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.

A river light show with pink lights and a giant orb showing a heart image.

Crown Christmas River Show

Until 25 Dec

A spectacular river show has arrived at Crown for Christmas! Head to Southbank Promenade to catch this dazzling Christmas show featuring water fountains, lasers, light projections and a festive soundtrack. Shows run every 15 minutes each night.

Christmas tree lit up in Fed Square with Flinders Street Station in the background.

Christmas in the city

Until 25 Dec

From the Crown Christmas River Show to the carnival, pop-up swings and endless epic decorations, Christmas in Melbourne is always an unmissable end of year spectacular. This year's festival is taking over town for four sparkling weeks. Don't miss all the free family-friendly events and endless Christmas markets.

Crowds browsing between sheds of a city market.

Summer Night Market

Until 12 Mar

This iconic Melbourne event is back for the summer. Market regulars know you need to be there on time every Wednesday night to beat the crowds. Once you've arrived, get in line for indulgent dishes and fresh cocktails. Fuelled up? Have a wander and peruse stalls in String Bean Alley, enjoy free live music and marvel at pop-up performers.

A family looking at a window display with puppets of Bindi and Bob Irwin bird watching.

Myer Christmas Windows

Until 5 Jan

There's nothing more Melbourne than lining up to see the iconic Myer Christmas Windows. Now in its 69th year, the 2024 display is a glorious journey of blockbuster proportions. This year's windows feature Bindi and Bob Irwin and all their animal pals from the Australian Zoo.

Fireworks across the Melbourne night sky, with trees silhouetted against the bright lights.

New Year's Eve Celebration Zones

31 Dec

Ring in the new year with the whole family at Melbourne's Celebration Zones. Expect epic views of the fireworks and loads of free fun. Think huge light installations, live music and performances. Bring cash to feast at the food trucks and stick around for the 9.30pm and midnight fireworks.

A woman looking at a display of neon art pieces in a gallery.

Rekospective: The Art of Reko Rennie

Until 27 Jan

A stunning new exhibition by famous Aboriginal artist Reko Rennie has landed in Melbourne. Browse more than 100 works in this massive free show. See giant neon installations, glowing sculptures and street art-style paintings. Then snap a pic with the camo painted Rolls Royce on your way out.

A woman walking into a silk shrine with glowing lights.

Sci-Fi: Mythologies Transformed

19 Feb – 31 May

Create your own AI monster avatar. Enter a Japanese-inspired glowing silk shrine. Then draw demons inspired by Filipino folk stories. The Science Gallery’s new exhibition explores the connection between science fiction and mythology. Expect art installations, film and curious immersive experiences. Photo by Matthew Stanton.

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

Sea Shanties and Folk Songs

Until 27 Mar

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.