The 2018 Christmas Festival which is expected to boost the local economy by up to $53m will, according to Lord Mayor Sally Capp, illuminate the whole municipality. During the festive period, an estimated 170,000 visitors are expected to descend on Melbourne and the Lord Mayor said the festival will provide something for everyone adding:
“This year’s Christmas campaign will see the beloved Christmas Festival return to Federation Square, while Santa’s House will find a new base at the front of the Melbourne Town Hall.”
Christmas Square will host a 16-metre-high Christmas tree with its giant baubles and new star. The official lighting of the tree will be held on November 30 with its 192 branches, all individually programmed, set to display a light show of dazzling proportions.
Interactive displays will be available to visitors including one on the Yarra Building in Federation Square and the festival will also see the return of the Gingerbread Village, described by the Lord Mayor as:
“The Gingerbread Village, made from 560kg of gingerbread, will feature famous Melbourne landmarks, with all profits supporting the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation.”
Photographs taken at the Christmas Festival have often, through the use of printing services, been turned into attractive, personalised Christmas cards for friends and family.