Christmas Day Together 🎄 Riverside Walk & BYO Picnic

No plans for Christmas Day? Come and spend it with us! Whether you’re away from family, don’t celebrate Christmas, or simply fancy some company, everyone is welcome.

Come on your own, bring a friend or bring the whole family — kids and dogs are welcome too. You don’t need to know anyone beforehand! 💚

📅 Friday, 25 December 2026 📍 Yarra Bank Reserve, 44 Creswick Street, Hawthorn 🚶 Walk starts at 10:00 am 🧺 Picnic starts at 12:00 noon ⏰ No fixed finish time — stay as long as you like!

🚶 Morning riverside walk Meet near the covered BBQ and picnic area, ready to set off at 10:00 am. We’ll enjoy a relaxed walk along the Yarra, with time to chat and take breaks, returning for our picnic at noon. You’re welcome to turn back earlier if you prefer a shorter walk.

🥗 A shared Christmas picnic Don’t fancy walking? Come straight to the picnic at 12:00 noon! Meet us near the covered BBQ area and playground. Please bring a plate of food to share — homemade or shop-bought, whatever is easy for you. Nothing fancy needed! A small note with ingredients or common allergens would be helpful.

🎲 Games, conversation and a relaxed afternoon Bring board games, cards or picnic-friendly activities. We can share food, play games and chat while the kids enjoy the playground nearby. You’re equally welcome to sit back and enjoy the company.

🌿 A flexible day Join us for the walk, the picnic or both. After lunch, anyone who feels like another stroll can head out together, while others stay for games and conversation. Come and go as you please — there’s no pressure to join every activity.

What to bring:

Food to share and your own drinks
A picnic rug or camping chair — covered seating is limited and shared with other park visitors
Your own plate, cup and cutlery
Water, a hat, sunscreen and weather-appropriate clothing
Optional board games, cards or activities for the kids
A lead, water bowl and waste bags for your dog

Please keep dogs on a lead and children under their parent or carer’s supervision, especially near the river.

🚆 Getting there: Approximately 15 minutes’ walk from Hawthorn Station.

📱 WhatsApp Group & Staying Connected We have a WhatsApp chat group for this meetup! Please note that this group isn't just for coordinating on the day, but a general space intended to help people stay connected after the event. You can check the group description for more details. Once the event is over, you are more than welcome to stay in the group to keep in touch, or you can leave if you prefer — whatever you feel comfortable with!

Please RSVP and let us know whether you’re joining the walk, picnic or both, how many people you’re bringing, and what food or games you might bring. Check the event page before leaving for any weather-related updates.

Christmas can look different for everyone. If you’d otherwise be spending the day alone and would enjoy some company, we’d love you to join us. Let’s share a meal, a few laughs and a relaxed day together. ❤️