What's On in Melbourne: Your Ultimate October Guide
Everything to see and do this month in Melbourne (and beyond).
Spring has sprung, and our beloved city is in full bloom with a vibrant mix of fresh openings, buzzing events, festivals, and must-see exhibitions. As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, get ready to explore Melbourne’s lively streets and soak up all the energy, colour, and excitement this season brings.
Here's a vibrant bouquet of things to do in Melbourne this month.
What's On in Melbourne This Month: This Week
Piccolo Cocktails at Mill Place Merchants
Say hello to the ultimate aperitivo hour in Melbourne this month. Melbourne’s favourite new speakeasy bar is offering their iconic cocktails in Piccolo sizes, perfect for a mid-week treat. Sip on inventive creations like the Pink Lady, Juschu, or Cardinale without committing to a full-sized drink.
Whether you’re trying one or a tray of three, it’s the ideal option for tasting and sharing.
Just make sure you pair your Piccolos with Mill Place Merchants' delectable snacks. Jamon Serrano and cheese croquettes or pulled pork sliders, anyone?
Piccolo Cocktail – $14
Cocktail & Snack – $18
Tray of 3 Piccolos – $38
Tuesdays to Thursdays, 5pm to 7pm
Ground Floor, 2 Mill Place, Melbourne
Frock Ovarian Cancer With Frocktober
This October, the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF) launches its annual Frocktober fundraiser, inviting Australians to “frock ovarian cancer” through fashion-forward events and social media challenges. Participants can get involved in a variety of ways, from attending frocktail parties to taking on the 31-day frock challenge, styling a different dress every single day.
This year’s campaign features ambassadors Glenda Hill-Baulch, ovarian cancer survivor, and fashion designer Lana Wilkinson. Last year’s event raised over $1.1 million, with hopes to surpass that in 2024. Established in 2007, Frocktober has raised over $6 million for critical ovarian cancer research. It's the perfect way to contribute to a good cause - and look incredibly stylish at the same time!
October 1st to 31st
A Taste of Spring at Prahran Market
A Taste of Spring is blooming at Prahran Market from 1st September to 30th November, celebrating the season and the market’s upcoming 160th anniversary! Enjoy stunning floral installations, live entertainment, and a series of curated events perfect for all ages. Stroll through the Taste of Spring Market Trail (1–30 September) to sample gourmet delights from over 30 vendors. Join the Taste of Spring BBQ Series (weekends from 14th September–20th October) for sizzling demos and tastings with BBQ experts and chefs. Or, indulge in the Taste of Spring Picnic Trail (1st–30th November) with specially curated hampers from market traders. Celebrate spring in style at Australia’s oldest market!
Sitchu Tip: Visitors who share their Taste of Spring Market Trail adventures on Instagram and tag @prahranmarket will enter the draw to win one of three exclusive Spring Bounty gift boxes in early October. During the Taste of Spring Picnic Trail, snap and share your best picnic moments with @prahranmarket for a chance to score exciting discounts and freebies.
1st September to 30th November
Prahran Market, 163 Commercial Road, South Yarra
What's On in Melbourne This Month: Play
Ability Fest
Ability Fest is returning to Melbourne for its 5th year - and it's gotten a major upgrade! For the first time ever, ticket prices will be lowered to $60, carers will receive complimentary tickets, and the festival is open to people aged 16 and over. Held at the Alexandra Gardens, the festival is completely accessible with elevated viewing platforms, pathways, quiet zones, AUSLAN interpreters and sensory areas, because everyone deserves to enjoy live music!
19th October
Book your tickets here
Alexandra Gardens, Melbourne
Japanese Film Festival
The Japanese Film Festival returns to Australia for another year of showcasing some of Japan's best anime, heartwarming and tear-jerking films. Immerse yourself in the world of Japanese cinema, with the feel-good film, Mom, Is That You?!, opening the festival. This year's program highlights a standout selection of ten fresh feature films from Japan and a free retrospective Special Series celebrating the works of the trailblazing filmmaker Shohei Imamura.
