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41 Free Christmas Events In Melbourne For A Festive Day with Family (2023)

Christmas is a special time of year when family, friends and loved ones come together to celebrate through giving, sharing and spending quality time with those we care about most. 

What better way to enjoy the festive season than by attending a festive Christmas event?

There are so many festive events happening around Melbourne, and it can be hard to know where to start…..so we’ve decided to put together a list of the best free Christmas events happening all throughout Melbourne! 

From Christmas markets and Christmas carols to family fun days out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Start planning your festive day out now and make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Click here if you’re looking for free Christmas events in Melbourne CBD

Free Christmas Events Melbourne – North

1. Warrandyte Community Carols

Come and celebrate Christmas with the Warrandyte community by singing carols together and enjoying the positive atmosphere at Warrandyte Community Carols

Listen to the performances of local singers and musicians who are spreadig some holiday cheer! Don’t forget to bring a picnic or buy some food and drinks from the food trucks on site. 

Santa will also be making a special appearance, so don’t miss out!

Warrandyte Community Carols, Stiggants Reserve, 45-55 Yarra Street, Warrandyte
Sat 16 Dec 2023, 7:00am – 9:00 pm, Free

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2. German Christmas Market

Come join in on Friday, November 24th, for the German Christmas Market in North Fitzroy! This free, family-friendly event will have a variety of Australian and German Christmas market traditions for everyone to enjoy! It’ll be a great night out for the whole family and include Christmas-themed gift stalls, kids’ activities, Carols by Candlelight, music, gingerbread houses, German biscuits and more! 

German Christmas Market, 96 Barkly Street, Fitzroy North, +61 3 9205 5555, info@yarracity.vic.gov.au, 
Fri 24 2023 Nov 5 pm – 9 pm, Free

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3. Banyule Carols by Candlelight

Listen to Banyule’s annual Carols by Candlelight at the Greensborough War Memorial Park and enjoy the fun activities, entertainment and a wonderful selection of food on offer during this family-friendly event.

Banyule Carols by Candlelight, Henry Street, Greensborough War Memorial Park, Greensborough, +61 9433 7727, enquiries@banyule.vic.gov.au
Sat 16 Dec 2023, 5 pm – 9:30 pm

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4. Carols by Candlelight

Carols by Candlelight is back! From 7pm – 9:30pm Enjoy Pre-event activities and entertainment, festive, fun activities for the whole family to enjoy, including face painting, kids crafts, food trucks, stalls and more!

The main stage performances will begin from around 7 pm – 9:30 pm and will include performances from PAW Patrol, Garth Ploog, Michaela Jayde, and more

To end the celebration on a high, there will be a fireworks finale show!

Carols by Candlelight, Anzac Park, Central Park Avenue, Craigieburn
Sat, 2 Dec 2023, 7 PM – 09:30 PM, Free

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5. Christmas craft for kids – Mickleham North

Looking for a fun and festive activity for the kids this Christmas? Come along to the Mickleham North Community Centre and where they’ll get to learn how to create their own Christmas stocking!

Christmas craft for kids – Mickleham North, Mickleham North Community Centre, 82-90 St Georges Boulevard, Mickleham
Thur 7 Dec 2023, 3:00 PM – 04:30 PM, Free

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6. Westfield Christmas Craft Activities

Bring the little ones along to Westfield as they’ve prepared a range of Christmas crafts and activities for them to enjoy during the holiday season. Dates and activities include:

  • 1 – 24 December – Christmas Bauble Craft
  • 1 – 24 December – Christmas Cards

The fun starts at 10 am at the Kids Space, near Kmart. The free event is exclusive to Westfield Plus members.

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Fairfield Village Festive Gift Making & Gift Wrapping Day (Sat 9 Dec 2023) – Come to the Fairfield Community room (near the library) for a day of crafting and wrapping gifts! Join this free community event – no need to book, just drop in.

Free Christmas Events – Melbourne South / south-east / bayside

7. Stonnington Christmas Concerts

Looking for some festive fun this Christmas? The City of Stonnington has got you covered with a series of free Christmas concerts to celebrate the holiday season. 

Musical director Casey Bennetto will be leading each Christmas concert with a spectacular line-up of festive music, including some of Australia’s finest vocalists, the stunning South of the River Choir, and a special visit from Santa!

Finish off the night by watching their Pyrotechnics display that is set to classical music.

There will also be roving entertainment and food trucks, and the events will raise funds for the Mayor’s chosen charity.

