Freebies → Events Calendar
🎉 Annual calendar
Melbourne's free events calendar is arguably the best in Australia. Dates shift slightly year to year — always confirm on the City of Melbourne "What's On" calendar before going.
Australia's largest free community festival — carnival rides, the famous Birdman Rally on the Yarra, Moomba parade, live music and fireworks. South bank, Alexandra and Kings Domain gardens.
✓ Free entryAustralia's largest free music festival, held beachside at St Kilda foreshore. Multiple stages, 50+ acts, family area. Usually the first or second weekend of February.
✓ Free entryChinatown (Lonsdale Street) hosts lion dances, parades, night markets and performances. NGV programs Chinese art and culture events. The broader Moomba corridor also celebrates.
✓ Free entryMIFF runs free outdoor screenings at Federation Square each year as part of the program. Specific free events vary — check miff.com.au.
Check pricingAll-night arts and projection festival across the Melbourne CBD — light installations, live performance, food. Exact dates shift year to year.
✓ Free entryQueen Victoria Market Summer Night Market (Oct–Feb, Wednesday evenings) and Winter Night Market (Jun–Aug, Wednesday evenings). Free entry. Live music, street food, market stalls.
✓ Free entryFree commemorative service at the Shrine of Remembrance beginning before dawn. One of the largest ANZAC Day services in Australia.
✓ Free entryThe big screen at Federation Square shows the Grand Final live with a free public viewing. Expect a big crowd — arrive early for a spot.
✓ Free entryThe Melbourne Symphony Orchestra performs free outdoor summer concerts and Christmas Carols by Candlelight at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Bring a picnic.
✓ Free entryMelbourne's Greek cultural festival on Lonsdale Street. Free entry. Food, dance, music, craft and cultural activities celebrating Greek-Australian community.
✓ Free entry