12 Holiday Hacks This Christmas
‘Tis the season to be jolly – and savvy! Who says you need to empty your wallet to fill your holidays with cheer? These market-fresh tips will help you craft a magical Christmas that’s kind to both Earth and your wallet.
- Ditch the Plastic, Embrace the Fantastic
Say goodbye to those pesky plastic bags! Grab your favourite reusable bags, containers, or even those sturdy tubs. Can’t find yours? No worries – you can snag some eco-friendly options right at the Market. Check out our Pick-A-Box station located at Queen Street and A Shed – an awesome way to carry your market goodies home sustainably!
- Get Musseling This Christmas
Want to add some seafood flair without the expensive price tag? Mussels are your new best friend! These tasty little gems are not only budget-friendly but also perfect for impressive holiday dishes. If you’re still brainstorming Christmas mussel recipes, speak to our friendly traders at Queen Victoria Market for more ideas and they’ll be more than happy to share.
- Get Jammin’
Turn the freshest fruits into thoughtful gifts by making your own preserves and jams. It’s easier than you think, and who doesn’t love receiving a jar of homemade goodness? Your friends and family will be blown away! Plus, you can make a batch for yourself too – we won’t tell!
- Ham It Up Early
Don’t wait until the last minute to secure your Christmas centerpiece! Speak with our butchers about pre-ordering your ham for the festive season. From award-winning hams to locally smoked hams, the Market has you covered. Pro tip: Check out our new online pre-order service on Queen Victoria Market Online!
- Wrap Like a Sustainable Santa
Why not think outside the (wrapped) box? Use fabric for gift wrapping – it’s like giving two presents in one. Take a trip to LFZ Fabrics and browse their range of high-quality fabrics including plain and printed cotton, silk, satin, felt, wool, denim, and linings. They also have a fantastic range of fabrics with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander designs, printed on 100% cotton!
- Beat the Parking Blues
Nothing says “bah humbug” like stressing about parking during the December holidays. Start your shopping earlier in the season – your stress levels and wallet will thank you. Queen Victoria Market will be open for the six days leading up to Christmas Day including a special day of trade on Monday 23 December (usually a non-market day), making it easier than ever to complete your holiday shopping! Enjoy free early bird parking from 6am to 9am (4am – 9am on 23 and 24 Dec) and experience a unique Christmas at Queen Victoria Market.
- Channel Your Inner Creative
Get crafty with your gifts! The market’s full of Australian-made treasures and local goodies that make perfect presents. From handcrafted accessories to custom journals, the Market is full of unique gems just waiting for you to discover. Wander the sheds, halls and laneways, meet our traders and you’ll sort out your shopping list in no time!
- Gift Experiences, Create Memories
What could be more special than gifting an experience? Treat your special someone to an Ultimate Foodie Tour Card where they can embark on a delicious and fascinating tour of one of Melbourne’s most iconic markets or a Queen Victoria Market Online eGift Card, so they can order the freshest produce straight to their doorstep.
- Go Green with Purpose
Visit the Purpose Precinct between November and January to see sustainability in action! Watch local makers turn market surplus into treasures – from leftover fruits to recycled packaging. You’re more than welcome to join a workshop and create your own eco-friendly gifts!
- Free Fun for Everyone
Keep an eye out for festive activities this holiday season at Queen Victoria Market. Some exciting but free activities include the Christmas-themed Kids Passport, Santa visits as well as enjoying the Christmas decorations put up around the market. Entertainment that doesn’t cost a cent? Now that’s what we call a Christmas miracle!
- Become a Grazing Guru
Store-bought platters can cost up to a few hundred dollars but with some smart market shopping and creative assembly, you can create an even more impressive spread for half the price. Plus, you’ll get to handpick every item to your taste! Create your own Instagram-worthy grazing platter for less by chatting with our traders for their best tips and score some deals on artisan cheeses, antipasti, meats, and fresh bread.
- Seasonal is Sensational
Buying fruits in season isn’t just budget-friendly – it’s when they’re at their sweetest, juiciest, and most nutritious. Load up on summer’s finest fruits – cherries, mangoes, peaches, and more. Take your Christmas dessert table to the next level without breaking the bank!
If you’re dreaming of a green (and budget-friendly) Christmas, remember these market-fresh tricks! Celebrate sustainably with your loved ones without breaking the bank this festive season.
