10 free CBD events to enjoy Christmas
By David Amaya
Christmas is about to kick off and the heart of the world’s most liveable city is ready to bring festive joyfulness to its residents and visitors.
This year’s Christmas looks set to be the biggest and best Christmas ever with an abundance of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Here we list a series of free CBD events for you to embrace the magic of this season.
Christmas tree, bigger than ever
If you are in the CBD after dark during December, don’t miss the opportunity to admire the pure magic of the 16-metre Christmas tree illuminating Federation Square. This giant tree is the biggest Christmas tree the CBD has ever had and will sure make an Instagram-worthy photo.
Gingerbread Village
Every year from December 1-24 the Melbourne Town Hall is transformed into a gingerbread village showcasing miniature Melbourne landmarks made of gingerbread. More than 550kgs of gingerbread and 400kgs of royal icing have been used to make this local attraction. Entry is free and gold coin donations will be made to the Royal Children’s Hospital.
Santa’s House
Until December 24, Santa has arrived from the North Pole to hear your wishes under Federation Square’s Christmas tree. You can also get a free photo to capture the moment you meet the most generous man on earth.
A very Koorie Krismas
Celebrate an aboriginal-styled Christmas at Federation Square on the afternoon of December 16. This is the third year that the Koorie Heritage Trust makes Christmas a multicultural celebration. Live music, workshops and fantastic performances will show a different approach of Christmas, or should we say, “Krismas”.
Santa Sleigh Karaoke
Do you like to sing? Tune in to sing with your family and friends at the B Present Snow Dome at Federation Square. People are welcome to take over the Christmas show stage every evening until December 24.
Christmas laneways
Your walks through the CBD laneways will be more fun than ever. Hundreds of lights, wreaths and ribbons will decorate famous laneways such as Alfred Place, Manchester Lane and Meyers Place. Until December 25, you will feel the spirit of Christmas at every turn.
Queen Victoria Market: fun day and night
During the day, get the most exotic Christmas gifts and post a letter to Santa at the mailbox. Also, make sure you can take a Wednesday night off to enjoy the variety of food, drinks and live entertainment that the Night Market has to offer.
Myer Christmas windows
An elf embarks on a journey to find the perfect Christmas at the Myer Christmas Windows on Bourke St. Some 30 artisans spent 10 months crafting to bring this Christmas story to life.
Christmas picnic
Share your Christmas recipes at a picnic organised by The Newcomers Network at Queen Victoria Gardens on December 25. Come with your family and friends and find a good spot under the shade to eat, drink and meet new people during the Christmas celebrations.
Christmas Projections
From December 1-25, State Library Victoria and Federation Square will be the canvas of Christmas projections, which this year tells the story of the North Pole’s chaotic preparations for Christmas Day. Stop and take in the magnificent animations projected on these iconic Melbourne buildings at night.