The best things to do with your family at Christmas

A family with kids at a Christmas event with a large glowing Christmas tree.

Grab your little ones and plan a family day out during the festive season. These free events, fun activities and unique experiences will be loved by young and old. Come back later in the year to find out what's on for families at Christmas in 2026.

More Christmas inspo

Santa sitting on a throne with two kids.

Best Santa photo spots in Melbourne

Skip the Westfield crowd and get unique Santa photos in Melbourne.

A woman is looking at toys in a toy store

Melbourne's best gifts for kids

Treat the kids in your life to a little something special from Melbourne's best boutiques.

Girl looking out at mini village display in the garden.

The best free and cheap family activities

Find family-friendly fun and free events in Melbourne.

An outdoor restaurant by the river with pizza and pasta dishes on the table.

The best family-friendly restaurants in Melbourne

Grab a bite at one of these kid-approved and pram-friendly spots.

Last updated on Fri 26 Dec 2025

Only In The City

Only in the City
Inside a bustling market hall

Things you can only see in the city

Uncover secret rooms, historic architecture and iconic landmarks found only in the city.

A family of four standing in a grand library with antique desks, large white walls and a dome ceiling.

Things you can only do in the city

There's only one place to find these rare Melbourne experiences and secret spots.

Multiple plates on a white table cloth.

Things you can only eat in the city

Where to find the city's most iconic dishes.

Discover more

A person wearing a green, inflatable Christmas Tree mascot costume holding hands with a young child in a festive outdoor setting.
–

Mr Fantastico's Christmas Rooftop Carnival

Free Christmas fun with live performances, Santa activities and creative workshops.

A massive outdoor crowd, many wearing red festive Santa hats gathers for an evening Carols by Candlelight concert at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl with the city skyline visible behind the illuminated canopy stage.
–

Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight

A cherished tradition featuring live performances on Christmas Eve.

Performers dressed as Christmas elves in red and green festive costumes with pointed ears during a holiday stage production or interactive experience.
–

The Lucky Door: A Merry Kidsmas

Merry Kidsmas is an immersive Christmas experience created especially for children and families.

A dramatic stage moment from a production of The Nutcracker ballet, showcasing classic choreography under theatrical lighting.
–

The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker returns to Melbourne's Regent Theatre this Christmas with a live orchestra.