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Where to Enjoy Christmas Carols in Melbourne 2026
Christmas carols are a favourite part of the festive season, and Melbourne has plenty of events to enjoy with family and friends in 2026. From large outdoor concerts and traditional carols by candlelight to free community celebrations in local parks, there’s something happening across Melbourne and its suburbs throughout December. Many celebrations also include food trucks, children’s entertainment, face painting, visits from Santa and fireworks.
We have rounded up the best Christmas carols in Melbourne for 2026, including dates, locations, times and ticket information to help you find an event near you.
Looking for free Christmas carols in Melbourne? Many of the celebrations listed below offer free entry.
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Christmas Carols and Events in Melbourne 2026
1. Summer in the Park, Funky Christmas Carols – Albert Park
Enjoy a different take on Christmas carols at Gasworks’ Summer in the Park. The event features Funky Christmas Carols and traditional festive songs performed by Halo Vocal Ensemble and community participants, with a mix of funk and soul music. There will also be food trucks, the Rose St. Arts & Craft Market, Christmas-themed workshops and open artist studios to explore.
Date: Saturday 5 December 2026
Time: 5 pm – 9 pm
Location: Gasworks Arts Park, 21 Graham Street, Albert Park
Price: Free
2. Maroondah Carols – Croydon
Head to Town Park in Croydon for Maroondah Carols, a free community celebration featuring live music, Christmas entertainment and plenty of activities for children. The evening includes a Kids Zone with rides, games, Christmas activities and roving entertainment, along with food trucks and a special visit from Santa. The main concert begins at 7.30pm, with a fireworks display planned for approximately 9.30pm.
Date: Saturday 5 December 2026
Time: 6 pm – 10 pm (main concert from 7.30pm)
Location: Town Park, Croydon
Price: Free
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3. Monash Carols by Candlelight – Jells Park
Monash Carols by Candlelight returns to Jells Park in Wheelers Hill for an evening of Christmas music, family entertainment and festive activities. Arrive early to browse the Christmas market, enjoy food and children’s activities, and find a spot for the main concert. The carols begin at 7.30 pm, with Santa making a special appearance before the evening finishes with a fireworks display at approximately 9 pm.
Date: Saturday 5 December 2026
Time: Activities from 5.30 pm, carols from 7.30 pm
Location: Jells Park, Wheelers Hill
Price: Free
More information
4. Carols in Queens Park – Moonee Ponds
Carols in Queens Park is back for another year, bringing a night of Christmas entertainment to Moonee Ponds. Hosted by Australian performer Bobby Fox, the 2026 event will also feature special guest Justine Clarke, known for her work in theatre and Play School. Families can enjoy a mini Christmas market, food trucks, children’s activities and free photos with Santa before settling in for the carols.
Date: Saturday 5 December 2026
Time: Children’s activities 4 pm –6.30 pm; carols 6.30 pm – 8.30 pm
Location: Queens Park, Moonee Ponds
Price: Free
More information
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5. Carols by the Lake – Coburg
Gather family and friends for Merri-bek’s Carols by the Lake, a popular community Christmas celebration held beside Coburg Lake. Enjoy an evening of festive music, Christmas songs and community spirit as the local area comes together to welcome the festive season.
Date: Saturday 5 December 2026
Time: To be confirmed
Location: Coburg Lake Reserve, Coburg
Price: Free
6. Hume Carols by Candlelight – Craigieburn
Hume City’s annual Carols by Candlelight returns to Anzac Park in Craigieburn for a family-friendly evening of Christmas music and entertainment. The event will feature Lucy Durack as MC and guest performer, alongside a range of entertainers. Children can also look forward to roving entertainment, a youth market, food stalls and a special appearance from the Cat in the Hat and Thing 1 and Thing 2.
