What's on in Melbourne

With a population of 5 million, Melbourne is the most populous city in Victoria and the second most populous city in Australia. Melbourne is Australia’s multicultural and cultural hub—a city for everyone.

Prior to the arrival of European settlers in the region, indigenous Australians had been living in the Melbourne area for more than 30,000 years. The city was founded on 30 August 1835 and was named Melbourne by Governor General Richard Bourne on 10 April 1837.

With more than a quarter of its population being born overseas, Melbourne is now home to people from more than 200 countries and more than 230 languages are spoken in the city. A visit to Melbourne is a visit to the world itself.

Melbourne is a city full of opportunities, places to go, things to see.

What's coming up in Melbourne?

January 2021

Imaginaria [Now until 31 Jan]
A new form of immersive play for all ages has arrived in District Docklands, Melbourne. Within this hour long walk-through, Imaginaria is where imagination and technology collide to create a visually stunning audio-visual play experience from the future. Find out more here.

MCEC Drive In(door) Cinema [7 - 26 Jan]
Unlike traditional outdoor drive in cinemas which have to screen after sundown, the MCEC Drive In(Door) Cinema, in conjunction with Village Cinemas, is completely light-controlled, so your family can enjoy the drive-in experience at one of the daytime sessions and still get home for bedtime. This January school holidays, Frozen, Shrek, Trolls: World Tour and more will all be hitting the big screen!

Moonlight Cinema [Returning 7 Jan]
Moonlight Cinema celebrates 25 years of movies under the stars in 2021 with a stellar line-up of classics and new releases. Pack your picnic rugs and snacks, and enjoy a summer night of entertainment surrounded by the beauty of Melbourne's Botanic Gardens.

Live at the Bowl [8 Jan - 31 Mar]
Australia's best live music and comedy acts return to Sidney Myer Music Bowl with a weekly line-up of free and ticketed events.

February 2021

Australian Open [8 - 21 Feb]
For the first time in over 100 years, Australia Open will start in February at Melbourne Park. Australian Open 2021 will feature singles, doubles and wheelchair competitions. AO qualifying will be held offshore, with the women’s event taking place in Dubai, and men’s qualifying in Doha from 10-13 January. The AO Junior Championships has been postponed until later in the year.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child [Returning 25 Feb]
The highly sought after production ofHarry Potter and the Cursed Child returns to the Princess Theatre.