Planning to sing Christmas carols with friends and family in 2023? You’re in luck! Melbourne hosts numerous free Christmas carol events leading up towards the festive season. For a special experience, I recommend Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight on Christmas Eve.
Carols by Candlelight is an adored Australian Christmas Eve tradition, and this year promises to shine even brighter. Taking place at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, it’s a heartwarming gathering for families and friends who join together to sing their cherished Christmas tunes. This year there will be a mix of familiar and new stars who will take to the stage to perform everyone’s favourite Christmas songs and carols, including Casey Donovan, Denis Walter, Marina Prior, David Hobson, Simon Gleeson and Silvie Paladino and more. This magical event raises funds and awareness for Vision Australia, it supports kids who are blind or have low vision.
Date: Sunday, 24 December 2023 Time: Gates open at 4 pm, performance at 8 pm. Location: Sidney Myer Music Bowl Price: $82.40 – $273.45
Carols at Como Park brings together some of Australia’s cherished musical talents. Rhonda Burchmore will be hosting this year’s carols, with Thando, Ash Flanders and Margot Morales with Musical Director Casey Bennetto.
You can also look forward to a visit from Santa, roving entertainment, and a stunning fireworks display to conclude the carols
Date: Sunday, 17 December 2023 Time: 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm Location: 305-325 Williams Road, South Yarra Price: FREE
Come and enjoy a Family Christmas at Central Park with your friends and family. Award-winning comedy act The Listies will host the carols, along with talented artists like Michelle Nicolle, Raphael Wong and Rebecca Barnard with Musical Director Casey Bennetto.
Date: Sunday, 10 December 2023 Time: 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm Location: 83-141 Burke Road, Malvern East Price: FREE
Dendy Park will once again host their annual Christmas Carols in the Park, with headline acts including Rhona Burchmore and Richard Thomas. They will be joined by Sean Mills, Annie Jones, 15-year-old singer Zoe Sunday and 20-year-old vocal sensation Paris Sims. The Diamante Duo, aka Violeta and Michael, also add a classic touch to the event. Pre-event activities start at 5.30pm. Fireworks start at 9:30pm (weather permitting).
Date: Tuesday, 12 December 2023 Time: 5.30 pm – 9.30 pm Location: Dendy Park, Brighton Price: FREE
Carols by Kingston will be back at Bicentennial Park in 2023. Rhonda Burchmore will be the MC for the evening, with performances from Lucy Durack, Rob Mills and Bobby Fox. There will be kids activities, food stalls, community BBQ from Edithvale Fire Brigade and a stunning fireworks finale at 9.30pm. Santa will make an appearance and the Kids’ Christmas Activity Area (Santa’s Workshop) will start at 5pm.
Date: Sunday, 10 December 2023 Time: 6 pm – 9.45 pm Location: Bicentennial Park, Thames Promenade, Chelsea Price: Free
Get ready to spread the festive spirit at the much-loved Banyule’s Carols by Candlelight event. The 2023 program features renowned entertainers like Denis Walter, Carla Troiano, Ricky Muscat, the Australian Children’s Choir, and the Diamond Valley Brass Band. Additionally, Celia Wordsworth, joined by Elf, Santa, and Frosty, will add a sprinkle of holiday magic to the evening with Christmas songs and dancing. In response to community feedback, Santa will make an earlier appearance to cater to families and children.
Date: Saturday, 16 December 2023 Time: 5 pm – 9.30 pm Location: Greensborough War Memorial Park, Henry Street, Greensborough Price: FREE
Celebrate Christmas with your friends and family at this special community event in Macleay Park. The evening with feature all your favourite Christmas carols, sung by a local choir. Look out for Santa Claus and share your holiday wishes.
Date: 16 December 2023 Time: 6 pm Location: MacLeay Park, 189 Belmore Rd, Balwyn North Price: Free
Manningham Carols by Candlelight will include pre-show entertainment, featuring Team Dream, the Melbournaire’s Harmony Chorus, and fun activities in the Kids Zone. The main concert kicks off at 7.30 pm with a fantastic lineup, including artists like Sean Millis from The Voice Australia 2023 and Tahlia Pizzicara from Australian Idol. Hosted by Lucy Holmes from InnerFM’s Lucy and Kel’s breakfast show and the experienced Richard Thomas. Don’t forget to say hello to Santa’s, and enjoy the spectacular fireworks finale at 9.30 pm.
Date: Friday 8 December 2023 Time: Pre-show entertainment 6 pm, main concert will start at 7.30 pm Location: Ruffey Lake Park, George Street, Doncaster Price: FREE
Monash Carols by Candlelight is returning to Jells Park after a three-year break. Festivities start at 5:30 pm, including children’s activities and pre-show entertainment. The Main Concert begins at 7.30 pm, featuring local talents and a stellar lineup. Santa will make a special appearance, and the evening will conclude with a fireworks finale at 9.15 pm.
Date: Saturday, 2 December 2023 Time: 5.30 pm – 9.15 pm Location: Jells Park, Wheelers Hill Price: FREE (ticketed event)
The Carols by the Lake is set against the picturesque backdrop of Coburg Lake Reserve. This heartwarming tradition invites families and friends to gather on 9 December 2023, 6 – 9 pm, for enchanting carol performances led by Eddie Perfect, Thndo, and the Merri-bek Community Band. The lake will come alive with festive lights and sounds, creating a magical atmosphere for all.
Date: 9 December 2023 Time: 6 – 9 pm Location: Coburg Lake Reserve, corner Gaffney Street & Murray Road, Coburg Price: FREE
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.