Christmas and New Year in Melbourne
Melbourne does the festive season differently to the rest of the world. It is warm, outdoor-focused, and revolves around BBQs, beaches, and boxing day cricket. Here is how to make the most of it.
Christmas Markets (November-December)
- Queen Victoria Market Christmas Night Market — The biggest and best. Open Thursday evenings from late November through December. Food, drinks, gifts, and entertainment.
- Federation Square — Christmas events, ice skating (yes, outdoor ice skating in summer), and family activities
- South Melbourne Market — Festive food stalls and gift shopping
- Linden NewArt Christmas Market — St Kilda, arts and crafts focus
- Various suburban markets — Northcote, Yarraville, and Brighton all run community markets
Christmas Day Options
If you are cooking:
- Queen Victoria Market and South Melbourne Market both open early on Christmas Eve for last-minute supplies
- Seafood is the Melbourne Christmas tradition — prawns, oysters, and lobster
If you are not cooking:
- Many restaurants open for Christmas lunch — book by early December
- Popular options: Chin Chin (CBD), Supernormal (CBD), Tipo 00 (Carlton)
- Hotel restaurants often offer Christmas Day packages including multiple courses and drinks
Where to spend the day:
- Beach — Brighton, St Kilda, and Elwood beaches are packed but festive
- BBQ in the park — Edinburgh Gardens, Royal Park, and Fawkner Park all have free BBQ facilities
- Yarra Valley — wine country is a popular Christmas Day trip
New Year’s Eve
Fireworks locations:
- CBD — Docklands (9:30 PM family fireworks + midnight)
- Yarra River — Southbank Promenade, free viewing
- St Kilda Beach — foreshore party atmosphere
- Flagstaff Gardens — family-friendly, city views
Best restaurants for NYE dinner:
- Most inner-city restaurants offer set menus for NYE — expect $100-$200 per person
- Book by mid-November for popular venues
- BYO restaurants save significantly on the drinks bill
Rooftop bars for NYE:
- Rooftop Bar, Curtin House
- Naked in the Sky, Fitzroy
- Goldilocks, CBD
- Most require pre-booked tickets for NYE — check by early December
Transport on NYE
- Free public transport runs from 6 PM on NYE through the early hours of January 1
- All train lines operate extended services
- Trams run all night in the CBD
- Rideshare surge pricing will be extreme after midnight — budget $50+ or use public transport
The Melbourne Summer Vibe
December and January in Melbourne are warm, long-daylight months. The city empties slightly as locals head to the coast, but what remains is relaxed, festive, and genuinely enjoyable. The combination of outdoor dining, beach access, and warm evening walks makes Melbourne summer unique in Australia.
Check our suburb guides for local Christmas and NYE events in your area.