9 things in Melbourne you can only do in winter

When the temperature drops, Melbourne comes alive with festivals, night markets and glowing projections.

A glowing archway of red lights in a garden at night.

More of the best winter events

A group of friends picnicking at the Music Bowl.

Melbourne's best blockbuster events

The best major events on in Melbourne this year.

People milling around Fed Square at night.

Melbourne's unmissable after-dark events

From hidden laneway markets to epic pop-ups, Melbourne gets lit once the lights go out.

A stage with a grand facade to look like a building, with crowds waiting for a band to come on stage.

The ultimate Melbourne live gig guide

Concert halls and music venues hosting live music this week

The exterior of a city theatre lit up pink at night.

The ultimate theatre guide to Melbourne

What's on in Melbourne's theatres, clubs, cabaret bars and comedy spots.

Last updated on Tue 16 Jun 2026

Christmas

Christmas starts only in the city
Start here
A man and woman dancing next to a woman dressed in a Santa outfit who is using a DJ deck.

Christmas things to do

The city’s wrapped and ready with magical moments, twinkling lights and festive fun.

A man and woman sitting at a table full of food with a Christmas tree in the background.

Christmas eat and drink

Savour the city’s festive flavours with rooftop bars and menus made for merry moments.

Two women holding several shopping bags while they walk through a shopping arcade decorated for Christmas.

Christmas shopping

Start ticking off your list in the city’s iconic laneways, arcades and malls.

Start here

Discover more

A swimming pool at night lit up in blue lights

The best hotels in Melbourne for families

Check out our list of family-friendly hotel stays

A wide shot of a crowd sitting on picnic blankets and bean bags at an outdoor cinema on a grassy lawn during golden hour, with the Melbourne city skyline in the background.
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Moonlight Cinema

Spend summer nights with new releases, cult classics and family favourites under the stars.

Flinders street station lit up in blue lights at night

7 things Melburnians will do even if it's raining

From AFL games and night markets to winter festivals and theatre shows.

A family of four standing in a grand library with antique desks, large white walls and a dome ceiling.

Things you can only do in the city

There's only one place to find these rare Melbourne experiences and secret spots.