There’s a moment every year when Melbourne quietly flips the switch. One afternoon you’re power-walking down Swanston Street with your to-do list humming in the background, and the next – the city is glowing with fairy lights, brass bands, giant wreaths and that soft cinnamon-in-the-air kind of nostalgia. The evenings feel longer, the sunsets a little pinker, and suddenly even your usual commute feels like it’s leading you somewhere festive.
Christmas in Melbourne isn’t snow globes and knitwear – it’s balmy nights on the Birrarung, last-minute market hopping, and crowds gathering under an LED tree that’s tall enough to glow across Fed Square. It’s families queueing for the Myer Christmas Windows, friends meeting under twinkling laneway displays, kids lying on the ground just to stare up at the projections… and adults doing the same.
Whether you’re a budget explorer chasing the best free lights, a theatre buff filling your December with concerts and shows, a parent looking for the cutest kid-friendly moments, or someone who just wants a beautiful Christmas lunch booked and sorted – the city has something for every kind of festive mood. Think of this guide as your cheat-sheet to all the magic: what’s free, what’s a splurge, what’s worth booking early, and where Melbourne shines brightest in December.
Citywide Christmas Magic in Melbourne
Melbourne in December feels like one giant advent calendar – everywhere you turn, something bright, musical or surprising is unfolding for free. This is the part of the city that belongs to everyone: the lights, the projections, the plazas that turn into festive playgrounds, and the traditions that bring the whole CBD together. If you’re looking for the most affordable way to soak in the season, this is the Christmas chapter where Melbourne truly flexes.
From the iconic Myer Windows to the nightly projections dancing across heritage buildings, the city center becomes a choose-your-own-sparkle adventure. Families wander between installations, friends grab late-night gelato under the tree at Fed Square, and strangers end up sharing the same “wait, this is actually magical!” moment. It’s festive, it’s warm, it’s full of wonder – and completely free.
Christmas Square at Fed Square
When: 28 November – 25 December
Fed Square turns into Melbourne’s festive heart with its towering 17.5 meter LED Christmas tree, candy-cane wonderland, and nightly light and sound shows. It’s an easy, low-cost way to feel like you’ve stepped straight into the city’s Christmas postcard.
Myer Christmas Windows
When: 8 November – 11 January
This year’s display is completely LEGO-themed, built from hundreds of thousands of tiny bricks that follow a child’s letter to Santa as it travels through Melbourne and on to the North Pole. A decades-long Melbourne tradition with a playful twist.
Crown Christmas River Show
When: 28 November – 25 December
Time: 9pm – 11pm, running in regular intervals
A waterfront spectacle of fountains, lasers, light projections and festive music lighting up the Birrarung/Yarra. It’s made for warm summer nights – wander along Southbank and catch the show as it loops across the evening.
Christmas Festival Launch and Tree Lighting (Fed Square)
When: Friday 28 November
Time: 6pm – 9pm
The big festive switch-on moment that officially launches the city’s Christmas Festival. Expect live entertainment, family-friendly performances and the first lighting of the 17.5 metre tree – complete with that collective countdown buzz you can feel in your chest.
Melbourne Town Hall Projections
When: 28 November – 25 December
Time: 9pm – 11pm
Melbourne Town Hall transforms into a giant animated canvas, with colorful festive projections sweeping across the heritage façade. Slow down on your way through the city and watch a full cycle – it’s one of the most beautiful ways to end a summer evening.
The “12 Days of Christmas” Decoration Trail
When: 28 November – 25 December
A new decoration trail that winds through Melbourne’s laneways, arcades and shopping strips, with each stop inspired by a different verse of the classic carol. It’s an easy, self-guided way to turn a simple city stroll into a Christmas scavenger hunt.
Melbourne Christmas Markets & Festive Shopping
Melbourne does Christmas markets with a kind of effortless charm – part artisan showcase, part street party, part treasure hunt. These are the places where the city’s creative spirit really comes alive: handmade ornaments, festive bakes, ceramics, candles, small‑batch treats, and the kind of stocking fillers you only ever find once and regret not buying more of. Most markets are free to enter, and while the exact dates vary, they all run across the December festive season.
This section is for the grazers, the browsers, the “I’ll only have a look” people who inevitably leave with spiced nuts, a handmade candle, and something they absolutely didn’t plan to buy. Come in during golden hour for buskers, food stalls and that soft pre‑Christmas buzz.
