10 Things to do in Melbourne at Christmas

If you plan to visit Melbourne during Christmas, you will see that the city will not resemble the typical Christmas Eve postcard, with snow, sleighs and cold weather. However, thanks to the recreation of some scenarios, this destination will offer a wide variety of festive activities that respect the spirit of the season and do not interfere with the warm temperatures of the Australian coast.

Among the best things to do in Melbourne during Christmas are visiting the Christmas markets, having fun ice skating on the city's artificial rinks, having your picture taken next to the giant tree in Federation Square, participating in the traditional barbecue on December 25, making the most of seasonal discounts in the shopping malls and enjoying the gastronomy of the 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 products and festive decorations. Plus, you can enjoy delicious street food and live music as you browse the aisles.

Another market not to be missed is the Christmas Market in Federation Square. There you will find a great selection of holiday gifts and souvenirs, as well as a variety of dining options including international food, sweets and hot drinks. In addition, the place transforms into an entertainment center with live shows, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Melbourne.

If you are looking for a unique Christmas experience, the Noël Market at the Alliance Française is an excellent choice. This French market offers a selection of handcrafted goods, wines, cheeses and other gourmet French products, which adds an eclectic experience to the season, so it is 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, during the eve, 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 while gliding across the ice and taking in the iconic views of the city. This rink often features holiday music and themed decorations, creating a magical atmosphere for skating.

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

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

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

The tree in this square becomes the focal point of this site and attracts tourists and locals alike. Its size and magnificent design make it a perfect backdrop for taking pictures 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 beginning of the circuit that will take you to learn more about Melbourne's Christmas atmosphere after sunset, as you can later visit the themed restaurants and hidden bars in the area. In these bars you can 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 outdoor 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 downtown. 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 Christmas decorations, take part in festive activities and indulge in the culinary delights on offer.

Also, don't forget to check the schedule of Melbourne's traditional theaters and concert halls, as many of them offer special shows and performances during the holiday season. From classical ballets to plays and Christmas music concerts, there are options for all art and culture lovers.

Participating in the December 25 barbecue in Australia 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 lifestyle, 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 grill, preparing a variety of foods from grilled meats to fresh seafood and refreshing salads.

The December 25 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 December 25 barbecue in Australia often includes outdoor games, such as cricket or soccer, 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 facade 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 colors and animations that captivate visitors.

The light show is a combination of technology and art, with projections illuminating the facade 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 the best guided tours in Melbourne, which is one of the most interesting alternatives to get to know the Christmas spirit of the city.

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

Aside from the light projections, the Melbourne City Council also often organizes special events in the square, such as 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 shopping during the festive season. 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 shopping in Melbourne during Christmas time is Bourke Street. There you will find a wide variety of stores, from large chain stores to boutiques and specialty stores. During the holiday season, many of these stores offer special discounts and promotions, giving you the opportunity to find unique gifts at lower prices.

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

If you prefer to look for bargains in a more traditional setting, you can visit Melbourne's Christmas markets, such as the Queen Victoria Market. There you will find a variety of stalls selling handcrafted 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 soak you in the festive spirit of the season. Altona, a suburb of Melbourne, is decked out with bright lights, colorful ornaments and decorations that create a magical and cozy atmosphere during Christmas, in a trademark of this place.

During the Christmas season, many homes and gardens in Altona are elaborately decorated with twinkling lights, inflatable figures and festive themes. You can enjoy a pleasant stroll through the residential streets to admire the wonderful displays and the creativity of the residents who strive to flood this Melbourne neighborhood with holiday cheer.

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

For a more organized experience, you can join special events in Altona that celebrate Christmas decorations. Some places organize 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.

Enjoying Melbourne's Christmas gastronomy is a delicious experience that will allow you to discover the festive flavors and aromas. During the holiday season, the city is filled with culinary options that will allow you to sample traditional and creative Christmas-inspired dishes.

One of the iconic seasonal foods in Melbourne is Christmas pudding. This rich and savory 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 in the city, where you will find classic and modern versions of this traditional sweet, and also in the best food tours in Melbourne.

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, such as lobsters, prawns, oysters and mussels. You can enjoy a feast of fresh seafood at one of the city's many seafood restaurants.

In addition to traditional dishes, Melbourne also offers creative and modern options for holiday 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-flavored ice creams or festive cocktails with a unique twist.

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

The concert is known for its ambiance and Christmas song offerings. 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 artists, 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, which create 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.