Santa in sunnies, cocktails with candy canes, and a pop-up bar in a laneway you almost missed. Christmas bars in Melbourne are peak Aussie holiday energy. Fitzroy’s got retro tinsel-drenched pubs, Chapel Street’s all glammed up, and rooftop pubs in the CBD are slinging frozen spritzes in 30-degree heat. Prefer a shared Christmas party or all-inclusive tab? Tagvenue’s got heaps of options, from mobile bars that come to you to classic pub spaces for your work crew. It’s Melbourne, so expect good drinks, better banter, and no one taking things too seriously. Except maybe the elves behind the bar. Ready to find your space? Book the best bar ever today.
In Melbourne, prices of Christmas bars average $1200 minimum spend per event. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Melbourne, based on Tagvenue data from October 2025:
From $500 | to $2250 | minimum spend per event |
From $21 | to $40 | per person |
From $400 | to $550 | hire fee per event |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated October 2025), the best options include:
Side Terrace at Ludlow Bar
in Southbank - rated 4.8/5
Our user said: ‘The team was fantastic from planning to service and execution on the day.’
Peacock Lounge at The Emerald Peacock
in Melbourne CBD - rated 4.8/5
Our user said: ‘No minimum bar spend to hire a place is a bonus.’
Rooftop Indoors at Two Hands Rooftop Bar
in Abbotsford - rated 4.7/5
Our user said: ‘Great service Consistent drinks & food for my engagement party Very attentive to bar tab...’
You'll find Christmas bars in various sizes, from smaller spots to larger venues; keep in mind that the type of space and your chosen layout will affect the capacity! Below you can see the typical venue sizes in Melbourne, together with the standard prices in each size range, based on Tagvenue data (October 2025):
Small Christmas bars | up to 40 guests | prices average $1000 minimum spend per event |
Medium Christmas bars | between 60 and 90 guests | prices average $1000 minimum spend per event |
Large Christmas bars | over 110 guests | prices average $2000 minimum spend per event |
For plant-based Christmas celebrations, Bonny in Fitzroy is a great option. This intimate bar is known for its sustainable ethos, craft drinks, and food menu with strong vegan options.
The Grace Darling Hotel in Collingwood also accommodates vegan catering in a heritage setting.
In Cremorne, The Blacksmith Bar offers a stylish environment and flexibility on catering, including vegan-friendly selections upon request.
The Purple Emerald Lounge Bar in Northcote is one of Melbourne’s most affordable venues, offering hire for as little as $5 per person.
In Abbotsford, Two Hands Rooftop Bar has small group packages starting from $300 minimum spend.
For inner-city affordability, The Emerald Peacock in the CBD charges $21 per person, giving access to a vibrant rooftop space with city views.