December in Melbourne is a vibrant celebration of summer and festive joy, making it the perfect time to create unforgettable memories with your furry friend. The city is alive with dog-friendly events, outdoor movie nights, and creative workshops tailored for you and your beloved pet.
Imagine indulging in a festive pub crawl in St Kilda, enjoying a fun paint-and-sip class alongside your pup, or relaxing under the stars at an enchanting outdoor cinema. Melbourne’s December lineup promises an abundance of paw-some experiences to share with your loyal companion. Dive into the holiday spirit and discover all the delightful adventures waiting for you both!
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Dog-Friendly Melbourne Experiences
December in Melbourne is a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and canine companionship. The city comes alive with dog-friendly festivals, creative workshops, and outdoor cinemas, inviting you and your furry friend to partake in the fun. Whether you explore local art, indulge in delicious food, or relax under the stars, Melbourne offers countless opportunities to create unforgettable memories with your pup. Experience the city’s lively spirit—paws and all!
Moonlight Cinema at The Royal Botanical Gardens
Get ready for a magical summer at Melbourne’s Royal Botanical Gardens as Moonlight Cinema lights up December through March. This dog-friendly outdoor cinema invites you to lounge under the stars, catch the latest blockbusters, and revisit beloved classics—all with your furry friend by your side.
Whether you’re in the mood for festive films, cult favourites, or adrenaline-pumping action, Moonlight Cinema offers something for everyone. Bring your own picnic or indulge in the on-site treats, and make it a memorable night for you and your pup.
When: December to March
Location: Melbourne Royal Botanical Gardens
Sunset Cinema in Abbotsford Convent
This summer, Sunset Cinema transforms Abbotsford Convent into Melbourne’s most magical outdoor movie venue—and it’s all dog-friendly! Imagine snuggling up with your furry best friend under the stars, surrounded by a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and enjoying your favourite films.
Whether you’re watching Paddington in Peru, laughing along to Elf, or soaking up the romance of Pride & Prejudice, this event isn’t just for humans—your four-legged companions are part of the fun, too. With dog-friendly access, a relaxed setting, and plenty of space to lounge, this is the ultimate summer outing for dogs and their humans.
When: December
Location: Abbotsford Convent
Cameo Outdoor Cinema
What’s better than watching movies under the stars on a warm summer evening? Watching them with your furry friend, of course! Cameo Outdoor Cinema is back this December with a spectacular line-up of films, a dog-friendly policy, and a fully licensed bar. Set on the lush rolling lawn of Cameo’s outdoor venue, it’s the perfect summer escape for movie buffs and dog lovers alike.
From festive classics like Love Actually and Elf to exciting new releases like Gladiator II and Mufasa: The Lion King, there’s something for everyone. Grab your pup, a picnic rug, and your love for movies, and join the fun at one of Melbourne’s most relaxed outdoor cinemas.
When: December to February
Location: Belgrave
Jingle Bell Bark at Bark Park
The festive season is upon us, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with furry best friends! Jingle Bell Bark is here to bring holiday cheer to all pups and their humans. Dive into this exciting dog event—a spectacular end-of-year celebration filled with holiday magic, fun games, and tail-wagging joy that you won’t want to miss!
Bark Park invites dog lovers to enjoy three hours of non-stop fun, festive crafts, and special moments to remember forever. From Christmas-themed crafts to capturing that pawfect holiday photo, Jingle Bell Bark promises to top off the year with memories that will have everyone barking for joy.
When: Saturday 7th December
Location: Bark Park, Moorabbin
Big Day Out for Dogs 2024
Get ready, dog lovers—Big Day Out for Dogs 2024 is here! Hosted by Dogs Victoria, this beloved community event opens the gates of KCC Park in Skye to celebrate all things canine. Whether you’re a devoted dog owner, a fan of specific breeds, or simply love spending time around furry friends, this dog-friendly event has something for everyone.
This year’s event promises a jam-packed day of dog shows, sports, breed displays, and interactive activities for you and your pooch. From agility trials to dancing with dogs, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Don’t forget to visit the Canine Christmas Market—a wonderland of stalls filled with doggy treats, toys, and unique gifts for your furry family member.
Bring your family, your friends, and your four-legged pals for a day full of tail wags, festive cheer, and community spirit. Entry is by gold coin donation, making this an affordable, paw-some outing!
When: Sunday, 8th December
Location: KCC Park in Skye
Dog-Friendly Social Events and Meet-ups Around Melbourne
Get ready for tail-wagging fun at Melbourne’s dog-friendly meetups, pub crawls and social events! These events are perfect for socialising with your pup and meeting fellow dog lovers. Join the vibrant local scene and make every outing unforgettable.
