45 Free Christmas Events and Activities in Melbourne 2024
Christmas doesn't have to be a time where there is a constant waterfall of money running out of your wallet. There are many FREE events across Melbourne to celebrate the festive season which cater for all ages.
Here is a huge list of free events and activities in Melbourne which we have compiled for the 2024 Christmas period. Clink on the links for more information about each event.
FREE CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN CENTRAL MELBOURNE
Myer Christmas WindowWhat: The Myer windows are a long standing tradition which is entering its 69th magical year. Join Ace the Eagle and experience an Irwin's Christmas Story this year. From leaping lemurs and grazing giraffes follow Ace across oceans and savannas on his magical adventure.
Where: Myer Melbourne Bourke Street
When: The windows will be on display daily from Sun 17 Nov 2024 - Sun 5 Jan 2025 10am-10:00pm.
Myer Santaland
What: Take a ride on the Santaland express, send him a letter from Santa's Workshop and get a photo of your little ones meeting him. Note: Bookings are highly recommended. The Santaland experience is free but if you want to take your Santa photo home you will need to purchase a photo package.
Where: Myer Melbourne Bourke Street
When: Wed 13 Nov - Tues 24th Dec, 10:30am-5:50pm
Christmas Square
What: Christmas comes to life at Christmas Square at Federation Square. There are festive decorations aplenty centred around the city's iconic 16-metre light-up tree.
Where: Federation Square, Melbourne CBD
When: Fri 29th Nov - Wed 25th Dec, all day
Town Hall Christmas Projections
What: During the day, there are nutcracker soldiers, the iconic town hall bow and beautiful themed flower beds and after dark towering projections bath the building in beautiful displays.
Where: Melbourne Town Hall, 90-130 Swanston Street, Melbourne
When: Fri 29th Nov - Wed 25th Dec, 9pm -11pm daily
Christmas Decorations
What: The Giant Reindeer sparkles at Victoria Harbour (near Merchant Street), the Christmas Star shines on Evan Walker Bridge, an impressive light show shines over Bourke Street Mall and the popular Nutcracker soldiers stand guard across the city. Also in the Docklands area, there are iconic Merry Christmas letters across Harbour Esplanade, traditional crackers along New Quay Promenade and Victoria Harbour Promenade and giant present boxes scattered throughout the entire precinct.
Where: Throughout the streets of Melbourne (more than 40 locations in total)
When: Fri 29th Nov - Wed 25th Dec, all day
Nth Pole
What: The Nth Pole is the experience for family and friends to enjoy this December, with Stadium Square at Marvel Stadium transformed into a magical holiday event featuring Melbourne's only Christmas themed 360? cinema, a giant 9-metre Christmas tree of Marvel Heroes, 18 AFL club-themed Christmas trees, Santa photography with AFL club colours and much more. Note: There are free and paid ticketed elements available.
Where: Stadium Square (Gates 2&3), Marvel Stadium, 740 Bourke St, Docklands
When: Tue 3 Dec - Mon 23rd Dec, 10am-6pm
Christmas at Queensbridge Square
What: Take a whirl on the illuminated swings or watch the Christmas tree light up as you play on the see-saw in this festive pop-up at Queensbridge Square.
Where: Queensbridge Square, 3 Queens Bridge St, Southbank
When: Fri 29 Nov - Wed 25th Dec, all day
Koorie Krismas
What: Experience the magic of Koorie Krismas! Discover a range of free workshops for kids and families and learn how to make jewellery, badges and bush tukka. Enjoy performances from local First Nations musicians, dancers and poets and a visit from Koorie Klaus himself.
Where: Federation Square
When: Sat 14th Dec, 10am-3pm
Crown Christmas River Show
What: A spectacular river show is coming to the Birrarung - Yarra River this Christmas! Head to Southbank Promenade outside Crown to catch this dazzling Christmas show featuring water fountains, lasers, light projections and a festive soundtrack. Shows will run every 15 minutes each night.
