Myer has announced the cancellation of its iconic annual Christmas window unveiling on Bourke Street Mall following threats of disruption by pro-Palestine protesters.
The event, traditionally attended by families and children, was set to take place Sunday but has been scrapped in light of a planned demonstration from activist group Disrupt Wars.
A spokesperson for Myer confirmed the decision yesterday saying that, “In light of recent developments and to ensure the wellbeing and safety of customers and team members, we will no longer hold an event on Bourke Street Mall for the unveiling of our Christmas windows”.
While the windows will still open on schedule and remain on display until January 5, 2025, the unveiling ceremony—an iconic part of Melbourne’s festive season for nearly 70 years—will not take place.
Disrupt Wars organised the demonstration to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict in Gaza and encourage more Australians to demand action from the government. The group’s intent, they stated, was not to disrupt for disruption’s sake but to force reflection on what they perceive as Australia’s complicity in the crisis.
“I think there are a lot of people that don’t actually know how involved our government are in this genocide,” said one of the events organisers.
Organisers issued a public call for supporters to gather at the State Library and proceed to Bourke Street Mall, bringing banners, noisemakers, flags, and placards to convey their message. The demonstration, they said, was intended to “inconvenience those who would rather bury their heads in the capitalist machine than speak up against a genocide.”
“Christmas is cancelled, and there will be no joy or frivolity while children in Gaza are massacred,” a post online said.
The organisers emphasised the peaceful nature of the intended protest saying that they are “not seeking to bring bombs and murder children in Bourke Street Mall”. Instead protesters planned to raise awareness through symbolic actions like playing music, blowing bubbles, and holding signs declaring, “there is no joy in genocide.”
Myer’s Christmas window unveiling has been a mainstay in Melbourne for generations, known for its elaborate themes, whimsical displays, and child-friendly festivities. It has become a symbol of holiday joy and a significant draw for families across Victoria.
Myer, aware of the disruption’s potential impact on families, reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and positive experience of its visitors. “Myer’s Christmas windows have long symbolised joy and community,” said a spokesperson for the store, “and we remain committed to providing a safe and positive experience for all visitors.”
Victoria Police, who have been in dialogue with the organisers, also expressed disappointment over the disruption. A spokesperson reiterated that while the right to peaceful protest is respected, such actions should not impact the broader community.
“The Myer Christmas windows are an important tradition in Melbourne’s calendar, with families from across Victoria coming into the city to see them,” the spokesperson said.
“It is important to make clear a separate rally planned for later in the day has changed its usual route due to the Myer Christmas windows and will not walk through Bourke Street”.
Police are expected to maintain a visible presence during the protest to ensure public safety.
The decision to cancel the unveiling has sparked both condemnation and support. Anti-Defamation Commission Chair Dvir Abramovich criticised the planned protest, describing it as a “toxic hijacking of a family-friendly tradition.”
He stated, “Let’s not forget what these windows stand for – the magic of childhood, the love of family, and the spirit of the holiday season. To try to taint that is an affront to everything this city represents”.
Federal Education Minister Jason Clare said that he was hopeful that a more balanced solution could be reached, encouraging demonstrators to choose alternative locations to avoid spoiling traditions. “Melbourne is a big place. Plenty of places to protest without stopping people celebrating Christmas”.
As global crises increasingly spill into local arenas, the clash highlights a growing debate over where and how political statements should be made and the extent to which cherished public traditions can coexist with activism around critical humanitarian issues.
