From stunning lights and nightly projections, to Christmas themed dishes and cocktails, there is so much to experience in the city at Christmas. As we approach the final stretch, we’ve put together a handy list of things to see and do before Christmas is done for another year.
Visit the Christmas tree at Federation Square
Head to the Christmas Festival Hub at Federation Square to see a stunning light show from the giant Christmas tree. It’s on every night from 9pm as part of the 2018 Christmas Festival.
The Christmas Festival at Federation Square
Watch the Christmas Projections
While in the city, don’t miss the magical, colourful Christmas Projections at Federation Square, Melbourne Town Hall (non-animated) and along New Quay Promenade, Docklands. While in Docklands, watch the colourful state-of-the-art Christmas lighting installation at the Light House at 888 Collins Street.
Christmas projections at Melbourne Town Hall
Get snowed on in the city
Nothing beats a well earned bevvy at Chuckle Park after a long December day. This little laneway bar is getting the full white Christmas treatment, and if you order a ‘Sherbert Peaks’ to sip on it might just start snowing (literally!). Grab a round of drinks, tuck into a s’mores dessert pizzas and be transported to the North Pole.
Soak up the sun at La Boca
Mega musical Evita will get everyone crying for Argentina at Arts Centre Melbourne this summer. But out in the forecourt there’s a hot Buenos Aires party vibe at the Stomping Ground La Boca pop-up beer garden. Live la vida loca, from tango lessons to a Collingwood craft brewery’s event-exclusive Argentine-inspired lager. On until Sunday 24 February 2019.
Stomping Ground has arrived at Arts Centre Melbourne
Visit the Gingerbread Village
Marvel at a miniature Melbourne made out of biscuits and help a good cause at the Gingerbread Village by Epicure. On until Christmas Eve, the village is a remarkable feat of baking that also raises money for charity. This year proceeds will be going to the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation, so give generously.
Gingerbread Village
Ice skate at the Queen Vic
Cool down at Melbourne’s only summer ice skating rink, located at the Queen Victoria Market. Not only can you dazzle with your best pirouettes (or just try and tackle staying up straight), but there’s also maple syrup ice cream, delicious Canadian poutine, fairy floss, festive drinks and more. The rink is open during market hours until Christmas Eve.
Load up on cheese, croissants and fresh produce
After you’ve worked up an appetite on the ice, stock up on delicious foodie treats from the Queen Victoria Market’s seemingly endless food stalls. There’s local and international cheeses in the dairy hall, fresh and organic fruit and veg under the iconic sheds, fresh seafood and pastries galore. Buy up big and impress the family on Christmas day with all your foodie finds.
Finally finish your shopping
Left it to the last minute again? Never fear, a trip to the city is easier than ever with most shops extending their hours to help busy gift buyers in the lead up to Christmas. Between QV Melbourne’s free Friday fun, Melbourne Central’s Snow Room and Merry Litmas Neon Room pop ups and complimentary gift wrapping at St Collins Lane, it’ll barely feel like you’re stress shopping at all. Read up on all the after hours locations in our guide to late night Christmas shopping.
Melbourne Central
Bonus idea (we couldn’t just leave it at eight!) – stock up on mince pies from Baker D. Chirico
Baker D Chirico knows every Christmas dessert needs the ‘holy trinity’ of flavours – vanilla bean, cinnamon and spicy rum. From traditional mince pies, shortcrust speculoos stars and Italian mini panettone, these warm baked goods are an instant Christmas crowd pleaser. Find them in Carlton and Domain Road, South Yarra, opposite the Royal Botanic Gardens.