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
Christmas in the city
See the city light up with dazzling displays, festive events and activities for the whole family.
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.
Nongkrong: Pasar Senja
Nongkrong returns to Fed Square with Indonesian food, music, dance and community.
Holi Festival Melbourne
Immerse yourself in Indian culture, music, dance, food and drinks at the Festival of Colours.
Lunar New Year at NGV
Celebrate Lunar New Year at NGV with a whole day of festivities, food and fun.
Festival of Veterans Arts
Enjoy this veteran-led arts festival with exhibitions, performances, workshops and family events.
Afro Caribbean Carnival
Free day-to-night dance party, featuring Sister Nancy, General Levy and local sound systems.
More free fun
Summer Night Market
Gather your crew for Melbourne’s favourite summer tradition – Wednesday nights from 5pm to 10pm.
MECCA X NGV Women in Design Commission: Nipa Doshi
Designer Nipa Doshi explores beauty, plurality and diversity in her handcrafted cabinet.
Distraction
An exhibition that plugs into the torrent of content and places we go when craving distraction.
What's free in Melbourne this month
Everything to see, do and enjoy in Melbourne for free this month.
Library Cinema at narrm ngarrgu
Each month, watch a movie on the big screen, including contemporary, classic and documentary films.
The ultimate guide to Melbourne's best Christmas lights and decorations
Where to see stunning Christmas trees, the best Christmas lights and more beautiful decorations.
Last updated on Fri 6 Feb 2026
Only In The City
The best pop-up and outdoor cinemas in Melbourne
Find the best outdoor cinema, pop-up theatres and free movies.
Moonlight Cinema
Kick back with a film under the stars at Melbourne’s most spectacular open-air cinema.
Melbourne's essential night-time events
From hidden laneway markets to epic pop-ups, Melbourne gets lit once the lights go out.
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The best Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix events in Melbourne
Map out your perfect Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix weekend in Melbourne.
Where to enjoy a European-style winter in Melbourne
Embrace the chill with warming treats, pop-ups and events worthy of a Northern Hemisphere winter.
Where to see traditional lion dance performances in Melbourne
Celebrating Lunar New Year in Melbourne? Here's where to see lion dances and dragon parades.
Festivals
Melbourne's festival calendar is jam-packed with film, comedy, arts, music, food and design.