What to do on December 25 if you don’t celebrate Christmas
Not celebrating Christmas? Don't despair, we've rounded a bunch of alternative things to do on December 25
If you’re one of the many who doesn't hang your holly and participate in the December holiday – or you're just looking for something to do after you open your presents – there are still plenty of activities to enjoy in Melbourne on December 25.
The fun doesn't end on December 25: find out what to do on New Year's Eve and what to do with yourself the week between Christmas and New Year's.
RECOMMENDED: Restaurants and cafés open on Christmas Day.
1. Visit the zoo
While everyone else is at home eating animals, you can visit them alive and kicking at Melbourne Zoo. Normal opening hours apply, giving non-Christmas goers a chance to skip the generous crowds the zoo attracts during the warmer months.
Open Christmas Day 9am-5pm (animal areas close 4.30pm).
2. Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens
Now that it has reopened, the Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens intends to resume its normal schedule of being open every day of the year – including on December 25. It’s the perfect location for a non-Christmas picnic, or walk off the turkey while gazing at the 8,500 species of plants that call the Botanic Gardens home.
Open Christmas Day 7.30am-sunset.
3. Soak away the holiday stress
The end of the year can be a stressful time, so visiting the Peninsula Hot Springs sounds like a wonderful way to relax and rejuvenate. The Bath House will be open from 5am until 10pm, so escape your family or bring them with you for a guaranteed tranquil Christmas.
Open 5am-10pm
4. Catch a flick
Escape Christmas on the silver screen. A surprising number of cinemas will be open on Christmas Day, including the Lido, Classic and Cameo Cinemas. They’ll have their usual film programs running plus a few extra holiday specials. If December 25 proves to be a hot one then catching a film also means an air-conditioned respite.
5. Unwind at the aquarium
It’s pretty difficult to light a brandy pudding under the sea, so fish tend to not celebrate Christmas. While the rest of the city is busy turning up the festive factor, take a stroll through the tranquil exhibits of the aquarium.
Open Christmas Day 9.30am-6pm (last entry 5pm).
6. Grab a Chinese feed
Many shops and restaurants in Chinatown will be celebrating Christmas by staying open and offering sustenance to anyone caught out by the city shutdown.
7. Go to St Kilda Beach
Yes, we know, Melbourne beaches don't have waves. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the summer weather and go for a dip. Wear a Santa hat and a bikini, bring some friends and chill out, or just read a book and relax – enjoy the day however you would like.
8. Go for a walk
National and state parks don't close for Christmas, and it's a great time to stretch your legs when lots of other people are staying close to home. Plus, a nice gentle walk is a great way to settle your lunch – and make room for seconds when you get back.
Thinking about a barbecue?
The best public barbecue spots in Melbourne
Pack the family, dog, and your friends for a park barbecue around Melbourne. We've made things easy and picked out the best spots for you.