Melbourne's best blockbuster events

From stunning art exhibits, to vibrant festivals and unmissable theatre shows. Grab the diary – you’ll want to lock in every one of these major events.

A group of friends picnicking at the Music Bowl.
Two friends are in a gallery space with cabinets of jewellery there is a large circular velvet seat under a large circular light well

Melbourne Winter Masterpieces: CARTIER

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National Gallery of Victoria's winter blockbuster exhibition showcases 400 extraordinary jewels, gems and jewellery by Cartier. Get an inside look into the history of this renowned French luxury goods company. Discover rare photographs, sketchbooks and original design drawings. And don't miss NGV Friday Nights for after-dark access to the exhibition, DJs, performances and more.

The MCG lit pink at night.

AFL Footy Finals

Get ready to go sports mad for the AFL Footy Finals! Head to the Footy Fest to get around all the action. Then cheer on the players at the Grand Final Parade. If you’re lucky enough to score tickets to a match, fuel up pre- and post-game at restaurants near the MCG. Or head to Melbourne’s best pubs and bars to watch the game on the big screen and enjoy special offers. 

People milling around Fed Squre at night.

Melbourne Fringe Festival

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Melbourne’s huge city-wide Fringe Festival returns for another year. Catch theatre shows, circus acts, stand-up comedy, live music and heaps more. Check out the program to find a show at some of Melbourne's most iconic venues and support local artists.

People sitting on the grass in front of a large outdoor stage in the city.

Melbourne International Jazz Festival

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Groove along to smooth tunes at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival. Enjoy 10 days of music including a show with The Teskey Brothers at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. There’ll also be free performances, pop-up jazz clubs, family-friendly street parties and more.

A model wearing a layered ensemble with floral embellishments and an elaborate headpiece on a runway.

Melbourne Fashion Week

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Melbourne Fashion Week is back with seven days of runways, exhibitions and more all over the city. See the NGV, State Library, 1 Hotel Melbourne and other iconic locations come alive with must-see runways. Head to City Square for two free pop-up fashion shows. See a Vivienne Westwood bridal gown up-close. And hear from experts in production, design and sustainability at industry talks and workshops.

A stage with a grand facade to look like a building, with crowds waiting for a band to come on stage.

The ultimate Melbourne live gig guide

Melbourne is home to dozens of iconic music venues. From the historic Forum to basement gems like Max Watt's, this city is buzzing with live music of every genre. See the DMA's, Hoodoo Gurus and ore in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Check out live jazz on Sundays at Whitehart Bar. Or swing past St Paul's Cathedral for free lunch time concerts.

An ornate theatre interior with people milling around before a show.

Unmissable theatre shows

These award-winning productions have taken over the city with iconic songs, dazzling set design and world-class performances. A new musical telling the true story of Neil Diamond is showing at Princess Theatre. Then head to Her Majesty's Theatre for a cinematic ballet reimagining of Dracula this September. Or join kid-friendly stage shows like The Very Cranky Bear and a Peter Pan ballet.

More of the best events on now and coming soon

The facade of Melbourne Town Hall illuminated in colours, with a blurred tram going past.
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Light Up Melbourne After-dark Projections

See immersive art projections light up some of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Two individuals talking to each other inside Melbourne Museum at night, with blue lighting.
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Nocturnal: Museum After Dark

Experience Melbourne Museum after hours, when the doors stay open and the night belongs to adults.

Two young adults observing a sculpture in a gallery space with digital and scupltural displays.
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EMERGENCE[Y]

An exhibition exploring how adaptation in a world of flux unfolds in every layer of life.

Oktoberfest-themed illustration with man wearing a Tyrolean hat holding steins of beer, pretzel and meat, with a Melbourne tram.
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Oktoberfest at Hofbrauhaus

Celebrate German bier, food and music as the Hofbräuhaus Oktoberfest turns 58.

Last updated on Tue 15 Sep 2026

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