What's on and what's open over the Labour Day long weekend
When is the 2026 Labour Day public holiday in Melbourne?
This year, the Labour Day public holiday (and long weekend) falls on Monday 9 March 2026.
Moomba, The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix and opening round of the AFL season are all on in Melbourne over the long weekend, so it's going to be busy. Plan your journey into the city ahead of time to avoid delays and road closures.
The best free long weekend events
Play School: Come and Play
A hands-on, playful exhibition where families can discover how the beloved TV show comes to life.
Party Hard: After the Party
An exhibition exploring celebrations from Edwardian times to the first Sydney Mardi Gras and beyond.
MECCA X NGV Women in Design Commission: Nipa Doshi
Designer Nipa Doshi explores beauty, plurality and diversity in her handcrafted cabinet.
Swinging 60s
Did the sixties really swing in Victoria? A new exhibition from the Old Treasury Building.
ACCA's Summer Season: r e a : c l a i m e d
ACCA presents a focused retrospective of Gamilaraay, Wailwan and Biripi digital media artist, r e a.
Distraction
An exhibition that plugs into the torrent of content and places we go when craving distraction.
More of the best long weekend events
Westwood | Kawakubo
NGV’s summer exhibition pairs two icons of the fashion world, Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo.
Moonlight Cinema
Kick back with a film under the stars at Melbourne’s most spectacular open-air cinema.
House Down Under
Australia’s favourite inverted house photo experience brings topsy-turvy fun to Melbourne.
Game Worlds
ACMI's new playable exhibition features more than 30 videogames from the 1970s to today.
Racquet Club
A high-energy fusion of world-class padel, waterfront atmosphere and unmistakable Crown polish.
Blanc de Blanc Encore
Experience an intoxicating blend of circus, cabaret, comedy and risqué glamour.
Piccolo Teatro: Magic Theatre
Specialising in astonishing magic shows and immersive live entertainment.
Walsh Street Guided Tour
Explore Robin Boyd’s iconic residence at 290 Walsh Street on a guided tour.
Where to eat and drink on the long weekend
GLO Gelato
GLO Gelato is serving up authentic hand-crafted gelato and specialty cakes on Lygon Street.
Brunetti Classico
Brunetti Classico Carlton boasts one of Melbourne's biggest arrays of cakes and pastries.
The Douglas Club
Set within the Equity Chambers Building, The Douglas Club is the perfect spot for a city drink.
Frenchie
A fun and casual approach to Parisian dining where the lights are low and the energy is high.
Note: opening hours may differ and surcharges may apply. Check with businesses before visiting.
Last updated on Thu 26 Feb 2026
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