Date: Saturday 5 December 2026
Time: 5.30 pm – 8.30 pm
Location: Anzac Park, Craigieburn
Price: Free
More information
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7. Family Christmas Carols at Central Park – Malvern East
The City of Stonnington’s Family Christmas at Central Park is a free outdoor celebration with live music, children’s activities and a visit from Santa. Hosted by comedian and singer-songwriter Gillian Cosgriff, the 2026 program features Kylie Auldist, N’fa Jones and Tobias Cole, accompanied by the South of the River Backing Vocalist Squad and musical director Casey Bennetto.
Children can enjoy face painting and other activities from 4.30 pm, with food trucks also available.
Date: Sunday 6 December 2026
Time: Children’s activities from 4.30 pm; carols 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm
Location: Central Park, 148 Burke Road, Malvern East
Price: Free
8. Carols by Kingston – Chelsea
Carols by Kingston returns to Bicentennial Park in Chelsea on Sunday 6 December 2026 for a free evening of Christmas entertainment. This year’s event features singer and performer Tim Campbell as the headline act, with Rob Mills and Bobby Fox, known as the Kings of Christmas, hosting the evening as Masters of Ceremonies. Families can enjoy live music performances, kids’ activities, photos with Santa and food stalls, before a fireworks finale brings the night to a close.
Date: Sunday 6 December 2026
Time: 5 pm – 9.30 pm
Location: Bicentennial Park, Thames Promenade, Chelsea
Price: Free
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9. Bayside Christmas Carols in the Park – Brighton East
Bring the family along to Dendy Park for Bayside Christmas Carols in the Park. Enjoy an evening of favourite Christmas songs and live entertainment, with pre-event activities starting at 5.30 pm and the main stage program kicking off at 7.30 pm. The evening will finish with a fireworks display at 9.30 pm, weather permitting. An Auslan interpreter, accessible toilets and accessible parking facilities will also be available.
Date: Tuesday 8 December 2026
Time: From 5.30 pm (main stage 7.30 pm, fireworks 9.30 pm)
Location: Dendy Park, Brighton East
Price: Free
10. Manningham Carols by Candlelight – Doncaster
Manningham Carols by Candlelight returns to Ruffey Lake Park for an evening of Christmas music, live entertainment and family fun under the stars. Hosted by Hugh Sheridan and Bella Craig, the concert features a line-up of local and national performers, with a fireworks finale to finish the night. Arrive early for the pre-show entertainment from 6 pm, or bring a picnic rug and enjoy food from the on-site food trucks.
Date: Friday 11 December 2026
Time: 6 pm – 10 pm (main concert 7.15 pm, fireworks 9.30 pm)
Location: Ruffey Lake Park, George Street, Doncaster
Price: Free, registration required
11. Banyule Carols by Candlelight – Greensborough
Banyule Carols by Candlelight returns to Greensborough War Memorial Park for a night of live music, Christmas carols and family entertainment. The 2026 program includes Wilbur Wilde, the Australian Children’s Choir, Diamond Valley Brass Band, Team Dream and the Chao Feng Chinese Orchestra, along with other performers. There will also be plenty for children to enjoy, including free craft workshops, face painting and photos with Santa, who will be making a special appearance.
Date: Saturday 12 December 2026
Location: Greensborough War Memorial Park, Greensborough
Price: Free
More information
12. Knox Carols – Ferntree Gully
Knox Carols returns to Wally Tew Reserve in Ferntree Gully for an evening of Christmas music, children’s activities and community entertainment. There will be free kids’ activities, food trucks and live performances, followed by the main carols concert from 7 pm. The night finishes with a fireworks display at approximately 9.30 pm.
Date: Saturday 12 December 2026
Time: 4.30 pm – 9.30 pm (main concert from 7 pm)
Location: Wally Tew Reserve, Ferntree Gully
Price: Free
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13. Carols at Como Park – South Yarra
The City of Stonnington’s second major Christmas concert takes place at Como Park in South Yarra. Hosted by Casey Donovan, the evening will feature Raphael Wong, Jess Hitchcock and Bert LaBonté, alongside the South of the River Backing Choir. The concert will conclude with a pyrotechnics display set to orchestral music.
