featuring stunning new sets, props, and costumes, this beloved holiday classic is brought to life by world-class dancers. Be enchanted by the snowflakes and mesmerised by the graceful Sugar Plum Fairy!

Thursday 19th to Friday 20th December

Book here

Arts Centre, Hamer Hall, Southbank

Vision Australia's Carols by Candelight

On Christmas Eve, Melbourne’s iconic Sidney Myer Music Bowl comes alive for Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight, a heartwarming tradition celebrating the festive season. Enjoy a magical evening of beloved Christmas carols, performed by some of Australia’s most cherished artists. This event not only brings joy but supports children who are blind or have low vision.

Sitchu Tip: If you can’t make it on Christmas Eve, join the final rehearsal on 23rd December for an early taste of the festive cheer.

Monday 23rd December, 4pm to 11.30pm

Tuesday 24th December, 8pm to 11.30pm

Book here

Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Linlithgow Avenue, Melbourne

Noël! Noël!

Embrace the merry season with Noël! Noël!, a vibrant, uniquely Australian take on Christmas tradition from the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and Choir. Set against Melbourne’s magical summer nights, this enchanting performance blends beloved carols with stirring, lesser-known holiday gems. It's an uplifting celebration of joy, sing-alongs, and festive cheer that will leave you with a heart that's slightly less Grinch-like; nay, full of holiday spirit!

Saturday 7th December, 5pm to 6.30pm and 7.30pm to 9pm sessions

Book here

Melbourne Recital Centre, 31 Sturt Street, Southbank

Home Alone in Concert

Join the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for a festive celebration of the Christmas classic Home Alone, conducted by Nicholas Buc. Enjoy John Williams' unforgettable score performed live to picture, alongside a vibrant choir. Relive the hilarious and heartwarming story of Kevin McCallister’s holiday antics, set to an epic musical backdrop—an unmissable way to kick off your Christmas in Melbourne. 

Thursday 5th to Saturday 7th December

Book here

Arts Centre, Hamer Hall, Melbourne 

See Classic Christmas Movies at the City's Most Beautiful Cinema

Enjoy a festive cinema experience at the stunning Capitol Theatre every Saturday, from 7th to 22nd December, featuring family favourites and holiday classics. Bring the whole family to watch iconic films like A Christmas Story, Home Alone, The Muppet Christmas Carol, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Doors open an hour before screenings—arrive early to grab your seats.

All proceeds from ticket sales support local food relief initiatives by OzHarvest, The Big Umbrella, and West Melbourne Baptist Church. A heartwarming holiday event!

The Capitol, 113 Swanston Street, Melbourne 

As Camp as Christmas

As Camp as Christmas returns for its third year, bringing a glittering cabaret of comedy, dance, and performance to the holiday season. Curated by Melbourne’s own The Huxleys, this queer wonderland promises jingle bell joy and a dazzling line-up including 2Joocee, Dita Von Queef, and Simone Page Jones. Start your night with the classic Meet Me in St. Louis and stay for the festive magic that continues. 

Friday 20th December, 6pm to 10pm

Free event

Fed Square, Melbourne

Christmas Outdoor Cinema

Bring your loved ones, grab a picnic, and enjoy a stunning line-up of classic Christmas films under the stars at Fed Square. From family favourites like Elf to heartwarming classics like It’s a Wonderful Life, this free event is the perfect way to unwind before Christmas.

Check out the program here and let the holiday magic begin!

16th to 23rd December

Fed Square, Melbourne  

The Westin Melbourne’s FestiviTea at Lobby Lounge

Celebrate the end of year in style with The Westin Melbourne’s FestiviTea, a Christmassy spin on the hotel’s high tea. Get your girlfriends together and delight in a range of sweet and savoury finger foods including ribbon sandwiches and mince-pie tarts with seasonal fruits and topped with whiskey marshmallow. Our personal favourite is the Christmas tree tart, complete with a star on top–it’s too cute to resist!

