What's On in Melbourne: Your Ultimate December Guide

Hello, December. 'Tis the season of festive cheer and immaculate summer vibes (we can only hope) in the lead up to the new year. 

With all that in mind, get ready to have an extra pep in your step as you explore the wonderful array of things to do in Melbourne this month. 

Melbourne is never without its fair share of seriously impressive theatre performances, live music and inspirational exhibitions. But with summer comes glorious sunshine too, so do yourself a favour and spend a morning ambling about the new Abbotsford Farmers Market, or out of town on a road trip venture. 

Without further ado, here's everything you, your family and your friends need to add to your Melbourne in December calendar. 

Wreath Making By Theo Spargo at Botanicah

Dive into the festive spirit this December by crafting your own Christmas wreaths! Kick back, relax and let your creativity bloom at the lively workshops hosted by Theo Spargo in Botanicah, Melbourne's stunning greenhouse venue. With all the materials covered, all you have to do is come in, learn the art of wreath-making, and leave with your very own masterpiece.

Whether you're eager to forge new friendships, celebrate with friends, or simply desire to pick up a new skill, this workshop caters to all. 

$120

Book here

44 Porter Street, Prahran 

A Christmas Carol 

Prepare to be festively dazzled this silly season with the smash-hit Old Vic production of Charles Dickens’ immortal classic A Christmas Carol, now playing at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre.

Conceived and directed by Matthew Warchus (Matilda the Musical) and adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), audiences will be welcomed into an immersive experience, brimming with music and merriment, featuring 12 heart-warming Christmas carols. Trust, you'll cry, you'll laugh, your heart will grow three sizes. 

Experience this powerful, joyous and uplifting production, of one man’s emotional journey from resentment to redemption. It's an unmissable theatre performance this Christmas in Melbourne. 

Until 7th January 2024

From $89.90

Book here

Comedy Theatre, Melbourne 

Visit Christmas Square 

Start your Christmas story at Melbourne’s home of Christmas, the sparkling Fed Square. 

There's nothing more Christmassy in Melbourne than a visit to its iconic 17.5 metre tree. Experience the spectacular light and sound shows and soak up the festive decorations and atmosphere, before discovering everything the city has to offer at Christmastime. 

Federation Square, Melbourne

Melbourne Town Hall Christmas Projections

Let it glow! Melbourne's famous Christmas projections are back at Melbourne Town Hall this month, with six gorgeous colourful treatments lighting up the building's iconic façade.

Don't miss the native floral wreaths, themed flower beds and the famous nutcracker soldiers standing guard as Town Hall is all wrapped up with a festive bow.

Melbourne Town Hall, 90/130 Swanston Street, Melbourne 

Christmas Decorations

Carols in the Cathedral 

The Royal Melbourne Philharmonic presents its ever-popular Carols in the Cathedral this month - and it's a magnificent celebration of Christmas. Think glorious hymns and carols and soaring descents, spine-tingling acapella moments and uplifting verses, superb soloists and majestic brass fanfares, all merrily bouncing off the walls within the awe-inspiring St Paul's Cathedral. 

A Christmas event not to be missed. 

Sitchu Tip: This usually sells out well in advance, so get your tickets early!

$35 to $87

Friday 15th December, 8.30pm

Saturday 16th December, 2.00pm & 7.00pm 

Corner of Flinders & Swanston Streets, Melbourne

State Library Christmas Projections 

Festive Fun at Queen Victoria Market

In the weekends leading up to Christmas, the Queen Vic Market is here to put on a merry display.

As you check everything off your shopping list (thanks to the market's abundance of fresh local seafood, turkey and ham, puddings and pies, and seasonal fruit and veg), and wander the open-air sheds and laneways to discover gifts galore, you'll be struck by festive serenades, cheerful elves...and even a visit or three from Santa Claus! 

Plus, the summer night market is back, for an unforgettable Wednesday night out with friends and family. Expect loads of shopping, eating, drinking, live music, and fun. Head's up, Santa will also be making a special visit to the night market that's being held on the 20th December. 

