Since the long-awaited Summer sun arrives, flocks of all Melbournians head to the beach. The sand and the surf, however, isn’t all that this town has to offer you. If you’re looking for something fun and original to do with friends, loved ones, or on your own from December through to January, then this manual is for you. To make certain to make the most of this town has to offer, we have compiled a list of the greatest events, festivals, markets and day-trip destinations in Melbourne.
2. So Frenchy So Chic
So Frenchy So Chic is back in 2018 for another form of wining, dining, and dancing in the sunshine. The French audio festival is part party and a part picnic, so be sure to get ready for an indulgent day before attending. While there, you can relax on the lawns beyond the iconic Werribee Mansion while listening to très trendy musicians and tasting yummy baguettes, cheese platters, charcuterie, and, of course, champagne.
When: 11 am — 9 pm, Sunday, Jan 14th, 2018
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3. White Night
Originally dreamed up in Paris, the city of lights, an international idea of White Night is taking place once more in Melbourne this coming February. For 12 enchanting hours, Melbourne’s CBD is going to be changed by hypnotic colours and lighting. Embracing creativity and the town’s rich culture, this dawn til dusk extravaganza will mesmerize crowds with exhibitions, installations, songs and live performances. If your calendar is open on Saturday, February 17th, grab some friends and head into town for an unforgettable, sensory experience.
After: 7 pm — 7 am, Saturday, Feb 17th, 2018
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4. Australian Open
For two fast-paced weeks each Summer, the world’s tennis champions earn their way to Melbourne for the yearly Australian Open. Held on the final fortnight of January in Melbourne Park, this highly anticipated event provides hours of entertainment for all ages. If you miss out on tickets this year or spent a bit more than planned on Christmas presents, head to the sprawling gardens of Birrarung Marr. There you can observe free live broadcasts of these matches while enjoying tasty food and a day in sunlight.
When: 15th Jan 2018 — 28th Jan 2018
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5. The Book of Mormon
Created by the comedic geniuses behind South Park, Matt Stone and Trey Parker, The Book of Mormon is a must-see for all Melbournians. Packed with humour that pushes the bounds, visitors of the show are guaranteed to leave with fresh abs after a laughter-filled evening. If the ticket price will be slightly above your summer budget, then provide the daily ballot a go. Just arrive at the Princess Theatre two and a half hours ahead of that day’s functionality and enter your name to the draw. Don’t forget to say your prayers as lucky winners acquire two tickets that are discounted.
After: Showing until 4th Feb 2018
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6. St Kilda Festival
Entering its 38th year, the annual St Kilda Festival draws crowds by the hundreds of thousands to the beautiful St Kilda foreshore. As Australia’s largest free music festival, this day is a favourite of Melbournians. This iconic beachside event hosts epic live audio stages amongst a carnival atmosphere of rides, scrumptious food, bustling bars and neighborhood designer marketplace stalls.
When: Feb 11th, 2018
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7. Chinese New Year Celebrations
This January and February, a Assortment of suburbs across Melbourne are now hosting Chinese New Year Festivals. Areas include Richmond, Preston, Glen Waverley, Box Hill, and predominantly, China Town (Little Burke Street), which will each offer their distinctive take on the celebrations. These will feature unique performances of Chinese lion dances, firecrackers, martial arts and more. Alternatively, make your way to Crown Towers on the 16th February to go through the amazing Zodiac creature arenas and watch the fireworks.
When: 14th Jan 2018 — 25th Feb 2018
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8. IMAX Cinema
9. Sugar Mountain
A candy utopia for festivalgoers, the yearly Sugar Mountain embraces creativity in all forms. This one-day festival is renowned as a showcase of the best contemporary music from across the globe. Along with this, it displays mesmerising visual artwork and interactive performances. For an extra sweet treat, reserve a seat in the Sensory Restaurant. This famous dining experimentation is 1 experience you won’t regret.
After: 20th Jan 2018
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10. The Ashes Test
In the Magellan Ashes Test, Australia and England go head to head in the Greatest Summer cricket clash. Starting on Boxing Day, this four-day evaluation is an unmissable event for sports fans. If you’re a lover of cricket, procure your MCG tickets today to see Australia’s group, led by Steve Smith, take on their English competitions. If you bring a picnic basket along with the children or any meat pies along with your mates, then get off the sofa and get amongst the audiences for this event.
After: 26th Dec 2017 — 30th Dec 2017
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11. Priscilla Queen of the Desert
In 2018, Priscilla Queen of the Desert creates a sparkling return to its homeland Australia. Celebrating its 10th Anniversary, this iconic musical features all of the glitter and glamour of this Oscar-winning film upon which it is based. With over 500 costumes, 200 headdresses and a soundtrack of classics including Its Raining Men and I will Survive, Priscilla is a happening of colour, fashion, music and pleasure.
When: 21st Jan 2018 — 18th March 2018
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12. Moonlight Cinema
Spend a balmy summer night snuggling up under the stars with a lot of friends or your significant other at Melbourne’s Moonlight Cinema. Bring your picnic basket and your cushions to the Royal Botanic Gardens for a night screening of older classics or new releases. Films on the playlist this summer include comedies such as Pitch Perfect 3 and Bad Moms two and classic favorites like Love Actually and The Breakfast Club.
When: 8:30 pm, 1st Dec -2017 — 1st April 2018
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13. South Melbourne Night Market
This season, the annual South Melbourne Night Market is celebrating its 10th Birthday using a attractive lineup of road food, market stalls, and live entertainment. Taking place each Thursday night during the golden hours of twilight, this open-air market has something for everyone. From chilli margaritas, homemade gnocchi and poke bowls, to unique artisan fashion and homeware products, you’re guaranteed to find something unique. Settle back and relax under the stars with a rotating line of jazz, jazz, indie folk and world music performers.
When: Thursdays from 5:30 pm, 4th Jan 2018 — 22nd Feb 2018
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14. St Jerome’s Laneway Festival
Affectionately called ‘Laneway’, this one-day festival is a leading showcase of the world’s greatest, climbing musicians. Relax along the banks of this river while listening to the live independent, indie pop, and rock performances. This year’s lineup features a host of Australian and international artists including Bonobo, ODESZA and Wolf Alice. To increase the excitement, celebrity chef David Moyle will soon be cooking up culinary delights for festival goers.
After: Saturday 3rd Feb 2018
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15. Grampians National Park
For adventure lovers searching for a unique Melbourne experience, the Grampians National Park offers stunning sights. Scale the sandstone mountains to search out throughout the Grampians at sunset, or see the iconic Mackenzie Falls. As you walk, admire the magnificent wildflowers, unique Australian wildlife, and jaw-dropping lookouts present in this region. For a particular event, visit the Halls Gap region of the National Park involving the 2nd — 4th February 2018 for your Grampians Musical Festival. Listen to up and coming Australian musicians while taking in the panoramic mountain views.
After: Anytime
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16. Rose Street Artist’s Market
The Rose Street Artist’s Market is one of Melbourne’s hidden jewels that will have you coming each week for more. Hosted each Saturday and Sunday at Fitzroy, this diverse marketplace has a variety of special artisan pieces. Each weekend it features handmade and authentic jewelry, homewares, prints, and everything in between, to showcase Melbourne’s best creative abilities. While looking through the things in this stunning design treasure trove, stop for a chat with all the gifted artists behind the work.
After: Each Saturday and Sunday, 11 am — 5 pm
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