Melbourne's unmissable blockbuster events

Melbourne’s events calendar is hotter than ever. 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.

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.

Van Gogh

Until 1 Jun

The LUME has brought 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. And be among the first to try the brand new VR art experience.

A woman is inside a gallery surrounded by giant red spotty sculptures.

Yayoi Kusama

Until 21 Apr

Iconic Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama has taken 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.

Outdoor dining event in a park with long tables and white umbrellas with trees and city buildings in the background.

Melbourne Food and Wine Festival

21 – 30 Mar

Australia's culinary capital comes alive for the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. This 10-day feast culminates in over 170 dining pop-ups. Pull up a chair at the World's Longest Brunch. Try viral chef Motokichi Yukimura's world famous omurice. Or taste re-imagined takes on the beloved Melbourne-born dim sim.

Melbourne Town Hall at night with pink lights illuminating the front facade and a tram passing by.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival

26 Mar – 20 Apr

Get ready for a month of laughs at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Catch open mic nights and star-studded stand-up shows. Don't miss the fan favourite Annual Great Debate and second Asian Allstars Gala. Check out the full program.

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. Relive the timeless tale of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Hear the life story of the Queen of Rock at the Tina Turner Musical. Or witness the moving coming-of-age story in Dear Evan Hansen.