German Christmas Market
When: Saturday 6 December, 2pm-7pm and Sunday 14 December, 12pm-5pm
Where: German Lutheran Trinity Church
A traditional German-style Christmas market right in Melbourne-with bratwurst, sauerkraut, bretzels, hot waffles, gingerbread and more sweets; handmade gifts and decorations; live music and a visit from St Nikolaus for the kids.
Boho Luxe Market: Christmas Edition
When: Sunday 14 December, 10am-4pm
Where: The Atrium, Federation Square
Melbourne’s favorite boho-lifestyle market goes full festive: jewelry, fashion, homewares, vegan food trucks, candles, eco-cards and more.
Bourne Local Christmas Market
When: 10 – 11 December, 10am-2pm
Where: Collins Square
A lunchtime market with over 30 stalls of handmade crafts, artisan wares, festive treats and carols in the air-ideal for a midweek gift grab during the work-week hustle.
Japan Christmas Fair
When: Sunday 14 December, 10am-4pm
Where: JAPANEASY
A colorful blend of Japanese culture and Christmas cheer: market stalls with Japanese-style gifts and crafts, matcha treats, shiatsu massages, and drop-in workshops (booking recommended). Free entry to the market, fees apply for workshops.
Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Market
When: 5-7 December, Timings vary
Where: Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC)
Over 150 producers showcase artisan food, wine and festive products in a gourmet-gift paradise-perfect if you’re after inspiration for indulgent presents, luxe hampers or just an excuse to snack through December.
Carols, Cinema & Performances: Melbourne’s Christmas Magic on Stage
December in Melbourne comes with its own soundtrack – orchestras tuning, choirs warming up, theatres glowing, and crowds settling into seats with that familiar hush right before the lights dim. This is the city’s most atmospheric chapter of Christmas. Whether you love a classic ballet, a singalong under stained-glass arches, or a cheeky outdoor movie night, Melbourne’s festive stage lights up with something for every mood.
From big-ticket productions to intimate concerts, this is where the season feels cinematic, nostalgic and a little larger-than-life. Most of these need advance bookings – especially the concerts – so consider this your gentle nudge to reserve sooner rather than later.
Christmas Cinema
When: 6 – 21 December
Where: The Capitol
The Capitol’s art deco cinema becomes a Christmas hideaway with a program of festive favorites on the big screen. Expect cozy, lights-down escapism, from feel-good classics to family-friendly picks, in one of Melbourne’s most beautiful cinemas. Sessions require bookings, so it’s worth checking availability in advance if you have a specific screening in mind.
The Nutcracker
When: 11 – 23 December
Where: Princess Theatre
Ballet’s most iconic Christmas story arrives at the Princess Theatre in a lavish, storybook production of Clara, her Nutcracker Prince and a night where toys, snowflakes and sweets come to life. Think glittering costumes, grand sets and Tchaikovsky’s score played live – a dreamy festive night out for ballet first-timers and long-time fans alike.
Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight
When: 23 – 24 December
Where: Sidney Myer Music Bowl
An Australian Christmas Eve tradition, Carols by Candlelight fills the Bowl with orchestras, star vocalists and thousands of real and twinkling candles. All funds raised support children who are blind or have low vision, so you get the full goosebumps carols experience and you are doing something good at the same time. Tickets for Christmas Eve in particular sell quickly, so this is a “book early” option.
A Christmas Carol
When: 27 November – 24 December
Where: Comedy Theatre
This acclaimed staging of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol turns the Comedy Theatre into a Victorian snow globe, complete with carols, live musicians and a very haunted Christmas Eve. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge through past, present and future as he is visited by four ghosts and reminded what the season is really about. Warm, atmospheric and surprisingly funny, it is a great choice if you want a story with heart over pure spectacle.
Classic Kids: A Symphonic Christmas
When: 13 – 14 December
Where: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne
The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra reimagines Christmas music for little listeners in this relaxed, bite-sized concert. There is storytelling, sing-along moments and plenty of familiar melodies, all arranged to keep kids engaged without overwhelming them. Sessions run for around 50 minutes with no interval, so it is an easy, pram-friendly way to introduce children to live orchestral music.
Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
When: 4 – 6 December
Where: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne
Discover the magic of the “mean one” at this live family concert inspired by the classic Dr Seuss story. A full orchestra and choir bring Whoville to life with music from the much-loved film, while scenes and storytelling unfold on screen. Expect plenty of color, big festive energy and a happy ending that might just soften even the grinchiest grown-up.