Stonnington Christmas Concerts, 83-141 Burke Road, Malvern East, Central Park
Sunday, 10 December 2023, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, FREE
Stonnington Christmas Concerts, 305-325 Williams Road, South Yarra, Sunday,
17 December 2023, 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm, FREE

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8. Kinross Christmas Craft Market

Kinross Christmas Craft Market is on this November and will feature delightful pieces from local craft makers, artists, and artisans who are offering an assortment of thoughtfully made offerings, such as artwork, jewellery, fine prints, wood, glass, home accessories and stationery!

The pop-up shop is a fundraiser that supports the arts centre and local makers.

Kinross Christmas Craft Market, Kinross Arts Centre, 603 Toorak Road, Toorak
Wednesday, 8 Nov – Monday, 21 Nov 2023, 10 am – 3 pm

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9. Bayside Christmas Carols in the Park

Bayside City Council is bringing back Christmas Carols in the Park, so join in to celebrate with the whole community along with family and friends the holiday season. Pre-event activities begin at 5:30 pm.

Bayside Christmas Carols in the Park, Dendy Park, Brighton, +61 3 9599 4444
Tue 12 Dec 2023, 5:30 pm, Free

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10. Christmas on the Foreshore

Christmas on the Foreshore has prepared free entertainment, face painting, a visit from Santa and a fireworks display to top off a wonderful night! 

Christmas on the Foreshore, Tooradin Foreshore
Fri 8 Dec 2023, 6 pm – 10 pm, Free

Christmas on the Foreshore

11. Cranbourne Community Christmas Carols

Come join the Cranbourne Presbyterian Church for their 10th annual Community Christmas Carols! There will be free activities for the kids, live performances, carols and a sausage sizzle.

Cranbourne Community Christmas Carols, Cranbourne Presbyterian Church
Sun 17 Dec 2023, 6 pm – 9 pm, Free

12. The Keysie Market – Christmas Edition

If you’re looking for a fantastic Christmas market to do your shopping at, be sure to come to The Keysie Market on Sunday, December 19th, from 10 am to 2 pm. It’ll be a great opportunity to support small businesses and find unique gifts for your loved ones, all while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

The Keysie Market – Christmas Edition, Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough
Sun 19 Dec 2023, 10 am – 2 pm, Free

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13. Frankston’s Christmas Festival of Lights 2023

Experience all the magic, wonder and joy the season brings at Frankston’s Christmas Festival of Lights! The free event offers live entertainment, Christmas performers and carols, activities for kids, and of course, the chance to meet Santa. 

There will also be a Little Beauty Christmas Market which is also the perfect place to find some Christmas gifts or lay out your picnic rug and rest or watch the main stage entertainment on the big screen.

You can see also the Bluey Christmas Live Interactive Experience in the Frankton Arts Centre!

End the night by watching the 30m Norfolk Pine light up, followed by a spectacular firework display!

Frankston’s Christmas Festival of Lights 2023, Davey and Young Streets, Frankston
Sat 25 Nov 2023, Free

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14. Carols in the Gardens

Celebrate the holiday season with live carols within the beautiful and picturesque grounds of Rippon Lea Estate during the Carols in the Gardens event!

Carols in the Gardens, 192 Hotham St, Elsternwick
Friday 8 December 2023, 4.30pm–8pm, Free

Carols in the garrden glen eira city council

15. Elsternwick Village Family Fun Day

Family Fun Day is an annual event that runs to celebrate the festive season.

Hosted on a Saturday in December, Santa and his friends roam the Elsternwick Village precinct and spread the festive cheer. 

Visitors can also jump aboard an antique fire truck and enjoy a free ride down Glen Huntly Rd.

The family-friendly day gives shoppers and visitors to the precinct the chance to listen to their favourite festive tunes played by live musicians. There’s also a range of entertainment to enjoy, including balloon creations by a balloon modeller, face painting, circus performers, an arts and crafts workshop table, and the chance to get a photo at the festive photo wall.

Elsternwick Village Family Fun Day, Begin at the HQ, located outside Officeworks at 377 Glen Huntly Rd

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16. Twilight Christmas Market

Twilight Christmas Market is back and better than ever, and the whole family, including your pups, are invited! With live music, food trucks, workshops, performers, and tons of local artisans, this is an event all ages can enjoy.

See the lighting of the artist-designed Christmas Tree at 8.00 pm, Take some photos with Santa, join in the drumming Workshop, and more!

Twilight Christmas Market, Bunjil Place Plaza, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren
Sat 2 Dec 2023, 3 pm – 9 pm, Free

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17. Carols by Kingston

Carols by Kingston is just around the corner and is the perfect excuse to bring your family together and enjoy a night out in Kingston.

