Plan ahead for New Year's Eve with transport, road closure and accessibility info.
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.
New Year's Eve Celebration Zones
Ring in the new year with family-friendly entertainment, food trucks and fireworks.
Making Good: Redesigning the Everyday
Discover how clever design of everyday objects can inspire change at this new exhibition. It features everything from fashion and furniture to food and construction. Check out clothing that adjusts as you grow, see how coffee grounds can be turned into concrete and more. This showcase features work from 50 designers, studios and brands from Australia and around the world.
Distraction
Ponder the art of time wasting at this exhibition dedicated to distraction and doom-scrolling. Pledge back the time you’ve spent buried in your phone. Then explore weird and wonderful installations. See through the eyes of a cat in Japan. Play custom-built arcade games. Or join one of the workshops and lose yourself in creative flow.
More of the best free events
Summer Night Market
Gather your crew for Melbourne’s favourite summer tradition – Wednesday nights from 5pm to 10pm.
Bloom: By Melbourne Central x Melissa Likes Sushi
Step inside the immersive installation wrapping the historic Shot Tower in vibrant greenery.
MECCA X NGV Women in Design Commission: Nipa Doshi
Designer Nipa Doshi explores beauty, plurality and diversity in her handcrafted cabinet.
Swinging 60s
Did the sixties really swing in Victoria? A new exhibition from the Old Treasury Building.
More free Christmas fun
Myer Christmas Windows
Experience the magic of Christmas at the Playful LEGO Christmas Story Myer Christmas Windows.
Christmas at Crown Melbourne
Celebrate the festive season with Santa, a giant tree and carousel, plus carol singing.
Free family-friendly events
Shrine Kids
Embark on a family adventure with this engaging program designed for discovery at every turn.
Fitzroy Gardens Outdoor Adventure
A free fun outdoor seek and find adventure around the Fitzroy Gardens.
Free Melbourne markets
Last updated on Fri 12 Dec 2025
Only In The City
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PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival
Australia’s largest major fashion event celebrates 30 years of local fashion with a huge programme.
DONE/UNDONE
Vogue Living Style Editor Joseph Gardner curates an exhibition of Australia's most talented artists.
Rigg Design Prize: Next in Design
The Rigg Design Prize is Australia’s most prestigious accolade for contemporary design.
Eucalypts of Hodogaya
An exhibition that reflects on a remarkable story of post-war reconciliation and remembrance.