10 Things to do in Melbourne at Christmas

If you're planning to visit Melbourne over Christmas, you'll find that the city won't resemble the typical Christmas Eve postcard of snow, sleighing and cold weather. However, thanks to the recreation of some of the scenery, this destination will offer a wide variety of festive activities that respect the spirit of the season and don't interfere with the warm temperatures of the Australian coast.

Some of the best things to do in Melbourne over Christmas include visiting the Christmas markets, having fun ice skating on the city's artificial rinks, having your photo taken next to the giant tree in Federation Square, taking part in the traditional December 25th barbecue, making the most of seasonal discounts in the shopping centres and enjoying the food and drink on the eve of Christmas Eve.

Visiting Melbourne's Christmas markets is a delightful activity that will immerse you in the festive spirit of the season. During the month of December, the city is filled with Christmas markets offering a wide variety of handcrafted goods, delicious food and entertainment for the whole family.

One of the most popular Christmas markets is the Queen Victoria Market. This historic market comes alive during the holiday season with stalls filled with unique gifts, crafts, gourmet goods and festive decorations. You can also enjoy delicious street food and live music as you wander the aisles.

Another market not to be missed is the Christmas market in Federation Square. Here you'll find a great selection of Christmas gifts and souvenirs, as well as a variety of dining options including international food, sweets and hot drinks. The venue is also transformed into an entertainment centre with live entertainment, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Melbourne.

If you're looking for a unique Christmas experience, the Christmas market at the Alliance Française is a great option. This French market offers a selection of handmade goods, wines, cheeses and other gourmet French products, which adds an eclectic experience to the season, so it's often included in the itinerary of the best Melbourne tours.

If you want to experience one of the typical Christmas activities during your visit to Melbourne, you can't miss out on the fun of ice skating. The city is full of outdoor ice rinks that offer an exciting alternative for skaters of all ages and skill levels.

One of the most popular ice rinks is the one located in front of Federation Square. Here you can enjoy a festive atmosphere as you glide across the ice and take in the iconic views of the city. This rink often features Christmas music and themed decorations, creating a magical atmosphere for skating.

Another option is to visit the ice rink in the suburb of Docklands. This outdoor rink offers ample space and is surrounded by restaurants and shops to complement the experience. You can enjoy an afternoon of skating and relax afterwards with a delicious meal or hot drink to complete the Christmas atmosphere. You can also take part in some of Melbourne's best food tours.

In addition to the outdoor ice rinks, you can also visit Melbourne's shopping centres which often have temporary ice rinks for the Christmas season. These malls often have special children's activities, festive music and themed decorations, making ice skating a fun activity for the whole family.

Taking a photo with the giant Christmas tree in Melbourne's Federation Square at Christmas time is an iconic experience that will capture the festive spirit of the season. Each year, this iconic landmark is transformed with the installation of an impressive Christmas tree decorated with twinkling lights and festive decorations.

The tree in this square becomes the focal point of the site and attracts tourists and locals alike. Its size and magnificent design make it a perfect backdrop for taking photographs and capturing lasting memories, as well as offering one of the best things to do in Melbourne at night.

Discovering the lights of the giant tree is just the start of the circuit that will take you on a tour of Melbourne's Christmas atmosphere after sunset, as you can later visit the area's themed restaurants and hidden bars. In these bars you'll find special eve cocktails, live music and themed venues that will take you on a journey back in time to different eras in a not-to-be-missed experience.

In addition, at Federation Square you can also explore the square and enjoy the special activities and events that take place during the holiday season.

Attending Christmas Eve concerts and special events in Melbourne is a magical experience that will immerse you in the festive spirit of the season. During this time of year, the city is filled with music, lights and entertainment, offering a wide variety of concerts and events to suit all tastes.

One of the highlights is the annual Christmas concert at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. This open-air concert brings together renowned artists and local choirs for an unforgettable evening of music. You can enjoy classic carols and Christmas songs in a picturesque setting while sharing the joy of Christmas with thousands of others.

Another highlight is the Christmas Square festival in the city centre. This festival includes activities for the whole family, such as light shows, interactive displays, live music and themed workshops. There you can wander around and enjoy the Christmas decorations, take part in festive activities and indulge in the culinary delights on offer.

Also, be sure to check the schedule of Melbourne's traditional theatres and concert halls as many of them offer special shows and performances during the Christmas season. From classical ballets to plays and Christmas music concerts, there are options for all art and culture lovers.

Taking part in Australia's December 25 barbecue is a unique experience that is part of the local culture and traditions. After celebrating Christmas Eve, many people gather again the day after Christmas to enjoy an outdoor barbecue with family and friends.

This custom reflects the Australian way of life, where Melbourne' s warm summer weather invites time spent outdoors. Barbecues are often held in gardens, parks or on beaches, creating a relaxed atmosphere. People gather around the barbecue, preparing a variety of foods from grilled meats to fresh seafood and refreshing salads.

The 25 December barbecue is an occasion to share special moments with loved ones. Good food, laughter and lively conversation are enjoyed while celebrating Christmas in an informal and relaxed atmosphere. It is also common for families to exchange gifts during this time.

