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City of Melbourne Christmas Lights, Projections and Decorations

Christmas is coming to Melbourne, and the city is set to shine like never before. From glittering lights to stunning projections, Melbourne is the perfect place to embrace the holiday spirit. Whether you are visiting the giant reindeer in Docklands, spotting the Christmas star on Evan Walker Bridge, or admiring the iconic nutcracker soldiers around the city, there is no shortage of festive cheer. As night falls, the streets come alive with twinkling lights, candy canes, and festive koalas. Gather your loved ones and explore the stunning Christmas displays lighting up Melbourne this season!

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City of Melbourne Christmas Lights, Projections and Decorations
Image: Fed Square CHristmas Tree Lighting. Credit: Kiddiehood

Christmas Tree Lighting

Celebrate the start of the 2024 City of Melbourne Christmas Festival with an evening of festive fun and the grand lighting of the 17.5m Christmas Tree.

Here’s what’s happening:
6.30 pm: Free face painting, roving entertainment, and a DJ set.
7.10 pm: Enjoy a performance by the Consort of Melbourne choir.
7.30 pm: DJ set continues.
8 pm: Keep a look out for The Huxleys’ roving performance.
8.10 pm: Enjoy a choir performance from the Consort of Melbourne.
8.30 pm: Official proceedings begin.
8.55 pm: Special performance from Lumiere of Beauty and the Beast the Musical.
9.00 pm: the Christmas Tree will light up!

Date: Friday 29 November 2024 
Time: 6.30 pm – 9.30 pm
Location: Fed Square
Price: Free

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Christmas in the City – 2023 Melbourne Christmas Festival
Image: Crown Christmas River Show. Credit: What's On in Melbourne

Crown Christmas River Show

Make your way to Southbank Promenade for the Crown Christmas River Show. The Birrarung (Yarra River) comes alive with synchronised water fountains, colourful lasers,  light projections, and a joyful Christmas soundtrack. Shows take place every 15 minutes each evening.

Date: 29 November – 25 December 2024
Time: 9 am – 11 pm
Location: Outside Crown, Southbank Promenade

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Christmas in the City – 2023 Melbourne Christmas Festival
Image: Giant Reindeer. Credit: What's On in Melbourne

Christmas Decorations

Melbourne is brimming with festive cheer this Christmas season! Explore these must-see decorations and displays around the city:

Docklands Highlights:

  • Giant Reindeer: The sparkling golden reindeer returns to Docklands.
  • Docklands Christmas Tree: A glistening purple tree on Harbour Esplanade.
  • Merry Christmas Letters: A harbour side favourite that spells out the festive spirit.
  • Giant Present Boxes: Oversized gifts scattered throughout Docklands.
  • Docklands Nutcrackers: All-new nutcracker soldiers standing guard.

City Icons Get Festive:

  • Melbourne Town Hall Decorations: Visit Melbourne Town Hall to see the new bell tree, take a selfie on Santa’s throne with nutcracker soldiers nearby, and enjoy the building’s festive wrap of native florals and a light display at night.
  • Flinders Street Station: Colourful presents along Elizabeth Street.
  • Southern Cross Station: Giant presents take over the station.
  • Melbourne City Baths: Lit up like a giant present with ribbons and bows.
  • Princes Bridge & Evan Walker Bridge: Festive candy canes and a shining Christmas star.
  • Christmas at Queensbridge Square: Take a spin on the glowing swings or enjoy the playful light-up see-saw at this festive pop-up.

Laneway Magic:

  • Degraves Street & AC/DC Lane: Rivers of twinkling and colourful lights.
  • Hardware Lane, Centre Place, & Manchester Lane: Sparkling festive lights and bells.
  • Market Lane & Liverpool Street: Overhead glittery displays.
  • Crossley Street & Bank Place: Fairy lights and a glowing Christmas tree.

Other Highlights:

  • Bourke Street Mall: Candy canes and koalas line the shopping strip.
  • Southbank: The magical Reindeer Arch and Southgate Star sparkle.
  • Kensington: Macauley Road shines with overhead lights.
  • Lygon Street Nutcrackers: Nutcracker soldiers bring holiday charm.
  • Fitzroy Gardens: A 6m Christmas tree and Santa’s throne.

Date: 29 Nov – 25 Dec 2024
Price: Free

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City of Melbourne Christmas Lights, Projections and Decorations
Image: Town Hall Christmas Projections. Credit: What's On in Melbourne

Melbourne Town Hall Christmas Projections

Melbourne Town Hall gets a festive makeover this Christmas. See its iconic façade illuminated with beautiful, colourful light displays in the heart of the city.

Date: 29 November – 25 December 2024
Time: 9 pm – 11 pm
Location: Melbourne Town Hall, 90-130 Swanston Street, Melbourne
Price: Free

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Frequently Asked Questions for Christmas Lights, Projections, and Decorations around Melbourne

1. Where can we see the best Christmas lights and projections in Melbourne?
Top spots include Melbourne Town Hall, Flinders Street Station, and Federation Square for projections. For decorations, visit Docklands for the giant reindeer and tree, Bourke Street Mall for festive koalas and candy canes, and Elizabeth Street for star swirls.

2. Are the Christmas lights and projections free to see?
Yes, all Christmas lights, projections, and decorations in the City of Melbourne are free to enjoy.

3. What time do the lights and projections start?
The lights and projections typically begin at dusk and run until late evening. Exact start times may vary, so check the City of Melbourne’s website for details.

4. How long will the Christmas lights and projections be on display?
The lights and projections usually run from late November until Christmas Day or early January.

5. Is there a recommended route to see the decorations?
You can start at Federation Square, then walk through Flinders Street Station, Melbourne Town Hall, and Bourke Street Mall. For Docklands, consider taking a short tram ride to explore the giant reindeer, Christmas tree, and festive installations.

6. Are the locations family-friendly?
Yes, all sites are family-friendly with plenty of open spaces for kids to enjoy. Most locations are accessible for prams and wheelchairs.

7. Is there parking available near the Christmas lights and decorations?
Parking in the city can be limited during the holiday season. It’s best to use public transport, such as trams or trains, to access the locations easily.

8. Are there additional activities for kids near the lights and projections?
Yes, many locations have extra attractions, such as the Myer Christmas Windows, festive playgrounds, and roving entertainers in Bourke Street Mall or Federation Square.

9. Can we take photos of the decorations and projections?
Absolutely! The lights and projections make for fantastic family photos, so bring your camera or phone to capture the memories.

10. What should we bring for the outing?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water bottles, and warm clothing if visiting at night. If you’re planning a longer visit, consider packing snacks or stopping by nearby cafes.

11. Are the lights and projections weather-dependent?
Most lights and projections will run rain or shine, but heavy rain might impact your viewing experience. Check the forecast and plan accordingly.

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.

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