Royal Melbourne Philharmonic: Carols in the Cathedral
When: 19 – 20 December
Where: St Paul’s Cathedral
Carols in the Cathedral is one of Melbourne’s most atmospheric Christmas concerts, with the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Choir and Orchestra performing traditional carols and seasonal works under the soaring arches of St Paul’s. Candlelight, organ, choir and audience sing-alongs combine to create that spine-tingling “this feels like Christmas” moment. Seats are allocated, so it is worth booking ahead if you prefer a particular night or section.
The Great Christmas Singalong
When: Saturday, 20 December
Where: Melbourne Recital Centre
Silvie Paladino joins John Foreman and the 40-piece Australian Pops Orchestra for a huge feel-good carols party at the Recital Centre. The program mixes traditional and modern Christmas songs, with plenty of chances for the audience to sing along and a big, glossy orchestral sound backing every chorus. It is very much a dress-up-a-little, bring-the-family, leave-with-no-voice kind of night.
Victoria Chorale: O Magnum Mysterium Christmas Concert
When: Saturday, 13 December
Where: St Paul’s Cathedral
This concert leans into the sacred side of the season, with Victoria Chorale performing several luminous settings of the ancient text “O Magnum Mysterium” alongside excerpts from Bach’s Christmas Oratorio. There are also familiar carols with opportunities for the audience to join in, plus a special collaboration with The Choir of St Andrew’s Brighton. Ideal if you love big choral sound, rich acoustics and a more contemplative Christmas mood.
Christmas Outdoor Cinema: Naughty or Nice
When: 8 – 11 December
Where: Main Square, Fed Square
Fed Square’s main screen turns into a pop-up cinema for four nights, with an early “nice” session for families at 6pm and a later “naughty” cult favorite at 8pm. The line-up includes everything from The Grinch and Elf to Gremlins and The Holiday, so you can choose your Christmas vibe accordingly. Screenings are free and no bookings are required, but it is worth arriving a little early if you want primo deck-chair or picnic-blanket real estate.
Carols by Daylight
When: Sunday 7 December
Where: Federation Square, The Edge
A long-running Melbourne community tradition, Carols by Daylight is a daytime variety-style concert filled with choirs, kids’ orchestras, big band moments and plenty of audience singing. It is family-friendly, relaxed and perfect if you prefer your carols in the sunshine rather than late at night. Tickets are tiered, and children under five attend free, so it is a good one to plan as a multi-generational outing.
Love Actually? The Musical Parody
When: 5 – 23 December
Where: Athenaeum Theatre, Collins Street
This cheeky, fast-paced musical send-up of the beloved rom‑com is back this Christmas, packed with big characters, bigger punchlines and a festive soundtrack that keeps the laughs rolling. Perfect for friend groups or a fun pre‑Christmas night out, this parody leans fully into the chaos, charm and Christmas clichés of the original film. This performance is not to be missed.
Read our review for this musical comedy here.
Family Christmas Highlights Tailored for the Little Ones in Melbourne
This is Melbourne’s playful side of Christmas – the part that feels like pure childhood joy, no matter how old you are. Think Santa trains, bubble storms, storybook-style workshops, river adventures and whole pop-up worlds built just for festive fun. From tiny toddlers to teens (and enthusiastic grown-ups), these experiences are bright, interactive and memory-making. Many require bookings, especially on weekends, so it’s worth planning ahead.
Myer Santaland
When: Until 25 December
Where: Myer Melbourne, Bourke Street
A Melbourne Christmas rite of passage, Santaland transforms Myer into a mini North Pole with festive displays, the Santaland Express train for kids and photo sessions with Santa. There are dedicated sessions for babies, sensory-friendly visits and even pet portraits, so everyone in the family can have their Christmas moment. Bookings are essential and photo packages are an additional cost.
Bubble Show for Christmas
When: 23 – 24 December
Where: The Capitol, Swanston Street
Swap snow for soap suds at this theatrical bubble spectacular in one of the city’s most beautiful cinemas. Expect giant bubbles, shimmering shapes and plenty of silly, interactive moments that keep kids giggling from start to finish. Sessions are ticketed and tend to book out quickly in the final countdown to Christmas.
Christmas Stand Up Paddleboard along the Yarra
When: Saturday 20 December, 3pm-5:30pm
Where: Point Park Dog Park, Docklands
A festive stand up paddleboard session that takes you gliding along the river in a small guided group, Christmas hats very much encouraged. It is best suited to confident swimmers and older kids or teens, with life jackets provided and instructors leading the way. This is a free event but bookings are required and spots are limited.
