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 crowd at a festival jumping in the air and throwing coloured powders.

Melbourne's best Holi festivals

Celebrate India's festival of colours at three vibrant free events. Wear something you don't mind getting dirty and prepare to be showered in rainbow-bright powders. There'll also be traditional dance performances, live music and authentic street food to keep the vibes high. Join the celebrations in the city or in Docklands.

Nepal Festival Melbourne

15 Mar

See Fed Square transformed by the spirit of the Himalayas at this free cultural festival. Browse the market stalls for traditional Nepalese crafts and jewellery. Enjoy live music and dance. And of course, feast on momos, spiced curries and more authentic street food.

Free dim sims and tacos during Melbourne Food and Wine Festival

21 – 30 Mar

Two foodie pop-ups are slinging free snacks in Melbourne this month! Don't miss Taco Toum Day 2.0 on 26 March. You can score Lebanese-style tacos and Mexico's answer to kibbeh, totally free. Or head to Emporium on 27 March to try free dim sims. The choices go beyond just steamed or fried (sorry dimmie purists). Three Melbourne food icons have put their own spin on the dish.

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 events at Fed Square. Kick back with a screening of family-friendly Australian film Windcatcher on 23 March from 4pm. Or get your mates together for live music and DJs.

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.