Where: Outside Crown, Yarra Promenade, Southbank
When: Fri 29th Nov to Wed 25th Dec, 9-11pm
Japan Christmas Festival
What: Immerse yourself in the culture of Japan with a day of creative workshops, market stalls and live music at the Japaneasy studios. Join Christmas themed workshops and make your own special Christmas gifts including Wagashi-making, Sumi-e Japanese ink art and Hanko stamp carving. Entry is free for the markets; costs and times vary for the workshops. Bookings are recommended, however walk-ins are also welcome.
Where: Japaneasy Language & Culture School, L1/152 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne
When: Sun 8 Dec, 10am - 4pm
Melbourne City Christmas Treasure Hunt
What: Collect a free treasure map from Mary Martin Bookshop in Southbank and embark on a quest for clues among Melbourne's hidden laneways. The treasure map was designed by local children's author and illustrator Mitchell Toy. Toy has also created a stunning Christmas illustration on the bookshop window featuring characters from the book and a final clue.
The treasure hunt begins and ends at Mary Martin Bookshop and is aimed at children aged between 5 and 12 years, although all are welcome to take part. This year's route takes approximately 90-minutes to complete and includes short stretches by tram. Children who complete the treasure hunt and solve the riddle receive a treasure bag of sweets and the chance to win a prize in the Golden Bookmark lucky dip.
Where: Ground Floor Southgate, Mary Martin Bookshop, G17/3 Southgate Ave, Southbank
When: Sun 1st Dec - Tues 31st Dec, 10am - 6:30pm (to 7:30pm Fridays and to 9pm Saturdays)
Santa Storytime
What: Join in for a very merry Storytime, with Christmas stories, songs and craft at City Library. For ages 3 to 5.
Where: City Library, 253 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
When: Mon 2 Dec, 10.30 - 11.15am
Kensington Christmas Fun
What: Come down to Kensington to enjoy roving Christmas-themed entertainment, face painters, stiltwalker and Santa.
Where: Macaulay Road & Bellair Street, Macaulay Rd, Kensington
When: Sat 30 Nov, 10am - 3pm
Carlton Gardens Christmas StoryWalk
What: Gather with friends and family in the park for a picnic, visit the museum, play on the fabulous playground...and while you're there, pick up a map and clue sheet at the registration desk near the children?s playground (enter via Rathdowne Street, north of the Melbourne Museum). Suitable for children ages 2-8 (must be accompanied by an adult). This event takes approximately 45 minutes to 1-hour to complete.
Where: Carlton Gardens Playground, 111 Carlton St, Carlton
When: Sun 8 Dec, 9.30am - 3pm
Browse at Ambiance
What: Browse the five rooms of Ambiance which has one of the largest ranges of Christmas ornaments and decorations from all over the world, many of them unique and unusual. Browsing is free but can you resist buying something from the amazing collection?
Where: Queen Victoria Market, 509-511 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne
When: Store hours are Sun-Fri: 9 am-5 pm, Sat: 8:30 am-4 pm
Visit the iconic Christmas Tree at 333 Collins Street
What: A beautiful sparkling tree set in the ornate foyer of an impressive building.
Where: 333 Collins Street, Melbourne
When: During December
Christmas Carnival
What: Enjoy festive thrills on the banks of the Birrarung at the Christmas Carnival. Ride the ferris wheel, drive the dodgems or get the best view of the city lights as you spin 35-metres in the air on top of the Sky Flyer. Try your luck at much-loved carnival games and complete the experience with classic carnival food. Entry is free. Tickets for each ride can be purchased at the ticket box on site.
Where: Alexandra Gardens, 3 Boathouse Dr, Melbourne
When: Fri 6th Dec - Tue 24th Dec, 2-10pm
Boho Luxe Market: Christmas Edition
What: At the Boho Luxe Market you'll see the work of some of Melbourne's most talented jewellers, fashion designers, illustrators, artists, and makers. Plus there are creative workshops available, and psychic readings throughout the day. Enjoy cool tunes, great food and browse some of the most beautiful market stalls in Melbourne. Entry is free but can you resist buying something.
