What’s on in Melbourne in December 2024

As the year comes to a close, December in Melbourne is the perfect time to visit the city – before the rush of the school holidays and Christmas period.

This month, like usual, Melbourne’s event calendar is packed. There are Christmas markets that bring a festive atmosphere (and allow you to get your last-minute shopping done) and outdoor events that take advantage of the warming weather.

In this article, I’ll guide you through my top picks for December in Melbourne, including the best Christmas lights and decorations, outdoor activities, theatre shows and how the city celebrates New Year’s Eve.

Here’s a curated selection of the must-dos happening this December in the city.

Melbourne weather in December

Welcome summer! The weather in Melbourne during December is typically warm and inviting, the perfect backdrop for Christmas and New Year’s festivities. Average temperatures hover around 17 to 26 degrees Celsius (63 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit).

The days are longer and sunnier, although the city’s famous “four seasons in a day” can still make an appearance. This means you might experience occasional showers, but they’re generally short-lived.

Check the upcoming Melbourne weather forecast online, and read my full guide to summer in Melbourne.

Public holidays in Melbourne in December

Christmas means two public holidays – Christmas Day (Wednesday 25 December) and Boxing Day (Thursday 26 December).

The term 4 summer school holidays kick off on 21 December 2024.

Major events and festivals in December

Check back regularly throughout the month – I’ll keep this page updated as I hunt down more events!

Christmas in Melbourne

There’s so much happening around Melbourne in the lead up to Christmas! My full guide to Christmas in Melbourne includes:

• The best lights and decorations around the city
• Must-do Christmas events
• Where to get your Christmas decorations and ornaments
• Where to eat on Christmas Day
• And… some ideas for what to do on Christmas Day if you don’t celebrate

I’ve also got a guide to the best Melbourne Christmas markets.

New Year’s Eve

Ring in the New Year in Melbourne. There are plenty of events and parties around the city:

• Watch the fireworks – head to one of the free, official Celebration Zones at Docklands, The Shrine, Flagstaff Gardens or Treasury Gardens
• Book a night out at a restaurant

Theatre, film and music

A Very Naughty Christmas

A hilarious adults-only Christmas comedy – think raunchy reindeer, carnal carols and (ahem) a long North Pole.

The Wind in the Willows

The Australian Shakespeare Company brings back this classic play to the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Alice in Wonderland

Tumble down the rabbit hole with the beloved children’s story.

ALWAYS LIVE

ALWAYS LIVE is back, with 17 days of live music, with gigs held across the whole state.

Tina: Tina Turner the Musical

The life of the Queen of Rock ‘n Roll on stage – with all the hits you know.

Sister Act

The global smash hit musical stars Casey Donovan as Deloris Van Cartier and brings the incredible soundtrack you know from the film.

Candelight Concert Series with Fever

Fever brings their stunning candlelit concerts to venues across Melbourne. There’s everything from the Best of Frank Sinatra and Fleetwood Mac to tributes to Queen and Beyonce.

Beauty and the Beast

The much-loved classic tale comes to the stage in a spectacular performance.

The Fans Strike Back

Immerse yourself in a galaxy far, far away with this huge collection of items from the Famous Saga.

My Brilliant Career

A stage adaption of Miles Franklin’s novel, My Brilliant Career is all about Sybylla Melvyn growing up in the 1890s who decides she’s having it all.

Melbourne Magic Show

Have your mind blown by the magic and illusion of Master Magician Luke Hocking.

Museums and art

The Art of Banksy: Without Limits

The Art of Banksy: Without Limits features more than 180 artworks, such as certified art, prints on different kinds of materials, photos, sculptures, installations, digital installations, murals and mapping shows.

Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius

The Lume’s latest immersive exhibition celebrates the life and art of of Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci.

Van Gogh at The Lume

The Lume’s original immersive exhibition, Van Gogh, returns this month.

Melbourne Out Loud: Life Through the Lens of Rennie Ellis

Known for his uncanny ability to slip into all kinds of social circles, this collection from photographer Rennie Ellis are a portrait of Melbourne.

Cats and Dogs

Whether you’re a cat person or a dog person, animal lovers will enjoy this new exhibition at the NGV that explores humanity’s deep connection to these animals.

Planetarium Nights

Head to Scienceworks for an adults-only, after dark experience. December’s events include Starlight (an out-of-this-world journey to discover constellations and ancient cultures) and Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon (a tribute to the band’s iconic album).

Monopoly Dreams

Immerse yourself in giant Monopoly sets, win prizes and – most importantly – stay out of jail!

Experience the Dome Promenade

One of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings has opened a hidden part that hasn’t been accessible to the public for 100 years.

Food and drink events in December

Summer Night Market

Summer means the return of Queen Vic Market’s Summer Night Market!

Jamaican Food and Music Festival

Celebrate all things Jamaican, from reggae to jerk chicken, at this all-day festival.

Community events, festivals and shopping

The Big Design Market

Shop from a beautiful range of unique and handmade gifts, including jewellery, homewares, fashion and more from over 250 designers from around Australia.

Alliance Française Xmas Market

Pick up fabulous Frenchy gifts and sample French foods like crepes and raclette at this festive market.

Boho Luxe Christmas Market

Browse unique jewellery, art and fashion from Melbourne’s best designers. There are also workshops and psychic readings throughout the day.

Pasko Sa Melbourne

Celebrate Christmas the Filipino way at this “Christmas in our hearts” event. There’s a photo booth, face painting, games and parol (lantern) making.

Christmas Carnival

A ferris wheel, dodgem cars, carnival games and fried snacks all make for a fun family outing.

What are you most excited to see and do in December in Melbourne?