9th December to 24th December

Various dates and times, see the festive schedule here

Queen Victoria Market, Queen Street, Melbourne 

As Camp as Christmas 

If you’ve found yourself on the naughty list this year, then come and join The Huxleys for the festive frenzy of As Camp as Christmas. Returning for the second year to Fed Square, this will be a rainbow celebration to make all your wildest Christmas wishes come true.

The sparkling celebrations will commence with a screening of the spandex and glittertastic Baz Luhrmann classic, Strictly Ballroom, on the Fed Square Big Screen, followed by a live performance by the Rainbow Voices Community Choir and the Divine Divas Show Choir on the Main Stage.

The camp and spectacular will continue in The Edge, with a line-up of cabaret and comedic stars. It's sure to make your yuletide gay.

A queer fantasia of jingle belling joy, celebrating the decorative and delightful. This will be a rainbow Christmas designed to make all your wildest Christmas wishes come true.

Free event (no booking required)

Saturday 16th December, 6.00pm to 11.00pm

Federation Square, Melbourne 

Christmas River Show

A spectacular river show is awaiting you at Birrarung-Yarra River this Christmas. Head to Southbank to catch this dazzling display, featuring water fountains, lasers, light projections...and a festive soundtrack to boot. Shows run every 15 minutes each night.

Free event

Until 25th December, 9.00pm to 11.00pm

Between Evan Walker Bridge and Sandridge Bridge, Southbank

Christmas Cinema

Grab the popcorn and enjoy a series of festive films at the stunning Capitol Theatre. There's a mix of family favourites and cult classics set to light up the big screen, including The Polar Express on Saturday 9th December, The Grinch on Saturday 16th December, and The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Nutcracker and the Four Realms and The Santa Claus running over three nights from Thursday 21st to Saturday 23rd December. 

All proceeds from ticket sales will go to Make Room, a project assisting people out of homelessness.

$5 per ticket

Book here

Capitol Cinema, 113 Swanston Street, Melbourne 

Boho Luxe Market: Christmas Edition

Just in time for all your Christmas shopping, head to the always delightful Boho Luxe Market this month in Melbourne. You'll see the work of some of Melbourne's most talented jewellers, fashion designers, illustrators, artists, and makers, alongside creative workshops, psychic readings, cool tunes, great food and a friendly atmosphere. 

Free event

Sunday 10th December, 10.00am to 4.00pm

The Atrium, Federation Square

The Vegan Christmas Market

Heaps Good Festival (Image Credit: Samuel Graves)

Heaps Good

After a successful first run in Adelaide earlier this year, Heaps Good is back...and now in Melbourne for NYE.

The one-day festival is bringing Flume, Foals, Griff, Holly Humberstone, Basement Jaxx, the Avalanches, Sycco and more to Sidney Myer Music Bowl - and we couldn't be more excited! 

$189.90 per ticket

Book here

Sidney Myer Music Bowl, 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 entry

8.00am - 2.00pm

Second Saturday of every month

Visit the new Rolla's store in Brighton

Australia's breakout denim star, Rolla's Jeans has just opened a new store in Brighton, and it's the prime location for shopping up a storm. Known for modern, flattering jeans that perfectly capture the nostalgia wearing denim brings, the brand is a firm favourite among "it" girls like Sofia Richie, Bella Hadid and Phoebe Tonkin. 

It's the second Melbourne store for the label, and the Brighton location has been designed by some of the architects behind the city's best restaurants (think Marion, Cutler & Co. and Attica). Fresh, bright and feminine, it's the ultimate environment for the modern fashionable woman. 

Need some outfit inspo? We've picked out the pieces we'll be racing to buy here.

Paire Pop-Up at QV

Kris-Kringle picks and stocking fillers sorted. Melbourne-born online retailer Paire have brought their sustainable, high-tech and beloved tees, socks, PJs and more to this utterly gorgeous pop-up in QV Melbourne. Visit over the course of this summer - and be sure to reach for some festive socks or their brand new product, Lipstick Underwear; a handbag essential for on-the-go girlies. 

Need more reasons to head in-store? 

- Until December 7th, exclusive to in-store purchases over $70, customers are eligible for complimentary personalised embroidery on selected sock styles and Paire's silk knit sweater. 