Where: The Atrium, Federation Square, Swanston St, Melbourne
When: Sun 8th Dec, 10am - 4pm
As Camp as Christmas
What: If you've found yourself on the naughty list this year, then come and join The Huxleys for the festive frenzy of As Camp as Christmas. Returning for the second year to Fed Square, this will be a rainbow celebration to make all your wildest Christmas wishes come true. The sparkling celebrations will commence with a screening of the spandex and glittertastic Baz Luhrmann classic, Strictly Ballroom, on our Big Screen, followed by a live performance by the Rainbow Voices Community Choir and the Divine Divas Show Choir on the Main Stage.
Where: Fed Square, Swanston St & Flinders St, Melbourne
When: Fri 20th Dec, 6pm - 10pm
Crown's Live Christmas Show
What: Bring your family to experience the show on the Atrium staircase with Crown's festive dance troupe. Feel the magic of everyone's favourite holiday as Crown transforms into a wonderland filled with live entertainment, family fun, and lashings of Christmas cheer. Christmas carols follows the show.
Where: The Crown Atrium, 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank
When: 1pm, 3pm and 5pm Fri 13th Dec - Sun 15th Dec and Fri 20th Dec - Tues 24th Dec
Crown's Christmas Carols
What: Sing along to your holiday favourites at Crown's Christmas Carols with special guests, the Gospo Choir..
Where: Crown Riverwalk, 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank
When: Sat Dec 21, 7:30pm - 8:30pm
Photos with Santa at Crown
What: Have your free photo taken with Santa and see Santa's roving friends.
Where: The Crown Atrium, 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank
When: Sun 1 Dec - Tues 24 Dec 11am - 5pm
The QV Tree Experience
What:Feel the festive in QV Square when you first catch sight of the illuminated QV Christmas sculpture, a centrepiece of epic proportions and electric neon joy. The 11-metre industrial sculpture is an interplay of steel and scale, adorned in giant baubles that seemingly float above you. This curated spectacle is a first-of-its-kind comprising of 1,100 metres of pink scaffolding! As the sun settles over the city, watch the artistic neon lights illuminate the night sky, and those gathered around it.
Where: QV Square, Level 2, QV Melbourne, Corner Swanston and Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
When: 21 Nov - 31 Dec. Christmas trading hours.
Chanukah - Pillars of Light
What: Pillars of Light, in celebration of Chanukah, is providing Melbournians with an opportunity to come together over a multicultural celebration, focusing on what unites us as a city. Each evening features a bespoke program highlighting the core precepts of connection and collaboration through guest speakers, dignitaries, artistic performers, cultural groups, sports people and more, who'll be invited to light the menorah, bringing together our varied communities through hope, positivity, love and light.
Where: Main Square at Federation Square
When: Wed 25 Dec (7-9:30pm), Thu 26 Dec (7-9:30pm), Fri 27 Dec (4-6:30pm), Sun 29 Dec (5-8pm), Mon 30 Dec (7-9:30pm)
More Christmas Events in the City
FREE CHRISTMAS EVENTS/ACTIVITIES IN SUBURBAN MELBOURNE
The Best Christmas Lights around Melbourne
What: Pop the family in the car and visit some wonderful sparkling Christmas lights across Melbourne
Where: All across Melbourne
When: From early in December
Volunteer at Christmas
What: Although Christmas is a time for joy for many, for those doing it tough - it is often challenging, heartbreaking and isolating. Many Australians are going to struggle to have even a modest celebration. There are a number of organisations where you can generously donate your time to give back to those less fortunate.
Where: Across Melbourne
When: Any time
Twilight Christmas Market and Lighting of Christmas Tree at Bunjil Place
What: Celebrate the festive season at Bunjil Place with live music, food trucks, workshops, performers, artisan markets and the lighting of the plaza Christmas tree.
Where: Bunjil Place Plaza, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren
When: Sat 30 Nov, 3-9pm (tree lit at 8pm)
Carols by the Bay
What: There will be roving musicians playing your favourite Christmas tunes, street artists, neon lights and photo booth to capture your special Christmas moments.
Where: Albert Park Village, Bridport Street, Albert Park
When: Taking a break in 2024
Santa at South Melbourne Market
What: Santa will be taking some time out from his busy schedule to visit the Market. Catch him visiting the traders as he wanders around the Market, spreading festive cheer to all.
