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
The Story of the Moving Image
An ongoing exhibition that journeys through the past, present and future of the moving image.
Ayoung Kim – Delivery Dancer's Arc: 0° Receiver
Korean artist Ayoung Kim creates a multiverse that blurs boundaries between space, time and self.
The best long weekend events
NGV Friday Nights: French Impressionism
Enjoy an after-hours exploration of French Impressionism at NGV International.
RISING: Swingers — The Art of Mini Golf
The art of mini-golf, for anyone who swings outside the lines.
Martin Grant
A major exhibition of work by Australian-born Paris-based fashion designer Martin Grant.
Family-friendly events
LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition
Step into a world of epic battles, spaceships and landscapes from a galaxy far, far away.
House Down Under
Australia’s favourite inverted house photo experience brings topsy-turvy fun to Melbourne.
Plans For The Planet: Olaf Breuning For Kids
Created by artist Olaf Breuning this exhibition invites kids to explore the natural environment.
Monopoly Dreams
Enjoy a fully immersive and interactive Monopoly experience, featuring games and challenges.
Where to eat and drink on the long weekend
Hochi Mama
South-East Asian fusion, cheeky cocktails and street-style energy in the heart of the city.
Dodee Paidang Thai Bar and Cafe
Thai restaurant specialising in traditional-style street food dishes.
Ms Ava Bar
Ms Ava serves an elevated bistro-style menu, signature cocktails and plays Frank Sinatra.
Bodega Underground
Bodega is a late night taqueria and underground mezcaleria in the basement of the Crossley Hotel.
D.O.C Pizza & Mozzarella Bar
The authentic flavour of a Rome-style pizza without the cost of a plane ticket.
Green Man's Arms
Green Man's Arms is an enchanting pub serving vegetarian and vegan cuisine with Israeli flavours.
Operator San
A Japanese brunch by Operator25 cafe, serving sweets, savouries, specialty coffee and drinks.
Johnny's Green Room
A rooftop bar above King & Godfree with great views, tunes and Italian inspired food and drinks.
Maison Bâtard
Chris Lucas' Maison Bâtard heralds a grand new legacy for a heritage Bourke Street site.
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.
Hella Good
A souvlaki shop from the owners of one of Melbourne's best-known Greek restaurant, Stalactites.
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 Wed 4 Jun 2025
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