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.

People walking around a very large space with Vincent van Gogh artwork digitally projected on all the wall and floor spaces.

Van Gogh

Until

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 group of friends are eating fondue in a chalet.

Fondue Chalet

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Transport yourself to the French Alps at this winter wonderland pop-up. Book your very own private chalet and nestle in under the string lights. Indulge in melted cheese, sip on mulled wine and enjoy Belgian chocolate fondue. Then step outside and roast marshmallows on the open fire. And there'll even be a flurry of snow!  

A laneway party at night.

RISING

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 checkout a huge day-to-night celebration bursting with Pakistani music at Blockbuster. Check out the Rising website for a full list of events and details.

People walking towards a red illuminated archway that reads Winter Night Market.

Winter Night Market

Melbourne’s iconic Winter Night Market is back. Rug up and head to this free festival at Queen Victoria Market. Then tuck into sizzling street food and sip on hot drinks like mulled wine and spiced Milo. Once your belly is full, head to the market’s sheds and laneways and browse more than 60 stalls offering one-of-a-kind goodies. Think vinyl records, vintage fashion, handmade jewellery and more. Or join the Silent Disco crew and have a boogie with your mates.

French painter Claude Monet's dappled oil painting of a grainstack on a field, dating from the 1890s.

French Impressionism

National Gallery of Victoria’s winter exhibition returns with a French Impressionism showcase. Wander through ten themed sections and discover work by the world’s most famous artists. See Monet’s beautiful waterlilys. Discover colourful still life paintings by Cezanne. And be transported to vibrant Parisian scenes by Renoir. Dive a little deeper into this must-see exhibition with expert talks, after-dark experiences and more.

A crowd of people are walking under a glowing neon archway.

Lightscape

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. 

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. 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

More of the best events on now and coming soon

LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition
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LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition

Step into a world of epic battles, spaceships and landscapes from a galaxy far, far away.

Punting on the Lake
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Punting on the Lake

Glide between the bays and islands of Ornamental Lake on a guided boat cruise.

Joy
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Joy

Experience an emotive adventure where creativity, colour and storytelling join forces.

Cats & Dogs
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Cats & Dogs

From cattle dogs to lap dogs, divine felines to cat superstitions, explore more than 250 works.

Korea Festival

Korea Festival

Dive into Korea’s vibrant culture, food, and performances at Melbourne’s biggest Korean festival.

Melbourne Donut Festival

Melbourne Donut Festival

Indulge in a weekend of sugary goodness at the Queen Vic Market.

Indian Film Festival of Melbourne

Indian Film Festival of Melbourne

Experience the magic of Indian cinema at Australia's most vibrant celebration of Indian culture.

Australian Sake Festival

Australian Sake Festival

Offering more than 400 types of sake and other beverages, information sessions, food and more.

Coffee Weekend

Coffee Weekend

Australia's biggest filter coffee tasting festival arrives in July.

Kimono

Kimono

This exhibition displays examples of kimonos from Japanese history.

Melbourne Taiwan Film Festival
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Melbourne Taiwan Film Festival

A unique opportunity to view and discuss the work of Taiwan's best filmmakers.

Nocturnal: Museum After Dark
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Nocturnal: Museum After Dark

Step into a world of wonder at an after-hours Melbourne Museum experience just for adults.

Last updated on Wed 21 May 2025

Only In The City

Melbourne's essential night-time events

Melbourne's essential night-time events

From hidden laneway markets to epic pop-ups, Melbourne gets lit once the lights go out.

Only in the City

Only in the City

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NGV International

NGV International

NGV International houses a whole world of international art.

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The best free and cheap family activities

The best free and cheap family activities

Find family-friendly fun and free events in Melbourne.

Martin Grant
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Martin Grant

A major exhibition of work by Australian-born Paris-based fashion designer Martin Grant.

Swagger: Gentlemen of Fashion
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Swagger: Gentlemen of Fashion

Step behind the sartorial scenes to experience the style and elegance of 18th-century gentlemen.

Designing Remembrance
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Designing Remembrance

An exhibition of alternate visions for Victoria’s war memorial.