Christmas comes to Southbank

By Jemma van Zaanen

The Christmas cheer has come to Southbank this year and here is a list of festive events for everyone to attend.

The playground

Come to Queensbridge Square to swing on a giant illuminated bell or test out your dancing skills on a light-up dancefloor in a festive pop-up playground. 

Marvel at a canopy of interactive flower petals or conduct the Lightphonic orchestra in a special installation on the red stairs from December 15-24.

Family Christmas evening on South Wharf

Bring the whole family to South Wharf on December 18 from 5pm to 6pm for a free Christmas celebration with lots of festive food and drinks to purchase.

Attendees will enjoy an outdoor Christmas carol concert by the Australian Girls’ Choir, followed by a family Christmas movie by the river at the Common Lawn. 

Row ho ho

See the magic of Santa with his floating sleigh and enchanted dolphins light up the Birrarung-Yarra River between Evan Walker Bridge and Sandridge Bridge. 

Created by the Melbourne creative studio A Blanck Canvas, catch the 27-metre installation heading down the river from December 2-28 at 1pm and 9pm.

City of Melbourne’s Christmas Festival decorations

Get in the Christmas spirit by checking out the Sandridge Bridge for big festive decorations. Or head to South Wharf Bridge to snap some Christmas light photos. Check out the neon “ho ho ho” sign at Southbank Spillway to experience Christmas in Southbank. •

Caption: Row Ho Ho.

Photo: Adam Renyard