- On December 9th, they're giving away 50 individual pairs of Lipstick underwear for free, with early in-store access to the underwear available from the 9th onwards. 

- December 15th to 24th - complimentary kids socks and pieces of the BreezeBlend loungewear collection will be gifted. 

- December 25th to 28th - up to 30% off site wide and in-store for Christmas and Boxing Day.

- On Valentine's Day, Paire will gift all couples shopping in store a free matching underwear set. Cute! 

Until 28th February

QV Melbourne

Sans Beast Summer Pop-Up

Shop for eco-friendly gifts right up until Christmas Eve at the Sans Beast Summer Pop-Up in Fitzroy.

Open right up until Christmas Eve, it’s set to be a fab gifting destination for some seriously beautiful (and sustainable) lifestyle and fashion brands.

There'll of course be vegan-friendly bags from Sans Beast, as well as footwear from Noskin, handmade jewellery by Maison De Femmes, and plant-based chocolate from Loco Love.

Sitchu Tip: Sans Beast will also be offering a gift-with-purchase (with any purchase over $199), exclusive to customers of the pop-up.

Wednesday December 6th to Sunday December 24th

28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy

Marshmallow Laser Feast: Works of Nature at ACMI

Marshmallow Laser Feast is a London-based collective that has taking over the ACMI with their Works of Nature exhibition. It's a full blown immersive experience, of large-scale moving image and technology designed to take us on a sensory journey - and help us to consider our place in the natural world. 

From the roots of a majestic Amazonian tree to the unseen branches of the body and the birth of galaxies, this hypnotic exhibition explores the rhythm that cultivates and connects all life – breath.

$20 per ticket

Book timed tickets here

Until 14th April 2024

Moonlight Cinema

Moonlight Cinema is back and ready for you to bask under the light of its screen and a sea of stars above, on the idyllic lawn at  Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens. 

Screening the latest blockbusters, kids' films, Christmas classics and nostalgic flicks, check out the schedule here. We're excited to see the likes of Asteroid City, Barbie, Die Hard, Elf, Home Alone, The Mighty Ducks, and the new Priscilla, starring Australia's own Jacob Elordi, up on the big screen. 

Pack a picnic and get ready for a charmed and relaxed evening out this month in Melbourne. 

$22

Book here

Central Lawn, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne

Sofar Sounds: Live at Errol Street

Global music community Sofar Sounds has two intimate gigs in two unique spaces left for you to check out over its month-long celebration of North and West Melbourne. The first will be held at hair salon, Madison's World, while the second is a free event, held at North Melbourne Library. 

You'll also have a chance to discover the North and West Melbourne community with an array of happy hour specials, late-night shopping and unique experiences from local businesses. 

Thursday 7th ($30) & Thursday 14th December (free event), from 6.30pm onwards

Book tickets here

LUME Melbourne - CONNECTION

The LUME's current exhibition is another activity set to light up your summer calendar, with breathtaking stories being told through First Nations art and music. Connection was born from an idea to celebrate First Peoples' art and music and give back to their artist communities. Within the brushstrokes and melodies of their art and music, this landmark experience tells the story of our country’s rich and enduring cultural history.

Perhaps most impressively, over 110 visual and musical artists have converged for this striking digital art experience, coalescing into the most expansive tapestry of First Peoples' art ever assembled!

Monopoly Dreams 

One for the whole family or a group of friends, this is a fully immersive and interactive Monopoly experience, featuring games, challenges and even a chance to win Monopoly Money! A whole Monopoly city for you to enjoy awaits...but first, take a tour through Mr. Monopoly's luxurious mansion. Multi-sensory and magical, it's an all-age delight you need to see to believe!

General admission $38 per person

Buy tickets here

Lower Ground Floor, Melbourne Central, 290 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

Miss Saigon

Cameron Mackintosh's acclaimed new production of award-winning musical Miss Saigon is setting the stage alight at Her Majesty's Theatre this month. From the creators of Les Misérables, the score includes hits "The Heat is On in Saigon", "The Movie in My Mind", "Last Night of the World" and "The American Dream".