In addition to food and company, the 25 December barbecue in Australia often includes outdoor games, such as cricket or football, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. You can also listen to Christmas songs, share stories and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds the country.

Enjoying the light show on the façade of Melbourne Town Hall during Christmas is a magical experience not to be missed. Each year, this public building is transformed into a glittering canvas, full of colour and animation that captivates visitors.

The light show is a combination of technology and art, with projections illuminating the façade of the building. The lights bring reindeer, Christmas trees and snowflakes to life , creating an enchanting atmosphere. You can discover these shows on your own or while participating in Melbourne's best guided tours, which is one of the most interesting ways to get into the Christmas spirit of the city.

The show is free and open to the public. You'll be able to enjoy the show from different points around City Hall, allowing you to find the perfect angle to capture photos or just take in the beauty of the site. It's usually available every night in December, so you'll be able to see it even if you're planning a short 3-day stay in Melbourne or less.

Aside from the light projections, Melbourne City Council also often organises special events in the square, including concerts, Christmas markets and activities for the whole family. You can enjoy live music, food and drink stalls and other attractions while soaking up the festive atmosphere.

Making the most of Christmas discounts in Melbourne's shopping malls is a great way to make the most of your festive shopping. The city is filled with special offers and discounts that will allow you to purchase gifts, decorations and Christmas items at more affordable prices.

One of the most popular areas for Christmas shopping in Melbourne is Bourke Street. Here you'll find a wide variety of shops, from large chain stores to boutiques and speciality shops. During the Christmas season, many of these shops offer special discounts and promotions, giving you the opportunity to find unique gifts at lower prices.

Another popular destination is the Emporium Melbourne shopping centre, located in the heart of the city. This upscale shopping centre is home to a wide selection of fashion, accessories and homeware shops. During the Christmas season, the Emporium offers special discounts and promotions, allowing you to enjoy great deals on well-known brands.

If you prefer to browse for bargains in a more traditional setting, you can visit Melbourne's Christmas markets, such as the Queen Victoria Market. Here you'll find a variety of stalls selling handmade goods, gourmet foods, gifts and Christmas decorations. Many of these markets offer special discounts during the season, allowing you to find real gems at bargain prices.

Touring the Altona Christmas decorations in Melbourne is an enchanting experience that will get you in the festive spirit of the season. Altona, a suburb of Melbourne, is decked out in bright lights, colourful ornaments and decorations that create a magical and cosy atmosphere during Christmas, a trademark of this place.

During the Christmas season, many houses and gardens in Altona are elaborately decorated with twinkling lights, inflatable figures and festive themes. Take a leisurely stroll through the residential streets to admire the wonderful displays and the creativity of the residents who strive to fill this Melbourne neighbourhood with Christmas cheer.

In addition to home decorations, Altona has parks and public areas that are also transformed for Christmas. You can visit the Altona Homestead, where beautiful decorations and Christmas trees are often set up, providing a lovely backdrop for your seasonal photographs.

For a more organised experience, you can join special events in Altona that celebrate Christmas decorations. Some places organise guided tours or bike tours of the light trails, where you can learn more about Christmas traditions and enjoy the beauty of the decorations with other Christmas enthusiasts.

Melbourne's Christmas dining is a delightful experience that will allow you to discover the flavours and aromas of the festive season. During the festive season, the city is filled with culinary options for traditional and creative Christmas-inspired dishes.

One of Melbourne's iconic seasonal foods is Christmas pudding. This rich and savoury dessert is made from dried fruit, nuts, spices and rum and is served warm with a brandy or crème anglaise sauce. You can try it in restaurants and bakeries around the city, where you'll find classic and modern versions of this traditional sweet, as well as on Melbourne's best food tours.

Another popular Christmas dish in Melbourne is fresh seafood. The city is surrounded by coastline and is known for its high quality seafood. During Christmas, restaurants and seafood stalls offer a wide variety of choices, including lobsters, prawns, oysters and mussels. You can enjoy a fresh seafood feast at one of the city's many seafood restaurants.

As well as traditional dishes, Melbourne also offers creative and modern options for Christmas dining. Many restaurants and cafes create special menus for the season, combining local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. Try dishes such as fresh fruit pavlovas, Christmas-flavoured ice creams or festive cocktails with a unique twist.

If you want to be part of one of Melbourne's quintessential Christmas experiences, you can't miss the popular Carols by Candlelight concert. This event is held annually on Christmas Eve at the Sydney Myer Music Bowl and attracts thousands of people of all ages.

The concert is known for its ambience and Christmas song offering. During the event, renowned local and international artists take to the stage to perform traditional carols and popular Christmas songs. There you can join the collective chorus of thousands of attendees who sing along with the performers, creating an exciting experience full of camaraderie.

One of the most distinctive images of the Sidney Myer Music Bowl is when it is filled with candlelight and lanterns, creating a magical and warm atmosphere. Attendees bring their own candles or lanterns and light them while enjoying the musical performances. This tradition creates a unique and moving atmosphere and contributes to Melbourne's worldwide reputation as a global city.

In addition to the music, the concert also features special performances by children's choirs, festive dancing and fireworks displays.