Carols by Candlelight

About

Carols by Candlelight is Australia's most beloved Christmas tradition, bringing families together under the stars for an enchanting evening of festive music, celebrity performances, and community spirit. This iconic Melbourne event creates magical holiday memories as thousands gather with candles glowing in the December summer twilight, singing classic carols together. It's a uniquely Australian Christmas experience that combines spectacular entertainment with the warmth of celebrating outdoors in the Southern Hemisphere summer.

What to Expect

Families can expect a festive atmosphere with live performances from Australian celebrities, musicians, and choirs performing traditional and contemporary Christmas carols. The main event at Princes Park features big screens, professional staging, and a nationally televised broadcast, while satellite events offer more intimate community gatherings. Expect crowds arriving early to claim prime picnic spots, families spreading blankets across the grass, and a sea of candles lighting up as dusk falls. The atmosphere is joyful and family-oriented, with children running around before the show starts, Santa appearances, and everyone joining in the singing.

Highlights for Kids

• Waving candles in unison with thousands of other families as darkness falls and the carols begin
• Celebrity performances and surprise guest appearances that are broadcast live across Australia
• Singing along to beloved Christmas classics like 'Jingle Bells,' 'Silent Night,' and Australian favorites
• The magical atmosphere of celebrating Christmas outdoors in warm summer weather—a unique experience for Northern Hemisphere visitors
• Giant screens ensuring even families farther from the stage can see all the action and join in the festive spirit

Pro Tips for Families

1. Arrive 3-4 hours early (gates typically open at 5:30pm) to secure a good spot near the stage or screens, as prime locations fill quickly with families claiming their territory
2. Bring glow sticks or LED candles for younger children as a safer alternative to real candles, plus they love having their own light to wave during the performances
3. Pack a substantial picnic dinner, blankets, and cushions for comfort as you'll be sitting on grass for several hours, plus warm layers as Melbourne evenings can cool down even in December summer
4. Download the Carols by Candlelight app or check the broadcast schedule beforehand to know when your children's favorite carols will be performed so they don't miss them during bathroom breaks

Best Time to Visit

Arrive when gates open in the late afternoon (around 5:30pm) to secure the best family spots and allow kids time to explore and settle in before the main performances begin around 8pm. The pre-show entertainment keeps children engaged, and arriving early means less stress navigating crowds with kids in tow. Note that this is a single-evening annual event held on Christmas Eve (December 24th), so plan your Melbourne visit accordingly.

Food & Drinks

Most families bring elaborate picnic spreads as outside food is permitted and encouraged—think sandwiches, fruit, treats, and festive snacks to enjoy on your blanket. Food vendors and stalls are available throughout the venue selling hot food, ice cream, drinks, and snacks, though prices are premium and lines can be long. Bringing your own water bottles is essential in the summer heat, and many families pack coolers with cold drinks. Note that alcohol policies vary by year, so check current regulations if planning to bring wine or beer for adults.

Parking & Access

Public transport is strongly recommended as parking near Princes Park is extremely limited and surrounding streets have restrictions on event night. Trams and trains service Carlton North area, with special extended services running for the event—the number 1 or 6 trams along Brunswick Street or Swanston Street are convenient options. If driving, park at a suburban station and take public transport in. The venue is relatively flat and stroller-accessible, though navigating through dense crowds with a pram can be challenging, so baby carriers may be more practical. International visitors should purchase a Myki card for Melbourne public transport in advance.