It truly is one of the most stunning theatrical experiences of our time, an epic love story of passion and tragedy that will leave you enchanted long after exiting the theatre. 

Buy tickets here

219 Exhibition Street, Melbourne 

Always Live

After a stellar debut season, Always Live has unveiled a first look at their epic 2023 lineup. Think stadium shows, one-off gigs and intimate performances that's bringing in an array of top-tier international artists along with the finest talent from all around Australia. 

Highlights include END OF THE LINE, where you tap on and join the party to get to the beloved and returning Sandy Festival. Presented in partnership with Metro Trains, it will bring the streets of Sandringham to life for a free, family-friendly day to remember, with live performances by Clare Bowditch, Blanco Tranco, Pirritu and Sophia J Smith. 

Reggae legends and rising stars from Victoria and around the world will come together for The Jamaican Music & Food Festival, while highly celebrated, ARIA-nominated, award-winning Indigenous singer and songwriter Emma Donovan will captivate at Brunswick Ballroom. 

There's even the beloved LGBTQIA+ outdoor music festival, Summer Camp; get set for a day of live performances, DJs, drag and lots of dancing, with Jessie Ware and DJ Trixie Mattel some of the major talent lighting up the stage. 

See the program here

Until Sunday 10th December

Multiple locations around the city

Rain Room

by popular demand, Rain Room has returned for its third season at the Jackalope Pavilion in St Kilda. This is the only location in the Southern Hemisphere where art lovers can experience this immersive, rain-fuelled experience. 

It's one of the world's most famous contemporary works, a 100 square metre expanse of continuous rainfall that allows visitors to take centre stage is a mesmerising of art, technology and nature. 

The downpour responds to your presence and movement - how cool is that? Both strikingly beautiful and sensual, this is one exhibition you don't want to miss this month in Melbourne. But be quick, tickets sell like hotcakes! 

$29 general admission

Until January 2024

Book here

Jackalope Pavilion, Corner of Acland and Jackson Streets, St Kilda 

See a large-scale mural of Australian natives from above

What was once a former BMW site in Southbank (and what will soon be home to the awe-inspiring future STH BNK by Beulah project) has bloomed into a biophilic oasis thanks to Melbourne-based artist, George Rose. She has transformed a sprawling rooftop into a large-scale mural of Australia natives - and its unique hidden display is set to surprise and delight residents, office workers and visitors in the surrounding towers, as it is only visible from above. A vibrant botanic work of bright and surreal colours including greens, purple and pinks, it celebrates a variety of Australian natives including Kangaroo Apple, Royal Bluebell, Beach Pea, Grevillea, Spider Orchid, and the Bush Pea. If you have a chance to see it, this is a gorgeous experience to have on your Melbourne in November to-do list. 

If you know you know, Southbank

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

Pop the champagne bohemians, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is making a spectacular returns to Melbourne this month. After stellar reviews and a sold-out premiere season, it's time again to enter a world of splendour and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur and glory. A world where bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment.

Winner of 10 Tony awards, Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in this musical mash-up extravaganza featuring over 70 songs including many of the iconic hits from the movie, as well as additions from Adele, Katy Perry, Sia, Beyoncé, Rihanna and more.

It's a theatrical celebration of truth, beauty, freedom, and above all - love! Don't miss it. 

Until February 2024

Book tickets here

Regent Theatre, 191 Collins Street, Melbourne

Honey Bones Arts Club

An open space for the community to explore art-making, expression and self-inquiry, the Honey Bones Art Club is one of our top picks of things to do in Melbourne this month. These group art sessions are held every Saturday morning, hosted by Honey Bones Gallery and Arts Therapist, Donika Fazliu. You're invited to explore a prompt/theme, like a self-portrait, with no set instructions as to how to interpret the theme. From there it's a 2 hour art-making class, that allows individuals to fully immerse in the interpretation and expression of the prompt.

After each piece has been crafted, artworks are displayed and conversations are initiated around the art-making process, people's individual experiences and what has been gained through the experience. It's a prime time for self-reflection and the simple pleasure of putting paint to paper. 

An inclusive space, all are welcome to participate, regardless of artistic skill. 

