There’s only four weeks until Christmas and the City of Melbourne’s Christmas Festival is under way, with the city coming alive with Christmas activities for the whole family.
It began last night with the lighting of the city’s 7 metre, 4.5 tonne living Christmas tree. The tree is the centrepiece of a transformed City Square (renamed Christmas Square) complete with a magical forest for children to explore, free activities such as Christmas story time and carols and Santa, who will be in the Square daily to hear gift requests and pose for photos.
Santa in The City
To make sure all the children receive their Christmas wishes, Santa and his little helpers come to Christmas Square. Take your own free photos.
Until 24 December, 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm
Nativity Blessing
Welcome December by listening traditional Christmas carols sung by the angelic Australian Youth Choir and don’t miss your chance to see the blessing of the new nativity scene.
30 November, 10.30am
Kinderling Christmas Party
While Santa is on his lunch break, groove along with Kinderling Radio DJs, while they play your favourite Christmas caorls and party tunes.
3 December, 12pm-1pm
Storytime in the Square
Every child, big or small, is invited to join the City of Melbourne libraries team for a special Christmas storytime. Rudolph, Santa and his reindeers will also make a appearance.
5-21 December, 12.15pm & 12.45pm on Mon, Wed, Fri
Santa’s Mail Box
Post a letter in Santa’s Mail Box and receive a personal reply for Christmas. Just include a self addressed envelope with stamp. You can also leave gifts at the nearby Giving Box to help fill stockings for children in need, thanks to the Salvation Army and Australia Post.
Until 16 December
Carols in the Square
Enjoy performances from CitiOpera, Glee Club and the Australian Girls Choir on the corner of Collins and Swanston St. Sing along to your favourite Christmas carols at this family friendly event.
16 December, 6pm
TAC Be Present
As part of the TAC’s #BePresent campaign, a giant interactive present will find a home in Christmas Square. Deck yourself out in festive decorations for a free, personalised photo and Christmas card.
Until 24 December, 11am-3pm. Until 7pm on Fridays.
Other must see events in the city include;
Festive Projections
Watch Melbourne Town Hall light up with magical Christmas projections and discover the story of the Nutcracker. A new light show will also take place at Federation Square. Start your eveny here a nd follow the festive projections down Swanston St.
Melbourne Town Hall, Federation Square until 24 December, 9.00pm-10.20pm
Gingerbread Village
One of the city’s most popular Christmas attractions, the Gingerbread Village is loved by all ages. Spot iconic Melbourne landmarks, purchase festive biscuits and make a gold coin donation to support the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Melbourne Town Hall until 24 December
Myer Christmas Windows
Recreated annually, this iconic Melbourne tradition transforms the Myer Melbourne windows into a festive story. Discover this year’s magical, animated theme along Bourke St Mall.
Myer, Bourke St Mall. Until 5 January, 7.30am-1.00am
Christmas at Crown
Embracing Christmas customs from across the globe. Crown Riverwalk will host more than 20 stalls of traditional Christmas fare in celebration of the festive season. Bring the family and enjoy free roving entertainment and a visit from Santa.
Crown Riverwalk, 10 & 11 December, 11am-11pm
For more information on the City of Melbourne’s Christmas Festival visit www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/Christmas
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