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.

Flinders station is lit up in blue lights at night there is a big glowing sign saying rising on the front

RISING: Melbourne

Until 8 Jun

Melbourne’s huge city-wide winter arts festival is back. RISING is coming in hot with a massive program of events. Get rare access to the Flinders Station ballroom as it returns to its roots with a pumping dance hall. Learn Bollywood, ballet, jazz and jive at fun interactive dance classes. On the other side of the river see Hamer Hall light up with glowing projections. Check out an after-dark party inside the iconic State Library Victoria reading room. Plus loads of exhibitions, live music, installations and more.

A nighttime photo of a path in a park, illuminated by vibrant orange, green, and pink light beams and strings creating an immersive light installation; part of Lightscape at Royal Botanic Gardens.

Lightscape

12 Jun – 2 Aug

In the cooler months the sprawling Royal Botanic Gardens transform into a glowing winter wonderland. Wander through mystical neon forests, see giant shimmering sculptures and discover interactive displays. There’s even a food hall with all sorts of warming treats. Toast marshmallows on the open fire, sip on hot chocolate and tuck into steamy dumplings.

A crowd of people are at a winter festival they are walking under a large sign saying firelight which has flames shooting out from either side

Firelight Festival

Melbourne’s favourite free winter festival returns to Docklands from 4 July to 6 July. Mark Firelight Festival in your calendar and get ready for a big weekend of family-friendly fun. There’ll be live music, fire dancers and flaming installations. Plus heaps of food trucks dishing up loads of tasty dishes and yummy treats.

An exquisite Cartier diamond tiara, suspended against a black background.

Melbourne Winter Masterpieces: CARTIER

12 Jun – 4 Oct

National Gallery of Victoria's winter blockbuster exhibition will showcase 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.

A wide-angle photo taken from the top steps of the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, looking down a paved forecourt and across parkland towards the city skyline at dusk.

Open House Melbourne Weekend

24 – 26 Jul

Get rare access to Melbourne’s most beautiful and iconic buildings at Open House. Join exclusive building tours, hear from historians at expert talks, learn from talented designers and architects and wander through the city on a walking tour. Keep an eye out for the program when it goes live on 24 June.

The exterior of Royal Exhibition Building lit up in purple lights at dusk

Now or Never

19 – 30 Aug

Round out your winter with Now or Never, on from 19 to 30 August. This huge city-wide festival celebrates art, ideas, sound and technology. Explore an epic program of boundary-pushing performances, mind-blowing installations, free interactive experiences and heaps more. Stay tuned for more.

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 Vera Blue perform alongside the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra at Hamer Hall. 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. 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. Then head to Her Majesty's Theatre for the Broadway smash-hit musical, Waitress. Or join kid-friendly stage shows like Bluey's Big Play and PAW Patrol Live: Race to the Rescue.