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Where to find Family Christmas events around Melbourne
Discover the magic of Christmas right here in Melbourne! There’s no need to travel to the North Pole to meet Santa and the Elves when you can explore a host of wonderful Christmas events with your family around Melbourne. From the Christmas Festival in the heart of the city to the beloved Myer Christmas windows, there’s something to make your Christmas truly special.
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The Nutcracker
Let the world’s best ballet dancers immerse you in the magic of this timeless story, where the crisp air and sleigh bells create a festive atmosphere. From the beautiful snowflakes to the beloved Sugar Plum Fairy, come and enjoy the elegance, grace, and pure delight of “The Nutcracker,” presented by BIG Live Pty Ltd, and make this Christmas season truly special.
Date: 21 – 22 December 2023
Time: 1.30 pm & 7.30 pm
Location: Hamer Hall
Price: $64 – $154
Melbourne Christmas Carols
If you’re planning to sing Christmas carols with friends and family in 2023, Melbourne has several Christmas carol events leading up to the festive season.
Christmas Festival
Families can embrace the Christmas spirit as Melbourne springs to life with a month-long Christmas Festival! Starting on 24 November 2023, the city will undergo a remarkable transformation into a Christmas wonderland, complete with Santa’s Workshop, a 17.5m digital Christmas tree gracing Fed Square and a new Christmas River Show. Iconic locations like the Melbourne Town Hall and State Library of Victoria are adorned with stunning light projections, while the renowned Myer windows and an array of citywide decorations create a magical atmosphere.
Date: 24 November – 25 December 2023
Location: Various locations in Melbourne CBD
Price: FREE
More information or watch our Christmas Festival video
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Christmas in the Atrium (Crown Melbourne)
The Crown Atrium is your destination for free festive events leading up to Christmas! There is a lineup of exciting activities and celebrations that will make your season merry and bright. Capture memories with Santa for FREE from 1 -24 December 2023. Don’t miss the FREE Christmas Show featuring dancers, live vocals, talented musicians, and performances by the Australian Girls Choir or National Boys Choir.
Santa Photo’s – Monday to Friday: 11am – 5pm, Saturday to Sunday: 10am – 5pm, 1 December – 24 December 2023 (Santa will take a 20 min break during the day)
Live Christmas Show – 1pm, 3pm & 5pm, 16 – 24 December 2023
Myer Christmas Windows
For 68 years, the Myer Christmas Windows have been a beloved holiday tradition. This year, they have partnered with the popular Australian animated series, Bluey, and the delightful Heeler family. Come and witness the Heeler family come to life, charmingly depicting their heartwarming festive moments in the sunny Queensland setting.
Date: 12 November 2023
Location: Myer, Bourke Street, Melbourne
More information or watch our Blueys Christmas video
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Christmas Market and Lighting of the Tree
Kick off the festive season at Bunjil Place’s annual Twilight Christmas Makers Market and Tree Lighting event. Find the perfect Christmas gifts at the Makers Market, which features over 70 stalls with a variety of fashion, jewellery, homewares, art, and more from local artisans. Enjoy delicious food from food trucks, a bar, live music, workshops, and activities to keep everyone entertained. Don’t miss the highlight of the evening – the lighting of the iconic Bunjil Place Christmas Tree at 8 pm.
Date: 2 December 2023
Time: 3 pm – 9 pm
Location: Bunjil Place Plaza
Price: Free
Christmas Festival of Lights
Frankston’s Christmas Festival of Lights is returning for its 25th year. A beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike, this event offers something for everyone, young and old. You can look forward to Christmas performances, market stalls, kids’ craft activities, and a visit from Santa to share your holiday wishes.
Date: Saturday 25 November 2023
Time: 5 pm – 10 pm
Location: Davey Street, Frankston
Price: Free
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Christmas Markets
In 2023, if you’re searching for distinctive Christmas gifts from local Victoria businesses, you’re in for a treat. Melbourne is set to host a multitude of Christmas-themed markets in the months leading up to the holiday season.
Christmas Under the Big Top
Christmas Under the Big Top is heading to Burnley Oval, Richmond, from 24 November to 24 December 2023, offering over 2.5 hours of non-stop festive fun. Delight in Mrs Claus’s storytelling and carols, create your letter to Santa with the help of special elves, watch Circus Royale performances, meet Sesame Street’s Elmo and Cookie Monster, and savour treats at Mrs Claus’ Bakery. Enjoy crafts with our playful elves, interactive experiences, carnival games, kids’ rides, and more.
Date: 24 November – 24 December 2023
Location: Burnley Oval, Cnr Madden Gr & Swan St, Richmond
Price: $36 – $122. FREE entry for children under 2 years old
More information or watch our Christmas Under the Big Top video
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THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is returning to Puffing Billy Railway! Offering two daily services from 9 to 17 December 2023, this magical journey takes you on a 90-minute round trip from Lakeside Station to Menzies Creek, all in pursuit of the North Pole.
Passengers can enjoy performances from the mischievous Christmas Ghost, the energetic Hot Chocolate Dancers, and Santa’s adorable helpers! At Menzies Creek, there is a 35-minute stopover filled with carols, ice-cold chocolate milk and delicious cookies. The return journey includes one last joyful performance and the chance to meet Santa at the cozy North Pole in the Lakeside Visitor Centre.
Date: 9 – 17 December 2023
Time: 9 am – 2 pm & 11.30 am – 4.30 pm
Location: Puffing Billy Railway, Lakeside Visitor Centre
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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.