Date: Sunday 13 December 2026
Time: 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm
Location: Como Park, 305–325 Williams Road, South Yarra
Price: Free
More information
14. Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight – Melbourne
One of Melbourne’s most recognised Christmas traditions, Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight returns to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl on Christmas Eve. Families can enjoy an evening of Christmas songs performed by well-known Australian entertainers, choirs, musical theatre performers and children’s entertainers.
The event raises funds for Vision Australia’s specialist services supporting children who are blind or have low vision. If you can’t attend on Christmas Eve, there is also a separate rehearsal night on Wednesday 23 December. This is a ticketed performance and may include sound checks and breaks.
Christmas Eve: Thursday 24 December 2026
Time: Gates open at 4 pm; concert starts at 8 pm
Rehearsal Night: Wednesday 23 December, from 4 pm
Location: Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne
Christmas Eve tickets
Choose from reserved-stalls seating or General Admission on the lawn.
Premium Stalls
Adult: $279 | Concession*: $150
A Reserve
Adult: $245 | Concession*: $131
B Reserve
Adult: $202 | Concession*: $111
General Admission
Adult: $88
Child under 16 & concession**: $55
Family (2 adults & 2 children): $189
Group (6+): $77 per person
Rehearsal Night tickets
Enjoy a more relaxed performance, with some songs repeated as artists rehearse.
VIP Lawn
Adult: $54
Child under 16 & concession: $45
Family: $132
Group (6+): $47 per person
General Admission
Adult: $41
Child under 16 & concession^: $28
Family: $90
Group (6+): $32 per person
Please note: Children under 2 attend Rehearsal Night free when seated on an adult’s lap. VIP Lawn includes an assigned chair. Additional booking fees may apply.
*Concession eligibility varies by ticket type and includes eligible pension, healthcare, low-income and student cardholders, and legally blind or low-vision patrons.
Please note: When you purchase a ticket through this link, Kiddiehood will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps us continue sharing the best events, activities, and experiences for families around Melbourne.
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Tips for Attending Christmas Carols in Melbourne
A little planning can make your family carols outing easier, especially with younger children.
Arrive early: Popular events can attract large crowds, so arrive early to secure a good spot for your picnic rug or chairs.
Check children’s activities: Some events offer face painting, rides, craft activities and free Santa photos before the concert.
Pack a picnic: While many events have food trucks and stalls, bringing snacks and water can be handy for younger children.
Bring a picnic rug or low chairs: Check the event’s seating guidelines before packing.
Prepare for fireworks: Fireworks and loud music can be unsettling for some children. Consider bringing ear protection.
Check parking and public transport: Parking can be limited at popular venues, so plan your trip ahead of time.
Check for weather updates: Outdoor events may be affected by severe weather. Check the council or organiser’s website before leaving home.
Frequently Asked Questions – Christmas Carols Melbourne 2026
Where can I find free Christmas carols in Melbourne in 2026?
There are plenty of free Christmas carols across Melbourne in 2026, including events at Jells Park, Queens Park, Central Park, Como Park, Bicentennial Park, Town Park, Wally Tew Reserve and Greensborough War Memorial Park.
When do Christmas carols start in Melbourne?
Most Melbourne Christmas carol events take place during the first two weeks of December. Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight is held annually on Christmas Eve, 24 December.
Are there Christmas carols on Christmas Eve in Melbourne?
Yes. Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight takes place at Sidney Myer Music Bowl on Thursday 24 December 2026, with the concert starting at 8 pm.
Do I need tickets for Christmas carols in Melbourne?
Many community Christmas carol events are free and do not require tickets. Some free events may require registration or offer optional reserved seating. Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight is a ticketed event.
Planning a Melbourne Christmas outing? Explore more family-friendly Christmas events, Christmas markets and free Santa photos on Kiddiehood.
Event details are correct at the time of publication and may change. Check the organiser’s website before attending for the latest program, booking and weather information.
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We try our best to provide accurate information on kid-friendly events around Victoria but do recommend parents check details directly to confirm dates, times, prices as some details may be subject to change.