$10

Book here

46 Trafford Street, Brunswick

Marameo & Chill

From 1st November, CBD pasta palace Marameo and Adam D’Sylva’s BOCA gelato are coming together for Marameo & Chill, bringing a sundae kind of love to Melbourne with a wild series of limited-time-only ice cream creations, frozen cocktails and big spoon servings all around. 

What to look forward to? Why an Italian spin on the classic Maxibon, fudge-laden sundaes and Marameo's own take on a sgroppino. Hello, limonCHILLo!

This is the pop-up that will really get the summer vibes flowing and the party started. 

Book here

6 Russell Place, Melbourne

Little Lon Distilling x Hilton 'Sippin' Into Summer' Bottomless Brunch

Sip your way into summer with a new bottomless experience from Little Lon Distilling and Doubletree by Hilton. 

Sippin' into Summer is a two-hour dining experience where you'll get to enjoy specially curated cocktails from Little Lon Distilling Co., while sharing in a feast from Platform270. The coconut margarita is a must! 

Available for the entirety of summer, this is a new bottomless experience you need to check out this month in Melbourne. 

$79 per person

Until February 29th, with bookings available between 6.00pm to 10.00pm

Call the team at +61 3 9918 0404 or email melfs_fb@hilton.com to book

270 Flinders Street, Melbourne 

One Night Only Dinner Aboard Virgin Voyages' Resilient Lady

Before setting sail for her Aussie MerMaiden Voyage, Resilient Lady will open her gangway to the public for one night only in Melbourne. 

Get a taste of Virgin Voyages' award-winning onboard experience. The night kicks off with a multi-course, Michelin-inspired culinary experience at either Pink Agave, The Wake, Razzle Dazzle, Gunbae, Extra Virgin or Test Kitchen and live shows throughout, before attendees paint the town red during Virgin Voyages’ signature Scarlet Night. 

Melburnians are invited to this thrilling pop-up, with all proceeds benefiting Citizens of The Great Barrier Reef. Tickets are limited, so get in quick. 

$99 per person

Book here

Sunday 10th December

Station Pier, Port Melbourne 

There's a New Head Chef & Delicious New Spring Menu at Hazel to Try 

Aleksis Kalnins has hopped aboard as new Head Chef at Hazel in the city, having previously spent four years at Head Chef at Matilda 159 in South Yarra. His thoughtful take on Hazel's vision is a must-try dining experience this month in Melbourne.

Fall in love with their oysters with nasturtium, housemade charcuterie, beef tartare, and the aged cheddar with brioche, which is melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The wood roasted pork belly, with charred leek and wild garlic is vibrant and comforting, best paired with the lemony kipfler potatoes and simple farm leaf and radish salad.

Whether you're looking for a delicious new wine or well-made cocktail, Hazel also has you covered, with tantalising options that range from a lush orange pour to a strawberry Negroni. 

Plus, if you want the decision making taken care of, the new Chef's Spring Lunch menu or Shared Chef's Menu are the perfect fit. 

Located in the historic Richard Allen Building in Melbourne, Hazel brings together timeless values, relaxed service & understated style. It's a place where thoughtful cooking, nourishing food, and sustainable practices come together to deftly craft your next unforgettable lunch or dinner date. 

Chef's Menu to share, $90 per person

Chef's Spring Lunch Menu, $65 per person

Book here

164 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Richmond's Longest Saturday Lunch: New Quarter's 'Non-Stop Nooods'

Buzzy Richmond favourite, New Quarter, will be keeping the noodles coming this summer by embracing the long lunch. 'Non-Stop Nooods' will see this Neo-Vietnamese restaurant serving up a tantalising array of different noodle options to lunchtime diners, paired with add-on 'forever' Makrut lime margaritas, perfect for weekend feasting. 

Guests will be able to kick things off with a choice of two snacks picked from a selection of New Quarter favourites; think hot and sour Pacific oysters and banh mi fingers with whipped chicken liver pate and chicken skin; then choose from a delectable array of noodle flavours that you can swap between each time you visit. 

