Christmas Summer Night Market & Steam Train Santa Hunt: 6 Must-Do Christmas Activities in Melbourne

▲Melbourne is filled with strong Christmas spirit even in summer. (Photo / Tourism Victoria, Australia; same below.)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Want to soak up the most “fiery” Christmas vibes? Fly to Melbourne in the Southern Hemisphere ! Without snowmen and sleighs in the cold wind, Melbourne is still bursting with holiday cheer. The city’s exclusive Christmas festivities, riding the wave of midsummer heat, make your Christmas journey even more lively and wild.

1. 16-meter Christmas Tree & Giant Shiny Ball

▲A giant glowing orb attracts crowds of visitors for photos.

Federation Square was the Christmas hub of Melbourne in 2017, and the star attraction was undoubtedly the Christmas tree—standing at an unprecedented 16 meters, a first for the city ! Nearby, the bustling shopping district makes it perfect for travelers to hop on the free tram loop for a festive visit. Plus, there's the latest must-photo spot: the Giant Christmas Bauble returns this year. At 6 meters tall with dazzling fairy lights, it’s the ideal place for sparkly, magical Christmas snapshots.

Location: Corner Swanston Street and Flinders Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

2. Christmas Fantasy Light Show

▲A magical light show is underway at Federation Square.

The colorful light orbs and Christmas tree at the square are just the prelude—the classic Christmas light show is what really illuminates Melbourne’s nights. Multi-hued, dreamy lights are projected onto Federation Square and the State Library, depicting elves busily crafting Christmas gifts in their workshop, casting the two iconic landmarks in the most vibrant holiday hues. This year, the light show expands to Docklands, where unique interactive displays also promise loads of fun.

Time: December 1–25

3. Write a Letter to Santa

▲Writing a letter to Santa is a beloved Melbourne Christmas tradition.

Celebrating Christmas in Melbourne wouldn’t be complete without sending a letter to Santa ! Grab some paper and pen, channel your inner child, write a letter—or your wish list—to Santa. Address it to Santa, North Pole, 9999, include your name and return address, affix a stamp, and drop it in the red mailbox outside Australia Post GPO. You might just receive a reply from Santa himself.

Time: Now until December 15
Location: Australia Post GPO, 260 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

4. The Most Magical Surprise: Meet Santa in Person

▲Kids’ favorite jolly old man can be spotted here.

At the heart of the Christmas carnival, Federation Square, you’ll find Santa’s House under the giant Christmas tree ! Throughout December, there’s a high chance you’ll “bump into” Santa here. Snap a free photo with him and share your holiday wishes for a romantic Christmas moment.

Time: 10am–12pm; 1–3pm (December 1–25)
Location: Corner Swanston Street and Flinders Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

5. Ride a Century-Old Steam Train to Find Santa

The historic Puffing Billy steam train is offering a special Christmas journey ! Departing from Gembrook Station, the ride takes you through Victoria’s picturesque forests and farmlands, where you’ll be greeted by Santa’s warm wishes and enjoy a super sweet photo op. Kids can even receive a special gift from Santa. The round-trip Christmas journey lasts one hour, combining a retro time-travel experience with a visit to the Little Elves Workshop, where you can craft and take home a meaningful handmade Christmas gift.

Location: Main Road, Gembrook VIC 3783

6. Christmas + Summer + Night Market = Perfect Combo !

Seek out Santa by day, then head to the Queen Victoria Market for an evening encore ! Combining Christmas and summer night market vibes, the market transforms every Wednesday night into a festive paradise of food, shopping, and entertainment. Indulge in global street food that tempts your taste buds, browse stylish vintage finds, and enjoy cool bars and live music performances for the wildest summer feast.

Time: Every Wednesday, 5–10pm (November 15, 2017 – April 11, 2018)
Location: Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000