Other films that will be showcased throughout the festival include Shadow of Fire, Let's Go Karaoke!, SAND LAND, and more! Showing at The Kino and ACMI, these films are worth booking in for a movie night.
21st October to 3rd November
Multiple locations across Melbourne, see website for details
Big Games Night Out
Looking for some free, fun things to do this month in Melbourne? Big Games Night Out is an inclusive, all-ages event that has something for everyone. From arcade games to esport and tabletop, plus live music, performances and cosplay fashion, this event is bound to transform fed Square into a fun-filled haven for gamers.
9th to the 11th October
Federation Square, Melbourne
Sun Chaser Sundays
Sun Chaser Sundays has returned to W Melbourne, kicking off summer and the warmer weather on the right foot. The hotel is teaming up with Olmeca Altos to host their Sun Chaser Sunday sessions throughout spring and summer, where the pool party can go on no matter the weather (thanks, Melbourne).
Guests will be able to pull up a sun lounge and enjoy refreshing pool dips, delicious cocktails, seasonal snacks and live DJ sets on the WET pool deck. 14 storeys in the air and flanked by city skyline views, this is a pool party unlike any other. Enjoy light bites like prawn rolls, avocado and fried tofu rice paper rolls and tuna poke bowls. Plus, Olmeca Altos will be slinging their signature palomas and coconut margarita cocktails.
Every Sunday, 12.00pm to 3.00pm
$95 per person, book here
408 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
The Australian Ballet Presents Études / Circle Electric
The Australian Ballet is delivering a stunning new performance to Melbourne's Regent Theatre: Études / Circle Electric. This groundbreaking double bill features both Harald Lander’s classic ballet alongside the world-premiere of Resident Choreographer Stephanie Lake’s electrifying contemporary creation.
Showcasing athleticism, precision, technique and creative expression, this performance is not one to miss.
2nd October to 9th October
Book tickets here
191 Collins Street, Melbourne
NGO International Film Festival
Across five days, he NGO International Film Festival (NGO IFF) will take over the City of Melbourne. Focussing on ecological protection, immigration and Indigenous knowledge, the program will host screenings, workshops, discussions and networking events.
14th October to 18th October
See program for locations and further details
RESET
Spring into sustainability with Fed Square's RESET festival! From 1st September to 6th October, this month-long celebration invites everyone to reflect, reset, and renew their connection with the environment. Featuring a jam-packed lineup of family-friendly, interactive events, RESET makes sustainable living fun and accessible for all.
Kick things off with Bupa Seek & Find, a walking trail perfect for exploring the Square with loved ones. Get your plant-based fix at the bustling Plant Based Paradise market, or unleash your inner fashionista at All The Rage, where old garments get a new lease on life. Take a stroll along the Yarra with the Greenline Project Walking Tour, or dive into zero-waste living at the Zero Waste Festival.
For the nature enthusiasts, Beehive Tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at Fed Square's rooftop hives, while Our Environment Film Program connects us to the natural world through thought-provoking cinema. You can even join the community in cleaning up the Birrarung on World Clean Up Day or celebrate World Rivers Day with music and storytelling along the river.
From music-making with marigolds to swapping toys for sustainability, RESET at Fed Square is your go-to for a refreshing, eco-friendly spring! Let's all reset, together, this month in Melbourne.
1st September to 6th October
Federation Square: The Atrium, The Edge, Main Square, River Terrace, and Swanston Street Forecourt
Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition
A tribute to travel, photography, community, and adventure, "Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition" takes you on a captivating journey through over 200 of the world's most beautiful and idiosyncratic places, straight from the whimsical world of Wes Anderson.
With 10 themed areas, this exhibition offers a passport to visual inspiration, featuring stunning photography and immersive experiences. Get ready to explore a world of symmetry, warm colours, and enchanting moments.
Arriving in Melbourne in September, this one-of-a-kind exhibition invites you to see the world through a new lens, making it a must-visit for any travel, photography, or Wes Anderson enthusiast.
