What's free in Melbourne this month

Gone a bit too hard on the wallet lately? These awesome activations, pop-ups and exhibitions won't cost a cent.

A giant illuminated purple Christmas Tree at Federation Square, surrounded by people and view of Flinders St Station and city buildings in the background.

Christmas Square

Until 25 Dec

Bring the family to Fed Square to see the giant tree aglow with spectacular nightly light and sound shows. Then catch free events all the way up to Christmas. See festive movies at the free pop-up cinema. Enjoy a glittering queer cabaret. Then celebrate Christmas the Koorie way with live music, DJ sets, film and a pop-up market.

Coloured lights illuminate water sprays high in the air on the Yarra River at night.

Crown Christmas River Show

Until 25 Dec

A spectacular river show is coming to Crown this Christmas! Head to Yarra 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.

German Christmas Market

6 – 14 Dec

Follow the scent of gingerbread to this traditional Christmas German market. Enjoy live music as you browse the stalls for handmade gifts and decorations. Pick up bratwurst, pretzels, German beer and glühwein. Plus look out for a visit from St Nikolaus!

Kids and adults playing summer cricket on an oval with stands seating.

Boxing Day Test Summer Fest

26 Dec

The summer of cricket is upon us! Even if you're not heading to the Boxing Day Test, you can still get down to the MCG for free family fun. Get the kids involved with skills challenges, games and fun giveaways. There'll also be local DJs and food trucks while you watch all the action live on the big screen.

A view over Melbourne by night, with buildings lit up.

New Year's Eve in Melbourne

31 Dec

Visit Melbourne's four free Celebration Zones to get front row views of the sparkling fireworks. There'll also be family-friendly entertainment and pop-ups to enjoy on the night.

Two people are looking at a colourful striped painting on a wall in a gallery. There is a large pink, soft blobby sculpture behind them.

Making Good: Redesigning the Everyday

Until 1 Feb

Discover how clever design of everyday objects can inspire change at this new exhibition. It features everything from fashion and furniture to food and construction. Check out clothing that adjusts as you grow, see how coffee grounds can be turned into concrete and more. This showcase features work from 50 designers, studios and brands from Australia and around the world.

People exploring an old church-like building with red carpet.

Sea Shanties and Folk Songs

Until 18 Dec

Heave ho to the Mission to Seafarers and live like a pirate in a century-old building. Test your pipes at a free sea shanty sing-along session. These ever popular sessions are the ultimate way to blow off some steam, pirate-style. Raid your treasure chest for some coins to order a rum or two at the bar.

Three people interacting with a neon light installation in a gallery.

Distraction

18 Feb – 2 May

Ponder the art of time wasting at this exhibition dedicated to distraction and doom-scrolling. Pledge back the time you’ve spent buried in your phone. Then explore weird and wonderful installations. See through the eyes of a cat in Japan. Play custom-built arcade games. Or join one of the workshops and lose yourself in creative flow.