Don't let an empty wallet stop you from enjoying Melbourne. These festivals and street parties offer free entry and tonnes of entertainment.

Oktoberfest at Hofbräuhaus

Until

Dust of your dirndl, bring out the lederhosen and release your inner Bavarian at this iconic German beer hall. Enjoy Oktoberfest celebrations with traditional live music, imported beers and all the comfort food your bratwurst-loving heart desires.

Festival-goers dressed in Mexican Day of the Dead outfits and makeup, walking past candle-lit stalls.

Arriba Melbourne Mexican Festival

Don your best Day of the Dead costume for an epic three day festival. Immerse yourself in Mexican culture and folklore with a parade, live music and mariachi bands. And sip margaritas while you feast on all the essential Mexican snacks. Think guacamole, enchiladas, tacos, burritos and fajitas.

African Music and Cultural Festival

Get ready for three huge days celebrating the culture and food of Africa. Head down on to Fed Square for free short films, live music, drumming lessons, dance performances, market stalls, pane discussions and more. Hungry? Don't forget to pick up some authentic African food while you're there.

More free fun

Europa Night Market
Until

Europa Night Market

Bringing your favourite European street eats to Queen Vic Market.

NGV Triennial

NGV Triennial

NGV Triennial returns in 2023 with a powerful and moving snapshot capturing the world today.

Sea Shanties and Folk Songs
Until

Sea Shanties and Folk Songs

Join this weekly celebration of rollicking and spirited singing.

Secret De-Lights
Until

Secret De-Lights

Dusk till dawn artistic activations providing delightful discoveries.

Kensington Market
Until

Kensington Market

An eclectic mix of designer fashion, culinary treats, ceramics, homewares and visual art.

Swing
Until

Swing

Come for a swing or come to play spectator of this seriously playful public art event.

Disability Sport and Recreation Festival

Disability Sport and Recreation Festival

Join in the fun at this inclusive, family-friendly event.

Last updated on Thu 14 Sep 2023

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Melbourne Fringe Festival
Until

Melbourne Fringe Festival

Melbourne Fringe Festival is Victoria's largest independent arts festival.

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Explore after-hours art exhibitions, intimate gigs, free festivals and blockbuster theatre.

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Melbourne's best blockbuster events

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Queensberry Cup

Queensberry Cup

Revel in north and west Melbourne's automotive history with an unpowered vehicle race.

Val's Spring Celebration

Val's Spring Celebration

Celebrate the roles of older members of the LGBTIQA+ community.

Moomba

Moomba

An annual free festival held along the banks of the Yarra River.

Where to enjoy a white winter in Melbourne

Where to enjoy a white winter in Melbourne

Embrace the chill with warming treats, pop-ups and events worthy of a Northern Hemisphere winter.