Here's how to skip the Christmas chaos


Hi there Reader

Is anyone else feeling that pull towards the airport right about now?

I don't know about you, but I'm noticing more and more families are opting out of the traditional Christmas chaos this year.

People seem to be swapping the exhaustingly hot Aussie summer, endless present wrapping, and big lunches for something a little more relaxing: an actual holiday.

I get it - there's definitely something appealing about stepping away from it all.

No hosting stress, no kitchen meltdowns, just your family, a new destination, and the chance to actually enjoy the break you've been counting down to all year.

Whether you're already booking flights or just daydreaming about where you'd escape to if you could, I've packed this newsletter with inspiration and practical tips for families with a vacation on their mind.

Sometimes the best Christmas gift is simply a change of scenery.

Joyce xx

P.S. If you're planning an overseas getaway (or even thinking about it), don't skip the travel insurance—boring but essential! We've got an exclusive 12% off with Travel Protect using code TOTHOTNOT. Future you will thank present you.


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Top Picks

  • Picnic in the Park (Friday 5 December) Experience everything from pony rides to Santa on skates at this annual community gathering celebrating the holiday season. Braybrook
  • Asia Street Food Festival (Friday 5 December – Sunday 7 December) Feast on authentic dishes from over 40 street food vendors, and enjoy live performances, traditional games, giveaways and more at this Asian-inspired food festival by the Yarra River. Melbourne CBD
  • The Little Christmas Village (Saturday 6 December – Sunday 7 December) Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with creative craft activities in a magical space filled with warmth, wonder and joy. Greensborough
  • BIG Christmas Spectacular (Saturday 6 December – Monday 8 December) Award-winning musical theatre stars, 25 dazzling dancers and live musicians create a Christmas wonderland with ballet, contemporary, tap and jazz performances. Melbourne CBD
  • Summer in the Glade (Saturday 6 December) This free seasonal celebration will feature Christmas carols, arts and craft markets, food trucks and kids' activities at Gasworks Park. Albert Park
  • Candlelight: Tribute to Adele (Saturday 6 December) Enjoy the soulful music of Adele at Collingwood Town Hall, bathed in the warm, flickering glow of candlelight. Collingwood
  • Family Christmas Picnic in the Park (Saturday 6 December) Snap some Santa photos, live music, face painting, farm animals and special interactive performances at Commonwealth Reserve. Williamstown
  • Carols in Queens Park (Saturday 6 December) Celebrate the silly season with free carols, children's activities and holiday cheer in Queens Park. Moonee Ponds
  • Movies in the Park – Home Alone 2 (Saturday 6 December) Watch a family favourite in the park at this Christmas movie night, plus enjoy festive entertainment, face painting and a Santa visit before the film. Werribee
  • Family Christmas at Central Park (Sunday 7 December) A day of family Christmas fun hosted by The Listies with special guest vocalists, children's activities and a visit from Santa. Malvern East
  • Christmas at the Lake (Sunday 7 December) Join the Ringwood Salvation Army for kids' activities, face painting, a candy cane hunt and carols led by the Brass Band. Ringwood

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