Gone a bit too hard on the wallet lately? These awesome activations, pop-ups and exhibitions won't cost a cent.

A yellow-coloured display of clothing and costumes in a shopping centre.

Melbourne Fashion Week

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Explore a packed program of free events when M/FW takes over the city in late October. See Little Bourke Street transform into a pop-up runway showcasing Emporium's luxury retailers. Or hit the market when Collins Square gets a fashion makeover. Shop handcrafted bags and jewellery then snap a pic of the stunning capsules. Wicked fans are in for a treat with a close up look at Elphaba and Glinda's Oscar-winning costumes.

A crowd of people with umbrellas watching a purple-lit stage outdoors.

Diwali

Celebrate Diwali in Melbourne at these major celebrations. Marvel Stadium will play host to a huge free party in Stadium Square. Watch dazzling dance competitions and indulge in legit Indian snacks. Across the city, Fed Square will light up for Diwali with a free festival. Get immersed in a bustling bazaar, learn a Bollywood dance or catch a magic show.

A woman standing in front of a glowing exhibition display with large screens and neon lights hanging from the ceiling.

Distraction

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Ponder the art of time wasting at this exhibition dedicated to distraction and doom-scrolling. Pledge back the time you’ve spent buried in your phone. Then explore weird and wonderful installations. See through the eyes of a cat in Japan. Play custom-built arcade games. Or join one of the workshops and lose yourself in creative flow. 

Two people are looking at a colourful striped painting on a wall in a gallery. There is a large pink, soft blobby sculpture behind them.

Making Good: Redesigning the Everyday

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Discover how clever design of everyday objects can inspire change at this new exhibition. It features everything from fashion and furniture to food and construction. Check out clothing that adjusts as you grow, see how coffee grounds can be turned into concrete and more. This showcase features work from 50 designers, studios and brands from Australia and around the world. 

People exploring an old church-like building with red carpet.

Sea Shanties and Folk Songs

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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
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Library Cinema at narrm ngarrgu

Each month, watch a movie on the big screen, including contemporary, classic and documentary films.

Our Way: Celebrating Indigenous Art
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Our Way: Celebrating Indigenous Art

Exploring how Indigenous artists reimagine storytelling today, expanding on artistic traditions.

Oktoberfest at Munich Brauhaus
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Oktoberfest at Munich Brauhaus

Dust off your dirndl, press your best lederhosen – it’s time to prost, party and platter.

Oktoberfest at Hofbräuhaus
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Oktoberfest at Hofbräuhaus

Get ready to embrace your Bavarian spirit – Oktoberfest returns to Hofbräuhaus for the 57th year.

Free family-friendly events

Fitzroy Gardens Outdoor Adventure
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Fitzroy Gardens Outdoor Adventure

A free fun outdoor seek and find adventure around the Fitzroy Gardens.

Shrine Kids
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Shrine Kids

Embark on a family adventure with this engaging program designed for discovery at every turn.

Free Melbourne markets

The Lygon Street Market
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The Lygon Street Market

A monthly makers market in the heart of Carlton.

Kensington Market
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Kensington Market

An eclectic mix of homewares, culinary treats, ceramics, sustainable goods and visual art.

The Sunday Market at Southgate
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The Sunday Market at Southgate

Explore the Sunday Market at Southgate and meet the makers.

Market Brunch
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Market Brunch

A monthly brunch market featuring some of Melbourne’s most creative food makers.

Last updated on Tue 30 Sep 2025

Only In The City

Melbourne's essential night-time events

Melbourne's essential night-time events

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Only in the City

Only in the City

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Things you can only do in the city

There's only one place to find these rare Melbourne experiences and secret spots.

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Friday Night Social: Halloween Party

Friday Night Social: Halloween Party

A free party featuring live music and performances as the Distraction exhibition stays open late.

Closing Runway: 101 Collins

Closing Runway: 101 Collins

Expect the unexpected at this showcase of iconic independent and underground Australian fashion.

Bainz Jewlz
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Bainz Jewlz

Bainz Jewlz is a major retrospective exhibition survey of Australian artist-jeweller Robert Baines.

How I See You
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How I See You

A woven expression of unconditional love, and a dedication to family.