From 18th September
Book here
Level 1, 360 Bourke Street, Melbourne
SIX The Musical
Following sensational sell-out seasons, the pop phenomenon SIX the Musical returns to Melbourne's Comedy Theatre!
Globally celebrated and winner of 35 major international awards, including two Tony Awards and a Grammy nomination, SIX offers a high-octane 80-minute experience where feisty Tudor Queens boldly rewrite history.
Don’t miss this "Herstoric" musical, an unforgettable production that promises to have you losing your head!
Until 20th October
Book here
Comedy Theatre, 240 Exhibition Street, Melbourne
Tina Turner: The Musical
Get ready to rock out and roll with the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll herself! Experience the electrifying life story of Tina Turner, a true legend who didn’t just break the rules—she rewrote them.
With over 20 of her chart-topping hits, including “Simply the Best,” “River Deep – Mountain High,” and “Proud Mary,” this smash-hit musical promises to turn the Princess Theatre into a vibrant celebration of Tina’s phenomenal career.
Prepare for a night of unforgettable music and inspiration as the story of Tina Turner comes alive on stage this month in Melbourne.
From 21st September
Princess Theatre, Melbourne
The Art of Banksy: 'Without Limits' Exhibition
The Art of Banksy: "Without Limits" exhibition is taking over Melbourne this month, offering an extraordinary display of over 240 works by the enigmatic street artist. Step into a world of provocative art, featuring over 140 originals, exclusive installations, sculptures, and even a mesmerising Infinity Room. Dive into the rebellious spirit of Banksy’s creations, witness his iconic stencil technique in action, and make your own wearable art. With new exclusive pieces and interactive experiences, this is a must-see for art lovers and urban explorers alike. Don’t miss out—grab your tickets and immerse yourself in Banksy’s boundary-pushing universe!
Until October 13th
Level 1/116 Studio Lane, Docklands
Jurassic World: The Exhibition
Jurassic World: The Exhibition has roared into Melbourne, inviting you to step through the iconic gates and into a world where dinosaurs come to life! This immersive experience brings the thrill of the blockbuster franchise to fans of all ages, featuring life-sized Brachiosaurus, Velociraptors—including fan-favourite Blue—and the mighty T-Rex. Wander through richly themed environments, marvel at baby dinosaurs in the Creation Lab, and embark on an interactive adventure with the new Explorer Guide. Perfect for a family day out, this awe-inspiring journey is not to be missed. Secure your tickets now and get ready for a dino-mite adventure this month in Melbourne!
Various dates, until October 28th
Fever Exhibition and Experience Centre, 62 Dawson Street, Brunswick
Melbourne Royal Show
Get ready for the ultimate day of fun at the Melbourne Royal Show, returning later this month to our city. Held at the Melbourne Showgrounds, this iconic event is packed with exciting attractions for all ages. From thrilling carnival rides and showbags filled with goodies to the beloved animal farm and woodchopping competitions, there's something for everyone.
Discover gourmet food and wine, enjoy live entertainment, and explore interactive displays. With nightly fireworks and endless activities, the Royal Melbourne Show is a perfect celebration of Victorian culture and community, bringing families together for unforgettable experiences.
26th September to 6th October
Melbourne Showgrounds, Epsom Road, Ascot Vale
Movie Nights at Bianchetto
Escape the cold with Bianchetto in Kew's cosy movie nights every Wednesday and Thursday in August and September! For just $33, indulge in truffle popcorn, lasagne, and piccolo dolce from the adjoining Mister Bianco, plus a drink on arrival (Negroni Sbagliato, anyone?). Enjoy classic films like "It Started in Naples," "La Dolce Vita," or "The Italian Job" for the perfect midweek treat.
Book tickets here
Bianchetto, 26-28 Cotham Road, Kew
Friday Nights at NGV - Pharaoh
Welcoming the winter season, NGV Friday Nights is back, with a recharged and reimagined program celebrating the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition, Pharaoh.
