I subscribe to all the things so you don’t have to. This is a curated list of what’s been announced over the past week so you can save the date, or swoop on tickets, and also a list of what’s coming up soon if you’re looking to make last-minute plans.
What’s new?
UB40 coming to Margaret Court Arena in October
Prepare for a reggae-fuelled revolution as UB40, the world’s top-selling reggae group, storms Australia and New Zealand this October. Celebrating 45 years of chart-topping hits, UB40 promises an explosive tour, joined by Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter, Eagle-Eye Cherry.
Melbourne’s Now Or Never Festival will return in 2024
After a phenomenal first year Now or Never returns to Melbourne / Narrm from 22 – 31 August 2024. Be transfixed by pioneering digital art experiences paired with evocative performances across music, dance and theatre. Hear bold ideas from creative thinkers. Allow otherworldly art installations to shift your perspectives. The full program will be announced in coming months.
Meet Dr. Jane Goodall at IMAX this June
Attend an unforgettable evening at IMAX Melbourne on Monday 3 June as Dr. Jane Goodall presents a special fundraiser screening of her exclusive IMAX documentary, Jane Goodall: Reasons for Hope. he screening will be followed by an intimate Q&A session. This rare opportunity allows you to come face-to-face with the world’s most renowned living ethologist and environmentalist.
Authentic Flamenco show coming to Melbourne for three nights only
eatro Real – The Royal Opera of Madrid in partnership with Fever will bring award-winning flamenco artists from Spain back to Melbourne for a limited series of performances. Authentic Flamenco is a critically acclaimed invigorating traditional flamenco dance show, that has travelled the world and been seen by more than 100,000 people. Tickets are now available for the upcoming Melbourne performances, to be held at The Capitol Theatre from three nights only from 21-23 June 2024.
Jebediah and Magic Dirt touring in August and September
To celebrate the release of Jebediah’s eagerly anticipated sixth studio album and first new release in 11 years, OIKS, they’re heading out on the road for a national tour with very special guests Magic Dirt. You can catch them at the Chelsea Heights Hotel, the Torquay Hotel and the Corner Hotel in Richmond in August and September.
Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell to perform the songs of Elton John and George Michael
In an unmissable celebration of two iconic musical legends, Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell join forces with John Foreman and the Australian Pops Orchestra to present a spectacular concert featuring the timeless hits of Elton John and George Michael. This musical gala is set to captivate audiences in two of the country’s most iconic venues, Hamer Hall, Melbourne on November 9 and at the Sydney Opera House on November 16.
Sleepless Festival returns to the West this May
Independent music and arts festival SLEEPLESS FESTIVAL is set to take over Melbourne’s inner west for two weeks from 4 May 2024 with a vibrant showcase of music, performance and art and installation
Modern English to make their debut Australian tour
British New Wave/Post-Punk icons Modern English are touring Australia for the first time ever, supporting the Buzzcocks in October and November. The band responsible for the timeless classic I Melt With You will appear at the Northcote Theatre, the Lorne Theatre and Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal. Tickets are on sale now.
Save the date for these
Also just announced:
- Sionnach Rua’s Great Irish Troubadours will be at the Brunswick Ballroom on Sunday 16 June. Drawing on the ancient Irish tradition of storytelling and song, this performance features tunes and melodies that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds.
- The 12th Annual Melbourne Soul Weekender is happening on Saturday 25 May. From humble beginnings in 2009, the annual event has showcased the best in rare soul from 1960’s uptempo stormers to modern dancefloor fillers and a plethora of soulful styles. Get ready to be transported back in time to the golden age of soul music.
- A new installation BioRhythm – a unique ‘living’ activation, created by Buko Studio in collaboration with Public Street – has been supported by the City of Stonnington and will be able to be seen at Prahran for a month from 17 April until 14 May.
- The 2024 German Film Festival is coming to Melbourne from 10-29 May at various venues.
- It’s time for the Collingwood Children’s Farm’s 21st Bonfire – the annual winter solstice family-friendly fundraiser to keep the farm burning bright is happening on Saturday 22 June. Book your ticket to light up the Stables Paddock.
- On Saturday 26 October, Yarra Valley Oktoberfest returns to the Lilydale showgrounds for a 6th Munich inspired beer festival!
- The Boronia Autumn Market is a free event that’s happening on Saturday 27 April from 11am – 3pm at Dorset Square, Boronia.
- Catch a 50th anniversary screening of Pam Grier in Foxy Brown at the Astor Theatre from 18 April.
- Celebrate International Guide Dog Day in the most pawsome way at Guide Dogs Victoria’s Pup-up Cafe event! Join them on Wednesday 24 April from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm at Studley Grounds in Kew for a morning of tail-wagging fun.
