Melbourne is getting ready to shine brighter than ever this festive season, with the city transforming into a glittering wonderland of lights, music and celebration from Friday 28 November through to Christmas Day.
From the cobblestone laneways of the CBD to the riverside bustle of Southbank, the season will bring the heart of the city alive with decorations, performances, shopping and dining designed to capture the spirit of Christmas.
At the centre of it all, Fed Square will again become Christmas Square, home to Melbourne’s iconic 17.5-metre tree adorned with 110,000 lights. The tree lighting ceremony on 28 November will mark the official start of celebrations, accompanied by a free evening of live performances.
Across the city, more than 650 decorations will adorn streets and landmarks, including a new 60-metre display featuring 25,000 lights suspended above Bourke Street Mall. Melbourne Town Hall, Evan Walker Bridge and Flinders Street Station will also shine with festive projections and lighting displays.
Acting Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell said this year’s celebrations promise to be among the city’s biggest yet.
“No one does Christmas quite like the City of Melbourne – where every street, square and laneway sparkles with the magic of the season,” she said.
“With over 2 million visitors expected in the city this festive season, we’re set to supercharge our local economy by more than $144 million – supporting our traders, retailers and hospitality venues.”
Highlights include the Crown Christmas River Show, an expanded 130-metre water and light spectacle along Southbank; Christmas Square events featuring films, cabaret and the return of Koorie Krismas; the Myer Christmas Windows on Bourke Street Mall; and Carols by Candlelight at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Shoppers can explore a new “12 Days of Christmas” decoration trail winding through the city’s arcades and laneways.
Head of Events and Tourism Councillor Mark Scott said the program offered something for everyone. “This year’s program is packed with festive fun for all ages – from dazzling lights and enchanting decorations to joyful family activities and world-class dining and shopping,” he said.
With community choirs, Christmas theatre, pop-up events and extended shopping hours, Melbourne’s city centre is set to be the ultimate festive destination.
For more information, visit What’s On Melbourne.
