Lights, carols… Christmas in Boroondara

An Indian family smile in front of a Christmas tree with a Tandoor restaurant behind it

You know Christmas is around the corner when Boroondara’s street decorations make their annual appearance – joined by giant Christmas trees and lights illuminating Camberwell Civic Precinct, Hawthorn Arts Centre and Kew Court House. 

There are activities and events on across Boroondara for all the family to enjoy – plus some local shopping tips for those looking for the perfect gift this year.

Shop local, support local 

With 53 shopping centres and strips around Boroondara, there’s a great variety of gift-buying options right here on your doorstep. Here are some ways to shop local and support local this Christmas.

  • Discover one-of-a-kind gifts from local retailers.
  • Gather farm-fresh ingredients for a delicious meal from local markets like Boroondara Farmers Market and Camberwell Fresh Food Market.
  • Explore dining options in your neighbourhood.
  • Contribute to your community by donating to a local organisation.
  • Discover hand-crafted treasures at the Hawthorn Makers Market.
  • Reduce your festive footprint by shopping locally.

For more ideas to support local businesses this year, visit our Shop and support local page.

The sounds of Christmas  

Christmas carols and concerts are taking place across the community. Come along and get your festive cheer on with events such as:

  • Christmas Swing Party, presented by Boroondara Art at Hawthorn Arts Centre on 8 December (ticketed event).
  • Street Sounds, presented by Boroondara Arts, local shopping and community precincts will come alive with vibrant festive music (free events).
  • Carols in Canterbury, presented by Canterbury Council of Churches at Canterbury Gardens on 10 December (free event).
  • Kew Community Carols, at Sacred Heart Church, Kew on 15 December (free event).
  • Carols in the Park, presented by Churches of North Balwyn at Macleay Park on 16 December (free event). 
  • Grace Park Carols, at Grace Park Hawthorn on 17 December (free event).

For more details of these events, visit our Christmas in Boroondara page

Giving the gift of reading 

This Christmas, we’re again hosting our annual book-giving program in partnership with You Matter – an organisation supporting women and families who have experienced family violence. We’re inviting you to donate new books at the book-giving Christmas trees at Boroondara libraries.  

Books are being accepted until 15 December so be sure to make your donations by this date.