Summer Ready: Rooftop at QT Reopens

QT Melbourne's iconic rooftop, Rooftop at QT is going to be officially opening this month - and we couldn't be more excited for it! Expect bold new cocktails from a reinvigorated drink program, a newly inspired Mediterranean menu perfect for sky bound summer hangouts, and vibrant interiors featuring private booths and a private lounge, as well as an outdoor bar, all blended with modern design and bespoke art.

From low-key Sunday sessions to unfettered Friday nights, every hour is happy and any time is right. High-noon calls for lunchtime libations, served with market-fresh morsels, and when the sun dips low, it’s grazing hour. Think wood-fired flatbread and fritto misto met with matching creative cocktails. Late-night DJ sets are ready to have you grooving well into the night too! 

QT Melbourne, 11/133 Russell Street, Melbourne 

Try the new 'Fiesta de Primavera' menu at Lona Misa 

Another spot we can't wait to dine in this month in Melbourne. With World Vegetarian Month in progress, Shannon Martinez's Lona Misa is shaking things up with the launch of a new 'Fiesta de Primavera' menu. 

The gorgeously vibrant series of dishes will be available throughout spring and summer months, so there's plenty of time for veggie enthusiasts or those considering a meatless meal or two to head in.

Alongside this, Ovolo continues to ignite culinary curiosity with its Greatest Hits menu  – filled with the most popular plant-based dishes from its venues across the country.

Book here

Ovolo Hotel, 234 Toorak Road, South Yarra

Mud Crabs: Live At Spice Temple 

In the best news, delicious Muddies are in season and at their prime - and Spice Temple's serving up the goods! The much-loved regional Chinese restaurant while they're at their seasonal best; luxurious and irresistibly sweet! Their show-stopping Mud Crab dishes are $99 each until the end of December, which is great value and incentive for you to get hands-on with these impressive crustaceans as the summer and festive dining periods get underway.

Get banquet-style dining with friends and family this month, with the mud crab the hero dish. It's cooked to order and doused in delicious authentic sauces, from the heat kick of the four chillies blend to the punchy salted olive and black bean, as well as a vibrant and aromatic ginger and shallot sauce and a rich and flavourful XO style. 

Seafood dining in general is well and truly in season, and as Spice Temple dives deeper into crab season, the menu will evolve to include Blue Swimmer Crabs and Snow Crabs, each bringing unique flavours to the table. The restaurant's live seafood tanks are replenished frequently with other fresh seafood too, including lobsters and pipis. Delicious!

$99 per Mud Crab dish

Book here

Until Sunday 31st December

8 Whiteman Street, Southbank

Pay a Visit to Heide Museum of Modern Art & Heide Kitchen 

The Mulberry Group's (Hazel, Dessous) latest breakfast and lunch dining destination can be found at the Heide Museum of Modern Art in Bulleen. Launched late last year, Heide Kitchen's fare is simple but elegantly executed, and features produce grown from Heide's two kitchen gardens, as well Common Ground Project. It's been breathing new life into the former Heide Cafe space, with visitors eager to taste this garden-to-table philosophy inspired by Heide's sustainably minded founders, Sunday Reed and John Reed. 

Sitchu Tip: Grab a takeaway coffee from the coffee cart and purchase a picnic basket, so you can relax within the surrounding gardens and sculpture park.  

Open Tuesday through Sunday, 10.00am - 4.00pm

7 Templestowe Road, Bulleen

T'Gallant Vineyard. Image credit: Kate Shanassy

Book in a Lunch at Newly Refurbished T'Gallant Vineyard

Mornington Peninsula's beloved T'Gallant Vineyard has reopened its doors after a year-long hiatus, with an impressive refurbishment led by renowned interior design agency Bergman & Co. Now with a new rustic Tuscan design and a refreshed menu that takes guests on a culinary journey through Italy, T'Gallant Vineyard is now the primo spot to journey to for a delicious weekend lunch this winter. Step inside the spacious cellar door for a wine tasting before settling into one of the three relaxing dining spaces, or the expansive (and barrel-filled) outdoor area overlooking their original (and pioneering) Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris vines. It's suitable for all, from travelling couples and solo wine enthusiasts, right through to family outings or larger groups of friends.

