Green-lit Christmas tree in Fed Square with crowds of people and city buildings.

28 Nov

Christmas Tree Lighting

Christmas starts in the city! Join the celebrations as we officially open the 2025 City of Melbourne Christmas Festival.

Enjoy free face painting, roving entertainment, festive giveaways, and merry performances before the countdown to the lighting of the giant 17.5m Christmas Tree.

This is a Christmas Festival event, presented by City of Melbourne in partnership with Fed Square. Once again, Christmas Square lights up with 100% wind powered Christmas cheer.

City of Melbourne is committed to making events as accessible as possible. If you have any questions regarding accessibility at Christmas Festival events, please contact us.

Date	Times
Fri 28 Nov	6:00pm - 9:00pm

All accessibility information is self-reported by the listing owner. It has not been verified by the City of Melbourne.

Start here

Christmas things to do

Christmas things to do

The city’s wrapped and ready with magical moments, twinkling lights and festive fun.

Christmas eat and drink

Christmas eat and drink

Savour the city’s festive flavours with rooftop bars, laneways and menus made for merry moments.

Christmas shopping

Christmas shopping

Start ticking off your list in the city’s iconic laneways, arcades and malls.

Discover more

Christmas Square

28 Nov – 25 Dec

Christmas Square

Discover a Christmas wonderland featuring the city’s giant tree.

The Magnificent Christmas Magic Show

The Magnificent Christmas Magic Show

A festive evening of wonder for the whole family.

Christmas Outdoor Cinema: Naughty or Nice

Christmas Outdoor Cinema: Naughty or Nice

Fed Square screens Christmas family favourites followed by grown-up cult classics.

Christmas Decorations

28 Nov – 25 Dec

Christmas Decorations

Christmas comes to life around the city with sparkly decorations spreading festive cheer.