- Explore the rich history and function of the Supreme Court Library with an experienced law librarian on 20, 21 and 24 May as part of Victorian Law Week 2024. Journey through over a century of legal knowledge housed in this stunning space and appreciate the architecture, artwork, and historical treasures.
- Go along to the City of Monash’s Community Planting Day on 15 May and help plant more than 30 species of indigenous plants to build a Tiny Forest at Fraser Street Reserve, Glen Waverley.
- Immerse yourself in the world of Thai delights in North Melbourne at EziStreat’s Thai Sunday Market! Join them on 21 April from 12 noon to 4pm for an authentic celebration of Thailand’s vibrant culture.
What to do?
Never mind the naysayers, Melbourne is not dead! Here’s a round-up of things happening in and around Melbourne this weekend and over the next few weeks:
- Join the State Library of Victoria as they shine a light on the life and iconic work of garden designer, writer and photographer Edna Walling on Tuesday 16 April. Hear from horticulturalist and Gardening Australia presenter Millie Ross, in conversation with Sara Hardy and Trisha Dixon.
- It’s Free Cone Day on 16 April and Ben and Jerry’s is giving away free ice cream at its scoop shop locations around Melbourne.
- A launch party will be held at Hotel Esplanade ‘The Espy’ for gin enthusiasts and local patrons to get amongst the Four Pillars Sticky Carpet Gin release celebrations on 17 April.
- The Australian Heritage Festival is on from 18 April to 18 May with a range of events on around Victoria.
- The 2024 Hobsons Bay Heritage Festival is on 18-30 April.
- The AAADA Antiques and Art Fair is on at the Malvern Town Hall on 18-21 April.
- The Fantastic Film Festival Australia returns for its fifth year of weird, wonderful and wholly unexpected features and shorts from 18 April – 9 May at Lido Cinemas in Hawthorn and the Thornbury Picture House.
- The Melbourne Home Show will be on at MCEC on 19-21 April.
- Garden lovers can enjoy a tour of the Government House gardens on 19 April.
- Join in the Warrandyte Festival on 19-20 April for a fun family day out with activities, food and entertainment, concerts, waterslides and whacky races.
- Experience first-hand the raw and mesmerising story of former world number 4, popular tennis commentator and best-selling author, Jelena Dokic at Marnong Estate Mickleham on 19 April.
- Dress in your brightest activewear for the Maroondah Night Run – a 5km run or walk on Friday 19 April at Ringwood Golf.
- Join a unique opportunity to taste ten wines from one of Australia’s most historical wineries – Best’s Wines – with fifth generation vigneron, Hamish Thomson, at Winehouse in Southbank on 19 April.
- The Big Vegan Market is happening on 20 April at the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton.
- The Bubbles Festival – a celebration of all things sparkling – is on at Bells Hotel, South Melbourne on 20 April
- The One Fine Day Wedding Expo is the number one choice of wedding expos for creative couples. It’s on again for 2024 on 20-21 April at the Timber Yard, Port Melbourne.
- Forward Ever: A Celebration of Sound System Culture is on at the Croxton Bandroom on 20 April.
- Step into the realm of The Dark Moon Expo on 20 April and immerse yourself in a showcase of curated businesses from curiosities to whimsical creations
- Join the Ivanhoe Library and Culture Hub’s Harmony Week event on 20 Aprilfeaturing avibrant market with diverse artists and makers as well as live music and performances showcasing the multicultural community.
- PBS’ MIDNIGHT DRIVER event returns on Saturday 20 April, this time from the beautiful surrounds of the Fairfield Amphitheatre. It’s an open air party from daylight, into sunset, and beyond.
- The Western Port Craft Expo on 20 April is a celebration and exhibition of the best craftwork in Western Port and on the Mornington Peninsula.
- Join in the family fun at the Yakkerboo Festival in Pakenham on 20-21 April.
- The Caroline Springs Psychic and Holistic Market is on 20 April.
- Join in the Colours of Eid celebration at the Victoria Street Mall in Coburg on 20 April.
- Explore the different styles of millinery and millinery materials used spanning the decades from the Victorian era to the current day at the Vintage Hat Walk, Talk and Demonstration in the Block Arcade on 20 April.
- Experience the world of bonsai with hundreds of miniature trees on display at Footscray Community Arts Centre from 20-21 April.
- The Gangaur Festival 2024 featuring vegetarian food and Indian cultural performances is taking place at the Caulfield Racecourse on 20 April.
- Kubik Frankston until 20 April is an electrifying fusion of Melbourne’s pulsating music culture and vibrant culinary food trucks, all set against the backdrop of a family-friendly environment with free entry all week and ticketed events on the weekend.