On the menu: The restaurant's famous wood fire rectangle pizzas remain, in addition to a new selection of small plates, mains, and desserts, as well as a variety of gluten-free options and kid-friendly dishes.

1385 Mornington-Flinders Road, Main Ridge

Molly Rose Chef's Table

Molly Rose is the charming, cosy craft beer brewery, bar and elevated restaurant in Collingwood that locals can't stop talking about. Following its recent expansion (which is absolutely gorgeous), Molly Rose has launched a 5-course Chef's Table that's an excellent introduction to the world of craft beer. Perch yourself at the bar and sit back as Ittichai Ngamtrairai, Molly Rose’s Head Chef, guides you through an inventive menu where ultra-fresh produce, seafood and lamb are topped with preserves infused with Molly Rose beer. Think pork crackling paired with a Lemon Farmhouse Ale, cuttlefish with a citrusy pale ale and banana stout bread paired with a Dark Mild Ale. True to any experience at Molly Rose, warm, welcoming service reigns supreme — and even the biggest of beer sceptics will walk away having tried (and likely loved) something new.

$95 pp for 5-course meal

$55 pp for matching beers

Neighbourhood Nights at WAYGOOD

Later this month, Richmond wine bar WAYGOOD will launch Neighbourhood Nights, set to warm up Tuesdays throughout winter. On the menu: a weekly-changing vegetarian banquet that nods to newly-appointed Head Chef Brad Cunningham’s time helming Ottolenghi in London.

Priced at just $39 per person, it's impeccable bang for your buck. The premier menu will see patrons happily nibbling on small bites like za'atar spiced pita chips, olives and house pickles upon arrival, before moving onto dishes like green falafel and yoghurt and coriander flatbreads with fermented capsicum and chilli sumac sauce; beetroot hummus; whole roasted cauliflower with burnt honey and preserved lemon; and crispy sprouts with tahini maple dressing. 

Drinks will be kept local and at neighbourly prices, kicking off with $10 glasses of 2022 Konpira Maru Rosé.

From 20th June

Every Tuesday, $39 per person

213 Swan Street, Richmond

Experience Society Dining Room's new lunch offer - and dessert trolley of dreams!

Society Dining Room is introducing the dessert trolley of our dreams plus a fantastically approachable lunch offer, meaning you can eat out in style without breaking the bank.

Called The Society Social, it aims to surpass the traditional boundaries of European-style fine dining. It spans an expansive array of dishes and desserts curated to allow guests to lean into a long lunch or more express offering. 

Guests start with a selection of fresh crudité selected daily by local farms and artisanal house made bread and butter, followed by a selection of snacks from the cult lounge menu. The main course is a classically Society affair, with options like delicate Murray Cod served with sugarloaf cabbage and beurre blanc.

No dining experience is complete without dessert, and The Society Social dessert cart is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Layered with almost-too-beautiful-to-eat cakes, pastries and tarts displayed across two levels, alongside a tower of freshly whipped Chantilly cream and fresh berries, guests can choose from the large array of desserts to prepare their own plate from the trolley. It's all served up by white-gloved waiters tableside. Magic!

$77 per person for main and dessert, or $99 per per person for entrée, main and dessert

Available Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 12.00pm

80 Collins Street, Melbourne

Late Nights at Yugen

Every Friday and Saturday night, Yugen Dining is set to presents Late Nights at Yugen. Guests can enjoy tunes all night long from some of Melbourne’s finest DJs with a March line-up that includes Lucas James, Edd Fischer, Kelvin Dana, Sam Roney, Deane Barnes, Leah Marie, Greg Sara and more. Take a seat at the bar and sip on one of Yugen’s signature cocktails, like the Ume Negroni and indulge in the late night supper menu, featuring an array of snacks to satiate all your nighttime cravings. Think Pacific oysters with ginger and yuzu, barbecue char siu pork steamed buns, and grilled prawns in potato rolls with Sichuan yuzu mayonnaise and herbs. 

Whether you are capping the night off or just getting started, Late Nights At Yugen will have you kicking off the weekend in style.

