What's on and what's open over the Labour Day long weekend

Fireworks at a riverside carnival

When is the 2027 Labour Day public holiday in Melbourne?

In 2027, the Labour Day public holiday (and long weekend) falls on Monday 8 March.

Plan your journey into the city ahead of time to avoid delays and road closures.

The best free long weekend events

Black and white photograph from the 1960s of model, Twiggy, wearing a mini-dress at the Melbourne Cup.
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Swinging 60s

This exhibition looks at what it was like to live in Victoria during the 1960s.

Market stallholder with her puppet toys, beside the Yarra River in the CBD.
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The Southbank Makers Market

Explore the Southbank Makers Market every Sunday on the promenade at Southgate.

More of the best long weekend events

Two people standing on the 'ceiling' of an inverted living room.

House Down Under

Australia’s favourite inverted house photo experience brings topsy-turvy fun to Melbourne.

Magician balancing one finger on a globe, suspended updside down, wearing a white suit and hat.
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Piccolo Teatro: Magic Theatre

Specialising in astonishing magic shows and immersive live entertainment.

Looking at a pathway with foliage leading up to a house with warm tones.
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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

The interior of GLO Gelato with glowing menu board, a yellow counter top and people gathering outside.

GLO Gelato

GLO Gelato is serving up authentic hand-crafted gelato and specialty cakes on Lygon Street.

Plate of pasta with cutlery.

Universal Restaurant

Italian eatery serving comforting pasta, pizza and meat and seafood dishes.

Entrance to Brunetti's showing tables outside, large doors and the coffee bar counter.

Brunetti Classico

Brunetti Classico Carlton boasts one of Melbourne's biggest arrays of cakes and pastries.

The Westin Melbourne viewed from above, showing the facade and landscaping with city skyscrapers in the background and St Paul's Cathedral next door.

The Westin Melbourne

Welcoming you to discover an idyllic retreat in Melbourne.

The illuminated exterior of the Douglas Club, showing its classical architecture.

The Douglas Club

Set within the Equity Chambers Building, The Douglas Club is the perfect spot for a city drink.

Restaurant interior with industrial styled concrete walls, visible pipes, red seating.

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 Mon 11 May 2026

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Looking down at a table of food, including grilled seafood, grilled prawns, and traditional Indonesian accompaniments like spicy sambal and stir-fried greens.

Nongkrong Festival: A Jimbaran BBQ

A food pop-up transporting you to the beaches of Jimbaran, grilling Balinese-style seafood.

Three African drummers wearing colourful clothing while drumming with their hands on stage.
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African Music and Cultural Festival

Celebrate the best of African culture with music, food, fashion, film, dance and art.

A busy floating bar on the river at night with the city skyline lights in the background.

What's open on the Melbourne Cup Day public holiday

The Melbourne Cup Day public holiday falls on Tuesday 4 November, 2025.

Hands opposite each other bringing two tulip cocktail glasses together in a celebratory clinking motion.
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Spring Sunset Cocktails at Walsh Street

Open the door to Robin Boyd’s iconic Walsh Street residence after-hours for spring sunset cocktails.