New event for Docklands

Docklands will host a new major Christmas event this December, which is hoped to become a key part of Melbourne’s festive calendar in years to come.

For the first time Destination Docklands will hold “Jubilation”, a three-day festival that will raise funds for the Country Fire Authority (CFA).

According to Destination Docklands CEO Anita Donnelly, the partnership with the CFA will capture the true spirit of Christmas and will provide an opportunity to show appreciation to CFA volunteers as they head into their busiest time of year.

“At Destination Docklands we strive to create events and a profile of the precinct that emotionally connects Victorians to Docklands and brings the precinct alive,” Ms Donnelly said.

“Given this challenge we looked for something fresh that would give Victorians something new and meaningful, something that will attract national recognition, which will in turn attract partners and help the ultimate cause.”

The festival kicks off on Friday, December 12 and will continue across the weekend.

Event highlights include light installations, floating lanterns, Christmas market, food trucks, a carousel, vintage and modern fire trucks, boats lit up in the harbour, the City of Melbourne Christmas tree, live entertainment and appearances from Santa.

“The event is about immersing yourself in the Christmas experience, while showing your support for the CFA. We encourage visitors and locals to come and write a message of support on the floating lanterns and enjoy time with colleagues, friends and family on Melbourne’s waterfront,” Ms Donnelly said.

Destination Docklands hopes the festival will grow to eventually become a 12-day, large-scale event in future years.

“It will bring together a number of key stakeholders and, in the future, with the continued support from the CFA, local and state governments and our Docklands businesses, the event will grow to 12 days,” Ms Donnelly said.

She said there were big ideas for the future of the festival including lighting up the Bolte Bridge and a giant floating Christmas tree in Victoria Harbour.