Christmas is known for being one of the most joyful times of the year, and what better way to celebrate this festive holiday period than by hunting for decorative lighting.
Firstly, the following list includes locations within the Melbourne CBD. I’ve not included the places in the suburbs as the list could go on forever!
Nonetheless, there is a vast array of light setups all over Melbourne for everyone to enjoy. Therefore, I would recommend selecting a handful of locations to visit to enjoy the night.
Not to mention, all of these marvellous attractions are free to visit, making them the perfect family outing. And, they are usually open until roughly 11 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the night.
Note: Don’t forget to look around at some taller buildings. You will be delighted to see some festive lighting on the high rise apartments and buildings.
Most Popular Timeframe to View the Melbourne Christmas Lights
Typically, the most popular time to visit these lights is 8:30 PM-10:00 PM. Therefore, plan accordingly to beat the rush and crowds. Sometimes, it’s good to go after the majority of the crowd has visited so that you have more space to explore and more time to enjoy the lights.
Young families are usually among the earlier timeframe so that the children are home at a reasonable hour. Therefore, if you have the chance to stay up a little later, I’d recommend attending these locations from 10:30 PM onwards for a slightly reduced crowd.
Nonetheless, dusk is a beautiful time to wander around the city while enjoying a stroll and viewing the magnificent displays.
Note: All of these Christmas displays end on the 25th of December.
The Best Christmas Lights in Melbourne
Christmas Square
Head into the heart of seasonal joy with a visit to Christmas Square, usually known as Federation Square. Moreover, this location is easily accessed from Flinders Street station and is the perfect first destination for your Christmas lights journey.
Snap some photos in front of the 16-metre icy-blue Christmas tree, and view the oversized sparkling baubles sprinkled over the steps.
There are also some fun activities for children to get involved with the Christmas cheer. I’d recommend spending around 30 minutes enjoying this space.
Time: 8 AM – 11 PM
Address: Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3004
Chapter House Lane
Amongst all of the Christmas glee, Chapter House Lane effortlessly takes the cake on the best Christmas attraction of the year.
The projection runs for roughly 5 minutes, in between a digital display of Christmas trees, sparkling gifts and shiny baubles.
The short film offers an immersive experience with digital imagery shining onto St Paul’s Cathedral, Chapter House and Torrens University.
The story features a young girl who goes to bed on Christmas Eve while Santa stops to deliver some gifts. Shortly, both appear into another world where they adventure along a train. Then, they head through a small village and finish the adventure with a walk through the town.
Moreover, this is the perfect attraction for children, and they will be fascinated with the short story.
Finally, stick around to the end of the film where confetti (imitating snow) blasts into the air. I would recommend standing nearby the confetti cannon for the ultimate experience.
Note: No shows running on the 17th, 18th and 24th December.
Time: 9 PM – 11 PM
Address: Chapter House Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
Christmas in Degraves
Take a short wander through the iconic Degraves street and enjoy the beautiful and sparkling strands of light. Moreover, this is another great stop along your journey to Christmas lights in Melbourne.
Also, be sure to wander up and view the stunning Christmas tree display. Children will love viewing the shiny baubles and beautiful setup.
Address: Degraves Street, Melbourne VIC 3004
Melbourne Town Hall
Another fantastic display of Christmas lights in Melbourne is the iconic Melbourne town hall. Moreover, this festive display has the building wrapped up like a giant, neon pressent. There is also a countdown to Christmas.
Additionally, enjoy viewing the oversized wreaths and nutcrackers at this fantastic location; This is the perfect stopover on your journey to the Melbourne Christmas lights hunt.
Time: 9 PM – 11 PM
Address: Melbourne Town Hall, 90-130 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hamer Hall Christmas Projections
The Hamer Hall riverside facade is quickly becoming another popular location for Christmas lights in Melbourne. Moreover, this location is best to enjoy after sunset.
View the festive display of native flora and fauna cast on the building; A perfect spot to stroll through on your way to your following destination.
Time: 9 PM – 11 PM
Address: Princes Bridge, Melbourne VIC 3004
Myer Christmas Windows
Head to Myer in Melbourne to view the wonderful display of The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Moreover, this is a fantastic Christmas exhibition for children and families to enjoy. Not to mention, this is the 66th year for the Myer window displays; A truly iconic holiday outing.
If you would like to visit this location, I would recommend doing so during the weekends between 10 AM and 2 PM as this is when children will get the chance for a meet and greet with Peter Rabbit and Flopsy.
Time: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Address: Myer Melbourne, 314/336 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Additional Christmas Activities
While you’re in the city, you may as well take up the opportunity to soak up all of the Christmas joy and visit the other attractions. I would recommend including these locations on your list of places to visit as they will simply add to the fun!
- Meyers Place Archway
- Yarra’s Edge Stairs
- Bourke Street Mall Stars
- Present Box Dance Floor
- Gingerbread Village
- Docklands Christmas Maze
- Art Centre Spire Lasers
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, there are several excellent places to enjoy the Christmas lights in Melbourne. And, if you’re not interested in viewing these locations, you can always take up the opportunity to simply wander around the city and enjoy your findings.
Nonetheless, use this Christmas lights guide to plan and sort out the best journey for the night. I would absolutely recommend this outing for children and families to enjoy on a lovely summer night.
Finally, be sure to take plenty of photos and tag me on Instagram. I would love to see the adventures you get up to!
Which location are you most interested to see? Have you been to the Christmas lights before?
Read more:
40 Free Things to Do in Melbourne: The Best Melbourne Activities
20 Fun Things to Do in Melbourne With Kids
