
Melbourne's best blockbuster events
From stunning art exhibits to vibrant festivals and adrenaline-pumping sports, Melbourne’s summer events calendar is hotter than ever. 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.
TIME • RONE
In one of his biggest exhibitions to date, iconic Victorian artist Rone has taken over the third-floor wing of the Flinders Street Ballroom. 'Time' features multiple rooms filled with immersive displays, signature portraits and unexpected details. Pre-book your tickets and don't miss this stirring experience. Please note - both TIME and Mixed Business will be closed from Sunday 25 December until Tuesday 3 January.
THE LUME Melbourne
A dazzling new exhibit has floated into THE LUME for summer. 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.
Alexander McQueen: Mind, Mythos, Muse
Mind, Mythos, Muse is the first major Australian exhibition to explore the life, art and influence of legendary designer Alexander McQueen. Now open at the NGV, 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. Or visit after-dark at NGV Friday Nights.
Live at the Bowl
Live music is heating up the gardens at this iconic annual summer series. See the Arctic Monkeys on the big stage, catch sunset shows from Lorde and Bon Iver or kick-on under the stars at the fabulous Midsumma festival. And don't miss the beloved MSO free concert series, set to take the stage in February.
Lightscape
It's official: Lightscape is coming back to Melbourne next year! The new, 2.1km trail will be a glorious glowing winter wonderland set to light up the iconic Royal Botanic Gardens. Expect colour-changing installations, large-scale illuminated sculptures and all new pop-up bars and food trucks.
The Phantom of the Opera
One of the most beloved musicals of all time has returned to Melbourne. See a magnificent new production of the Phantom of the Opera at Arts Centre Melbourne. Expect all the hit songs and iconic moments you know and love, from The Music of the Night to that famous chandelier.
& Juliet
What if Shakespeare's tragic story of star crossed lovers had a happy ending? Will Juliet find love after Romeo? Find out what comes next in this blockbuster new musical hitting Melbourne this summer. From the writer behind Schitt's Creek, this feel-good show is studded with pop hits from Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Kelly Clarkson and more.
More unmissable theatre and performance
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, then see tick,tick...BOOM! in its OG stage format. Moulin Rouge will also be making a grand return in August. Frame is an entire festival dedicated to dance, catch a show at Arts House this March.
More of the best events on in 2023
Moonlight Cinema Melbourne
Don't miss out on cult classics, blockbusters and family favourites under the stars.
Midsumma Festival
The festival returns with 200+ events showcasing queer culture and spectacular performances.
NGV Architecture Commission: Temple of Boom
An outdoor installation in the NGV garden inspired by the The Parthenon.
Royal Exhibition Building Dome Promenade
The Royal Exhibition Building opens its doors to a unique view unseen for 100 years.
Mary Poppins
The world’s favourite nanny comes to life in a spectacular and unforgettable production.
Last updated on Thu 2 Feb 2023
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