Koorie Krismas
When: Saturday 13 December, 10am-3pm
Where: Koorie Heritage Trust, Fed Square
A First Peoples led celebration that brings together market stalls, live music, cultural performances and creative family workshops. Meet Koorie Klaus, pick up beautiful gifts from Koorie makers and enjoy a warm, community focused take on Christmas in the heart of the city. Entry is free, with some activities and purchases at additional cost.
AliExpress Christmas Playscape
When: 20 – 23 December, 1pm-8pm
Where: Queensbridge Square, Southbank
Queensbridge Square turns into a bright, high energy playground with oversized decorations, interactive games and daily prize draws. Kids can complete playful photo missions, explore colourful installations and burn off some pre Christmas excitement. Entry is free, making it an easy add on to an evening walk along Southbank.
Photos with Santa at David Jones
When: Until 24 December
Where: David Jones, Bourke Street Mall
A classic Christmas photo experience with beautifully styled sets, professional photography and options to suit every kind of family. Book a standard session, a Sensitive Santa slot with a quieter environment, or bring your pup for a Santa Pawtraits photo. Sessions must be booked online in advance, with a range of paid photo packages available.
Christmas Lights Cruise
When: 7 – 24 December
Where: Melbourne River Cruises, Berth 2, Southbank Promenade
Sail the Yarra at golden hour as the city’s Christmas lights flicker on all around you. This one hour cruise glides past sparkling decorations, riverfront projections and the Crown Christmas Fountain Show, with plenty of time to sit back, take photos and watch the skyline glow. Tickets are tiered, with children under two travelling free.
Christmas Stamp Trail
When: 28 November – 24 December
Where: Across the CBD
A simple, free way to keep kids engaged between stops. Pick up your trail map and collect stamps from different installations and Christmas locations throughout the city. Once the card is full, head back to claim a small prize and bragging rights as a Christmas Stamp Trail champion.
Let’s Dance with Shenzhen Airlines
When: 28 November – 25 December
Where: Queensbridge Square, Southbank
Step onto a glowing outdoor dance floor and watch it light up in time with your moves. This free, accessible event runs daily through the festival, inviting kids and grown ups to dance it out under the city lights. There is ramp access to the floor and no bookings required, so you can drop in whenever the music pulls you in.
Christmas Party Cruise
When: 28 November – 20 December
Where: Melbourne River Cruises, Southbank Promenade
A shared Christmas themed boat party on the Yarra with festive music, city views and a licensed bar on board. It is ideal for families with older kids, friend groups or work crews who want to celebrate on the water without organizing a full private charter. Tickets must be booked ahead and popular dates tend to sell out.
North Pole at Marvel Stadium
When: 11 – 23 December 2025, 10:00 am–8:00 pm
Where: Marvel Stadium, Docklands
A festive wonderland where Stadium Square transforms into a Christmas playground with a towering 9-metre Pixar-themed tree, 18 AFL-club decorated Christmas trees, Santa meet-and-greets, holiday-themed photo ops, mini-games and seasonal food stalls. Great for families, groups and anyone up for a free city-wide Christmas experience although some activities might be ticketed.
To round out the season, Melbourne’s libraries and community spaces also host a constellation of smaller, cozy Christmas moments throughout December – perfect for toddlers, early readers or families looking for quick, low‑key activities between the bigger outings. Across the city you’ll find festive Storytime sessions featuring Santa drop‑ins, Christmas Stompers for high‑energy littlies, and relaxed Crafternoons where kids can make decorations, cards and tiny take‑home treasures.
Some highlights include Storytime and Stompers sessions at City Library, North Melbourne Library, East Melbourne Library, Library at The Dock, narrm ngarrgu Library, and Southbank Library, with dates scattered between 8 and 19 December depending on the location. The Kathleen Syme Library also hosts a Christmas Crafternoon where kids can get hands‑on with festive crafts. These sessions are short, welcoming and easy to slot into your day while exploring different pockets of the city, and most of them are free to attend.
Festive Making: Melbourne’s Sweetest Christmas Workshops
If your perfect December involves rolling up your sleeves, getting a little messy, or making something meaningful, Melbourne’s Christmas workshops are the cozy, creative break you’ll love. These sessions are hands-on, social and a great way to add a personal touch to your festive season – whether you’re building a gingerbread house or crafting a heartfelt gift. Many spots book out early, so a quick reservation is your safest bet.