- Run the Tan to raise funds for mental health charities on Sunday 21 April.
- The Valley Loves Wedding Fair is on at the Yarra Glen Racecourse on Sunday 21 April
- The Box Hill Miniature Steam Railway’s April public running day is on 21 April.
- The Broadmeadows All For Kids market is on 21 April
- The Brunswick East puppy pub crawl is on 21 April
- Enjoy a fun day out with your family, friends and special pets at Pets in the Park on Sunday 21 April at Knox Park, Knoxfield.
- Discover how to create a comfortable and sustainable home at the Eco Living Display Centre Open Day at The Briars Mount Martha on 21 April.
- I Wore It Once is a high quality, curated pre-loved fashion market in Mornington on 21 April.
- The Good Vibrations Bohemian Bulla Market is on 21 April.
- The Melbourne Collectors Market is on at the Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre on 21 April.
- Visit sustainable homes as part of Sustainable House Day on 21 April. Explore inspiring homes, and learn from the people who designed them, built them, and live in them.
- The Melbourne International Comedy Festival has something for every comedy lover with free family entertainment, world-class special events, trail-blazing solo shows and late-night fun – running until 21 April.
- Tesselaar KaBloom Festival of Flowers is returning to the Dandenong Ranges this autumn until 21 April 2024. KaBloom offers visitors the chance to roam through fields of well over three million flowers, enjoy live entertainment and be enchanted by contemporary circus performances.
- Back by popular demand after their smashing Australian debut in 2022, the world-famous Ministry of Crab team is returning for a month-long residency at the stunning Evergreen venue within Crown Melbourne. It’s running on Wednesdays to Sundays until 27 April 2024 and bookings are essential.
- Take a majestic 360-degree audio visual journey and explore iconic landscapes and connect with mesmerising animals from around the world at the BBC Earth Experience, on until 28 April.
- With over 30 live performances at 18 participating venues across Banyule, including Greensborough, Heidelberg, Montmorency and Ivanhoe, Chillin’ in Banyule 2024 until 28 April provides opportunity for an impressive line-up of local solo musicians and bands to perform.
- See more than 200 artefacts from the Titanic at the Melbourne Museum’s Titanic: The Artefacts Exhibition, running until 30 April.
- Experience the 29th annual Mayoral Art Exhibition in Ringwood until 4 May. This year’s theme is: Tangent. From realism to abstraction or traditional to contemporary (or the reverse), artists are investigating new ideas and directions.
- The Hawker 88 Night Market will return to the iconic Queen Vic Market sheds for an exclusive five-week season until 8 May showcasing traditional Asian street eats, quirky general merchandise and specially themed weekly entertainment.
- ICON – an exhibition of photos by acclaimed photographer Steve McCurry is on at Seaworks in Williamstown until 19 May.
- Cirque du Soleil is celebrating its 25th anniversary in Australia with its critically acclaimed and jaw-dropping production Luzia under the Big Top at Melbourne Showgrounds until 19 May.
- Following a successful tour in the USA and UK, it’s Melbourne’s turn get ready for the Harry Potter: Forbidden Forest adventure on the Mornington Peninsula until 19 May when The Briars Community Forest in Mount Martha will turn into a legit dark and magical forest.
- Murder, greed, corruption, exploitation, adultery, treachery… and All That Jazz… so begins the international multi-award-winning musical, Chicago. Catch it at Her Majesty’s Theatre until 26 May.
- The Science Gallery at the University of Melbourne’s exhibition – NOT NATURAL – explores our increasing ability to control nature and the plethora of possibilities and ethical dilemmas that come with that power. Running until 29 June.
- The Broadway sensation Wicked looks at what happened in the Land of Oz… but from a different angle. See it at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre until 30 June.
- Victoria’s zoos are being transformed into prehistoric playgrounds with Zoos Victoria’s new Dinos at the Zoo immersive experience providing an unforgettable journey back in time until 14 July.
- Melbourne Museum will showcase some of Victoria’s most outstanding VCE and VCE VET design and technology students when Top Designs returns for 2024. The showcase runs until 14 July.
- Celebrating culture, nostalgia, and the pursuit of happiness, the Immigration Museum’s expansive exhibition Joy features seven Victorian-based artists showcasing their interpretations of joy through immersive installations, until 29 August.
- Visited by more than 10 million people around the world and earning a spot on CNN’s “must-see” list, The Art of the Brick comes to Melbourne is running until 31 August at the Melbourne Showgrounds. This brand new, immersive version of Nathan Sawaya’s iconic LEGO art exhibit features original collections, over 100 sculptures made from more than 1 million bricks, a LEGO safari, moving installations, 360 degree projections, and much more.
