Melbourne's best blockbuster events

There's a massive state-wide music festival kicking off around Victoria this month, and it's set to be the biggest in Aussie history. Joining the line-up is Islands in the Sky, a series of intimate gigs taking over iconic Melbourne rooftops. Expect unmissable performances set against stunning city views. Soar up to see stellar sets from Big Freedia and homegrown legends Thelma Plum and The Veronicas.

This immersive, intergalactic experience is an unmissable new addition to Melbourne Museum. Experience six different digital environments, created with 360-degree projections and striking soundscapes. Stop to snap photos against kaleidoscopic backdrops lose yourself in a colourful new world.

These award-winning productions are set to take over the city with iconic songs, dazzling set design and world-class performances. Catch the revitalised one-night production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, see history like never before at Hamilton, then tease your beehive for Hairspray. Or lose yourself in a stunning season from the Australian Ballet.

There’s a dazzling new exhibit floating into THE LUME this October. Monet & Friends Alive is a love letter to the French Impressionists, bringing their iconic masterpieces back to life. Explore the 3,000 square metre projection art gallery, swirling with floor-to-ceiling digital displays. Stroll through Monet’s Water Lilies and reflect on Renoir’s renowned works in an immersive experience.

Seeking new season style inspo? Melbourne Fashion Week is taking over the city this October with stunning events in unexpected locations. See shows in some of Melbourne's most beautiful buildings. Spot sub-culture fashion under the Bolte Bridge. Catch free roving runways and creative installations. And enjoy a special performance from Thelma Plum to close out the week.

Embrace the rebellious artists that epitomise Melbourne when the Fringe kicks off in October. The iconic Fringe parade and block party is returning for the first time in 20 years, with roving performers taking over Lygon Street. Also on the lineup is a gin-soaked cabaret in a giant spiegeltent at the Vic Market. Plus more electrifying performances that traverse juggling, aerial tricks, fire breathing and live music.

An illuminating collection of art will arrive at ACMI this winter, curated by the Tate and drawn from their prestigious collection. Historical paintings by artistic heavyweights are set to be transformed by ground-breaking light works. Think Claude Monet, Yayoi Kusama, Wassily Kandinsky and more.

See the masterpieces that tipped the art world on its head at the NGV's world premiere of The Picasso Century. Follow Pablo Picasso's career through all its eras, including his iconic cubism period. The exhibition features over 70 works by the avant-garde artist. Alongside more than 100 works by his contemporaries including Salvador Dalí and Henri Matisse.

Mind, Mythos, Muse is the first major Australian exhibition to explore the life, art and influence of legendary designer Alexander McQueen. Coming to the NGV this December, the exhibit features over 100 garments and accessories from the king of creativity. Journey into McQueen’s design process through subversive storytelling and controversial collections.