Build and Sip: Gingerbread House
When: 28 November – 21 December
Where: Brunetti Classico, Carlton
A festive hands-on workshop where you assemble and decorate your very own gingerbread house with all the classic trimmings – royal icing, colorful lollies and plenty of creative freedom. The session includes guided instructions from the Brunetti team, plus a relaxed atmosphere where you can sip, snack and build at your own pace. All materials are included, and spots are limited, so early booking is recommended.
Paint Myself Christmas Gift Workshop
When: 6 – 24 December
Where: The District Docklands
A relaxed, family-friendly workshop where you can paint your own Christmas EDIBLE art!. Choose from a range of shapes and designs of a chocolate canvas, then decorate using Paint Myself’s guided techniques. Staff are there to help beginners and kids alike, making it a gentle, creative way to unwind. All materials are included in the ticket, and pieces can be taken home once dried.
Celebrate Christmas with a Beautiful Meal in Melbourne
December in Melbourne has one universal truth: at some point, you will want a beautiful Christmas meal that someone else has cooked. Whether you prefer a long, luxurious hotel lunch, a modern Asian twist, a high tea with sparkle, or something classic and comforting, the city’s dining scene goes all out for the 25th. Most venues require pre-booking and many sell out weeks in advance, so don’t forget to reserve early.
Below is a curated selection of standout Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining experiences across Melbourne – a mix of indulgent buffets, multi-course menus and festive high teas that offer something for every kind of celebration.
A Very Merry Christmas High Tea
When: 6 December
Where: Stamford Plaza Melbourne, Little Collins St
A festive, feel-good afternoon tea filled with sparkle, sweet treats and holiday charm. Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or a mimosa on arrival before exploring a generous buffet of roasts, pastries and Christmas-themed desserts. It’s a bright, joyful way to celebrate with friends or family in the heart of the city. From $55$85, bookings recommended.
High Tea on Little Lonsdale
When: 7 and 14 December
Where: Dorsett Melbourne
A festive spin on the classic high tea with petit fours, savory bites, scones and unlimited seasonal treats served in a stylish modern lounge. Perfect for pre-Christmas catchups or a lighter, elegant celebration. From $40 to $120, this was a sold-out event last year!
Christmas Eve Dinner at Le Meridien
When: 24 December
Where: DOLLY, Le Meridien Melbourne
At DOLLY, Le Méridien’s moody underground bistro, Christmas Eve unfolds with low lighting, live jazz and a refined four-course menu by Chef Hervé Borghini. Expect French-leaning flavors, thoughtful portions and a festive warmth that builds quietly through the night. A beautifully intimate way to welcome Christmas in the city. Book now at just $82/person. If you’d rather celebrate on the 25th, DOLLY is also hosting a lavish Christmas Day Grand Luncheon at the same venue.
Christmas Eve Dinner at Miss Mi
When: 24 December
Where: Miss Mi Restaurant & Bar, Bourke St
Christmas Eve dinner at Miss Mi brings a Southeast Asian–inspired set menu shaped by Chef Migo Razon’s Filipino Christmas traditions. Enjoy a share-style feast with a glass of sparkling on arrival, featuring signature dishes like beef rendang, flame-grilled chicken with banana ketchup, pork hamonado with sticky pineapple glaze, and two decadent desserts. Book now at just $89/person. Miss Mi also offers a special Christmas Day lunch at the restaurant if you’d rather celebrate on the 25th.
Christmas Eve Dinner at Blacksmith Bar & Grill
When: 24 December
Where: Blacksmith Bar & Grill, Timothy Ln
Toast to the festive season in grand style this Christmas Eve at Blacksmith Bar & Grill, perched on the seventh floor with sweeping views of Melbourne’s skyline. Enjoy a relaxed festive atmosphere with flame-grilled favorites, seasonal dishes and indulgent desserts. Only the à la carte menu is now available on the night, and Christmas specials are offered alongside the regular menu. Gather your loved ones and celebrate with good food, great company and sparkling city views. Blacksmith Bar & Grill also puts on a generous Christmas Day buffet lunch on the 25th at the same location.
Christmas Day Lunch at The Windsor
When: 25 December
Where: The Hotel Windsor, Spring Street
An iconic Melbourne tradition: The Windsor’s grand Christmas five-course lunch. Expect elegant dining, classic trimmings, traditional roasts and impeccable service inside the hotel’s historic dining room or the spectacular Grand Ballroom. This one books out early every year. Reserve your spot now from $198–$479.
