Melbourne comes into its own over Christmas with heaps of fun activities for families – and the Christmas cheer will be even brighter this year with the return of the Salvation Army’s beloved carolers and musicians.
The Salvation Army band will bring the city streets to life with music from Monday, 9 December until Christmas Eve.
This is a chance for everyone to come together, enjoy the sound of Christmas and donate to the Salvation Army – who do amazing work every day of the year to support vulnerable Victorians.
In addition to carolers, the Salvos will have a variety of musicians out on key street corners as well as the stations on the City Loop – including vocalists, violinists, guitarists, a string quartet and the traditional Salvos’ brass band.
The beautiful music isn’t the only thing bringing the city to life this Christmas time, with a wonderland of events and dazzling decorations for families to enjoy.
From the iconic Myer Christmas Windows to the Christmas Eve Circus at Town Square to the festive-themed maze in the Docklands – Christmas is set to take over, bringing families to the city and filling up local businesses, restaurants and hotels.
Families can enjoy a First Peoples makers’ market and performances at Federation Square thanks to Koorie Krismas, or they can collect a map from Mary Martin Bookshop to join the Melbourne City Christmas Treasure Hunt.
There’s Christmas Crafternoons at the Library at The Dock, or you can find bespoke gifts of artwork, pottery, glass, crafts, candles and old wines at the Artist Christmas Market in East Melbourne.
These Christmas events join Melbourne’s jam-packed calendar of major events for families and friends to enjoy this festive season.
Iconic sports will return with the Boxing Day Test and the Australian Open – and the Pro Kabaddi Melbourne Raid will be held for the very first time at John Cain Arena.
The world-first exhibition of the contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama will transform NGV International and a dedicated kids gallery and the return of NGV Friday Nights will attract even more visitors.
The government announced support for Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal with a $150,000 contribution.
“We’ve been out of action in recent years, but in the words of Arnie – we’re back!“ said Salvation Army commanding officer Major Brendan Nottle.
“With the generous support from the City of Melbourne, our bands will be playing around the city. It’s an opportunity for people to donate, if they’d like, but most importantly it’s an opportunity for Melbourne to be at its best – a place where we look out for each other and ensure that no one is left behind.”