Expect the usual extended late-night access to this blockbuster exhibition, alongside a vibrant lineup of music residencies, pop-up performances, and Middle Eastern-inspired food and drink.
The exhibition itself will take visitors on a journey through three thousand years of ancient Egyptian art and culture, featuring over 500 works including monumental sculptures, exquisite jewellery, and intricate coffins.
Each Friday night, the charismatic cabaret queen, Miss Cairo, hosts the evening with exuberant songs and storytelling in the Great Hall, where you'll be able to sip on glasses of Moet & Chandon. The program features an eclectic mix of music from jazz and cabaret to classical, funk, and blues, with guest performances by renowned artists like oud virtuoso Joseph Tawadros AM and the Australian Art Orchestra. Later in the season, Brunswick’s Tempo Rubato and the not-for-profit label Music in Exile will showcase diverse musical talents from all around Australia.
From June 14th to October 4th
Book here
NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Beauty & The Beast
Disney's stunning new production of Beauty and the Beast the Musical premieres this month in Melbourne, promising a feast for the eyes, heart, and soul.
This timeless tale is reimagined on stage in a breathtaking production that will captivate audiences like never before. The original creative team reunites to bring this enchanting musical to life, featuring all the spellbinding songs by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Tim Rice, including "Belle," "Gaston," "Human Again," and "Be Our Guest."
A much-loved classic, this tale as old as time will enchant a new generation, filling hearts with magic and wonder.
Until February 2025
Book here
Her Majesty's Theatre, 219 Exhibition Street, Melbourne
Piinpi: Contemporary Indigenous Fashion
Discover the vibrant world of Indigenous fashion at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre with "Piinpi: Contemporary Indigenous Fashion."
Curated by Shonae Hobson, this groundbreaking exhibition showcases 24 hand-crafted garments by 36 Indigenous artists and designers, celebrating the diversity and creativity of Australia’s First Nations creatives.
From ethereal silk creations to bold geometric pieces, "Piinpi" highlights the significance of Indigenous fashion in storytelling and cultural continuation.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the beauty and innovation of First Nations designers and artists at Bunjilaka.
Until 17th November
Free with Melbourne Museum entry ticket here
Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Centre, Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street Carlton
Alcotraz: Immersive Cocktail Experience
Combining the allure of a speakeasy-style cocktail bar with the excitement of immersive theatre and Old Hollywood-style storylines, Alcotraz: Immersive Cocktail Experience offers a unique adventure for cocktail enthusiasts and thrill seekers alike.
Guests, acting as ‘inmates’, must creatively smuggle contraband liquor past the Warden. Encounter shady characters and a bootlegging gang who transform the smuggled liquor into bespoke cocktails. Winners gain access to secret areas to hatch an escape plan.
This fully immersive experience includes real metallic cells, orange jumpsuits, and interactive storytelling, making you part of the thrilling narrative.
Bring your favourite bottle of liquor and see it turned into four bespoke cocktails in front of your eyes.
Until December 2024
Book here
592 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne
Africa Fashion at the NGV
The NGV is always filled to the brim with fun and exciting exhibitions, and this latest one is no exception. Africa Fashion features an incredible collection of designs and designers from over 20 countries, all borrowed from the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. This exhibition has almost 200 works, ranging from ready-to-wear fashion all the way to bespoke and couture pieces. Celebrating the creativity and innovation of African fashion from the mid-twentieth century to today, this exhibition is an explosion of colour, texture and patterns, and the perfect thing to go and see if you're a fashion enthusiast.
Until 6th October
180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Now.Here.This
Have you heard? Now.Here.This has been six years in the making - and it's all about nurturing our city's rich and dynamic local music community, in particular its vibrant jazz scene.
LUME Melbourne - Leonardo Da Vinci - Plus, this month kids have FREE access!
The LUME is known for putting on captivating exhibitions that celebrate the world's greatest artists - and their latest digital art gallery is doing exactly that. Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Geniuswill take over The LUME from the 16th of March, mesmerising audiences as his most famous and lesser known works are projected across the open space, such as the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper.
