Things to do this Christmas

Merry Melbourne comes alive during the festive season. 'Tis the time to hang out with family; spread joy and take part in some fun things. Here are 5 ideas to make this Christmas one to remember.

 

Carols by Candlelight

Every year on Christmas Eve, Melbournians warm up their vocal cords for some festive fah-lah-lah. This event is a feel-good song sensation held in the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. At this outdoor venue, you can light your candle for a carol singalong as you watch a stellar show with some of the country's best voices. Broadcast Australia-wide, let the joy get you ready for Christmas Day.

 

Light the Season

At this time of year, Federation Square gets switched on; becoming a hive of yuletide festivities. Stand near the Giant Christmas Bauble as it glitters and take a pic of the huge Christmas Tree. For some family fun, the nightly projections and light show will get everyone in a jolly mood. Spot Santa and sit the kids down for a free photo as they pass on their Christmas wishes. 

 

Quality Time

Christmastime is a lovely time to seek out meaningful experiences with the family. When you think Christmas, you may not necessarily think SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium. But family time among colourful underwater creatures will ignite a sense of curiosity in your little ones. With thousands of aquatic animals and a strong message of conservation, the aquarium is the perfect place to learn together. Garner the kids' interest in the 14 incredible zones; see them 'wow' as they walk through our 2.2 million litre Oceanarium tank, under fish and rays. It will soon become evident that a little souvenir to put in their Santa sack is a great idea.

 

A Festive Picnic

Grab some festive food and head for a lovely lawn. From green space to the riverside, BYO friends, lay out your rug and settle in. When the sun's out, it doesn't get better than Melbourne picnic spots. Try Edinburgh Gardens to get amongst the trees, bike tracks, a skate park and table tennis facilities. And if it rains, head for the rotunda. Treasury Gardens is an urban oasis; a gorgeous place with the city rising around it. St Kilda Botanical Gardens is picnic paradise. Boasting flying foxes (the animals, not the playground favourite), giant chess and a conservatory. Here, your canine friends can join you. If it's silly season sand you want, St Kilda Beach is a great spot for a dip and a delicious bite to eat

 

Merry Markets

There’s nothing that’ll get you into the seasonal spirit like wandering around the myriad of Christmas markets Melbourne has on offer. Depending on your interests, there’s a market event that’s right up your ally. Get your cultural fix at the Japanese or French markets. There are markets in the city and markets out of the centre. Canine markets, twilight markets and even ethical markets – take your pick.

 

Christmas Gift

Keep the Christmas spirit going by giving the gift of The Merlin Attraction Pass. 365 days of access to 10 attractions in Australia and New Zealand. Plus save with food, beverage and photo product deals. If you want to keep things local – a double attraction pass will get you into the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium and LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Melbourne on one ticket. Great deal!