What's free in Melbourne this month
Gone a bit too hard on the wallet lately? These awesome activations, pop-ups and exhibitions won't cost a cent.
Korea Festival
Celebrate all things Korean at this epic two-day festival. From high-energy K-pop battles to taekwondo demonstrations and live kimbap cooking classes. You can even play a real-life version of Squid Game... If you dare! Bring some coin to sample tteokbokki and more traditional street food.
The Outsiders Melbourne
Head to this secret gallery in one of Melbourne's most iconic laneways and you'll discover a treasure trove of paintings, sculptures and more. Get rare access to famous work by some of the world's best street artists – including Banksy. Plus locals like Adnate, Vexta and Tom Gerrard. You can also see Rone’s stunning immersive space, The Workroom. This sewing room was part of his iconic TIME exhibition at Flinders Street Station.
Sci-Fi: Mythologies Transformed
Create your own AI monster avatar. Enter a Japanese-inspired glowing silk shrine. Then draw demons from Filipino folk stories. The Science Gallery’s latest exhibition explores the connection between science fiction and mythology. Expect art installations, film and curious immersive experiences. Photo by Matthew Stanton.
Sea Shanties and Folk Songs
Heave ho to the Mission to Seafarers and live like a pirate in a century-old building. Test your pipes at a free sea shanty sing-along session. These ever popular sessions are the ultimate way to blow off some steam, pirate-style. Raid your treasure chest for some coins to order a rum or two at the bar.
More free Melbourne events
Library Cinema at narrm ngarrgu
Each month, watch a movie on the big screen, including contemporary, classic and documentary films.
Rewind Forward: Creative in Residence Group Exhibition
Drawing from State archives, artists create works that reawaken Victoria’s historical narrative.
Mark Chu: Eat With Our Eyes
Showing everyday food culture in a wide range of food spaces from supermarkets to wine bars.
Free family-friendly events
STEAM After School at North Melbourne Library
Explore the fun of science, technology, engineering, art and maths with hands-on activities.
Free Melbourne markets
Makers Market at The District
This outdoor undercover monthly Sunday market at Docklands features craft, gifts, fashion and food.
Kensington Market
An eclectic mix of homewares, culinary treats, ceramics, sustainable goods and visual art.
The Sunday Market at Southgate
After decades positioned around the Arts Centre, the Sunday Market is now at Southgate.
Last updated on Fri 9 May 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.
Only in the City
This city hums with energy - with hidden laneway cafes, rooftop bars, art and culture at every turn.
Meyers Place
Explore one of Melbourne's most iconic laneways, filled with bars, restaurants and murals.
Discover more
RISING: Swingers — The Art of Mini Golf
The art of mini-golf, for anyone who swings outside the lines.
Library Up Late x Make Believe
Party late into the night at the Library with an evening of dancing, art and discussions after dark.
NGV Friday Nights: French Impressionism
Enjoy an after-hours exploration of French Impressionism at NGV International.
