From 5 – 24 December 2025
If there’s one place that knows how to make Christmas sparkle, it’s The District Docklands. This year, Magic Awaits—and families are in for a treat! From twinkling lights and festive feasts to Santa sightings and ice-skating fun, The District is bringing the holiday cheer to every corner.
We’ve visited in past years when it was known as Santa’s Village and love the mix of festive activities, food, and shopping all in one spot. It’s easy to spend an entire day here with the kids—there’s just so much to do (and plenty of coffee options for parents, too!).
Here’s what you can expect at this year’s Santa’s Festival at The District Docklands:
Santa’s Festival at The District Docklands
Meet and Greet Santa
No Christmas is complete without a visit to Santa Claus! Step into the beautifully decorated grotto and meet the big man in red himself.
Kids can share their holiday wishes, pose for a festive photo, and leave with a cherished keepsake. The grotto is a picture-perfect spot to capture those priceless family moments.
Get your photo taken with Santa. Book online, the entry cost is $5. Additional costs once there.
Festive Craft-Making Workshops
Get hands-on and unleash your creativity in a range of holiday-themed craft workshops. From designing custom ornaments to creating handmade Christmas cards, these workshops offer something for every budding artist.
Kids and adults alike will love taking home their festive masterpieces.
Sweet Treats and Festive Cheer
Enjoy the aroma of freshly baked cookies at the festival’s pop-up bakery, where families can decorate their own gingerbread or indulge in delicious seasonal treats.
Pair it with a cup of hot cocoa or a spiced drink for a true taste of Christmas.
Festive Market Stalls
While the kids are busy, parents can explore the pop-up market filled with holiday goodies. From handcrafted gifts to seasonal decorations, there’s plenty to inspire your holiday shopping.
The kids declined to take a photo with Santa, so I got a Santa photo instead!
The Great Gummy Bear Escape
Explore a candy-coloured Christmas experience at The District Docklands.
Spread throughout the precinct, you’ll find all the festive scenes — the giant Magical Candy Tree, the colourful Candy Portal, the whimsical Gummy Bear Castle, the sparkly Candy Fountain, and the dreamy Candy Garden.
On display from 1 – 31 December 2025.
Christmas Ice Skating at O’Brien Icehouse
Add a touch of frosty fun to your festive season with a visit to O’Brien Icehouse, located right at The District Docklands. This premier ice-skating venue transforms into a magical winter wonderland, offering a unique opportunity to escape the summer heat while enjoying Christmas-themed skating sessions.
Whether you’re gliding gracefully or just finding your footing, it’s a fantastic way to create unforgettable holiday memories. Don’t miss this cool Christmas experience at 105 Pearl River Road, Docklands!
Santa’s Festival Event Details
Dates: 5 December – 24 December 2025
Location: The District Docklands, Docklands VIC 3008
Santa’s Festival is a must-visit for families looking to make the most of the festive season. With its joyful atmosphere and engaging activities, it’s the perfect destination to celebrate the magic of Christmas together.
Plan your visit now and let the holiday spirit come alive at Santa’s Festival!
How to access Santa’s Festival
You can find Santa’s Village on the ground level of The District Docklands – Across from H&M and Uniqlo shops, 440 Docklands Dr, Docklands VIC 3008
It’s easy to access by public transport. The closest train station is Southern Cross Station, which is only a short 10-minute walk away.
Alternatively, you can catch one of the trams that run along Spencer Street and get off at D11 Waterfront City/Docklands Drive. From there, it’s a short walk to Santa’s Village.
If you’re driving, The District Dockland’s shopping centre car park offers plenty of parking spaces plus there is street parking.
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