Christmas Day Lunch at Melbourne Town Hall
When: 25 December
Where: Melbourne Town Hall, Swanston St
Celebrate Christmas Day in the Main Hall of Melbourne Town Hall, surrounded by soaring ceilings and elegant heritage details. Guests are welcomed with a glass of champagne before enjoying a generous buffet of seafood, roasts and festive desserts. Live music from the Grand Organ and a string quartet adds atmosphere to the occasion. A grand, memorable way to spend Christmas lunch in the heart of the city. Book this experience now from $130–$270.
Christmas Day Dining at Alluvial
When: 25 December
Where: Alluvial Restaurant, Collins St
The InterContinental’s elegant heritage dining room brings you a festive buffet featuring seasonal dishes, classic roasts, fresh salads and beautifully crafted desserts. A refined option for families and couples who want a polished, memorable Christmas celebration. Expect live music during the lunch sitting and a special visit from Santa in the afternoon. From $206–$490, reservations are recommended.
Christmas Day Lunch at Aru
When: 25 December
Where: Aru Restaurant, Little Collins St
This award-winning two-hat Melbourne restaurant makes its Christmas lunch debut with a wood-fired, South East Asian-inspired feast. Expect bold flavors from the Asian Fruits de Mer platter to crisp pork belly and wood-roasted pork scotch glazed with five spice and hoisin. The experience is elevated by expert sommeliers guiding you through a 600+ bottle wine list, recognized with Three Glasses in the Australian Wine List of the Year awards. Reserve your seats now at $295/person as they will be sold out!
Christmas Omakase at Warabi
When: 25 December
Where: Warabi Restaurant, W Melbourne
Warabi brings a special 14-course omakase crafted just for this Christmas season. Begin with a festive cocktail or mocktail on arrival before moving through a menu that highlights the elegance and precision of Japanese cuisine. From the first bite of Yamagata Wagyu to the final cherry-and-sake dessert, each dish is designed to showcase flavor, texture and seasonality. A vinyl DJ sets a relaxed, celebratory mood throughout the evening. Reservations required at $350/person.
Christmas Day Grand Luncheon at DOLLY
When: 25 December
Where: DOLLY, Le Meridien Melbourne
A lavish three-hour lunch buffet experience blending European classics under the direction of Executive Chef Hervé Borghini. A premium option for those who want their Christmas celebration to feel glamorous. From $169–$369, bookings recommended. Prefer the night before? DOLLY is also serving a special Christmas Eve dinner in the same moody underground bistro.
Christmas Day at Pascale
When: 25 December
Where: Pascale Bar & Grill, QT Melbourne
Christmas Day at Pascale brings a lively, indulgent three-course feast with QT’s signature twist on festive classics. Expect favorites like O’Connor New York Strip, crispy-skin barramundi and a sour-cherry glazed turkey roll, plus market-fresh seafood and rich Christmas desserts. With crackers, live entertainment and QT’s warm, energetic atmosphere, it’s a vibrant way to celebrate. Bookings are recommended, prices range from $60–$295.
Christmas Day Lunch at Lollo
When: 25 December
Where: Lollo Restaurant, W Melbourne
Join Lollo’s Christmas Day long lunch, featuring a fresh seafood spread, pasta cooked to order, classic roasts and a generous line-up of festive desserts. Live music and a touch of W-style sparkle set the mood for a vibrant, family-friendly celebration. A lively, flavor-packed way to spend the day, with prices ranging from $60–$295.
Christmas Day Lunch at Taxi Kitchen
When: 25 December
Where: Taxi Kitchen, Transport Hotel, Fed Square
A relaxed five-course long lunch overlooking the city, blending bold modern Australian and Asian flavors. Start with an arrival drink and canapés before enjoying generous, beautifully crafted dishes made with local produce. It’s an easy, family-friendly celebration from $100–$220/person.
Christmas Day Dining at Langlands Restaurant & Bar
When: 25 December
Where: Langlands Restaurant & Bar
A contemporary Christmas lunch served high above the city with panoramic views, featuring a festive three-course menu built around premium Australian produce. Expect seafood, classic roasts and polished service in a modern riverside setting. From $200 to $280, bookings essential.
Christmas Day Lunch at Aerial
When: 25 December
Where: Aerial, Dukes Walk, South Wharf
Experience Christmas Day at Aerial South Wharf with sweeping waterfront views and a festive, elevated setting. Enjoy live string quartet performances, a visit from Santa, and a generous buffet with seafood, carvery favorites, vegetarian dishes and classic desserts. A warm, elegant celebration fit for families and groups alike. From $75–$181/person, booking is essential.
