Lights, ice skating and bike rides: How to embrace the chilly weather across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs
As the temperatures start to drop, it can be easy to cosy up by the fire or under a blanket. However, there is plenty to see and do across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs over the coming months.
Matthew Sims
May 16, 2025
It’s time to start saving the date for winter events coming up across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. Here is our list of some of the best events and attractions.
Let us know if we missed an upcoming event by reaching out to [email protected]
Belgrave Lantern Festival
The Belgrave community will be celebrating the wonderful and weird at the Belgrave Lantern Festival.
Marking the Winter Solstice, the event will showcase community characters and creativity by displaying hundreds of candle-powered lanterns and holding a parade along Burwood Highway.
When: Saturday June 21, 5pm to 8pm
Where: Reynolds Lane, Belgrave
Cost: Free
Puffing Billy’s Train of Lights
Anyone who has ever tried to buy a ticket for Puffing Billy’s Train of Lights event knows how quickly they sell out.
Passengers embark on a 2.5-hour roundtrip journey from Lakeside Station to Gembrook while enjoying displays of moving lights, colours and patterns.
There is a 55-minute stopover at Gembrook Station, where passengers can warm themselves around open fire pits, sip on hot chocolate and listen to live music.
When: Friday July 4 to Sunday July 20
Where: Departs from Lakeside Station in Emerald
Cost: TBC
Olympic Ice Skating Centre
Suitable for all levels, from beginners to those who know what they’re doing. Join a class or sharpen your ice hockey skills at a range of sessions at the Olympic Ice Skating Centre.
When: Open Wednesday and Friday to Sunday
Where: 1080 Centre Road in Oakleigh South
Cost: $28 adults, $18 children 15 and under, no booking required
Chesterfield Farm
Many of you may recall a school trip to Chesterfield Farm.
From baby goats to cows and camels, there are plenty of animals to pet and greet across the 100-acre farm. Or jump on the tractor for a ride.
When: Open seven days a week
Where: 1221 Ferntree Gully Road, Scoresby
Cost: $20 adults, $13 children between three and 17
Warburton Rail Trail
The Warburton Rail Trail is 40km long and features a number of steep climbs, so we’re not suggesting you tackle the whole thing in one day. You could, for example, split the trail into multiple sections and tackle one each week.
Riding your bike along the trail is a great way to get the blood pumping and breathe in the fresh air.
When: Always open
Where: Start at the rear of the Lilydale Railway Station car park or access entry points including Mount Evelyn and Wandin
Cost: Free
Mount Donna Buang
If you’re keen to take a day trip to see and play in some snow, then Mount Donna Buang in Warburton is the place to check out.
At an altitude of 1,245 metres, the summit provides panoramic views of Melbourne and the Yarra Valley.
When: Always open
Where: Mt Donna Buang Summit Road in Warburton
Cost: Free
Image Credit: Mick Stanic/Chris Samuel