Where to Celebrate Christmas in July in Melbourne: Best Festive Experiences
Melbourne knows how to make winter fun, and Christmas in July is proof. With the cooler weather setting the scene, locals embrace the chance to enjoy all the classic Christmas traditions, like roasts, puddings, and hot drinks, without the summer heat. It’s become a popular way to add some joy to the middle of the year and bring people together for a good time.
In this blog, we’ll look at why people celebrate Christmas in July Melbourne and round up the best 2025 events you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive in!
Why People Celebrate Xmas in July Melbourne?
Christmas in July has become an increasingly popular tradition in Melbourne, capturing the hearts of locals and tourists alike. But what makes it so special in this vibrant city?
Perfect Winter Weather: Unlike the typical December Christmas under Melbourne’s summer sun, July offers crisp, cool temperatures perfect for traditional winter festivities. Locals embrace this chance to celebrate Christmas the traditional northern hemisphere way, complete with warm fires, hot chocolate, and festive feasts.
Bringing Communities Together: Christmas in July creates a perfect opportunity for community gatherings. Melbourne neighborhoods come alive with festive spirit as friends and families host gatherings, potlucks, and even street celebrations.
Boosting Local Businesses: Restaurants, cafes, and markets seize the opportunity to offer festive-themed menus and events. This brings vibrant energy to the local economy and creates an exciting atmosphere throughout the city.
Unique Cultural Experience: Celebrating Christmas twice a year gives Melbournians a unique chance to experience traditional holiday customs differently. People can experiment with cozy winter traditions they typically miss out on in December.
Top Christmas in July Events in Melbourne for 2025
Melbourne’s got no shortage of festive fun this winter, and Christmas in July is the perfect excuse to round up your crew and experience a hearty roast or a cheeky mulled wine. Here's a handpicked list of 10 Christmas in July events for 2025 that you won’t want to miss.
1. Hophaus – Christmas Lunch with a View
Head to Southbank on Sunday 27 July for a three-course feast at Hophaus. You’ll get shared entrées, hearty mains, and your pick of dessert, all while soaking up gorgeous views of the Yarra and city skyline. It’s festive dining done right.
2. P.J. O'Brien’s – Classic Irish Pub Cheer
Throughout July, PJ’s in Southbank is putting on festive group feasts with all the trimmings. There are long tables, great banter, and a warm, traditional spread. Bring your mates, your family, or both.
3. Ludlow Bar & Dining Room – One-Day Roast Special
Mark your calendar for Sunday 27 July. Ludlow is serving up a one-off roast feast with all the festive extras, riverside. It’s the perfect winter Sunday plan, especially if you love a classic roast done well.
4. Temperance Hotel – Pub-Style Christmas on Chapel
Over in South Yarra, Temperance Hotel is also doing a one-day-only Sunday Roast on 27 July. Expect a laid-back vibe, comforting food, and good drinks. Winter weekends don’t get much better.
5. Amora Riverwalk Hotel – Sunday Roast in Richmond
Amora Riverwalk is dishing up a traditional roast feast in a relaxed riverside setting. Tuck in, toast to mid-year cheer, and enjoy some of the best comfort food Richmond has to offer.
6. The Wharf Hotel – Dine in a Winter Igloo
If you’re after something a little different, check out The Wharf’s winter igloos. These cozy bubbles by the river offer a festive roast experience with twinkling lights, blankets, and private dining vibes.
7. Yarra Botanica – Cheese Fondue & Festive Sips
Cheese lovers, this one's for you. Yarra Botanica’s "Drip, Dip & Sip" experience brings you bottomless fondue, warm bites, and winter cocktails aboard a floating bar. It’s Christmas in July with a twist.
8. Marnong Estate – Winter Getaway Just Outside the City
Looking to escape Melbourne for a night? Head to Marnong Estate in Mickleham. With vineyard views, open fireplaces, and festive dining, it’s a cosy country retreat made for the season.
9. Brewmanity – Beer & Cheer Every Sunday
South Melbourne’s Brewmanity is turning up the holiday vibes with tasting paddles, brews, and live energy every Sunday. It’s casual, cheerful, and perfect for a chilled-out Christmas in July catch-up.
10. The Espy – Roast & Revelry by the Bay
St Kilda’s iconic Espy is going full festive with Sunday Roasts in the Main Bar. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to stay all afternoon—good food, seaside charm, and plenty of Christmas cheer.
Bonus Tip for Outdoor Celebrations
If you’re thinking of hosting your own Christmas in July gathering, maybe a picnic at a local park or a backyard roast, a portable power station can be a handy addition. It gives you the freedom to plug in fairy lights, keep food warm, or even power a speaker for festive tunes.
The EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Portable Power Station is worth checking out. It offers 1800W AC output with a 1024Wh capacity, plenty to run small appliances or outdoor lights. It’s quiet, compact, and supports solar recharging, making it a reliable option for festive setups away from home.
EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Portable Power Station
Conclusion
If you’re planning to celebrate Christmas in July Melbourne style, there’s no shortage of cozy, cheerful ways to do it. The city offers everything from riverside roasts and pub lunches to fondue cruises and winter igloos. It’s the perfect excuse to gather your crew, enjoy a festive meal, and soak up that mid-year magic. Melbourne’s love for winter fun makes Christmas in July something special, so grab a warm drink, book a spot, and enjoy the season in true local fashion.
FAQs
Where can I celebrate Christmas in July in Melbourne?
Looking to celebrate Christmas in the city Melbourne? Warm up at riverside spots like Hophaus or Ludlow with hearty roasts, or enjoy a winter igloo experience at The Wharf Hotel. Yarra Botanica offers festive fondue cruises, while cozy pub feasts await at P.J. O’Brien’s and Temperance Hotel.
If you're planning your own outdoor gathering, powering fairy lights and speakers becomes effortless when you bring along the best portable power station, ensuring all your mid-winter fun stays bright and charged.
Are There Events Suitable for Children?
Absolutely! Melbourne’s Christmas in July celebrations are perfect for families. Many venues offer kid-friendly options, like Hophaus and Ludlow hosting festive roasts where children can enjoy smaller portions and dessert treats. P.J. O’Brien’s often features live music and activities to keep little ones entertained.
Over at The Wharf Hotel, the winter igloos are a hit with kids who love the novelty of private bubbles with fairy lights. Yarra Botanica’s “Drip, Dip & Sip” fondue cruise welcomes families, offering gentle moving lights and delicious cheesy fun.
Is Christmas in July at Mount Dandenong?
Yes, you can celebrate Christmas in July at SkyHigh Mt Dandenong! Nestled in the Dandenong Ranges, this event brings festive cheer early with a traditional Christmas lunch and the full trimmings. It’s ideal for groups, whether small gatherings or clubs. If you book more than 70 guests, there’s even live entertainment to lift the mood. Dining takes place upstairs in the stylish function room, offering stunning views from the Mornington Peninsula to Mt Macedon.