Melbourne has long laid claim to the title of Australia’s cultural capital and nowhere is that aspiration clearer than in the city’s impressive calendar of annual events. From the massive Melbourne Fringe to the International Jazz Festival, there’s always something on in Melbourne. Don’t miss these six top events in Melbourne.
Melbourne’s nocturnal festival returns, reimagined as thousands explore the city at night to encounter weird and wonderful performances, art installations and events that turn the city into a surreal nightscape. August 2020. Exact dates TBA. Many free events.
Doing very much what it says on the tinnie, this annual festival sees Melbourne turn hopping mad as it celebrates all things beer. The week promises over 300 events including prestigious beer awards and the festival at the Royal Exhibition Building. 15 – 24 May 2020.
Don’t miss out on tickets for jazz legends or audition for a place on stage at Jazz Assembly, the huge, free outdoor concert in Federation Square. There’s a lot more besides when this vaunted festival breezes into town. 29 May – 7 June 2020. Free and ticketed events.
Satisfy your love of architecture — or simply snooping around places that are usually off-limits — in this annual festival that sees a vast array of buildings not ordinarily open to the public throw open their doors. The programme goes online in June. 25-26 July 2020.
With its rivers, bays and the open sea, Melbourne has long been a place for boats of all sizes. Whether you’re wanting to buy one or just enjoy the myriad of activities on offer, this is the annual event for all things on water, including plenty of family fun. 11 – 14 June 2020.
Returning for the 36th year, this annual festival of all performed arts sets the city pulsating with electric performances. You’ll find something to suit all tastes among the hundreds of shows. September 2020. Exact dates TBA. Free and ticketed events.