Every December, Melbourne transforms into a sparkling Christmas wonderland.
Bourke Street Mall glows with fairy lights, trams jingle past decorated shopfronts, and excited little voices echo,
“When are we going to see Santa?”
For many Melbourne families, the answer is simple:
Santa lives at David Jones.
And this year, he’s ready to share the most magical Christmas experience yet.
If you’re looking for a joyful, heartwarming, child-friendly Christmas activity in the Melbourne CBD, Photos with Santa at David Jones is the experience your family will treasure forever.
Why David Jones Santa Photos Are a Melbourne Christmas Tradition
The moment you step inside David Jones on Bourke Street, it feels like a cosy Christmas storybook has come to life.
Kids look up in awe.
Parents smile with relief (finally—something indoors and calm!).
The whole space feels warm, gentle, and festive.
Families love it because:
- The Santa is patient, kind and wonderful with kids
- The Christmas setting feels magical but not overwhelming
- It’s indoors—perfect for Melbourne’s sudden rain, wind or sunshine
- It’s right in the middle of Melbourne’s most loved Christmas street
- Staff make even the shyest children feel comfortable
It’s not just a photo.
It’s a memory your little ones will look back on when they’re older.
What Makes This Santa Experience So Special (3 Magical Sessions)
David Jones offers three unique Santa experiences so every Melbourne family can choose the moment that suits them best.
1. Classic Photos with Santa
This is the heart of Christmas—Santa, a glowing festive backdrop, and the warm smiles of your family together.
Perfect for toddlers, big kids, and first-time Santa visitors.
2. Santa Pawtraits
Yes—your fur babies are welcome!
Bring your dog, cat, or small pet for adorable Santa photos that become instant Christmas keepsakes.
Kids absolutely LOVE seeing their pets pose with Santa.
3. Sensitive Santa Sessions
A calm, gentle, sensory-friendly session designed with love.
Lights are softer.
The environment is quieter.
There’s no hustle, no rush—just a peaceful moment with Santa.
Perfect for children who prefer a warm, quiet Christmas experience.
Where the Magic Happens
David Jones – Bourke Street Mall
📍 310 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Located in the heart of Melbourne’s Christmas celebrations, this spot is just steps away from:
- The Myer Christmas Windows
- The Bourke Street Mall lights
- Christmas buskers and performers
- The iconic tram lines
- Plenty of kid-friendly cafés and treat shops
A perfect Christmas adventure for families with young children.
Photos with Santa Session Hours (2025)
Here are the main hours for Santa sessions at David Jones:
| Date | Times |
| Fri 5 Dec | 10:00am – 9:00pm |
| Sat 6 Dec | 9:00am – 7:00pm |
| Sun 7 Dec | 10:00am – 6:00pm |
| Mon 8 Dec | 10:00am – 6:00pm |
| Tue 9 Dec | 10:00am – 6:00pm |
| Wed 10 Dec | 10:00am – 6:00pm |
| Thu 11 Dec | 10:00am – 9:00pm |
More dates and times are available through the booking link.
Price and Bookings
📸 Packages from $29 to $90
There’s something for every family, whether you want just a digital file or a full set of prints.
📲 Bookings are essential:
Book online to choose your session and secure your preferred time.
☎️ Contact: 13 33 57
More details on the official website.
Tips for Parents (Especially Helpful for Little Ones)
Here’s how to make the experience extra smooth and magical:
- Bring a favourite small toy for comfort
- Dress your kids in comfy clothes (layers work best in Melbourne!)
- Choose a weekday morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds
- If booking Pawtraits, bring treats and a short lead
- Sensitive Santa is ideal for children who prefer quieter moments
- Keep snacks handy for toddlers waiting in line
- Water bottle—December gets warm inside stores
Remember: the staff at David Jones are incredibly child-friendly. They know how to make little ones smile.
Turn It Into a Family Christmas Day Out in Melbourne
Since you’re already in the CBD, make it a whole magical adventure:
Visit the Myer Christmas Windows
Take family photos under the Bourke Street Mall lights
Grab hot chocolates for the kids
Watch the Christmas projections at the State Library
Hop on a tram ride your children will talk about all day
Stop for a festive treat at Melbourne Central
Melbourne becomes a giant Christmas playground for families in December.
Why Melbourne Parents Love This Photos with Santa Experience
“My daughter was so shy at first, but when she saw Santa’s gentle smile, she relaxed instantly. We got the most beautiful photo—one I’ll treasure forever.”
Parents often return year after year, creating a Christmas tradition that grows with their children.
These photos become part of your family’s Melbourne Christmas story.
A Magical Christmas Memory for Melbourne Families
Christmas is all about moments that make children’s hearts glow.
At David Jones, those moments come alive — softly, happily, beautifully.
From the warm smiles to the gentle atmosphere, the festive decorations to the joyful energy of the Melbourne CBD, this Santa experience becomes a memory your family will hold onto for years.
If you want a Christmas activity that’s magical, meaningful, and perfect for young children, Photos with Santa at David Jones is the one Melbourne parents trust every year.