Christmas in Melbourne

Have the jolliest holiday with our guide to festive events, activities and pop-ups in Melbourne

By Time Out editors Posted: Saturday December 1 2018

2018 Christmas Festival — Photograph: Dean Walliss

Christmas in Melbourne may not be a winter wonderland, but what we lack in snow we make up with barbecues, seafood, long lunches and festive lights in the city. Find out where you can buy a real Christmas tree, marvel at Christmas lights around town and find one-of-a-kind Christmas presents.

Festive things to do in Melbourne

Things to do

Where to find Christmas lights in Melbourne

Get into the yuletide spirit with these cheery Christmas light displays around town.

Shopping

Where to buy a real Christmas tree in Melbourne

Bring the festive cheer into your living room with a big, bright Christmas tree.

Shopping

Shop handmade at Christmas markets

Christmas is the time for family, friends, feasting and forgetting to buy presents until the last minute. Thankfully Melbourne has a number of December Christmas markets giving you ample opportunity to grab gifts that will make your loved ones smile on Christmas morning. Plus we've got lots more Christmas gift ideas if you're really stuck. Shopping done? Celebrate with a bevvie at one of our best rooftop bars.

Shopping

Last-minute Christmas gift ideas

Head to these boutiques, providores and design stores and find the perfect present.

Things to do on Christmas Day

Restaurants

Restaurants and cafés open on Christmas Day in Melbourne

We've found the few places that are still making food and coffee on December 25.

Restaurants

The best Christmas Day lunches in Melbourne

Treat yourself to a merry Christmas lunch at one of Melbourne's finest restaurants.

Things to do

What to do on December 25 if you don’t celebrate Christmas

Here's a handy list for those who don't participate in the December 25 holiday.

Things to do

The best picnic spots in Melbourne

Take your festivities outside if the weather's nice at one of these picnic spots.

What's on after Christmas?

Things to do

Things to do in Melbourne between Xmas and NYE

Staying in town before New Year's? There's plenty to do!

Things to do

New Year's Eve in Melbourne

From prime fireworks locations to parties, here are all the best things to do on NYE.

Things to do

Fun things to do this summer in Melbourne

Make the most of the long sunny days and warm evenings by seeing how many of these events you can tick off. While you're out living your best summer, be sure to try some of Melbourne's best ice cream and gelato and check out some of the city's best beaches.

Music

Summer music festivals

Our top picks for the best line-ups, the tastiest food offerings and the most exotic locations.

Things to do

Summer night markets in Melbourne

Make the most of the warm summer evenings and get stuck into Melbourne's night markets.

Kids

Summer school holiday activities in Melbourne

School's out for summer, so round up the littlies and check out these fun family events.

Things to do

All the best things to do in Melbourne in January

Start the new year right with our guide to all the events you won't want to miss.

Things to do

All the best things to do in Melbourne in February

Street festivals, blockbuster musicals and the Inflatable Regatta: February is looking pretty sweet.

Bars

The best rooftop bars in Melbourne

Because lording it over the rest of the city, drink in hand, is truly one of life's great pleasures.

Film

The best outdoor cinemas in Melbourne

Catch cult favourites and new releases under the stars this summer.

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