Great news for parents seeking weekend adventures with the kids: THE LUME Melbourne is offering a Kids Go Free deal throughout August! From August 1-31, children 14 and under get free entry when accompanied by an adult. It’s the ideal way to escape the cold and enjoy a memorable experience together.
Book here
THE LUME at The Convention Centre, South Wharf
Victoria The T.Rex
Get ready for the arrival of Victoria the T.Rex at Melbourne Museum! This state-of-the-art exhibition features the real 66-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus fossil, film, AR, and holography. Experience the Cretaceous period with the largest T. rex fossil ever displayed in Australia, spanning over 12 metres.
Friday 28th June to Sunday 20th October
Book here
Melbourne Museum, Carlton Gardens
Sofar Sounds
Global music community Sofar Sounds creates space where music matters. It brings artists and audiences together through unique live music experiences in surprising spaces.
There are four upcoming gigs in September to keep an eye out for, in suburbs that range from Fitzroy to Prahran, St Kilda to Brunswick, so be sure to regularly check their website for any new or upcoming events.
Tickets from $40 per person
Find out more here
Multiple locations around the city
What's On in Melbourne This Month: Eat & Drink
Free to Feed Presents 'The Story Table'
Free to Feed is launching a new event series called 'The Story Table' this month, helping to highlight the voices and experiences of refugees and individuals seeking asylum. Kicking off the series in their vibrant Fitzroy North home, guests will be able to listen to heartfelt stories and enagge in conversation with Bahaa a refugee from Aleppo and Thae, a Karen woman from Burma. There will be a pescatarian feast reflecting the diverse cultures, and multiple ticket prices to ensure lower income earners can also enjoy the feast.
11th and 18th October, 6.30pm to 9.30pm
Book here
205-211 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North
Balinese Beats & Bites at Kata Kita
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of Balinese culture right in the heart of Melbourne! On October 25th, Kata Kita invites you to join them for a special event featuring vibrant music and dance performances by Sanggar Lestari Melbourne and Gamelan DanAnda, as well as a mouth-watering traditional banquet for just $79 per person.
Indulge in delightful dishes like Sate Lilit, a tasty ground chicken satay on lemongrass, and the crowd-favourite Babi Guling, slow-roasted pork stuffed with aromatic spices. This is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Balinese culture while savouring delicious food.
Don’t miss out—grab your friends and reserve your spot today!
$79 per person
Friday October 25th, sittings at 6pm and 8.30pm
266 La Trobe Street, Melbourne
Shedfest
Shedfest is coming to the Yarra Valley this October, bringing together 14 smaller wineries who will open their boutique, family-run cellar doors for wine-lovers to enjoy two days of tastings, carefully curated bites, lawn games, fire pits, stunning views and live music. Yileena Park and Helen's Hill Estate are two new wineries that have been added to the mix, and popular wineries Six Acres and Seville Estate are also returning for the first time in several years.
Theere will be activities for the whole family at some wineries including lawn games at Sutherland Estate, a free family petting zoo at Tokar Estate, a classic car display at Steels Gate and kids colouring books at Yileena Park.
And with over 100 wines available to try, you'll be in for the long haul. Make sure you assign your designated driver wisely.
12th to 13th October
Multiple locations across the Yarra Valley
Discover Global Flavours at Brunswick Kitchen’s October Cooking Classes
This october, immerse yourself in the art of global cuisine with Brunswick Kitchen’s interactive cooking classes. For $140 per person, learn from renowned chefs like Tracey Lister and guest chef Almay Jordaan. Classes run the gamut of Food From Hanoi to a Persian feast to Ottolenghi-inspired Fish Dishes.
$140 per person
Various times and dates, see here for details
1/288 Albert Street, Brunswick
Warm Up with Da Paolo’s Pizza Residency at Bahama Gold
Warm up your winter evenings at Bahama Gold, Brunswick's beloved bottle shop and public bar, with their exciting Da Paolo Residency. It delivers a rotating menu of authentic Italian pizzas to complement Bahama Gold’s curated selection of house-made, imported, and local wines. Enjoy the perfect pairing of delectable pizza and fine wine and vibe out to smooth vinyl sounds.