Book here. Walk-ins always welcome

605 Chapel Street, South Yarra 

WET Poolside Pilates at W Melbourne

This month in Melbourne, join in on an intimate and fun 50-minute mat Pilates class designed to strengthen your core and focus on alignment, all while immersed in the ambience of W Melbourne's signature WET deck and its stunning city views. 

Guided by Natalie Idrizovic – founder and owner of Studio Alia Pilates in Port Melbourne, the class will work your body through different planes of movement, delivering a high-energy, full-body sculpting workout suitable for individuals of all fitness levels. The unique gold roof above will mirror your posture back to you, and will help you to realign as you go through each step of the routine. 

Each session includes access to the class, steam room and access to the beautiful pool for a post-session dip. Towels, change rooms and lockers are also available.

Classes start from $30 per person

Every Tuesday morning, until 31st December 

Find out more here

408 Flinders Lane, Melbourne 

Yoga at THE LUME

Yoga at THE LUME is back, the only 360-degree, multi-sensory yoga experience in Melbourne to find your inner peace and tranquility. Stretch your limbs and realign your mind, body, and spirit while surrounded by new, never-before-seen themes, including Oceanic Dive, Tranquil Rainforests and the awe-inspiring Magnificent Himalayas. Each week features a fresh, mesmerising theme, all designed to immerse yogis into a calming and tranquil setting, along with beautiful matching soundtracks and THE LUME Melbourne’s signature perfume to ignite every single sense. Book in advance.

Tickets $39

Various dates, click here to book

THE LUME at The Convention Centre, South Wharf

Chandon Garden Spritz Picnics

Nothing says summer like a glass of Chandon Garden Spritz, a punchy little blend of sparkling wine and handcrafted orange bitters. We can’t think of many ways to better enjoy it than with a picnic at Domaine Chandon itself, overlooking the vines and indulging in some of the most delicious produce going around.  

The picnic basket is perfectly curated, filled with a range of locally-sourced and house-made delicacies and paired with ready-to-serve, ready to share Garden Spritz. 

If you’re settling in (easy to do!) rest assured additional Garden Spritz can be purchased by the glass and bottle. So, sit back, relax and welcome the new year with the quintessential drink of summer. 

$65 per person

Book here

727 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream

Cherry Picking at Blue Hill Berries & Cherries

A wholesome day out in 3, 2, 1...

Pick your own cherries and purchase fresh berries and cherries from the Farm Gate at Blue Hills Berries & Cherries. Perfect for families, friends or even as a cute solo weekend date, they offer customers a unique 'pick your own' experience at two separate locations, right around the corner from each other. 

To note: Cherry picking will not be available between the 24th to 1st December while they wait for the next variety to ripen up. But this cherry season is looking good - and there should be heaps for U-Pick in December. 

$15 per person, $7.50 per child aged 5 to 14

Book here

30 Chapman Road, Silvan

27 Parker Road, Silvan

Catch a Flick at Tokar Estate's Outdoor Cinema 

For the first time ever, Tokar Estate Winery will host an outdoor movie program every Friday and Saturday night throughout December in the Yarra Valley.

The family-friendly event has everything you need for a magical evening under the stars, with a gourmet food truck, drinks including estate-grown wines, watermelon Frose’, cocktails and local beers. There's even a candy bar for classic choc tops and cinema snacks!

All you need to do is kick back on your picnic rug, and let us whisk you away to Hollywood.

The program has all the blockbusters that moviegoers love, with high-octane flicks like The Flash and Top Gun: Maverick to girls night out features such as Barbie and No Hard Feelings, and comedies including Home Alone 2.

The week before Christmas is all about family, so come and enjoy an evening with the little ones – there will be lawn games for kids, a candy bar, and Christmas classics like the Polar Express and Elf to round off the Christmas countdown.

But the best part about it, really, are the magical views of the vines...and the sunsets, oh the sunsets. An idyllic escape into nature and just under an hour outside Melbourne, this is a fantastic activity to do with friends or family in December. 

$22 per adult ticket, $15 per children aged 5 to 14, $55 per family ticket; free for children under 5

Book here

Every Friday & Saturday night in December

Gates open at 6.30pm, screening commences at 9.00pm

6 Maddens Lane, Coldstream

Looking for more fun things to do in Melbourne this summer? 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.