How to Have a Merry Melbourne Christmas

Previously posted in December 2015

So I did a wrap up of Christmas in Vancouver, but I think it is time to do a guide to a Melbourne Christmas.

Turns out the city knows how to do the holiday season right. I have loved seeing the city lit up and filled with Christmas cheer. Here is my guide to everything Jingle Bells and Santa Claus, to ensure you have a merry Melbourne Christmas too. Most of these events are listed every year under the Christmas tab on the official City of Melbourne website as well.

Santa’s Magical Kingdom

Although I never visited, Santa’s Magical Kingdom seems to be a must to add to your Melbourne Christmas bucket list. Kids can meet the Original Snow Princess and decorate gingerbreads. Everyone will enjoy walking through the Snowland and the Enchanted Forest. There are also rides and a spectacular lights show. Santa’s Magical Kingdom is located at Caulfield Racecourse.

Christmas Square

Melbourne’s City Square at Federation Square is transformed into Christmas Square (so.many.squares) for the month leading up to the big day. Take photos of the official Melbourne Christmas tree and all the festive decorations. I’d recommend visiting at night as it is definitely a lot prettier all lit up.

Gingerbread Village

The Gingerbread Village is a free exhibition located in Fed Square this year. Many of Melbourne’s landmarks are made out of gingerbread, thanks to the award-winning team at EPICURE. Apparently it took them over 2,000 hours to create the magic. To get the complete experience, enjoy a ginger treat or ice cream afterwards.

Christmas Projections

What an amazingly awesome experience this is. Previously held at Melbourne Town Hall, for the month prior to Christmas Day, a Christmas light show is projected in Federation Square and in Docklands. It has to be seen to be believed, as the interactive displays have featured a countdown the 12 Days of Christmas, Melbourne-style. Trams, Docklands, Hosier Lane and many more were included.

Santa’s House

If you want a free photo with Santa this year, visit him at Melbourne Town Hall.

Christmas by Crown Melbourne

Walking through Crown Melbourne around Christmas is an experience in itself. There is an amazing Christmas Tree and Santa is there for photos too. The casino also does an interactive music and lights show, where different Christmas scenes are revealed inside large baubles. It is great for kids, but not so much us adults.

Carols by Candlelight

I love watching Carols by Candlelight on Christmas Eve, which is broadcast annually from Melbourne. It is the best way to end the night before you wake in the morning to open your presents.

Bourke Street Mall

There are pretty stars and bells hanging above Bourke Street Mall during Christmas, but its biggest drawcard is the Myer Christmas windows. People and families line up for hours to walk passed these windows and enjoy the displays. Although I love Christmas, I couldn’t queue for that long. But if you are prepared to wait, I am sure you will be rewarded with some beautiful displays.

Melbourne Christmas decorations

Although these aren’t related to a specific Christmas event, these Melbourne city decorations are still a pretty sight to enjoy when walking around the city and beside the Yarra River. Remember to take your special someone to the Elizabeth Street Bridge, which is transformed into the Mistletoe Kissing Bridge for Christmas.

From my backyard in Melbourne to your home in the world, I hope you have a wonderful holiday season.

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