Puppy Pub Crawl in St Kilda
Embark on a unique bar-crawling adventure in St Kilda, designed exclusively for dog lovers, owners, and their friendly pooches. This special event takes participants through three paw-some, dog-friendly bars in St Kilda, culminating in a relaxing finish at St Kilda West’s off-lead dog beach. With a total walking distance of 1.2 km, it’s a perfect blend of leisure and excitement, set against St Kilda’s vibrant atmosphere.
Join fellow dog lovers and their pups for a fun-filled afternoon, discovering St Kilda’s best dog-friendly bars, from La Bodega to Ellora, and finishing at the West Beach Pavilion. Treats for both humans and pups are available along the way, making it an adventure you won’t forget.
When: Sunday 15th December
Location: St Kilda
Paint & Sip: Paint Your Dog Painting Class
Paint For Fun in Port Melbourne invites you and your dog to a unique painting class. Tailored for beginners, this workshop is not only about learning painting techniques but also about sharing the experience with your dog, who becomes both your muse and companion during the session. It’s a perfect blend of creativity and bonding with your dog.
When: 15th December
Location: Paint For Fun, Port Melbourne
Dog-Friendly Markets
Looking for the perfect outing with your pup? Check out Melbourne’s dog-friendly farmers and craft markets! Shop for local produce and handmade crafts, and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere. These weekly and monthly markets are a fantastic way for you and your furry friend to experience the best local Melbourne.
St Kilda Esplanade Market
Enjoy a Sunday stroll at St Kilda’s Esplanade Market with your dog. Since 1970, this beachside market has been a hit for its artisanal finds and pet-friendly atmosphere. Discover unique crafts, savor food truck treats, and spoil your pet with special items. Highlights include the “Puppy of the Day” contest and charity-supporting puppuccinos, blending fun and philanthropy into your market visit.
When: Every Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Location: St Kilda’s Esplanade
Price: Free
Veg Out St Kilda Farmers’ Market
The Veg Out St Kilda Farmers’ Market, happening every first Saturday of the month, is a community favourite in the bustling bayside suburb of St Kilda. Accredited by the VFMA, it’s a place where locals and visitors can enjoy fresh, local produce in a friendly, dog-welcoming environment.
When: Saturday 7th December, 8:30 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Peanut Farm, St Kilda
Price: Free
Summer in The Glade at Gasworks Arts Park
If you’re looking for a laid-back, dog-friendly event this summer, look no further than Summer in The Glade at Gasworks Arts Park. Nestled in Albert Park, Melbourne, this free series of cultural events brings a lively mix of arts, crafts, live music, and gourmet treats every month from November through March. It’s the perfect way to kick back, explore local makers, and catch up with friends (furry ones included!) in the heart of Melbourne.
When: Friday 13th December, 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Location: Gasworks Art Park
Price: Free
Williamstown Farmers’ Market
Fresh local produce, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere at this dog-friendly market in Williamstown, Melbourne.
When: Sunday 8th December, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Location: Robertson Reserve, Williamstown
Price: Free
Abbotsford Convent Farmers Market
Nestled in the scenic grounds of Melbourne’s historic Abbotsford Convent, this dog-friendly monthly market is a lively showcase of Victoria’s fresh produce. It welcomes food enthusiasts, ethical shoppers, and their dogs to discover a wide selection of fresh, seasonal produce, handmade artisan foods, and exquisite gourmet condiments, all sourced directly from Victorian farmers.
When: Saturday 14th December, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Abbotsford Convent
Price: $2 (proceeds go to the Abbotsford Convent)
Elwood Farmers Market
Held on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month, this dog-friendly market features over 40 stalls showcasing the finest local produce, artisan goods, and delicious treats. With a lively atmosphere enhanced by local musicians, it’s not just a place to shop but a welcoming community space where you can enjoy quality time with your dog. After exploring the market, take a scenic walk along Elster Creek to round off your visit with some extra exercise for your furry friend.
When: Saturday 14th December, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Elwood Primary School
Price: Free
Gasworks Farmers’ Market
Experience some of the best of Victorian produce at the dog-friendly Gasworks Farmers’ Market in Albert Park. Occurring every third Saturday, this market is a celebration of sustainable living, offering everything from fresh produce to homemade delicacies and vibrant flowers.
When: Saturday 21st December, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Gasworks Art Park
Price: Free
