Top Venues for Christmas in July Party, Melbourne

Christmas in July Venues Hire Guide

Christmas celebrations are usually associated with cold weather, warm blankets and hot cocoa. But this winter wonderland doesn’t fall in December for all. Aussies celebrate Christmas usually gathered around the barbie enjoying the summer, dressed in beach clothes and sunglasses. But in order not to miss the classic festive celebrations, Christmas in July has become a thing Down Under. This way everyone can enjoy mulled wines, a big roast dinner, Christmas sweaters and sitting around a fire the way it’s done in the Northern Hemisphere.

The best way to celebrate Christmas in July in Melbourne is to attend one of many events hosted throughout the month of July or even better, book a private venue to enjoy some time together with your mates. The most popular venue type for a Christmas in July Party in Melbourne is a cosy restaurant. To help you out with your venue hunt we’ve prepared a list of things to consider when booking your party venue:

• Check the location - Where should the venue be? Look for spots that are convenient for your guests or ones that can be easily accessed by them. You can either look for spots near transportation hubs or, if your guests are travelling by car, look for venues that will have a parking lot. For guests travelling by plane, booking a venue near the airport may be the most convenient option.
• Confirm the size - Make sure the venue will fit all of your guests. In a too small venue, your party may not feel comfortable. A too big one may feel impersonal. Once you confirm who will be coming,  it will be easier to find a suitable place, so make sure you send out your invitations early.
• Consider the menu - A classic Christmas menu offers such delights as mulled wine, warm cocoa, roasted turkey, and baked potatoes, so you can’t miss out on those. However, you can also add plenty of Australia’s favourites, like prawns or Pavlova. When deciding on the menu just bear in mind that some of your guests may have special preferences or diet restrictions, so make sure they will be able to enjoy the feast as well.
• Decorate away - Christmas in July is the time when it actually may feel appropriate to have snowy decorations, Santa hats and candles. When booking a venue make sure you will be able to decorate it the way you want it or ask the venue manager whether they are planning to have any Christmas decorations. Perhaps they can rent you the ones they use in December.

Finding the right venue should not be a problem anymore. And while a Christmas in July party is a great occasion to try something new and bring out all the out-of-the-box ideas, you may struggle to come up with a theme for your celebration. So, to help you out. here’s a list of ideas on how to make your party even more fun:

Ugly Christmas Sweater Party - With Christmas in July falling during Australia’s winter it’s finally cold enough outside to wear a sweater. Dress up in festive attire and have a competition for the ‘best’ and, in this case, ugliest Christmas sweater. This can be a particularly good idea for a corporate event. For teams normally dressed in business outfits, dressing less formally can be a good opportunity for a team-bonding experience.

Karaoke - Carols by Candlelight, Australia’s beloved Christmas tradition, may not be the best idea for July celebrations, since the holiday really takes place only once a year, in December. But why resign from singing at all? You can still sing beloved classic songs about winter, cold and snow, and they will fit right into the atmosphere. Plus, who doesn’t like a good karaoke, no matter the occasion?

Gift exchange - For some this might be the best part of the Christmas celebration, so why not repeat it in July? You don’t have to splurge on those gifts, as it is usually a December Christmas tradition, but small tokens of appreciation are welcomed any time of the year. You can make the gift exchange into a game, where everybody brings a neutral gift of similar value, and then battle each other to win the ones they want.

Workshops - With July’s colder days it’s a good time to sit down and work on something, and what fun it is to learn some new skills with your friends! For a Christmas in July workshop, you can have a gingerbread baking class or mulled wine tasting. It can also be a great opportunity to make Christmas wreaths or cards, which can be used later in the year. You can also make some DIY gifts that can be gifted during the December celebrations.

We know that organising any kind of a function is stressful. But if you consider Christmas in July as an excuse for an additional celebration, you won’t have to don’t stress over the preparations and just enjoy your party!

FAQs about Christmas in July Venues in Melbourne

How much does it cost to hire a venue for a Christmas in July party in Melbourne?

In Melbourne, venues operating on a minimum speed basis offer prices starting at $300. Per person packages will range between $19 to $85. Hourly hire starts at $100. Pricing may change depending on the day of the week as well as the time of the day. Hiring a venue during peak dates may also influence the pricing (Based on Tagvenue data.)

Where can I find a venue with a view for my Christmas in July party in Melbourne?

If you’re looking for a venue with a view, why not book at one of many spaces along the Yarra River? The best place to look is the South Wharf Promenade, full of spaces with enclosed decks looking out over the water. This way you can enjoy the view while keeping warm indoors. Docklands and Newquay are also great options for riverside views. Last but not least, you might also want to book one of many cosy indoor venues in Melbourne CBD. Collins Street, Little Collins Street, Queen Street and Flinders Lane all have beautiful restaurant venues available for hire.

How can I make my Christmas in July party in Melbourne more affordable?

To organise a Christmas in July party you don’t need to break the bank! When looking for a venue, search for ones that operate on a minimum spend basis. Hiring a venue like this means you don't have to pay any hire fee but agree that you and your guests will spend the agreed amount on food and drinks. You can also look for venues that have a BYO policy, where you can bring in your food and beverages, which usually comes out cheaper than buying them on site.

Can you suggest any venues for my Christmas in July party in Melbourne?

Sure, here are our top picks for a Christmas in July party venue:

• Ludlow Bar & Dining Room - located on the banks of Yarra River this venue will let you dine with a view. With various spaces available for rent, your party’s needs are sure to be met here. Guest rating:  4.6/5
• The George on Collins - an upmarket venue located in the heart of CBD is an easy-to-reach spot either for a corporate function or an elegant meeting with your friends. With many areas available for rent you are sure to find just what you need here. Guest rating: 4.9/5
• The Emerald Peacock - CBD-based venue with a rooftop bar available for rent, and a Christmas party offer. Priding itself on its flexibility, this place will be a great location for your Christmas in July party. Guest rating: 4.8/5