As the festive season rolls in, many traditions mark the beginning of Christmas.

From adding decor to our homes to grand displays, everyone is looking forward to these Christmas staples.

However, a decade-old tradition recently got disrupted, which has concerned locals and some officials.


The MYER Christmas window display has been a cherished tradition in Melbourne for almost decades.

The display draws in crowds of excited families eager to kick off their festive season with a touch of magic.

However, this year's much-anticipated event has been cancelled, leaving many spectators disheartened.


The sudden cancellation followed after plans for a protest by an activist group, Disrupt Wars.

This potential disruption led Myer to make the heart-wrenching decision to cancel the opening event, citing safety concerns.

The window display should still be unveiled as scheduled and will remain until 5 January.

While the MYER Christmas window display will still be up this year, Melbourne's festive spirit has been dampened, as the 69-year tradition of unveiling it will not happen this year.


The cancellation sparked an outcry from Liberal MP Sussan Ley.

MP Ley called on the protesters to 'leave Christmas alone', highlighting the disruption it caused to the locals.

'The MYER Christmas window unveiling? Really? And by the way, doing this is not going to convince anyone of your cause,' MP Ley added.

'I just think of the kids, the families that love this excitement on the unveiling.'

'Melburnians and Australians have had a tough year. I hope the state and federal governments do all they can to make sure families can celebrate Christmas in peace,' MP Ley ended.


Along with MP Ley was Federal Education Minister Jason Clare, who echoed her sentiments.

'I hope a bit of common sense prevails here. Melbourne is a big place. Plenty of places to protest without stopping people celebrating Christmas,' Minister Clare added.

While he recognised the right of expression, Minister Clare also emphasised the importance of Christmas.

After the backlash and criticism from several public officials, protest organiser Amy Settal stated that the supposed disruption will not push through anymore.

'The children coming to see the Myer Christmas windows were never a target, because children are not a target,' Settal said.

'In light of MYER’s decision to cancel their window reveal event, planned disruptions will not go ahead.'


With the said disruption already cancelled, MYER has not yet confirmed yet if the unveiling will push through or not.

However, this raised questions about the importance of traditions, especially during the festive season.

Many Australians are now wondering about the future of public celebrations.

The MYER Christmas window display was more than just a festive decoration; it was a symbol of joy, togetherness, and the spirit of the season.
What are your thoughts about the cancellation of this year's MYER Christmas window display? Do you have other decade-long Christmas traditions? Share your thoughts and other Christmas festivities with us in the comments section below.