Melbourne's best blockbuster events

Melbourne's beloved movies in the gardens are back. Pack a picnic and head to the Royal Botanic Gardens this summer to enjoy new releases and old flicks under the stars. See Shrek, Back to the Future and other classic hits. Or take in newer releases like Marty Supreme, Avatar: Fire and Ash and The Housemaid. Treat yourself to something a little bit fancy and book a Premium Experience. You'll get access to the VIP area with the best screen views, a reserved bean bed and a complimentary ice cream.

Calling all fashion-lovers! Explore work by Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons at NGV's blockbuster exhibition this summer. See rare garments sourced from private collections. Learn about the history of these two ground-breaking designers. And see vintage photography, film and runway footage.

Melbourne’s huge international tennis tournament returns this summer. Book a Ground Pass for access to pop-up bars, immersive gaming zones, limited-time merch and heaps more. See performances from the likes of The Kid Laroi, Spacey Jane and The Veronicas at AO Live. Unwind on the beanbags at the free Hilltop and watch all the action on the big screen. And for those with accessibility and inclusivity needs, there are sensory rooms, wheelchair rentals, an in-seat food service, accessible seating and more. Have a look at the full list of accessibility and inclusion resources.

Celebrate LGBTQIA+ communities with this huge city-wide festival from 18 January to 8 February. There'll be live music, cabaret, exhibitions, drag shows, parties and heaps more fun. Kick off the party with the free Midsumma Carnival at Alexandra Gardens on day one. Enjoy live music, performances, loads of food trucks, lip sync competitions and even a dog show!

Welcome the Year of the Fire Horse at Melbourne’s iconic festival in Chinatown on 22 February. See lion dancers perform epic tricks, watch the eye-dotting ceremony and catch the magical dragon parade down little Bourke Street. Then watch traditional performances on the main stage and feast on street food snacks. And don't forget to swing past Spiegel Haus for a special line-up of DJs, entertainment and more.

The world’s best comedians are heading to Melbourne for the 40th International Comedy Festival. Get ready for an entire month of laughs at some of the city’s coolest and most iconic venues. Choose from hundreds of shows with local and international stars like Shaun Micallef, Guy Williams, Geraldine Hickey and Hannah Gasby. Plus there’ll be family-friendly events, a comedy competition with the funniest First Nations talent and loads more hilarious fun.  

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. Bring a picnic rug and enjoy a night of free music with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra's Sidney Myer Music Bowl concerts. And don't miss big acts like Marlon Williams and Bliss N Eso as Royal Botanic Gardens transforms into a music venue for Live at the Gardens.

These award-winning productions have taken over the city with iconic songs, dazzling set design and world-class performances. Check out the iconic show Cats the Musical. The popular Book of Mormon is back in Melbourne for another season at Princess Theatre. See the most magical modern take on Cinderella at The Capitol. Discover an adventure-filled hit at the Regent Theatre with Anastasia The Musical. Then head to Her Majesty's Theatre for a spectacular ballet adaptation of The Great Gatsby.