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.

Crowds sitting on the lawn watching a performance at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl where a large roof covers the stage, with the city behind.

Sidney Myer Free Concerts

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra returns to the Bowl for three magical nights of live music under the stars. This free summer concert series takes place on the 5, 15 and 22 February. Choose from the Symphonic Showcase, a musical odyssey across the world, or a celebration of Dvořák, Gershwin and Ravel.

Crowds watching a performance at Fed Square at night.

Asia TOPA

Until 10 Mar

An epic three-week arts festival is coming to Melbourne and loads of the events are free! Head to Fed Square on 21 February for a free concert with a stacked line-up of local and international artists. Also at the Square is a pop-up Indonesian fest with traditional breakfast dishes, dance classes and open-air performances. Don't miss the Science Gallery's mysterious new VR experience, where you can have a close encounter with dark matter.

Someone cooking meat on long barbecues at a festival.

Antipodes Festival

22 – 23 Feb

Melbourne’s largest Greek cultural celebration is back for another epic street party. This year’s Greek fest will take over Lonsdale Street for a weekend packed with music, dancing and of course, traditional Greek cuisine! Dozens of food, drink and craft stalls will take your Hellenic experience way beyond souvas and baklava.

The Outsiders Melbourne

Until 25 May

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 Rone, Adnate, Vexta and Tom Gerrard.

Open Air at the Square

Until 22 Mar

Pull up a deck chair and enjoy free movies at Fed Square this summer. Kick back with a Bruce Lee bonanza. Or enjoy silent cinema with a special live score performed by Australia's best musicians and composers.

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 woman walking into a silk shrine with glowing lights.

Sci-Fi: Mythologies Transformed

Until 31 May

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.

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.