If you're the kind of person who thinks Christmas isn't complete without the smell of cinnamon, sizzling sausages, and something sweet in hand, Australia's festive food markets are your playground. Across the country, December means twinkling lights, local produce, and indulgent holiday flavours. From mulled wine in Melbourne to spiced ribs in Brisbane, here's your taste-driven guide to the best Christmas food fairs worth planning around.
1. Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Market – Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne's MCEC transforms into a gourmet wonderland each December, with more than 150 producers offering tastings, treats, and clever gift ideas. Think flaky mince pies, velvety hot chocolate, and celebrity chef demos showing off Christmas classics with a twist. It's the perfect mix of indulgence and inspiration.
When: 5–7 December 2025, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Don't miss: The tasting tables and limited-edition festive desserts.
2. German Christmas Market – East Melbourne, VIC
Hosted by the Deutsche Schule Melbourne, this one's as close as you'll get to a Bavarian Christmas without a plane ticket. Expect bratwurst sizzling on the grill, steamy mugs of Glühwein, and gingerbread hearts hanging from every stall. It's family-friendly, festive, and deliciously nostalgic.
When: Late November 2025, at the Deutsche Schule Melbourne school grounds (to be confirmed).
Don't miss: The wood-fired waffles and hot pretzels.
3. Milton Christmas Twilight Markets – Brisbane, QLD
Warm Queensland evenings meet street-food energy at the Milton Twilight Markets. You'll find everything from slow-cooked ribs and festive tacos to live music under the lights. With a pop-up bar and plenty of gift stalls, this one's more party than market.
When: 22 November 2025, 4pm-10pm at Corner Cribb & Little Cribb Streets, Milton.
Don't miss: Local dessert trucks and Christmas cocktails.
4. TTHA Weihnachtsmarkt – Bayswater, VIC
A long-running German-style community fair with around 60 stalls, the TTHA Christmas Market brings cosy European vibes to Melbourne's east. Stroll through the garden, snack on handmade chocolates, and pick up artisan gifts while the scent of bratwurst fills the air.
When: 30 November 2025 , 10am-2pm at 51 Elizabeth Street, Bayswater.
Don't miss: German sausages, mulled drinks (non-alcoholic kids versions), handmade festive cakes.
5. Martin Place Christmas Markets – Sydney, NSW
Right in the heart of Sydney's CBD, Martin Place glows with fairy lights, carollers, and food stalls that keep the crowds fuelled. The mix of gourmet toasties, hot churros, and boutique bites makes this one of the most atmospheric stops in the city.
When: 27, 28, 29 and 30 November and then every Thursday, Friday and Saturday in December 2025 at Martin Place.
Don't miss: hot churros with cinnamon sugar; gourmet grilled cheese toasties.
6. Piccadilly Christmas Market – Geelong, VIC
This regional favourite feels like a country fair meets artisan showcase. Expect small-batch jams, local wine tastings, and plenty of baked treats to pack into the car boot for later. The seaside setting adds an extra dose of festive charm.
When: 14 December 2025, 10:00 AM – 03:00 PM, at 1 Barwon Heads Rd, Belmont.
Don't miss: local produce dessert bars, handmade chocolates, farm-style sausage rolls.
7. Ballarat Twilight Christmas Market – Lake Wendouree, VIC
As the sun sets over Lake Wendouree, Ballarat's festive spirit comes alive. Gourmet stalls line the lake, serving up wood-fired pizza, craft beer, and regional cheeses to the tune of live carols. Bring a picnic rug and make a night of it.
When: The Friday night before Christmas, 19 December 2025 , at North Gardens Reserve, Lake Wendouree.
Don't miss: regional cheeses, local craft beers, wood-fired pizza trucks.
8. Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Market – Sydney, NSW
The Sydney edition of this foodie favourite turns ICC Sydney into a festive paradise of tastings, truffles, and indulgent desserts. With hundreds of producers and a sprinkling of sparkle, it's a perfect pre-Christmas day out.
When: 21–23 November 2025 at the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC).
Don't miss: Craft gin-infused desserts and gourmet marshmallow roasts.
Whether you're shopping for edible gifts, craving a festive night out, or just love the scent of Christmas in the air, these festive food fairs capture the best of the season. Lace up your walking shoes, grab your reusable tote, and taste your way through December.
Dates subject to change — check event websites for latest info.