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As Christmas approaches, Melbourne is gearing up for a spectacular celebration filled with plenty of festive events. The good news is, that you don’t need a bottomless wallet to be a part of this magical experience. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the heart of Melbourne to uncover some of the best FREE Christmas events happening in 2023.
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Planning to sing Christmas carols with friends and family in 2023? You’re in luck! Melbourne hosts various free Christmas carol events leading up to the festive season. Please note: The Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight on Christmas Eve is a paid event, that raises funds and awareness for Vision Australia.
Melbourne will host a month-long Christmas Festival that will light up the city! Starting on 24 November 2023, Melbourne will transform into a Christmas wonderland, complete with Santa’s Workshop, a gigantic 17.5m digital Christmas tree at Fed Square, dazzling light displays on the Melbourne Town Hall and State Library of Victoria, Myer Christmas windows, Christmas River Show and festive decorations that take over the city.
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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For 68 years, the Myer Christmas Windows has been a cherished Christmas tradition. This year’s Myer Christmas Windows have teamed up with the beloved Australian animated series, Bluey, and the endearing Heeler family. Watch as the Heeler family springs to life, beautifully portraying their heartwarming festive celebrations in sunny Queensland.
Date: 12 November 2023
Location: Myer, Bourke Street, Melbourne
Price: Free
More information or watch our Myer Windows video
Families can be transported straight to the North Pole on the Santaland Express. Once there be sure to say hello to Santa, join in some colouring in activities or watch a movie on the big screen. Experience the holiday spirit at its best, exclusively at Melbourne City’s Bourke Street location.
Location: Bourke Street Mall, 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. Santa will be in the Atrium from 1 December until 24 December 2023, for FREE Santa photo’s. There will also be a FREE Christmas Show featuring dancers, live vocals, musicians and the Australian Girls 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
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Bunjil Place Twilight Christmas Makers Market and Tree Lighting event is on 2 December 2023. Discover ideal Christmas gifts among the 70+ stalls showcasing fashion, jewellery, homewares, art, and more crafted by local artisans. The evening’s crowning moment arrives at 8 pm with the illumination of the iconic Bunjil Place Christmas Tree – an event not to be missed!
Date: 2 December 2023
Time: 3 pm – 9 pm
Location: Bunjil Place Plaza
Price: Free
Frankston’s Christmas Festival of Lights is returning for its 25th year, offering a delightful blend of holiday cheer. This cherished tradition, beloved by locals and visitors alike, promises something for everyone in the family, featuring Christmas performances, market stalls, kids’ craft activities, and a visit from Santa to collect your Christmas wishes.
Date: Saturday 25 November 2023
Time: 5 pm – 10 pm
Location: Davey Street, Frankston
Price: Free
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Discovering FREE Santa photo opportunities in Melbourne for 2023 is a priority for many families. While a family photo with Santa is a beloved tradition, it can often be costly. To assist Melbourne families, we’ve identified businesses that provide the chance to capture those special Santa moments at no cost.
Enjoy classic Christmas films under the stars during Christmas week at Fed Square’s free outdoor cinema. Gather your loved ones, secure your spot early with a deckchair, or bring your own blanket for a cozy night out. Movies include: ‘The Polar Express’ (G), ‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas’ (PG), ‘Elf’ (G), ‘Miracle On 34th Street’ (G), and ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ (PG).
Date: 20 – 24 December 2023
Time: starts at 5 pm
Location: Fed Square
Price: FREE
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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.
Explore our kid-friendly directory
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