Carols by Kingston, Bicentennial Park, Thames Promenade, Chelsea.
Sunday, 10 December 2023, 6 PM – 09:30 PM

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  • Kinross Christmas Craft Market (Wed 8 Nov – Tue 21 Nov) – Shop a curated selection of handcrafted items from local artisans, artists, and craft makers. Find unique gifts such as art, jewelry, prints, candles, textiles, glass, home decor, and stationery. This event supports local makers and our not-for-profit Arts Centre. Open Monday to Friday and Sunday. Café 603 open Monday-Friday.
  • Free Christmas Ski Show & Movie (Sat 16 Dec) – Get ready for a summer of adventure and new surprises on the water in 2023/2024! Don’t miss out!

Free Christmas events Melbourne – East

18. Carols by Candlelight

Pack a picnic rug and head down to Ruffey Lake Park on Friday, 8 December, to celebrate the festive season during the much-loved Manningham Carols!

The event will feature both local and national performers, entertaining activities and some of Melbourne’s most amazing food trucks! The fun starts at 6 pm and ends at 9:45 pm with a spectacular fireworks finale! 

So be sure to make your calendars for this sensational event!

Carols by Candlelight Ruffey Lake Park, George Street, Doncaster, +61 3 9840 9333, events@manningham.vic.gov.au
Fri 8 Dec 2023, 6 pm – 9:45 pm, Free

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19. Maroondah Carols

Come join in and be a part of Maroondah’s much-loved Christmas Carols event, Maroondah Carols

There’ll be great food vendors, a free kid’s zone, awesome pre-show entertainment, and the Maroondah Carols Band playing all your favourite holiday tunes, topped off with a spectacular fireworks show at the end!

Maroondah Carols, Croydon Park, Hewish Road Croydon, 1300 88 22 33 or 9298 4598, maroondah@maroondah.vic.gov.au
Sat 2 Dec 2023, 6 pm – 10 pm, Free

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20. Arts Nunawading Christmas Market

Looking for a unique gift or some fresh produce? Shop local at the Arts Nunawading Market! With a wide range of handmade goods, you’re sure to find something special. The market’s Christmas edition will be held on Sunday, 10 December.

Arts Nunawading Christmas Market, Whitehorse Civic Centre, 397-397 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading
Sun 10 Dec 2023, 1 pm -5 pm, Free

Arts Nunawading Market

21. Montrose Community Christmas Carols

Join the community of Montrose for Montrose Community Christmas Carols, presented by Montrose Church of Christ. 

Bring your picnic gear and enjoy a free sausage sizzle, performances by local schools, a visit from Santa, gifts for all the kids, and your favourite Christmas carols!

Montrose Community Christmas Carols, Montrose Community Centre, Montrose
Sun 10 Dec 2023, 5:15 PM – 8 PM, Free

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22. TTHA Christmas Market

The annual Tabulam and Templer Homes for the Aged (TTHA) Christmas ‘Weihnachtsmarkt’ Market is a wondrous multicultural celebration of Christmas and community.

The TTHA Christmas’ Weihnachtsmarkt’ Market brings together the community, families, market stallholders, businesses and our residents in a delightful community Christmas fair.

TTHA Christmas Market, 51 Elizabeth St, Bayswater
26 Nov 2023
, from 10am to 2pm

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Twilight Christmas Gift Market & Family Fun Night (Sat 2 Dec) – Come and do your Chrissy gift shopping locally! Bring the family for a whole heap of good cheer, and enjoy a wonderful community vibe.

Free christmas events Melbourne – West 

23. Brimbank December to Remember

The city of Brimbank comes alive in the weeks leading up to Christmas, with festive lights, Santa Claus, carols and entertainment bringing holiday cheer to all corners during their December to Remember Christmas party.

Don’t miss out, as we’re sure that there’s plenty to enjoy for everyone, so come on over and celebrate with the kids.

24. Carols by Candlelight 2023

Come join in at Hannah Watts Park On Saturday, 2 December 2023, for Melton’s 2023 Carols by Candlelight! It’s sure to be a heartwarming event that’ll fill you with some festive cheer!

Melton Carols by Candlelight 2023, Hannah Watts Park, High Street, Melton, 03 9747 7200, csu@melton.vic.gov.au
Sat 2 Dec 2023, 6 pm – 9.30 pm, Free

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25. Carols in Queens Park, Moonee Ponds

Enjoy an evening of carols and festive cheer in Queens Park during their Carols in Queens Park event! Bring your family and friends, pack a picnic, and enjoy some of your favorite holiday tunes performed live. 

