Melbourne's unmissable blockbuster events

Melbourne’s events calendar is hotter than ever. From stunning art exhibits, to vibrant festivals and Christmas celebrations. Grab the diary – you’ll want to lock in every one of these major events.

Driving in?

With more than 70,000 car spaces in the city, you’re never far from Melbourne’s best events. Book ahead at key parking providers to get the best deal.

ALWAYS LIVE

22 Nov – 8 Dec

Catch epic gigs all over Melbourne at this 17-day celebration of live music. See Aussie musicians like Chet Faker, Tash Sultana, Baker Boy and more. Hear free performances. And keep your eyes peeled for announcements about surprise pop-ups.

A parent and child walking past a giant abstract pumpkin sculpture painted yellow with black spots.

Yayoi Kusama

15 Dec – 21 Apr

Iconic Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama is taking over the NGV with almost 200 works. The new, exclusive exhibition features world-premiere work. Think mirrored infinity rooms, towering sculptures, giant floating balloon installations and more across the entire ground floor of the NGV.

Christmas tree lit up in Fed Square with Flinders Street Station in the background.

Christmas in the city

29 Nov – 25 Dec

There's no better place to feel all the magic of Christmas than the city. There's pop-up dining, market stalls and interactive events for the whole family. Marvel at the massive 17.5 metre high Christmas tree. Seek out glittering lights and uniquely Melbourne decorations. And don't miss the epic Crown Christmas River Show.

Van Gogh

26 Dec – 30 Apr

The LUME is bringing back its beloved van Gogh exhibition for a limited summer season. Explore this 3,000 square metre projection art gallery featuring floor-to-ceiling digital displays. See gigantic paintings like Starry Night come to life. Wander through a field of sunflowers. And be among the first to try the brand new VR art experience.

A view over Melbourne by night, with buildings lit up.

New Year's Eve in Melbourne

31 Dec

Say farewell to 2024 and celebrate New Year's Eve in Melbourne. Make a booking to ring in the new year on a rooftop bar with your favourite people. Or find luxe feasts, family-friendly restaurants, pop-up parties and fireworks. Plan ahead and book a hotel room for the evening.

A large crowd at an outdoor stage with rainbow picnic umbrellas in the foreground and the Melbourne city skyline in the background.

Midsumma Carnival

19 Jan

Celebrate LGBTQIA+ communities with this huge city-wide festival featuring live music, cabaret, exhibitions, parties and more. Kick off the party with the free Midsumma Carnival at Alexandra Gardens. There'll be live music, performances, loads of food trucks, lip sync competitions and even a dog show!

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

Unmissable theatre shows

These award-winning productions are set to take over the city with iconic songs, dazzling set design and world-class performances. Relive the timeless tale of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Get festive with productions of The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol. Or hear the life story of the Queen of Rock at the Tina Turner Musical.