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.
People milling around Fed Squre at night.

Melbourne Fringe Festival

Until

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

–

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

–

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

Two individuals talking to each other inside Melbourne Museum at night, with blue lighting.
Until

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.
Until

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.
Until

Oktoberfest at Hofbrauhaus

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

Last updated on Sun 27 Sep 2026

Only In The City

Only in the City
Inside a bustling market hall

Things you can only see in the city

Uncover secret rooms, historic architecture and iconic landmarks found only in the city.

A family of four standing in a grand library with antique desks, large white walls and a dome ceiling.

Things you can only do in the city

There's only one place to find these rare Melbourne experiences and secret spots.

Multiple plates on a white table cloth.

Things you can only eat in the city

Where to find the city's most iconic dishes.

Discover more

A laneway lit up with hanging fairy lights

The best hidden Christmas events and laneway pop-ups in Melbourne

Find the best laneway street parties, free workshops, pop-up events and gigs.

Rainbow lights on water jets and a giant bauble on the river at night.

The ultimate guide to Melbourne’s best Christmas events

Seek out Christmas movies, festive pop-ups, glittering decorations and more.

A woman looking at a display of Formula 1 racing suits in an exhibition.

The best Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix events in Melbourne

Map out your perfect Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix weekend in Melbourne.

Crowds looking at a festival stage in the city.

The best free festivals in Melbourne

The best free festivals you need to visit in Melbourne this year