Candles, food, and refreshments will also be available for purchase.

Carols in Queens Park, Queens Park, Cnr Mt Alexander Rd and Kellaway Ave, Moonee Ponds
Sat 9 Dec 2023,  From 6.30 pm, Free

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26. Christmas in Brimbank 2023

Come and enjoy a day of festive fun on Saturday 2 December from 11am to 3pm at Green Gully Reserve, Keilor Downs.

Bring a picnic blanket and come with your loved ones.

There will be live musical performances, giant candy cane stilt walkers, kids activities such as face painting, storytime and a meet and greet with the big guy Santa himself.

Christmas in Brimbank 2023, 151C Green Gully Road, Keilor Downs
2 December 2023 – 11:00am

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27. Santa Photos

Santa will be visiting Alfrieda St this year and he’s inviting you to come down with your family and friends for a free instant photo! The photo will be yours to keep as a lasting memory of this year’s Christmas.

Santa Photos, 63 Alfrieda St, St Albans,
Sat 9 December 2023 – 11 am – 2 pm, Free

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28. Christmas At The Lakes

Enjoy a day of entertainment as you listen to the beautiful sound of carols and watch local talent performing on the stage during Christmas At The Lakes

The low cost fun filled day includes:

  • Rides Activities
  • Stage performers
  • Food Vans
  • Community stalls
  • Santa visit
  • Firework Display

Christmas At The Lakes, Breezewater Reserve, 25 The Breezewater, Point Cook
Sat 2 Dec 2023, 4 pm – 10:30  pm, Gold coin donation on entry

29. Christmas Story Time – Werribee Library

Dress up in your favourite Christmas outfit, or just come along as you are to the Christmas Story Time event at Werribee Library! Enjoy lots of fun Christmas themed songs and stories!

Christmas Story Time – Werribee Library, Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre Level 1, Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing
Fri 8 Dec 2023, 10:00 am – 10:45 am, Free

Wyndham Library Images by Indie Lane LR

30. Christmas Story Time – Point Cook Library

All ages are invited to join in and enjoy the Christmas themed books, songs and fun during the Christmas Story Time event at Point Cook Library

Christmas Story Time – Point Cook Library, 1-21 Cheetham Street, Point Cook

Wed 20 Dec 2023, 4 pm – 4:45 pm, Free

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31. Celebrate Christmas in Werribee City Centre

Pop down to Werribee City Centre from 1-23 December to join in all the festive family-fun! Enjoy roving performers, face painting, kids activities, entertainment and more. 

A Makers Market will also be there across the weekend and watch out for participating retailers with offers special for all of your Christmas shopping needs. 

Celebrate Christmas in Werribee City Centre, Watton Street, Werribee City Centre
Fri 1 Dec – Sat 23 Dec 2023, 9 am – 7 pm, Free

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32. Christmas Story Time – Manor Lakes Library

Join in at Manor Lakes Library for Christmas Story Time, where they’ll be celebrating the festive season with Christmas-themed books and songs.

Christmas Story Time, Manor Lakes Library, 86 Manor Lakes Blvd, Manor Lakes
Fri 15 Dec 2023, 10:30 am – 11:15 pm, Free

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33. Christmas Rhyme Time at the Werribee Outdoor Pool

For kids ages 1-5, listen to 30 minutes of Christmas-themed songs, rhymes, stories and more!

Don’t forget to bring along some sunscreen, a hat, water, and a blanket to sit on.

Christmas Rhyme Time at Wyndham Park , Werribee Outdoor Pool, Chirnside Park, 220 Watton St, Werribee
Mon, 11 Dec 2023, 10:00 am – 11 am, Free

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34. Christmas Story Time – Julia Gillard Library Tarneit

All ages are welcome to join in at Julia Gillard Library Tarneit for Christmas-themed songs, stories and fun! 

Christmas Story Time – Julia Gillard Library Tarneit, Julia Gillard Library Tarneit, 150 Sunset Views Boulevard, Tarneit
Thu 14 Dec 2023, 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm, Free

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35. Christmas Story Time – Williams Landing Library Lounge

Williams Landing Library Lounge is hosting a Christmas Story Time event where all ages are invited to join in all the Christmas fun. Enjoy Christmas-themed songs, stories and more!