Every Monday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 5.00pm to 10.00pm
135 Lygon Street, Brunswick East
Embrace the Italian Alps this Spring at Johnny’s Green Room
Continue to celebrate in style at Johnny’s Green Room, where every detail evokes the warmth and elegance of the Italian Alps, capturing the spirit of the iconic Italian ski resort, Cortina.
Master mixologist Matthew Bax has curated a captivating cocktail menu inspired by the ski runs of the Dolomites. Delight in the fruity allure of the “Out of Season”, the berry-laden “1956 Winter Games”, and the robust “For Your Eyes Only” martini, made with Four Pillars Navy Strength Gin, olive oil and your choice of lemon twist or house-salted Sicilian olives.
Culinary Director Karen Martini’s winter menu further enhances the experience with a sophisticated array of dishes, including delicate fior di latte mozzarella, irresistible woodfired pizze palloncino, vibrant kingfish crudo, rich San Daniele prosciutto, hearty polpette al sugo, and a luxurious panforte sticky date pudding paired with Pidapipo’s creamy gelato.
Johnny’s Green Room, Level 2/293-297 Lygon Street, Carlton
Pipis Kiosk's Chef's Dining Series
Celebrate the arrival of spring with Pipis Kiosk's Chef's Dining Series, featuring a vibrant lineup of guest chef collaborations. Expect three-course feast offerings with accompanying snacks for $85 per person, set against the beautiful Port Phillip Bay.
Upcoming spring events include:
15th September: Braai on the Beach by Chef Almay Jordaan (Neighbourhood Wine, Old Palm Liquor).
5th October (dinner) and 6th October (lunch): A modern Malaysian experience by Chef Johnson Wong (Restaurant Gen, Malaysia).
Each event promises to deliver unique flavours and unforgettable coastal views, perfect for welcoming the new season!
Book here
129a Beaconsfield Parade, Albert Park
Dine & Sing at Yum Sing House
Experience mid-week dining with a twist at Yum Sing House, a contemporary Chinese diner and karaoke bar tucked away in the CBD. Their Dine & Sing offer on Wednesdays and Thursdays pairs a delectable feast with lively entertainment. Enjoy a choice of three entrees, a shared main, steamed rice, and then unleash your inner star with an hour of karaoke.
On Wednesdays, get set to indulge in $2 Pacific Oysters for an extra treat. It’s the perfect blend of great food and fun to dial up your weeknights to a new level.
$60 per person
Wednesdays and Thursdays
Book here
22 Sutherland Street, Melbourne
NAVI x KILN: A Culinary Collaboration
Experience an exceptional dining event as Mitch Orr, Chef-Partner of Sydney’s Kiln, joins Julian Hills, Chef-Owner of Navi, for a unique collaborative dinner on 17th October. From 6pm at Navi in Yarraville, enjoy a spectacular journey of ten dishes paired with fine wines, including Orr’s renowned Jatz with smoked butter and anchovy.
This $300 per person event promises an unforgettable fusion of Sydney and local flavours. Limited to just 30 guests—book here.
17th October, 6pm start
83b Gamon Street, Yarraville
Oktoberfest at Hofbräuhaus
Experience authentic Bavarian culture at Hofbräuhaus as it marks its 56th Oktoberfest this September. Running from 21st September for five weeks, the festivities coincide with the official Oktoberfest launch in Germany and are set to welcome over 15,000 revelers. Expect yodelling, polka dancing, stein-sinking, bratwurst-eating, live music from the Haus Band, and traditional German bands. Plus, 100 lucky guests will win free beer for a year!
Indulge in schnitzel, pork knuckle, and imported German sausages, and enjoy 16 special Oktoberfest beers shipped directly from Germany for a truly unforgettable celebration.