Where: South Melbourne Market, 322-326 Coventry St, South Melbourne
When: Sun 22 Dec, 11am-1pm, Mon 23rd Dec, 11am-1pm, Tue 24th Dec, 11am-1pm,
Heide Christmas Market
What: The market is set on the grounds of the sculpture park and showcases the work of up to 120 different makers each month, from artwork to tasty treats.
Where: Heide Museum of Modern Art Sculpture Park, 7 Templestowe Road Bulleen
When: Sat 14th Dec, 10am-3pm
Port Melbourne's Artisan Christmas Market
What: Around 150 different and unique artisan offerings for you to browse, featuring a range of handmade, locally produced gifts, art pieces, designs, jewellery and more - there's even something for our four legged friends.
Where: Bay Street, Port Melbourne
When: Sat 7th Dec, 11am-5pm
St Kilda Esplanade Christmas Market
What: Meet Santa and his elf between 10:30 and 1:30pm. Treat yourself or loved ones with something unique this Christmas from the market makers.
Where: Esplanade, St Kilda
When: Sun 22nd Dec, 10am-5pm
Frankston's Christmas Festival of Lights
What: Christmas performances, market stalls, kids craft activities and of course, the big man himself, Santa will be there to take your Christmas wishes and pass them onto the elves in time for Christmas morning and ending with a fireworks display.
Where: Davey Street and Young Street, Frankston
When: Sat 30th Nov, 4:30-9:30pm
Australian Nativity Scene
What: One of Australia's best and largest traditional nativity scene created by Wilson Fernandez. Each week the nativity scene conveys the story of Christmas. It features scenes starting with Mary and Joseph looking for a place to stay, finding only a stable free, the birth of Jesus, visits from the shepherds, the three kings and ends with the holy family fleeing to Egypt.
Where: St Elizabeth's Parish, 107 Baker Rd, Dandenong North
When: Mon 9 Dec - Fri 10th Jan, 10.30am - 8pm (typically). Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day. Viewing time by appointment only. Contact Wilson on 0428 927 110 or 9795 6217 (parish office)
FREE CHRISTMAS CAROLS - MELBOURNE'S SOUTH AND SOUTH-EAST
Bayside Christmas Carols in the Park (Brighton East)
What: Headline acts Rhona Burchmore and Richard Thomas will be joined by a stellar support ensemble, including 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.
Where: Dendy Park, Brighton East
When: Tue 10th Dec, Carols are 7:30-9:30pm with pre-show fun starting at 5.30pm. Fireworks start at 9:30pm.
Carols by Kingston (Chelsea)
What: Your favourite carols, fabulous performers, amazing food and spectacular fireworks at 9:15pm.
Where: Bicentennial Park, Thames Promenade & Scotch Parade, Chelsea
When: Sun 8th Dec, 5 - 9:30 pm
Greater Dandenong Carols (Dandenong)
What: There will be an exciting stage program, interactive roving performers, free activities, delicious food stalls and a Christmas craft market promising a festive community atmosphere. The Christmas Carols sing-along will begin from 6pm with a variety of amazing performers. Meet, greet and photo opportunity with Santa.
Where: Harmony Square, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong
When: Fri 6th Dec, 6 - 9pm (5.30pm pre-show entertainment)
Monash Carols by Candlelight (Glen Waverley)
What: Festivities begin with children's activities and pre-show entertainment. Then the main concert gets underway and features a stellar line-up including the Monash Carols Band (comprising the Monash Concert Band and Oakleigh Brass), The Carols All Star Band, and guest soloists. There will be a special appearance by Santa and a spectacular fireworks finale.
Where: Jells Park, Wheelers Hill
When: Sat 7th Dec (5:30-9:15pm). Free ticketed event.
Casey Christmas Carols (Hampton Park)
What: Join thousands of families amid the joyful music, rides and food is a festive atmosphere.
Where: Cairns Road Reserve, Hampton Park
When: Fri 20th Dec, 4.30pm - 9:30pm
Family Christmas at Central Park (Malvern East)
What: The evening will be led by mercurial Musical Director Casey Bennetto, hosted by Sammy J and featuring outstanding performers including the talented Alinta Chidzey, Kiran Rajasingam and Geraldine Quinn. This free concert presents jolly children's activities, roving entertainment, delicious food trucks, and Christmas carols.
