Christmas Festival Brings Melbourne Together
Melbourne will celebrate the start of the festive season on 28 November 2025 when the Christmas Festival Launch takes over Fed Square from 6.30 pm. Thousands of visitors will gather for music, giveaways, family activities and the lighting of the 17.5 metre Christmas tree. The city treats this launch as the moment the festive calendar officially begins, and the atmosphere consistently reflects that excitement.
To help everyone plan their visit, the full schedule breaks the night into clear stages.
Full Event Schedule
From 6.30 pm
Families can jump straight into the action with face painting, cookie giveaways and candy canes. Roaming Christmas characters create lively moments across the forecourt. Meanwhile, a DJ keeps the early crowd energised with upbeat tracks.
7.00 pm
A pop choir steps onto the stage with a set of modern Christmas favourites. The performance lifts the mood and draws more people towards the centre of the square.
8.30 pm
The evening shifts into its formal section. Wurundjeri man Daniel Ross delivers a Welcome to Country. Shortly after, Nick Reece, Lord Mayor of Melbourne, introduces the festive season and welcomes the city to one of its biggest community celebrations.
8.45 pm
Silvie Paladino arrives on stage with musicians from the Australian Pops Orchestra. Together, they perform a powerful mix of Christmas carols that usually becomes one of the most memorable parts of the night.
9.00 pm
The Christmas tree lights up and brings the crowd together. The 17.5 metre tree bursts into colour during a synchronised sound and light show that fills Fed Square. This moment signals the official start of Melbourne’s Christmas festivities.
What Makes This Year Stand Out
This year’s lighting and projection displays run entirely on wind energy. The City of Melbourne and Fed Square partnered to deliver a more sustainable experience that still delivers scale and impact. As a result, the launch blends tradition with modern environmental priorities. Many visitors appreciate that shift, and it helps the event feel forward-thinking without losing its festive warmth.
A Smooth Experience for All Visitors
Fed Square supports large crowds well because it offers lift access, step-free routes and generous open space. These features help visitors with prams or mobility needs move comfortably. In addition, surrounding venues give families and friends plenty of food and drink options before or after the event. This combination encourages people to stay in the precinct and enjoy the full evening.
Why the Christmas Festival Launch Matters to Melbourne
The launch acts as a cultural anchor for the city. It announces the start of the festive season and brings people into the heart of Melbourne. In addition, it provides a shared experience that families return to year after year. The music, the performers and the tree lighting create a tradition that continues to grow in popularity.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early so they can enjoy each part of the schedule without rushing. The event offers several hours of entertainment and brings together everything people love about this time of year in Melbourne.
