melbourne skyline

Christmas, New Years Events in Melbourne

The New Year’s Eve celebrations in Melbourne might not be as world famous as the Sydney fireworks but it’s a major event and the fireworks are also spectacular. Being in Australia means you’ll be one of the first to see in the New Year… But what can you do or where should you go over the festive holiday period in Melbourne? We’ve put together a list of some of the best events happening this year.

Christmas in Melbourne

There is so much going on in and around Melbourne in the lead up to Christmas. With loads of markets for your Christmas shopping, lots of Christmas decorations all over the city to get you in the mood and the Town Hall will be lit up with a “breathtaking light display” you’ll definitely be feeling the Christmas spirit.

Arts Centre Melbourne Sunday Market
Find yourself some unique handmade goods or maybe even buy some original Christmas gifts for your loved ones!
When? Every Sunday
Time? 10am – 4pm
Cost? However much you spend!
More info? here

Myer Christmas Windows
This is an iconic Christmas event for every Melburnian. Head on down to Burke Street inMelbourne’s CBD to view the amazing Christmas displays in Myer’s shop front windows. This years theme is Alice in Wonderland.
When? 10th November –  6th January
Time? 7am – 11pm (But there’s generally a queue)
Cost? FREE!

Christmas Square & Official Tree Lighting Ceremony
Christmas Square will serve as the festival hub this festive season. The official Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place from 6:30pm on the 30th of November and leading up to Christmas Day the Square will feature DJs, night light installations, visits from Santa, interactive candy canes and more!
When? 30th November – 25th December
Time? 10am – 11pm
Cost? FREE!

Carols by Candlelight
If you REALLY want to get into the Christmas Spirit, Melbourne’s Sydney Myer Music Bowl hosts a huge event that includes the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and some of Australia’s best talent. The concert has been a long standing Melbourne tradition, it’s outdoors and you can bring your own picnic and sing along!
When? Christmas Eve
Time? 2pm – 11pm
Cost? from $70 (although you could go to the rehearsal night the night before for a cheaper sing a long!
More info? here

New Years Eve in Melbourne

There are free events provided by the City of Melbourne, including New Year’s Eve fireworks spectacular and free entertainment in the city. Come into the city and celebrate the dawning of the New Year at Melbourne’s largest free public celebration!

Federation Square had an amazing night last year. Not only is it a great location to see the fireworks display over Melbourne city, but there will be loads of entertainment and live music and DJs to get you in the spirit including Hip Hop, Latin Beats, Salsa and a Disco Party!

Southbank offers the best viewing point of Melbourne’s fireworks display. However the bars along the Yarra River tend to be quite ‘classy’ and charge a hefty cover charge. Except lots of crowds but if you can manage to get a viewing spot around Southbank you will be in for a treat!

Royal Botanical Gardens are huge and situated right by Federation Square. There are some great spots by the Sydney Myer Music Bowl where you can take a picnic and chances are – you may be able to hear the Carols! There are also some great spots in the park where you can watch the city fireworks.

St Kilda Beach comes alive each year with New Year’s Eve celebrations! The bars are pumping and a spot on the beach will guarantee fantastic views of the Melbourne fireworks (try and get a spot along the pier early for the best views)!

Edinburgh Gardens in Fitzroy have hosted some pretty cool parties in the past and tends to be a popular spot away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Usually they have DJs and you can get away with taking an esky with your own beer.

Alcohol! – Any of the free events in town on New Years Eve are alcohol free. If you want a few drinks then you’ll have to head to a bar or to one of the other events going on. As with everywhere New Years Eve is an extremely busy night, most pubs will be hard to get into, some will have organised events with a cover charge, but you might be able to find somewhere (probably not as central) where you can party hard without a cover charge! Plan your night in advance so you can budget and so that you don’t miss out!

Happy New Year to you wherever you’re celebrating!

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