Christmas Day Lunch at Elevate Club Lounge
When: 25 December
Where: Elevate Club Lounge, Pullman Melbourne City Centre
Celebrate Christmas Day high above the city at the Elevate Club Lounge at Pullman Melbourne City Centre. Enjoy a festive buffet with seasonal favorites, a premium beverage package and live acoustic music, all framed by sweeping level-15 views. Little guests receive a complimentary gift, making it a warm, family-friendly celebration. Three relaxed lunch sittings are available, priced from $99 to $299.
Christmas Day Lunch at South Wharf Cargo Sheds
When: 25 December
Where: Plus 5, South Wharf Promenade
The historic South Wharf Cargo Sheds are bringing a relaxed, riverside Christmas lunch featuring interactive food stations, from antipasto and sashimi to paella and a modern carvery. Choose terrace seating with waterfront views or dine inside the heritage sheds, with a festive spritz or prosecco on arrival. Live acoustic music sets a warm holiday mood, with kids’ treats like an ice-cream cart and slushie bar adding to the fun. A bright, family-friendly celebration by the water, priced from $65–$210.
Christmas Day Lunch at Ruby Riviera
When: 25 December
Where: Ruby Riviera, Southbank
Make Christmas Day effortlessly delicious at Ruby Riviera with a sharing banquet of Mediterranean classics, fresh salads and festive desserts. A relaxed riverside celebration designed for long lunches and easy summer cheer, priced from $45–$95.
Christmas Day Lunch at Botanical Hotel
When: 25 December
Where: Botanical Hotel, Domain Rd
A premium Christmas Day celebration in a refined, modern dining room with a four-course menu anchored by festive favorites and Christmas pudding, plus a take-home serve as a special treat. Ideal for long lunches and leisurely celebrations. From $75 to $255, bookings essential.
Christmas Day Festive Buffet at Essence Restaurant
When: 25 December
Where: Essence Restaurant, Melbourne Marriott Hotel
A generous Christmas Day buffet with fresh seafood, carvery favorites, salads, desserts and festive sweets. A great option for families and groups who want variety without compromising on quality. From $120 to $299, bookings required.
Christmas Day Buffet Lunch at Blacksmith Bar & Grill
When: 25 December
Where: Blacksmith Bar & Grill, Timothy Ln
A hearty Christmas buffet featuring grilled dishes, festive carveries, salads, seafood and desserts. A casual yet generous option for large families and groups. From $330 to $399, reservations required. Want to toast the night before instead? There’s also a Christmas Eve dinner at this venue.
Christmas Day Lunch Buffet at Crowne Plaza Melbourne
When: 25 December
Where: Crowne Plaza Melbourne, Pearl Riverfront
A festive buffet showcasing seasonal dishes, seafood, salads, roasts and desserts in a bright riverside dining room. Expect a visit from Santa with gifts and joy for your little ones. Perfect for families who want variety and convenience. From $125–$299, booking early is a must!
Christmas Day Dining at Blossom Rooftop
When: 25 December
Where: Blossom Rooftop Bar, Little Bourke St
Celebrate Christmas on the rooftop with a festive three-course menu featuring fresh oysters, a lamb and charcuterie spread, your own woodfired pizza and a classic tiramisu to finish. Choose indoor seating for a cozy atmosphere or enjoy sweeping city views from the outdoor terrace. You can also add a two-hour beverage package to elevate the experience. Prices range from $55–$80; view the full menu and booking times via the link.
Christmas Day Dining at Blossom Rooftop
When: 25 December
Where: Blossom Rooftop Bar, Little Bourke St
Celebrate Christmas on the rooftop with a festive three-course menu featuring fresh oysters, a lamb and charcuterie spread, your own woodfired pizza and a classic tiramisu to finish. Choose indoor seating for a cozy atmosphere or enjoy sweeping city views from the outdoor terrace. You can also add a two-hour beverage package to elevate the experience. Prices range from $55–$80; view the full menu and booking times via the link.
Christmas Day Lunch at Miss Mi
When: 25 December
Where: Miss Mi Restaurant & Bar, Bourke Street
A Southeast Asian-inspired Christmas three-course feast celebrating bold flavors, spice-led dishes and beautifully plated shared courses by Chef Migo Razon. Ideal for diners who want something festive but not traditional. Bookings required at just $139/person. If you’d prefer to celebrate the night before, there’s also a Southeast Asian-inspired Christmas Eve dinner at the same venue.
