Melbourne's best blockbuster events

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.

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.

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.

Melbourne’s epic First Nations festival returns in May with a huge program of music, art, performance, parties and more. Featuring over 400 artists, across 180 performances in over 40 venues, this year’s big event is not to be missed. Take the kids to Enoki’s Wonderland – an adorable and interactive free exhibition all about Indigenous plants and animals. See the city’s laneways come alive with drag, music, installations and more at Barring Yanabul. And party until the wee hours across some of the city’s coolest venues at the Uncle Archie Roach Block Party.

Melbourne's huge winter arts festival is back for another year so get ready for 12 days of city-wide fun. We're talking exhibitions, interactive art, live music and loads more. Head upstairs to the iconic ballroom at Flinders Street Station for a round of mini golf at Swingers. Visit a free pop-up party across Capitol Arcade, Howey Place and Max Watt's at Night Trade. And take part in a free family-friendly music workshop at Shouse Communitas. Check out the Rising website for a full list of events and details.

See the Royal Botanic Gardens transform into a winter wonderland at Lightscape. And the best part is this year’s experience features twenty magical new installations. Wander through glowing floral canopies. Discover illuminated neon forests. And immerse yourself in dreamy soundscapes. Plus there’ll be a cosy food hall offering up all sorts of warming treats like hot chocolate, mulled wine and more. 

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. Experience a modern-day version of the hit show Jesus Christ Superstar. Check out eight-time Tony Award-nominated Beetlejuice The Musical. And revisit the iconic childhood classic Annie.