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.

Green and yellow confetti falling over crowd at Fed Square.

Indian Film Festival of Melbourne

12 Aug - 20 Aug

The Indian Film Festival is back in-person for the first time in two years. To celebrate, the vibrant cultural fest kicks off with a colourful Independence Day party in Fed Square. Don’t miss the flag-hoisting and high-energy Bollywood performances in the dance comp. Too strapped to hit a screening? Over 70 films are available to stream free online.

Throwback Lounge Winter Pop-up

5 Aug - 28 Aug

Rewind to the ‘90s at this nostalgic pop-up at the District Docklands. The lounge is open every Friday to Sunday in August. There’ll be free dance crew battles, PlayStation sessions and a tonne of old-school arcade games to play. Bring extra cash for the all-you-can-eat cereal bar and other childhood snacks.

White resin casts of a group of oversized human skulls all arranged in close proximity.

Ron Mueck: Mass

23 Jun - 15 Jan

These larger-than-life skulls are on display again for the first time since 2017. The exhibit showcases Ron Mueck’s hyper-realistic work, with more than 100 resin skulls tumbling across the floor. Entry is free everyday at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia in Fed Square.

Open air cinema on a rooftop with city buildings lit up at night in the background.

Cinema Nights on the Rooftop

9 Aug - 30 Aug

There's a pop-up cinema taking over the QT rooftop this month, and yes it's weatherproof! Rain, hail or shine, head up every Tuesday in August to watch cult '90s flicks. On the lineup are classics like The Matrix and Ten Things I Hate About You. Bring cash for cocktails, popcorn and ice cream. And kick on after the movie with DJ sets.

Melbourne Craft Fair

25 Jun - 29 Oct

Find the city's best locally made buys at the monthly 'CRFT*WRK' pop-up market. Curated by the team behind the Rose St. Artists’ Market, you'll be able to find indie designers, local makers, creative artists and more under the iconic Queen Vic Market sheds. Better yet, entry is free!