The silly season brings with it many things: Kris Kringle pressies that’ll likely be regifted next year, boozed-up relatives and that awkward, annual decision of which side of the family you’ll be spending Christmas day with. It’s not all festive faux pas, though—one such thing that’s universally loved this time of the year is Christmas markets.
And wouldn’t you know it, the state of Victoria is pretty good at them. It’s still early days, though several have already been announced in the city and further afield. Here are the best Christmas Markets in Melbourne and Victoria for 2024:
The Queen Vic Christmas Night Market
Image: QVM | Supplied
Summer has arrived and this year the QVM is hosting its very own Christmas winter wonderland, equipped with a large outdoor ice skating rink for you to put your skills to the test. Snacks will include Canadian poutine, (IYKYK) fairy floss, popcorn, and maple syrup ice cream. The big man himself will be making an appearance, and Santa’s mailbox will be set up in the north pole (Shed C) for all those Christmas wish lists. The best part is, Santa will be replying to every letter sent!
THE DETAILS
When: Market Days 1-24 December & Wednesday Nights
Where: Queen Vic Markets
How: Free Entry
German Christmas Market
It’s no secret that Europe’s Christmas markets are legendary. But if a flight to the northern hemisphere isn’t in the budget right now, no worries—Melbourne’s got its very own traditional German Christmas Market, right in the heart of the city.
Feast on bratwurst with sauerkraut, buttery bretzels, hot waffles, gingerbread, and all the German treats you can handle, plus a cheeky mulled wine (or two).
Wander through the charming stalls for handmade gifts, Christmas decorations, and all kinds of festive finds. Plus, there’ll be live music and a special visit from ole Saint Nick himself.
THE DETAILS
Where: 7 December, 3pm-8pm * 15 December, 12pm-5pm
Where: German Lutheran Trinity Church, 22 Parliament Place, East Melbourne
How: Free Entry
CherryHill Orchards Christmas Market
Image: CherryHill Orchards | Supplied
CherryHill Orchards is hosting its very first Christmas market in the beautifully scenic Coldstream located in the Yarra Valley. This festive event will showcase a range of local produce including gourmet food and produce, and of course, all things cherries.
There will be a visit from some Christmas elves and fairies for the kids, face painting, and cherry ice cream, while the adults can shop for gifts from artisan makers and producers, and have a boogie to the live music and entertainment.
THE DETAILS
When: 21 & 22 December, 4pm-8pm
Where: Coldstream Orchard, 739 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream
How: Free Entry
Christmas Festival Melbourne
Image credit: City Of Melbourne | Ray Reyes
The Christmas festival of all Christmas festivals is taking over Melbourne for four glorious weeks. All the major action is happening at Fed Square, landmarked by the towering 17.5m Christmas tree, but the festivities stretch to the Birrarung Marr and Marvel Stadium. This festival has it all: silly season carnival rides, Christmas-themed food and drink, dazzling light and sound shows, North Pole pop-ups, and tons more. Read all about it.
THE DETAILS
When: 29 November-25 December
Where: Fed Square
How: Free Entry
Image credit: QVM
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