The best free and cheap events for families

Out of ideas? Try these awesome free events and fun outdoor adventures for an epic day of fun. Some age limits may apply, check with venues before visiting.

Free and cheap events

11 Jun

Story Houses and Found Objects Workshops

An exhibition and workshops that explore community and hope through storytelling and art.

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29 Apr - 25 Nov

Preschool Elizabeth Street Pop-up Library

Share the wonder of books with your child at Elizabeth Street Pop-up Library Preschool Storytime.

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22 Apr - 30 Jun

Luke Jerram: Gaia

See Luke Jerram’s detailed sculpture of the earth suspended in St Paul's Cathedral.

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6 Dec - 28 Aug

NGV Architecture Commission: Pond[er]

An outdoor installation, complete with a pink pond.

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11 Feb - 1 Jan

The Story of the Moving Image

An ongoing exhibition that journeys through the past, present and future of the moving image.

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Five free must-do Melbourne walks

It’s time to get out and about in the city. Have a wander with these free guides.

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23 Sep - 1 Aug

Seeing the Invisible

An ambitious exhibition of artworks created with augmented reality (AR) technology.

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Events and activities under $30

7 May - 2 Jul

Bite Size Science

Visit Melbourne Museum for morning family friendly science sessions first Saturday of every month.

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18 Jun

Jams for Juniors: The Sorcerer's Apprentice

Introduce babies and toddlers to the magic of music with The Sorcerer's Apprentice.

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23 Jul

Jams for Juniors: A Midsummer Night's Dream

Introduce babies and toddlers to the music of A Midsummer Night's Dream.

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20 Sep - 24 Sep

Roald Dahl's Fantastic Mr Fox

This classic story is brought to life with an ingenious mix of digital animation and live action.

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Special occasion events and activities

1 Apr - 20 May

Peppa Pig's Aquarium Adventure

Join Peppa Pig for an aquarium adventure this school holidays.

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7 Jan - 29 Jul

Melbourne Magic Show

Enjoy a theatrical magic experience like no other.

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27 Jun - 9 Jul

The Melbourne Magic Festival

Casting its spell with performances and workshops for all ages this winter.

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4 Jun - 5 Jun

Patricia Piccinini Workshop

A chance for young art fans to meet Patricia Piccinini and create their own artworks.

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We’ve got every FOMO-worthy Melbourne event and experience in one place.

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24 Jun - 7 Aug

Lightscape

Lightscape takes audiences on a journey of light and sound through Melbourne's Botanic Gardens.

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Melbourne’s best pools

Pack your togs and cool off at these urban oases.

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The best pop-up and outdoor cinemas in Melbourne

Find the best outdoor cinema, pop-up theatres and free movies.

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1 Dec - 30 Jun

River Connections at Melbourne Museum

A journey which celebrates the life of Victoria’s river environments.

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1 Jun - 19 Jun

Kaleidoscope

A mesmerising symphony of light, sound and joy, staged in a breathtaking mirror maze.

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14 Dec - 20 May

Apparition: Mikala Dwyer

Apparition, a new public artwork from Mikala Dwyer appears after dark at University Square, Carlton.

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Melbourne's best blockbuster events

The best major events on in Melbourne this year.

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