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.

Christmas tree lit up at night in Federation Square.

The Christmas Festival

Until 25 Dec

From the pop-up playground to the Christmas carnival, candy cane maze 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 nightly projections, the Myer windows, free family-friendly events and endless Christmas markets.

Likeness of The Parthenon painted with overlapping large-scale artworks, in outdoor setting.

NGV Architecture Commission: Temple of Boom

Until 27 Sep

An epic, evocative reimagining of The Parthenon will emerge in the NGV courtyard this summer. The 'Temple of Boom' is a large-scale architectural commission, set to feature overlapping artworks by Melbourne-based artists and play host to a stacked program of live performances. Visit before or after you check out the new Alexander McQueen exhibit, on from 11 December.

Figurines of people riding horses surrounded by flowers and a forest backdrop.

Myer Christmas Windows

Until 6 Jan

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to Bourke Street Mall to see the iconic Myer windows. Now in its 67th year, the 2022 display is a glorious journey of blockbuster proportions. See iconic characters from your fave Disney movies reimagined as magical window displays.

Art installation of a newsagency with the mural of a face painted on the wall, strewn newspapers and tattered displays.

TIME • RONE | The Newsagency

Until 23 Apr

Want a glimpse into Rone's jaw-dropping new exhibition TIME without buying a ticket? Make a beeline to this pop-up at Flinders Street Station. A little slice of mid-century Melbourne, The Newsagency is a shop trapped in time. Enter under the gaze of one of Rone's signature portraits. Then admire work from local artists, makers and brands in the Mixed Business Store.

Queen Victoria Market stalls viewed from behind palms, with city towers in the background.

Summer Night Market

Until 15 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. Think lobster rolls, flambeed camembert, soft shell crab tacos and Portuguese tarts. Fuelled up? Have a wander and peruse stalls in String Bean Alley, enjoy free live music and marvel at pop-up performers.

Sea Shanties and Folk Songs

Until 8 Dec

Yes, you read that right. These ever popular sessions are the ultimate way to blow off some steam, pirate-style. Learn the tunes and sing along, then kick back in the open-air courtyard with a bev. No experience required!