The best free festivals in Melbourne
Don't let an empty wallet stop you from enjoying Melbourne this silly season. These festivals and street parties offer free entry and tons of entertainment.
Free festivals
Thrive: Multicultural Women’s Festival
Celebrate culture at this free, family-friendly festival for everyone at Federation Square.
Polish Festival @ Fed Square
Enjoy all things Polish at their 21st festival with food, music, dance and culture.
African Music and Cultural Festival
Celebrate the best of African culture with music, food, fashion, film, dance and art.
Christmas in the city
See the city light up with dazzling displays, festive events and activities for the whole family.
Asia Street Food Festival by the Yarra
Experience authentic Asian street food that transports you to the vibrant streets of Asia.
Victorian Disability Sport & Recreation Festival
An annual celebration of physically active lifestyles for people with disability.
Melbourne@Vibing
A one-day festival celebrating inclusivity through art, literature and performances.
Fed Square Holi: Festival of Colours
Get ready for a vibrant explosion of colours and fun at the Fed Square Holi Festival of Colours!
Melbourne CBD Holi Festival of Colours
Be covered in vibrant colours and dance to music at the Treasury Garden's Holi.
Victorian Seniors Festival
The Victorian Seniors Festival is back in October, with activities and events across the city.
Being Human Festival
Discover hidden stories at the Being Human Festival – play, create, and explore between the lines.
More free fun
What's free in Melbourne this month
Everything to see, do and enjoy in Melbourne for free this month.
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.
The Great Melbourne Bagpipe Bash
Calling all bagpipers to help smash the world record for the largest ever bagpipe ensemble.
Distraction
An exhibition that plugs into the torrent of content and places we go when craving distraction.
Malaysian Night Market (Pasar Malam)
Bringing the vibrant culture, delicious food, and lively community spirit of Malaysia to Australia
MECCA X NGV Women in Design Commission: Nipa Doshi
Designer Nipa Doshi explores beauty, plurality and diversity in her handcrafted cabinet.
Last updated on Wed 29 Oct 2025
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Festivals
Melbourne's festival calendar is jam-packed with film, comedy, arts, music, food and design.
