The best free festivals in Melbourne
Don't let an empty wallet stop you from enjoying Melbourne. These festivals and street parties offer free entry and tons of entertainment.
Free festivals
Firelight Festival
Epic free winter festival with fire performers, light installations, live music and foodie feasts.
Bastille Day French Festival
Rendezvous at the Bastille Day French Festival and join in the joie de vivre!
Open House Melbourne Weekend
The Open House Melbourne Weekend invites you to explore Melbourne's great examples of good design.
Indian Film Festival: Indian Independence Day Celebrations
Join in the vibrant Indian Independence Day Celebrations at Fed Square.
Queensberry Cup
Cheer on the billy cart racers at the Queensberry Cup, a fun community day for everyone.
Asia Street Food Festival by the Yarra
Experience authentic Asian street food that transports you to the vibrant streets of Asia.
More free fun
What's free in Melbourne this month
Everything to see, do and enjoy in Melbourne for free this month.
Auto-Photo: A Life in Portraits
An exhibition celebrating the work of Melbourne photobooth technician Alan Adler.
65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art
An exhibition featuring more than 450 works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.
Library Cinema at narrm ngarrgu
Each month, watch a movie on the big screen, including contemporary, classic and documentary films.
Last updated on Thu 19 Jun 2025
Only In The City
Only in the City
This city hums with energy - with hidden laneway cafes, rooftop bars, art and culture at every turn.
Ostro x Einder
Julia Busuttil Nishimura crafts a feast beneath the striking installation, Einder by Boris Acket.
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Festivals
Melbourne's festival calendar is jam-packed with film, comedy, arts, music, food and design.
Melbourne International Film Festival
Melbourne International Film Festival lights up Melbourne this winter with over 250 titles.