Christmas Story Time – Williams Landing Library Lounge, Williams Landing Library Lounge, 1/101 Overton Rd, Williams Landing
Tue, 12 Dec 2023, 10:30 am – 11:30 am, Free

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36. Christmas Story Time – Hoppers Crossing (Plaza) Library

Get into the Christmas spirit by listening to Christmas-themed songs, stories and more! 

Christmas Story Time – Hoppers Crossing (Plaza) Library, Hoppers Crossing (Plaza) Library, Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre, Shop MM11, Level 1, Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing
Fri 8 Dec 2023, 10:00 am – 10:45 am, Free

Wyndham Library Images by Indie Lane LR

37. Spotswood Kingsville RSL Christmas Party

Bring along nibbles and enjoy a BBQ at this annual family-friendly Christmas Party! The free event includes children’s activities, a jumping castle and lawn games.

Some food will also be provided, but everyone is still welcome to bring their own picnic.

Spotswood Kingsville RSL Christmas Party, 59 The Avenue , Spotswood
Sat 16 Dec 2023, 12 pm, Free

38. Christmas in Geelong

This year’s Christmas in Geelong Program is going to be extra special, with lots of new events and activities! Whether you’re looking for traditional favourites or something new and exciting, they’ve got you covered.

So come on over with the whole family and celebrate with them this holiday season!

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39. Christmas in Williamstown

This annual event has been running for more than 10 years and is an important part of the Williamstown community, bringing together local businesses, residents and visitors to celebrate the festive season.

Come and see Santa riding around in a vintage fire truck, as well as opportunities to meet him at his Grotto in the Rotunda at Commonwealth Reserve! There will even be some gifts to give away!

There will also be craft stations and face painting for kids, live entertainment and music, and special promotions from local traders.

Christmas in Williamstown, Douglas Parade and Ferguson Street
Fri 8 Dec 2023, 3 pm – 7 pm, free

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40. Kids Club

Join in at Kids Club every Tuesday from 10 am to 1 pm for some group fun as you learn, create, and imagine through art and science. For the month of December, activities will teach your kids about Magnets and Christmas angels and reindeer.

Kids Club, Corner Derrimut & Heaths Roads Werribee
Wed 6 Dec & Wed 13 Dec 2023, 10 am – 1 pm, Free

41. Christmas in Werribee City Centre

Wrap up the magic of Christmas by supporting local this festive season! Snap a memory, see Santa and friends and experience everything on offer.

Enjoy the festive vibe as you shop, dine and play local this Christmas. Werribee City Centre has been transformed with exciting new decorations and will have visits from Santa and friends.

Christmas in Werribee City Centre, 45 Princes Highway, Werribee
Fri 1 Dec – Sun 24 Dec 2023

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  • Celebrate Santa’s arrival at Westfield Geelong (Sun 12 Nov) – Santa Claus is coming to town on Sunday, November 12! Enjoy a magical parade featuring Santa, Rudolph, Mrs. Claus, Ballerinas, Drummer boys, and Elves, spreading the Christmas cheer along the parade route.
  • Santa’s Arrival Celebration (Sun 12 Nov) – Join Santa and his friends as they parade through the centre. Parade will commence at 10.30am near Target/Lush and end with a celebration at 10.40am near Kmart/ Vodafone.
  • Christmas Family Fun Day (Sat 24 Nov) – Celebrate Christmas on Saturday, November 25th, from 11 am to 3 pm. Enjoy crafts, face painting, games, and meet Santa arriving on a firetruck
  • Sunshine Christmas de Lights (Fri 1 Dec) – Get ready to be dazzled by Santa Claus, captivated by roving performers, and enchanted by the musical delights.
  • Festive Family Fun Day (Sat 2 Dec) – Come and enjoy a day of festive fun on Saturday 2 December from 11am to 3pm at Green Gully Reserve, Keilor Downs.
  • Christmas Party Eynesbury (Sat 2 Dec) – A festive event with pony rides, balloon art, rides, face painting, and more, plus a performance by Radio City and DJ Joseph.

Free Christmas Events Melbourne All Suburbs PIN

See What’s On in Melbourne for December 2022

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About Joyce Watts

Joyce Watts is a former intellectual property, IT and media lawyer turned serial entrepreneur.

As well as being the founder of TOT: HOT OR NOT she helps businesses with their SEO, email marketing & social media as BrightSmart.com.au; she owns an online bike store CycleStyle.com.au and develops and produces creative experiences for families via WheelieGoodFun.com. She used to publish another popular lifestyle and food blog called MEL: HOT OR NOT The decisive guide to Melbourne.

She lives in inner-city Melbourne with her husband, two children and seven bikes.

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