25th November to 5th January 2025

3.30pm and 4.00pm sittings daily

$89 per adult, $65 per child, book here

205 Collins Street, Melbourne

Have Yourself a Very LaManna Christmas

LaManna is getting festive this Christmas by decking its halls with a range of goodies set to make your Christmas wonderfully special. There'll be Panettone aplenty—in fact, LaManna is offering one of the largest selections, with brands including Galup, Bauli, Loison, and even designer Dolce and Gabanna is getting on board with its own Panettone!

You'll also be able to shop various gift hampers, quality meats and produce to cook the perfect festive meal. It's the festive destination to go and do your Christmas shopping!

10 English Street, Essendon Fields

Christmas at the Queen Victoria Market

Queen Victoria Market is sparkling with festive cheer this Christmas. For five days, Santa and his elf will be roaming the market, spreading holiday joy from 10am to 2pm. Admire the twinkling fairy lights, festive garlands, and grand new decorations, including a refreshed Christmas tree and Santa Chair.

Sitchu Tip: Don’t miss the CRFT*WRK Craft Fair (7th December), Pasko Sa Melbourne (a Filipino-style Christmas market - 8th December), and the Summer Night Market every Wednesday in December, where you can enjoy shopping, food, live music, and a vibrant festive atmosphere.

Thursday 19th to Tuesday 24th December

Queen Victoria Market, Queen Street, Melbourne 

Good Food & Wine Show's Christmas Market

After a one-year hiatus, the Good Food & Wine Show's Christmas Market is back, and it's better than ever!  The stellar celebrity chef lineup is bound to impress even the pickiest of eaters, including renowned pastry chefs Kristen Tibballs and Emelia Jackson.

There will be over 150 exhibitors and plenty of products to sample, providing the perfect opportunity to try before you buy for your family and friends (or even yourself!). And with a dedicated wrapping station by the Smith Family, with all donations going to their Learning for Life scholarship program, all the hard work is taken out for you!

6th to 8th December

Tickets from $15 per person, buy here

1 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf

Christmas Vegan Market

Whether you're vegan, vegan-curious, or simply interested in supporting local businesses and sustainable living, this festive market offers something for everyone. Hosted by Amanda Leigh Walker from Lord of the Fries, it will feature vegan speakers and a Q&A session, providing insights into the lifestyle and its many benefits.

Explore a range of stalls offering delicious plant-based food, drinks, vegan products, and eco-friendly goods. If you're a foodie at heart, this is a must-visit experience for discovering new flavours and supporting the community during the festive season.

Sunday 8th December, 10am to 4pm

The Edge, Fed Square

CherryHill Orchard Christmas Market

Get swept up in a whimsical holiday wonderland at CherryHill Orchards’ inaugural Christmas Market this December! Set in the stunning Yarra Valley, this festive gathering features live music, artisan stalls, and mouthwatering food from local vendors like Moo Bee’s nachos and Yarra Valley Creperie’s sweet treats.

Find the perfect Christmas gift with fresh produce, handmade creations, and gourmet delights. Kids will love the face painting and magical elf and fairy encounters.

Sitchu Tip: Don’t miss out on CherryHill’s signature cherry-inspired goodies—perfect for holiday sharing. 

21st and 22nd December, 4pm to 8pm

Coldstream Orchard, 739 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream, Victoria

German Christmas Market 

Step into a traditional German Christmas Market right in the heart of Melbourne. Indulge in bratwurst, pretzels, gingerbread, and sweet treats, paired with authentic German beer and glühwein. Browse handmade gifts, festive decorations, and unique treasures at charming market stalls. With live music and a visit from St Nikolaus, it’s the perfect way to experience the joy and festive spirit of Christmas with family and friends.

Saturday 7th December, 3pm to 8pm

Saturday 14th December, 12pm to 5pm

German Lutheran Trinity Church, 22 Parliament Place, East Melbourne

Christmas Square 

Feel the jubilation of Christmas like never before at Melbourne’s festive heart! Towering at an awe-inspiring 17.5 metres, the city’s iconic Christmas tree sparkles with breathtaking light and sound displays that enchant all who gather. Swing into the spirit on a giant illuminated bell, soak up the joyous atmosphere, and revel in the festive charm as the city transforms into a holiday wonderland. 

