Free festivals in Melbourne this year

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

15 – 25 May

Melbourne Design Week

Celebrating Australia’s largest and leading annual design festival.

Mar 2026

Moomba

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

More free fun

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Everything to see, do and enjoy in Melbourne for free this month.

The best free and cheap family activities

Find family-friendly fun and free events in Melbourne.

Until 27 Apr

NGV Architecture Commission: Home Truth by Breathe

The NGV's 2024 Architecture Commission is designed by architecture and design studio Breathe.

Until 25 May

Melbourne Out Loud: Life through the lens of Rennie Ellis

Relive Melbourne's culture and fashion through the lens of iconic photographer Rennie Ellis.

See what’s on

The ultimate guide to Melbourne's best markets

Explore Melbourne's iconic markets this season.

Melbourne's best blockbuster events

The best major events on in Melbourne this year.

Only in the City

There’s more to explore, only in the city.

See what’s on

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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 white winter in Melbourne

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

Festivals

Melbourne's festival calendar is jam-packed with film, comedy, arts, music, food and design.

Until 9 Apr

Alliance Française French Film Festival

Immerse yourself in French films for five weeks.

The best free festivals in Melbourne