The best things to do with your family at Christmas
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.
The best family Christmas events in Melbourne
Christmas Square – 28 November to 25 December
Christmas Stamp Trail – 28 November to 25 December
Crown Christmas River Show – 28 November to 25 December
Bubble Show for Christmas – 23 and 24 December
Vision Australia Carols by Candlelight – 23 and 24 December
Christmas Cinema – 6 December to 21 December
Head to Christmas Square for the giant sparkling tree
28 November to 25 December
There's plenty to love at Christmas Square, and you can't miss the 17.5-metre high LED tree. Head to Federation Square and marvel at the dazzling structure and more glittering decorations. A spectacular sound and light show will fill the space with a beautiful festive glow from 9pm to 11pm every night.
Follow a merry trail through Melbourne
28 November to 25 December
Add some cheer to your Christmas shopping with this fun city adventure. Pick up a Christmas map at one of the Melbourne visitor centres and start your quest. From Melbourne Central to Town Hall, collect all five stamps to reveal a secret codeword. Spot magical Christmas decorations dotting the streets along the way. Then scan the QR code on your map for a chance to win a special prize valued at $4000!
See a magical Christmas river show
From 28 November to 25 December
A spectacular river show is coming to Crown this Christmas! Head to Southbank Promenade to catch this dazzling Christmas show featuring water fountains, lasers, light projections and a festive soundtrack. Shows will run from 9pm to 11pm each night.
See a festive bubble show
23 and 24 December
A cute and bubbly Christmas show is coming to Melbourne for two magical days. Mayhem breaks loose when Dr Bubble, Santa's official bubble maker, accidentally brings a new friend to life. Kids of all ages will be dazzled by the stunning bubble displays in this Christmas adventure.
Visit the iconic annual Carols by Candlelight
23 and 24 December
Melbourne's most beloved Christmas tradition returns for another star-studded year. See famous faces perform stirring renditions of all your favourite festive tunes. Visit on Christmas Eve or score discounted tickets for the rehearsal on 23 December. And it's all for a good cause – the Carols raise money for Vision Australia's children's services.
Catch a screening of your fave festive films
6 December to 21 December
Get to the iconic Capitol Theatre to see your favourite Christmas movies. The program features a mix of cult-classic family favourites including The Santa Clause, Home Alone, Arthur Christmas and Elf. They're playing every weekend through December up until Christmas. Tickets are $8 per person or $5 for kids, seniors and concession holders.
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More Christmas fun
Let's Dance with Shenzhen Airlines
Show off your dance moves, and see the floor react in time with the music.
Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Discover the magic of the mean one this holiday season at this live family concert.
Big Christmas Spectacular
Iconic jingles, hilarious Santa moments and world-class show dancing, perfect for all ages.
Koorie Krismas
Koorie Klaus is back to spread festive cheer at the Koorie Heritage Trust’s annual Koorie Krismas.
Festive Gingerbread Workshop
Create your own gingerbread house with festive drinks, food and guided fun for all ages.
Classic Kids: A Symphonic Christmas
Celebrate the season with a magical performance for families from the MSO.
Boho Luxe Market: Christmas Edition
A Christmas design market full of handmade, ethically sourced products.
Royal Melbourne Philharmonic: Carols in the Cathedral
Enjoy a stunning concert of traditional Christmas music and carols in St Paul’s Cathedral.
Photos with Santa
Make this Christmas one to remember with a magical Santa experience like no other.
Christmas Lights Cruise
Sail the Yarra and soak up Melbourne’s festive sparkle on a magical Christmas Lights Cruise.
Last updated on Thu 6 Nov 2025
Christmas
Christmas things to do
The city’s wrapped and ready with magical moments, twinkling lights and festive fun.
Christmas eat and drink
Unwrap the city’s surprises with rooftop bars, twinkling laneways and menus made for merry moments.
Discover more
Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight
A cherished tradition featuring live performances from artists, choirs, comedians and more.
Myer Christmas Windows
Celebrating 70 years of the Myer Christmas Windows, open from Saturday, 8 November.
Christmas Decorations
Christmas comes to life around the city with sparkly decorations spreading festive cheer.