Christmas Day Lunch at Miss Mi
When: 25 December
Where: Miss Mi Restaurant & Bar, Bourke Street
A Southeast Asian-inspired Christmas three-course feast celebrating bold flavors, spice-led dishes and beautifully plated shared courses by Chef Migo Razon. Ideal for diners who want something festive but not traditional. Bookings required at just $139/person. If you’d prefer to celebrate the night before, there’s also a Southeast Asian-inspired Christmas Eve dinner at the same venue.
Christmas Day Lunch at Salted Egg
When: 25 December
Where: Salted Egg, Quincy Hotel
A vibrant Asian fusion menu curated by head chef Adam Woodfield, featuring Christmas favorites with a contemporary twist, set inside one of Melbourne’s chicest dining rooms. Expect color, creativity and big flavors. Reservations essential. Book now at just $149/person.
Christmas Day Lunch at Sassy Italian
When: 25 December
Where: Sassy Italian Restaurant, Dryburgh St
Celebrate Christmas with a full-course Italian set menu accompanied by live music. Whether you’re dining with family, friends or someone special, this festive lunch is designed to feel warm, joyful and indulgent. Vegetarian options available. Reserve your seats now from $139 to $279.
Christmas Day Dining at Gaylord
When: 25 December
Where: Gaylord Indian Restaurant, Spencer St
Celebrate Christmas Day at Gaylord with a festive Indian set menu featuring a welcome drink, shared entrées, hearty mains, sides and a sweet finish. A warm, flavor-rich option for families and groups looking for something vibrant and comforting on the 25th. Prices range from $29 to $69. Bookings recommended.
Christmas Day Dining at One Queen
When: 25 December
Where: One Queen Restaurant, Vibe Hotel
A relaxed but refined Christmas Day three-course feast for lunch or dinner with seasonal ingredients, flavors and heartfelt hospitality. A great spot for groups wanting something festive but understated. Book now at $139/person.
Christmas Day Lunch at Antara
When: 25 December
Where: Antara, Exhibition St
Antara debuts its first Christmas lunch with a refined, wood-fired twist on festive classics. Expect a vibrant Skull Island prawn cocktail, an Ora King Salmon en croute with burnt honey and mango, and a slow-roasted lamb shoulder served with all the traditional trimmings. Dessert is a standout summer pavlova topped with Geraldton wax cream, sour cherries and passionfruit sorbet. For $225/person, don’t forget to make a reservation first.
Christmas Day Lunch at Rendezvous Hotel
When: 25 December
Where: Mr Tompkins, Rendezvous Hotel, Flinders St
Upgrade your Christmas Day joy at Mr Tompkins, inside the historic Rendezvous Hotel, blending old-world charm with a warm festive atmosphere. Enjoy a generous lunch in the Grand Vestibule with live cooking stations, seasonal dishes and a decadent dessert spread featuring a chocolate fountain. A beautiful option for families and groups, priced from $99–$289.
Christmas Day Dining at the Alexander Bar
When: 25 December
Where: Alexander Bar, The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins St
A relaxed Christmas lunch in an elegant hotel setting, offering a festive three-course set menu of favorites like a traditional roast and baked Christmas pudding. Ideal if you prefer a quieter, refined Christmas Day dining experience. From $70 to $300, reservations recommended.
And that’s Christmas in Melbourne – a season that doesn’t wait for snow or cold nights to feel magical. It’s the glow of long summer evenings, the sound of carols drifting across the river, the thrill of last‑minute markets, the clatter of theatre crowds, and the small, sparkling moments you stumble into when you’re not even looking for them. Whether you spend December hopping between free city lights, booking a beautiful show, spoiling the kids, or settling in for a festive feast, Melbourne gives you endless ways to make the season your own.
So take the long way home. Stop to watch the projections. Wander through a market you didn’t plan on visiting. Book the show. Eat the dessert. Let December be a little softer, a little slower, a little sweeter. Because in this city, Christmas isn’t just a day, it’s a feeling that fills the whole month, and it’s yours to enjoy however you like.
Disclaimer: The experiences and recommendations in this article are entirely our own and not a paid partnership or sponsored content. Event timings, menus, prices and availability can shift throughout the season, so so we encourage readers to confirm details with venues or organizers before visiting. This article is meant to inspire your festive planning, not serve as formal advice.