Where: Central Park, 83-141 Burke Road, Malvern East
When: Sun 8th Dec. 5:50 - 7:30pm
Carols at Como Park (South Yarra)
What: This free concert presents a merry and bright experience for family and friends with roving entertainment, delicious food trucks, Christmas carols and an incredible pyrotechnics display set to classical music that will light up the sky with the festive spirit. Hosted by the delightful Lucy Durack and featuring Gatesy (Steven Gates), Silvie Paladino, South of the River Choir with Musical Director Casey Bennetto.
Where: Como Park, 305-325 Williams Road, South Yarra
When: Sun 15th Dec. 7.30 - 9.30pm
FREE CHRISTMAS CAROLS - MELBOURNE'S EAST
Carols in the Park (Balwyn North)
What: An evening of carols for all the family to enjoy.
Where: 101 Belmore Rd, Balwyn North
When: Sat 14th Dec, 6:30-9:30pm
Carols in Canterbury (Canterbury)
What: Bring a picnic rug to enjoy live local music, food vans and sausage sizzle.
Where: Canterbury Gardens, 190A Canterbury Road Canterbury
When: Sat 8th Dec, 4:30-8pm. Children?s activities and face painting start from 4:30pm and music starts at 5:30pm.
Maroondah Carols (Croydon)
What: There will be pre-show entertainment, the Maroondah Carols Band, delicious food vendors, a free kid's zone and a spectacular firework show.
Where: Town Park, Norton Road, Croydon
When: Sat 7th Dec, 6-10pm
Manningham Carols by Candlelight (Doncaster)
What: Featuring local and national performers, fun activities and some of Melbourne's best food trucks, this event is entertaining for the whole family. Santa will be stopping by and the evening will finish with a spectacular fireworks finale.
Where: Ruffey Lake Park, George Street, Doncaster
When: Fri 13th Dec. Pre-show entertainment from 6pm, main concert: 7:30-9:30pm, fireworks: 9:30-9:40pm
Glen Eira Carols in the Park (Bentleigh)
What: Enjoy festive tunes from a wonderful range of local and much-loved performers and children can enjoy Christmas crafts, face painting and maybe even a special visit from Santa at the free annual Carols in the Park.
Where: Bentleigh Hodgson Reserve, Higgins Road, Bentleigh
When: Sat 14th Dec, 4pm-8pm
Knox Carols by Candlelight (Ferntree Gully)
What: Lots of activities including carols, craft activities, roving Christmas characters, jumping castle ad face painting. No fireworks this year due to works on the second oval.
Where: Wally Tew Reserve, Brenock Park Drive, Ferntree Gully
When: Sat 14th Dec. Family activities 4-8pm, pre-show entertainment 5:30-7:30pm, carols 8-10pm
Montrose Community Christmas Carols (Montrose)
What: A relaxed outdoor Christmas carols event, presented by Montrose Church of Christ. Bring your picnic gear and enjoy a free sausage sizzle, performances by local schools, a visit from Santa, gifts for all the children, and of course your favourite Christmas carols.
Where: Montrose Town Centre, 935 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, Montrose
When: Sun 8th Dec, 5:15-8pm
Whitehorse Carols (Nunawading)
What: An unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and Christmas magic. Bring your picnic rug, gather your loved ones, and find a cosy spot on the lush lawn as the enchanting melodies fill the air.
Where: Whitehorse Civic Centre Precinct, Nunawading
When: Sat 14th Dec, 6:30pm - 9:30pm. Stage performances from 5.30pm.
Pakenham's Carols by Candlelight (Pakenham)
What: The program carols and a spectacular fireworks display will end the night's festivities.
Where: Toomuc Recreation Reserve , Princes Highway, Pakenham
When: Sat 7th Dec, 4:30-9 pm. Pre-entertainment activities from 4:30pm - 6:30pm, main show from 6:30pm - 9:00pm capped off with fireworks.
