What's free in Melbourne this month

Melbourne's epic free winter festival returns to Docklands for 3 nights of fiery fun. See mind-blowing performances, toast marshmallows on the firepits and enjoy magical glowing installations. Don't miss Amanda Parer's huge inflatable 'humanoid' sculptures towering over the festival this year. And be sure to fill up on tasty bites like raclette cheese, Belgian waffles and more.

Calling all Francophiles! Head to Queen Victoria Market for a great big celebration of Bastille Day. Work your way around the food stalls where you'll find all the French classics. Think freshly-made crepes loaded with Nutella, baguette sandwiches, and mountains of delicious cheese. Then enjoy cute Can Can performances, mime artists, live music and heaps more fun.

Celebrate the history and culture, of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with a huge program of city-wide events for NAIDOC Week. Kick off the week with a free family day at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre on 6 July. There'll be market stalls, artist talks and kid-friendly activities. Or enjoy a free festival at Fed Square on 11 July and check out performances by the likes of ARIA-winning Electric Fields. Plus there'll be food trucks, a pop-up market and heaps more fun.

Get rare access to Melbourne's most beautiful buildings at Open House Melbourne. Visit Melbourne Recital Centre and explore this stunning live music venue. Check out impressive modern design at Koorie Heritage Trust's Birrarung Building. Or go on a tour of Melbourne's Art and Heritage Collection and browse through thousands of the city's artworks and artefacts.

Gather ‘round roaring fire pits every Wednesday for the Winter Night Market. Entry is free and there'll be roaming entertainment and silent discos during the epic 13-week season. Factor in a few bucks to feast on winter comfort food. Warm up with a cup of hot mulled wine or boozy spiced Milo. Then browse vintage fashion, records and more in the specialty shops.

Ever snapped a pic in the Flinders Street Photobooth? If so, you'll know how special and nostalgic these old-school selfie spots are. The man behind it, Alan Adler, ran photobooths in Melbourne for more than 50 years. Join this exhibition at RMIT Gallery celebrating Alan and the delight his booths have brought to Melburnians. The dive a little deeper and join free workshops and talks to learn about the technical side of these complex machines, taking self portraits and more.

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.