The Complete Guide to Carols by Candlelight 2025

Carols by Candlelight is Australia’s most beloved Christmas carol tradition — a magical evening of live music, flickering candlelight, and communal singing that has been drawing Australians together since 1938. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned attendee, this guide has everything you need to know.

What is Carols by Candlelight?

Carols by Candlelight began in Melbourne in 1938, when radio broadcaster Norman Banks was moved by the sight of an elderly woman sitting alone, listening to Christmas carols on the radio by candlelight. He organised a community singing event in Alexandra Gardens, inviting Melburnians to bring their own candles and sing carols together under the night sky. The event was an immediate hit, and it has been held every Christmas Eve since.

Today, the main Melbourne event is held at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl and is organised by Vision Australia, raising vital funds for Australians who are blind or have low vision. Similar events are now held in every state and territory across Australia.

What to Expect

A typical Carols by Candlelight event features professional singers — often including some of Australia’s biggest musical names — performing alongside a full orchestra. The programme typically includes a mix of classic Christmas carols (Silent Night, O Holy Night, Jingle Bells), Australian favourites (Six White Boomers, Carol of the Birds), and contemporary Christmas songs.

As darkness falls, audience members light their candles (or glow sticks), creating the iconic sea of flickering lights that makes Carols by Candlelight so visually stunning. Song sheets are usually provided so everyone can sing along.

Tips for First-Timers

• Arrive early — at least 90 minutes before showtime to get a good spot
• Pack a picnic — blankets, food, and drinks make the evening even more enjoyable
• Bring candles or check whether the event provides glow sticks
• Dress comfortably — you’ll be sitting on grass, and December evenings can vary
• Don’t be shy — singing along is the whole point!

Events Across Australia

Major Carols by Candlelight events are held across Australia each Christmas season:

• Melbourne — Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Christmas Eve (Vision Australia)
• Sydney — The Domain (Christmas in the Domain)
• Brisbane — South Bank Parklands
• Perth — Supreme Court Gardens (Guide Dogs WA)
• Adelaide — Elder Park (Royal Society for the Blind)

For a comprehensive guide to Australian carol events, visit our Australian Christmas Carol Performances page.