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Brainstorming present ideas for friends and loved ones? Browse our collection of Christmas gift experiences in Melbourne. From glassblowing in Coburg North to gin-making in North Melbourne, there are hundreds of hidden gems in Victoria's capital of cool. Treat your BFF to a silversmithing workshop, spoil mum with a flower-arranging class or get the family together for a group paint and sip experience. Whether it's an express experience or a day-long luxury, there's a Melbourne gift experience for everyone on your list.
DIY Eco Resin Coaster Class: Sip and Create
Run by the friendly folks at Lily And Lark Living, this resin art class in Hawthorn is one of the most arty Christmas presents Melbourne-wide. After running your giftee through the coaster-making process, workshop host Lisa will provide hands-on support and creative inspiration, helping them achieve their desired look. After they’ve completed their coasters, they’ll sip on bubbles and nibble on snacks as the resin cures – the perfect opportunity to chat with fellow creatives. For friends that love a cosy crafternoon or appreciate handmade homewares, this Melbourne experience gift is as good as it gets.
The verdict:
Corinna says “This class was so relaxing and fun. Our teacher, Liza, was informative, kind and helped us make beautiful eco-resin coasters to take home. We had bubbles and a platter provided, in a cosy warm room on a lovely winter's day. I would highly recommend it if you’d like to learn something new but not too difficult!”
Gin Making Masterclass
For friends or family who enjoy a generous glass of spirits, this gin making masterclass is the ultimate gift experience. Run by the team at Here’s looking at You Kid, this behind-the-scenes class takes place in their bar and tasting rooms on Errol Street in North Melbourne. To get your giftee's creative juices flowing, the workshop begins with a complimentary gin cocktail before the “hard work” kicks in. With plenty of taste testing, sniffing and sampling, your giftee will discover how gin is made before taking matters into their own hands. As they nibble on complimentary snacks, they’ll infuse their chosen botanicals into 500ml of their own signature gin.
The verdict:
Kimberley says “This class was a present to my partner as I have done it before. Again, it was great. The teacher was very welcoming and made the class enjoyable. I highly recommend this class for anyone, from gin lovers to others.”
Glow-in-the-Dark painting class
Add a splash of colour to your loved ones’ Christmas with this glow-in-the-dark painting class. With fluorescent paints, UV lights and a buzzy atmosphere, this paint and sip experience makes for a memorable night out. Feeling super generous? Gift this activity to your whole family or friend group and spend some quality time together. No matter how their painting turns out, this is one Melbourne experience they’ll never forget. Want more insider tips and activities? Check out our 2024 guide to the best experience gifts in Melbourne.
The verdict:
Michelle Hall says “Absolutely incredible night – from the fun, quirky teachers to the atmosphere. Everyone had a great night having a few cheeky drinks. Would definitely recommend it and will be returning!”
Tipsy Terrarium Workshop
The Plant Whisperer’s luscious jungle studio is the perfect location for this hands-on terrarium workshop in Brunswick. Over two hours, your giftee will learn all about the art of terrarium creation, the three golden rules every planet parent must follow to keep their terrarium thriving. (Don’t worry, these mini ecosystems are surprisingly low-maintenance.) And of course, because this is a tipsy class, there’ll be a selection of wine, beer and cheese to fuel your creativity. If your giftee is more peppermint tea than pinot noir, treat them to this tranquil terrarium-making class instead. With complimentary tea, coffee and biccies on offer, they’ll enjoy a moment of mindful making as they listen to chilled tunes. This living gift idea is a fresh and thoughtful way to treat your special someone this festive season.
The verdict:
Scout says “My partner had always wanted a terrarium, and this was the perfect introduction. Not only were we able to design and customise our own, but also learnt some really invaluable tips and tricks on maintaining a healthy terrarium. For first time terrarium owners, I highly recommend this! Very cosy, cute studio and Haylee was lovely.”
Why experiences are the best Christmas presents Melbourne-wide
Experience gifts are more than just presents – they’re memories in the making. This year, skip the Christmas hamper and surprise your beloved Melbournians with something truly memorable. (After all, 'tis the season for generosity!) From creative workshops to fun foodie adventures, these experience presents are guaranteed to surprise and delight. Whether your seeking a present for mum or a girlfriend-approved gift, our unique experiences are sure to bring extra sparkle to the season.