What's free and what's open on the King's Birthday long weekend
It may have changed from the Queen's Birthday to the King's Birthday, but you can still have a royal long weekend at the city's best restaurants, festivals, free events and more.
When is the King's Birthday long weekend?
In 2025, the King's Birthday public holiday falls on Monday 9 June.
Free things to do
Melbourne Out Loud: Life through the lens of Rennie Ellis
Relive Melbourne's culture and fashion through the lens of iconic photographer Rennie Ellis.
The Story of the Moving Image
An ongoing exhibition that journeys through the past, present and future of the moving image.
The best long weekend events
Walsh Street Guided Tour
Explore Robin Boyd’s iconic residence at 290 Walsh Street on a guided tour.
Family-friendly events
House Down Under
Australia’s favourite inverted house photo experience brings topsy-turvy fun to Melbourne.
Where to eat and drink on the long weekend
Luci
A contemporary Australian restaurant set in the grand hall of historic Equity Chambers building.
The Douglas Club
Set within the Equity Chambers Building, The Douglas Club is the perfect spot for a city drink.
Johnny's Green Room
A rooftop bar above King & Godfree with great views, tunes and Italian inspired food and drinks.
Pidapipo Gelateria
Authentic, artisanal Italian-style gelato in the heart of Carlton's Lygon Street.
Grill Americano
Offering Italian classics with signature Chris Lucas spin in sophisticated surrounds.
Note hours may vary and surcharges may apply. Check with the venue before visiting.
Last updated on Fri 31 Jan 2025
Only In The City
Melbourne's essential night-time events
From hidden laneway markets to epic pop-ups, Melbourne gets lit once the lights go out.
Discover more
Serwah Attafuah: The Darkness Between the Stars
An Afrofuturist exploration of climate change, land rights and the strength of indigenous peoples.
The Pacific Sisters
Zoot suits and ActiVAtions take over Smorgon Family Plaza with the Pacific Sisters.
What's open in Melbourne on the ANZAC Day Long Weekend
Best things to do on the ANZAC day public holiday and the long weekend
Making Memoir of a Snail
Explore handmade sets, props and characters from Adam Elliot's claymation film Memoir of a Snail.