FREE CHRISTMAS CAROLS - MELBOURNE'S NORTH AND NORTH-EAST
Yarra Christmas Carols in the Park (Fitzroy North)
What: This free, family friendly event will feature special guests Casey Bennetto and band, performances by local school and community choirs as well as other fabulous performers. There will also be an appearance from Santa, along with food and drink stalls.
Where: Edinburgh Gardens, Fitzroy North
When: Wed 11th Dec, 6 - 9 pm
Merri-bek Carols by the Lake (Coburg)
What: Merri-bek Community Band will provide all the festive tunes as is tradition. Enjoy enchanting carol performances, festive lights, and a joyful community atmosphere.
Where: Sound Shell, Coburg Lake Reserve, Gaffney Street, Coburg
When: Sat 7th Dec, 6-9pm
Craigieburn Carols by Candlelight (Craigieburn)
What: An unforgettable night will include a Christmas Show, Christmas themed stalls, performances from local musicians and school choirs, children's activities, arts and crafts market, delicious food and drink vendors, fireworks finale display and more.
Where: Craigieburn Anzac Park, Corner Aitken Blvd and Central Park Ave, Craigieburn
When: Sat 7th Dec, 5-9:30pm (main stage performances 7-9:30pm)
Banyule's Carols by Candlelight (Greensborough)
What: Join us for a live Christmas celebration featuring guest star and emcee Wilbur Wild, The Troublemakers, Wendy Stapleton, Joe Camilleri, Sean Millis, Zoe Sunday, Australian Children's Choir, Diamond Valley Brass Band, Celia and Friends, Team Dream and the Chao Feng Chinese Orchestra.
Where: Greensborough War Memorial Park, Henry Street, Greensborough
When: Sat 14th Dec, 5-9:30pm. The carols show starts at 7pm, and Santa will make an appearance at 8pm.
Whittlesea Carols by Candlelight (South Morang)
What: Carols will be jam-packed with fun and exciting activities like face painting, roving performances, art & craft activities, a twilight market and, of course, lots of singing. Santa himself will make a special appearance. The concert will be graced by the tunes of the Diamond Valley Brass Band as they serenade us with beloved traditional carols. Joining them will be the Community Carols Choir, composed of 60 dedicated City of Whittlesea community members.
Where: Civic Terrace Lawns, Civic Centre 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang
When: Fri 13th Dec, 6-9pm
FREE CHRISTMAS CAROLS - MELBOURNE'S WEST AND NORTH-WEST
Brimbank Festive Family Fun Day (St Albans)
What: Bring your family and friends to enjoy a full stage show program of entertainment, community performers and sing-a-long Christmas carols. There also will delicious food to tempt your taste buds, as well as face painting, craft activities for the kids to show off their creative flair. And you will get the chance to pose for a festive photo in our Christmas Wonderland with the jolly fellow in red, Santa Claus.
Where: Errington Reserve, St Albans.
When: Sun 1st Dec, 11am-3pm
Melton Carols by Candlelight (Melton)
What: Activities include face painting, Santa letter writing, Christmas market, food trucks, The Grinch Christmas movie screening, community performances and Carols by Candlelight.
Where: Hannah Watts Park, High Street, Melton
When: Sat 14th Dec, 5-9:30pm
Carols in Queens Park (Moonee Ponds)
What: Some very special guests, this festive celebration is sure to be a hit for the whole family. Enjoy an outstanding line-up of musical performances from one of Australia?s must-see artists, plus a very special visitor direct from the North Pole!.
Where: Queens Park, Cnr Mt Alexander Road and Kellaway Avenue, Moonee Ponds
When: Sat 7th Dec, 4:30-8:30pm (carols start from 6:30pm)
Web Links
→ The Best Christmas Lights around Melbourne 2024
→ The Best Christmas Lights in the Outer East of Melbourne
→ The Best Christmas Lights in the Outer North of Melbourne
→ The Best Christmas Lights in the North West of Melbourne
→ The Best Christmas Lights in the Mornington Peninsula Area
→ 45 Free Christmas Events and Activities in Melbourne
→ The Best Christmas Streets in Melbourne
