December in Victoria is filled with festive lights, artisan markets, and holiday cheer. Families can enjoy ice skating, concerts, and Santa-themed activities. Cultural events and local wine tastings add to the celebrations. It’s a magical season for all!
1. Festive Markets
- Bastion Square Holiday Market: Features artisan crafts, festive ornaments, seasonal food, and live performances. A weekend family favorite.
- Every weekend in December, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Queen Victoria Market Christmas Night Market: Hosts stalls selling gourmet food, unique gifts, and live music performances in a festive setting.
- Wednesdays, December 6, 13, 20, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
- St. Kilda Twilight Market: Combines beach vibes with Christmas shopping, showcasing local handmade products.
- Fridays, December 8, 15, 22, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
2. Holiday Lights and Displays
- Federation Square: Central hub for large light installations, interactive displays, and family-friendly activities.
- Nightly from December 1, 5:00 PM onwards.
- Crown Riverwalk Light Show: A spectacular combination of lights, lasers, and water displays along the Yarra River.
- Daily from December 1-25, 7:00 PM onwards
- Christmas Projections: Historic buildings like the State Library are illuminated with colorful festive themes.
- December 1-31, 6:00 PM – Midnight.
3. Christmas Concerts and Shows
- Carols by Candlelight: Held at Sidney Myer Music Bowl, featuring live performances by local and international artists.
- December 24, 8:00 PM
- The Nutcracker Ballet: Performed by the Australian Ballet at the Arts Centre Melbourne.
- December 15-23, 7:30 PM, Arts Centre Melbourne
- Community Choirs: Various neighborhood events with caroling groups spreading holiday cheer in public parks and malls.
- December 10-20, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
4. Outdoor Activities
- Ice Skating at Docklands Winter Village: Offers an enchanting skating rink, complete with snow machines and holiday treats.
- December 1-30, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
- Botanic Gardens Moonlight Cinema: Screenings of classic Christmas films under the stars.
- Screenings on December 5, 12, and 19, starting at 8:00 PM.
- Walking Trails: Enjoy holiday-themed decorations on trails like those at Dandenong Ranges or Maribyrnong River.
- Daily self-guided tours with Christmas decorations, open from sunrise to sunset.
5. Family-Friendly Events
- Santa’s Magical Kingdom: December 1-23, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Caulfield Racecourse. Carnival rides, Santa workshops, and snowfalls.
- December 1-23, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Zoo Christmas Adventures: December 15-31, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Festive animal encounters.
- December 15-31, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
- LEGO Build Challenges: December 1-24, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Chadstone Shopping Centre.
- December 1-24, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
6. Cultural Celebrations
- St. Andrew’s Day Events: Features Highland dancing, bagpipe performances, and traditional Scottish food.
- November 30, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Multicultural Christmas Celebrations: Events include traditional dances and global holiday cuisine across Melbourne.
- December 2-23
7. Food and Drink Experiences
- Festive High Teas: Served at luxury locations like The Windsor, with seasonal pastries, teas, and mulled wine.
- Daily from December 1-31, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Christmas Feasts: Many restaurants and hotels offer gourmet Christmas buffets with Australian seafood and festive desserts.
- December 24-25, 6:00 PM onwards
- Wine Tasting Events: Special holiday editions at wineries in Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula.
- December weekends, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Conclusion :
Victoria offers a packed schedule of joyful events to embrace the holiday spirit throughout December! Let me know if you’d like assistance with tickets or directions to any event!