Federation Square, Melbourne

Melbourne City Christmas Treasure Hunt

This Christmas in Melbourne, embark on a treasure hunt through the city centre. Collect your treasure map from Mary Martin Bookshop and follow the clues across the city's landmarks. Designed by children's author and illustrator Judith Rossell, this year’s map is inspired by The Midwatch, a thrilling 1920s mystery set at a spy school. Perfect for kids aged 5–12 (though all are welcome), the adventure lasts around 90 minutes and includes a tram ride. Complete the hunt and solve the code to receive a special prize.

Everyday until 31st December, from 10am onwards

Ground Floor, Southgate Shopping Centre, Mary Martin Bookshop, G17/3 Southgate Avenue, Southbank 

Crown Christmas River Show

The spectacular river show returns to the Birrarung – Yarra River this Christmas!

Head to Southbank Promenade outside Crown to catch this dazzling Christmas show featuring water fountains, lasers, light projections and a festive soundtrack. Shows will run every 15 minutes each night.

Until December 25th, every day from 9pm to 11pm

Southbank Promenade, Melbourne 

See the city sparkle at night on this Christmas Decorations crawl

This is your sign to wander through the streets to discover dazzling displays, including a giant reindeer in Docklands, a Christmas star on Evan Walker Bridge, and nutcracker soldiers standing proud across the city.

Look out for candy canes and festive koalas, with twinkling lights transforming trees and laneways into a shimmering winter wonderland after dark. It’s a must-see for families and kids. 

Melbourne CBD

Christmas Creatures by The Huxleys

Find time to step into the vibrant world of Christmas Creatures at Fed Square, where The Huxleys’ whimsical inflatable sculptures bring iconic Aussie animals to life. From colourful cockatoos to a king-sized koala, this playful, immersive installation celebrates a uniquely Australian Christmas and is sure to spark festive joy for all.

Until 25th December

The Atrium, Fed Square, Melbourne 

The Myer Christmas Windows

Take a peek into Myer's iconic Christmas Windows, featuring An Irwin's Christmas Story. Join Ace the Eagle on an unforgettable adventure, from leaping lemurs to grazing giraffes, across oceans and savannahs. It's such a unique and wonderful way to get into the Christmas spirit. 

Everyday, 10am to 10pm

314-336 Bourke Street, Melbourne

Koorie Krismas

Celebrate the return of Koorie Krismas at Fed Square, a vibrant showcase of First Nations talent. Enjoy live music, comedy, and dance performances hosted by Lady Lash, featuring the Djirri Djirri Dancers, ENOKiCurry, and more. Shop unique gifts from local artists like Haus of Dizzy and Kevin Williams, and get creative at workshops with Thelma Austin and ENOKi. The festive fun reaches fever pitch when Koorie Klaus makes a special appearance!

Saturday 14th December, 10am to 3pm

Free event; booking not required

Fed Square, Swanston Street & Flinders Street, Melbourne 

Christmas Carnival

Skip on over to the Christmas Carnival on the banks of the Birrarung, where you can hop on the Ferris wheel, jump-start your skills at carnival games, or take in stunning views of the city lights from the Sky Flyer. Whether you're dodging cars or spinning high in the air, there's something for everyone.

Enjoy classic carnival food and rides with entry free—just grab your ride coupons at the ticket box.

6th December to 24th December

Free entry

Alexandra Gardens, 3 Boathouse Drive, Melbourne

Bad Santa Xmas Party

Get ready for a wild night at the Bad Santa Xmas Party at Heartbreaker this Christmas Eve. Celebrate with a one-off beer collab with Mountain Goat, featuring the venue manager Toby’s face. Sip on spiked eggnog, enter the Best Dressed Ugly Sweater contest, and snap a dodgy family portrait to raise funds for a local homeless charity.

It’s loud, it’s chaotic, and it’s all for a good cause—Heartbreaker is the place to be for an unforgettable Christmas bash!

Tuesday 24th December, 5pm to 1am

Reserve your spot here

Heartbreaker, 234A Russell Street, Melbourne

Christmas in Melbourne has arrived in full swing. Immerse yourself in the festive magic that’s lighting up the CBD. From twinkling lights to vibrant displays, the city is alive with holiday cheer. For more Christmastime inspiration, check out our picks for Christmas lunch around the city, or see our gift guides here.