Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland is heading back to Caulfield Racecourse this year, running from 25 November right through to Christmas Eve. There’s a couple of brand new zones for 2026, including a Charlie Brown’s Christmas Forest and a Snoopy-themed vesper track, alongside the usual mix of rides, live shows and Santa cuddles.
If you’re weighing up whether it’s worth the ticket price for your family, here’s everything you need to know before you book.
When is Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland?
Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland runs from Wednesday 25 November to Thursday 24 December 2026, giving families a full month to fit in a visit before the big day. It’s designed for kids aged 10 and under, and each session runs for around three hours.
Christmas Wonderland Melbourne
Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland is a walk-through experience set up under a Grand Big Top, so you’re not just watching Christmas happen, you’re wandering through it. Twinkling lights, decorated trees and festive tunes hit you as soon as you walk in, and there’s plenty of “HO HO HO” from the moment you arrive.
It’s an easy day out too, since almost everything is included in your ticket. You’ll want to budget a bit extra for the paid add-ons though, more on that below.
Meet Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang
Snoopy and his Peanuts pals are roving the Wonderland this year, popping up for photos and a wave whenever you spot them. Kids who love a character selfie will get plenty of chances here, and the Peanuts crew tend to make time for everyone, even on a busy day.
Charlie Brown’s Christmas Forest and Snoopy’s Vesper Track
Two of the new additions for 2026 are worth building your visit around. In Charlie Brown’s Christmas Forest, kids can walk through a festive Snoopy-themed setting and make their own Christmas stocking to take home.
Next door, Snoopy’s Vesper Track lets them hop on a Snoopy-themed vesper and ride around a track filled with Peanuts moments.
A Spectacular Live Show
Every session includes a 45-minute live show starring Mrs Claus and her elves, described by the organisers as “Christmas meets circus.”
It’s a solid chunk of entertainment to build a rest stop around, especially if little legs need a sit-down halfway through your visit.
Say Hello to Santa
Santa’s on hand for a meet and greet, and kids get a free gift when they visit him. If you want a professional photo to take home, that’s available for an extra cost, and you’ll get a small gift on your way out too.
Rudolph’s Barnyard and the North Pole Post Office
Head to Rudolph’s Barnyard to say hello to the animatronic reindeer and grab a selfie before he’s off duty for his big flight.
Then swing by the North Pole Post Office, where kids can write a letter to Santa. If they get stuck on what to say, the letter-writing elves are there to help finish it off.
Meet the Grinch (If You Dare!)
Grinch Land is a paid add-on, giving families the chance to grab a photo with the Wonderland’s resident grump. It’s a fun one for kids who like a bit of playful spookiness with their Christmas cheer.
Creative Christmas Workshops
Over at the Elves Christmas Craft Village, kids can paint their own wooden Christmas tree or snowman stand to take home.
And at Mrs Claus’ Bakery, they can decorate a Christmas shortbread treat, a nice sit-down activity if you need a break from all the walking.
Festive Rides, Games and Activities
There are three Christmas and candy-themed jumping castles to bounce on, plus a set of junior rides including a Teacup Ride, a small Carousel and a Mini Train. If your kids want to try their luck, the Christmas Fun Fair carnival games are a paid extra, and every child walks away with a prize.
Food and Refreshments
A range of hot and cold food and drinks is available on site for an extra cost, so you can grab a bite without needing to leave and come back.
Tips for Attending Christmas Wonderland Melbourne
- Recommended for ages 10 and under;
- Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland runs from Wednesday 25 November to Thursday 24 December 2026;
- Book early, tickets will sell out!;
- Pre-sale tickets are on sale now until 30 September, with discounted pricing General tickets go on sale 1 October Book early, as sessions do sell out closer to Christmas Caulfield Racecourse is easy to reach by public transport, and enter via Gate 21 on Station Street;
- Pram parking available and baby change facilities onsite;
- Parking is available onsite for $6 per day or night.
Ticket Prices
Pre-sale (8 August – 30 September):
- Single ticket: $35 + booking fee
- Family ticket (4 tickets): $110 + booking fee
From 1 October:
- Single ticket: $42.50 + booking fee (ages 3 and up)
- VIP ticket: $75 + booking fee
- Family ticket (4 tickets): $130 + booking fee, valid for all sessions
FAQs
What age is Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland suitable for?
It’s designed for children aged 10 and under, though older kids and adults are welcome too.
How long does a visit take?
Each session runs for around three hours.
Is Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland good value for families?
Family tickets (4 people) are $110 in pre-sale or $130 from October, which works out cheaper per person than buying single tickets. Just factor in that Santa photos, Grinch Land and carnival games cost extra.
Where is it held?
Caulfield Racecourse, entering via Gate 21 on Station Street, Caulfield.
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