From 21st September
18-28 Market Lane, Melbourne
Regional Farmers Monthly Market at Abbotsford Convent
The Abbotsford Convent has got a new monthly farmers market, with more than 45 stalls of organic fruit and vegetables, locally sourced dairy, homemade desserts and more on offer. After the Convent's beloved weekend farmers market closed down in December last year, its beyond exciting to have a vibrant and community-minded space to return to market once more. Embrace the spring sunshine and stroll through the bustling stalls, with highlights include Spring Creek Organics, Heathmont Honey, the fresh kefir and vintage cheddar at Blue Bay Cheese, and the delightful desserts at Pudding Nana. Bread and butter pudding, anyone?
$2.00 entry
8.00am to 2.00pm
Second Saturday of every month
What's On in Melbourne This Month: Out of Town
Food, Fire & Light Festival
The inaugural Food, Fire & Light Festival is returning to Ballarat this October. Across two weekends, festivalgoers will be taken on an immersive sensory journey combining food, performances and light installations across Sovereign Hill, plus captivating storytelling and fire burning hosted by the local Wadawurrung Traditional Owners of the land. Watch gold pouring as gin is poured into your gold-speckled glass, plus take in performances from DJs and artists including Umbra Moon, Andrew Loadsman with DJ Marc Lucarelli and more.
11th and 12th october, 18th and 19th October
5.00pm to 10.00pm
$68 per person
View full program and secure tickets here
Sovereign Hill, Ballarat
CherryHill Orchards Blossom Festival
CherryHill Orchards Blossom Festival returns from 14th September to 6th October at its new 100-acre Coldstream location. Wander through the stunning cherry blossoms while enjoying live music, workshops, and a range of cherry-themed food and drinks.
Don't miss Mary Eats Cake’s ‘High Tea in the Blossoms’ on 14th-15th September, offering a luxurious tea experience among the blooms. New workshops this year include candle making, cake decorating, and more, while the Kids Hub promises fun activities for little ones.
Sitchu Tip: For a unique view, consider a hot air balloon ride with Global Ballooning or a Mid-Week Wine & Dine at Rochford Wines.
14th September to 6th October
739 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream
Discover the Werribee Public Art Walking Tour
This free, self-guided 1km trail and audio tour includes some of Melbourne’s most prominent street artists. Beginning at Wyndham Cultural Centre and finishing at the Holiday Inn Werribee, it takes approximately 60 minutes to complete with opportunities for coffee or a snack along the way.
Highlights include the award-winning First Nations mural 'Mooroop Yarkeen' by Indigenous artist Tommy Day (Jirri Jirri), recognised with a Maggolee Award and best viewed in the late afternoon sun. The trail also showcases works by Ash Keating, Tom Gerrard, Ghostpatrol, Minna Leunig, Makatron, DREZ, and David Lee Pereira.
Scan QR codes at each artwork to access audio interviews with the artists. The tour is perfect for all ages and pairs well with a visit to the many food options along Watton Street, Werribee’s very own ‘Eat Street’.
Sitchu Tip: For a complete experience, follow the footbridge to Wyndham Park and enjoy 'River Whispers,' a 25-minute audio experience about the Werribee River.
Werribee, Victoria
Whale Watching in Portland
Spotting one of nature's most magnificent mammals is an unforgettable experience, and Australia's whale capital, Portland, ensures you never miss a sighting with their Whalemail alerts.
When the whale flag flies outside the Portland Visitor Information Centre, visitors have a great chance to see southern right whales, humpback whales, and occasionally orcas.
Southern right whales, with their distinctive white bumps, migrate from the deep Southern Ocean to the warmer waters of southern Australia to mate and calve from May to October. Humpback whales, meanwhile, can be seen playing and feeding as they travel between their tropical breeding grounds and Antarctic feeding areas.
Portland Whale Viewing Platform, Wade Street, Portland
Looking for more fun things to do in Melbourne this winter? We have plenty to keep you entertained. From Melbourne's best new restaurants and bars to friendly pubs, cafés and late-night cocktail haunts, here's all you need for an epic weekend in the city.
