What’s On in Melbourne: Your Ultimate Guide for May & Beyond

As the final month of autumn graces Melbourne, the city wears its golden hues with a soft, lingering charm. The crisp air and amber leaves set the perfect stage for long afternoons sipping wine in cosy courtyards, evening strolls through art-filled laneways, and a season brimming with live music, cultural festivals, dining experiences, and theatre performances.

Melbourne’s energy remains vibrant, but with a deeper, more refined rhythm—golden-hour drinks, regional experiences, and the tantalising early whispers of truffle season. Embrace the city’s autumnal splendour—here are our top picks for the month ahead in Melbourne.

What’s On in Melbourne This Month: Play

Immerse Yourself in Art, Design, and the Culinary Arts with Jackalope Weekend 

Jackalope is throwing open the doors to a weekend of sensory indulgence on the Mornington Peninsula. Jackalope Weekend celebrates the hotel’s surreal spirit through a curated program of art, design, and culinary experiences. Expect whisky masterclasses with Starward, a high-concept omakase dining collaboration with Melbourne favourite Yugen, and playful pop-ups with ALT Pasta Bar—think spanner crab and squid ink linguine.

A standout feature? The roving Jackalope cocktail cart—a mobile bar-on-wheels delivering theatrics and bespoke cocktails inspired by the weekend’s creative pillars. Appearing throughout the property each day, it brings a sense of wonder to cocktail hour.

Timed with the annual Jackalope Day in Douglas, Wyoming, Jackalope Weekend is an immersive celebration of the mythical creature and the hotel’s bold, otherworldly spirit. Think whisky by the bonfire, roving cocktail trolleys, rich storytelling, and the legendary Jackalope Pie—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Mornington Peninsula. With exclusive access to art talks, daily cocktail hour, and a luxe three-night stay, this is the ultimate winter escape for culture lovers and culinary adventurers alike. Spots are limited—run, don’t walk.

The Jackalope Weekend is available as an all-inclusive three-night package, with bookings to launch from May 13th

13th to 15th June, 2025

Book here

166 Balnarring Road, Merricks North 

Women in Leadership Luncheon with Tess Brouwer

Join the incredible Tess Brouwer, CEO and renowned speaker, at Marnong Estate’s Women in Leadership Luncheon for an unforgettable experience this June. From leading partnerships at Virgin Australia to triumphing over a life-changing spinal cord injury, Tess turned adversity into empowerment, co-founding Awake Academy with Layne Beachley AO.

Prepare to be inspired by her powerful story of resilience, gain valuable insights, and discover science-backed strategies to redefine success and wellbeing in your own life. Enjoy a vibrant afternoon with welcome drinks, canapés, a delectable two-course lunch, and carefully curated wines—an event you won’t want to miss!

$165

Thursday 5th June, 11:30am to 3:30pm

Book here

Marnong Estate, 2335 Mickleham Road, Mickleham

Winter Night Market at QVM

Melbourne’s favourite winter ritual returns – and it’s bringing the heat. Every Wednesday from June through August, Queen Victoria Market transforms into a fire-lit feast of flavour, music and market magic. Think sizzling street food, warming drinks, roaring open fires, and roving performers across 13 weeks of wintery revelry.

Whether you’re hunting down mulled wine or handmade treasures, this mid-week escape is your invitation to embrace the chill and bask in Melbourne’s most iconic after-dark experience.

Every Wednesday, from 4th June to 27th August

Queen Victoria Market

The Long Walk

Melbourne’s annual The Long Walk is back for another powerful year, uniting thousands in a show of solidarity, reflection, and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights. Inspired by AFL legend Michael Long’s historic 2004 walk to Canberra, the event continues to be a poignant reminder of the importance of reconciliation and the ongoing journey toward equality. With live music, cultural performances, and a walk to the MCG ahead of the Dreamtime at the ‘G match, it’s more than just a community gathering—it’s a movement of hope, awareness, and action.

Friday 23rd May

Birrarung Marr, Melbourne

Upstate Elsternwick: The Ultimate Fitness Destination this Month in Melbourne

Get ready, South Siders—Upstate Elsternwick is here to take your fitness game to the next level! This brand-new space boasts two Reformer Pilates studios, a dynamic Boxing room, Hot Pilates, Yoga, and even Sound Bath Meditation for the ultimate high-vibe workout experience. To celebrate its grand opening, Upstate Elsternwick is offering free classes the weekend of May 3rd and 4th, plus exclusive membership deals, prizes, and a chance to win a 3-Month Unlimited Membership.

Whether you’re a fitness newbie or a seasoned pro, this place has everything you need to sweat it out, feel great, and get stronger every day. Mark your calendars and get ready to crush it at Melbourne’s hottest new fitness hub!

590-596 Glen Huntly Road, Elsternwick

The Lord of the Rings: A Musical Tale

Lord of the Rings fans and newcomers alike will be swept up in the shiny production of Lord of the Rings: A Musical Tale. Held at the Perth Theatre, this critically acclaimed live stage production brings J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic story to life in a way you’ve never seen before. With captivating performances, stunning visuals, and an unforgettable score, Lord of the Rings: A Musical Tale immerses audiences in Middle-earth like never before.

Secure tickets here

Until 8th June

Comedy Theatre, Melbourne

Beetlejuice the Musical

Beetlejuice the Musical is opening in Melbourne this May! Based off the cult-favourite Tim Burton film, the story of Beetlejuice follows a peculiar teenager whose life changes forever when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. With a stellar cast, incredible set design and a remarkable story about life, death, and everything in between, Beetlejuice the Musical promises a night of chaotic fun and heartfelt moments. Known for its witty humor, dazzling visuals, and catchy songs, this Broadway hit is sure to enchant Melbourne audiences. Don’t miss your chance to experience the strange and unusual when it hits the stage this May!

Secure tickets here

Opens 7th May

Regent Theatre, Melbourne

YIRRAMBOI Festival 2025: A Ten-Day Celebration of First Nations Culture and Artistic Power

From May 1st to 11th, Melbourne’s arts precinct will come alive with the electrifying YIRRAMBOI Festival, a transformative celebration of First Nations creativity, identity, and unity. Spanning ten days and taking centre stage at Malthouse Theatre and Chunky Move, this year’s festival pushes boundaries, exploring themes of Legacy, Joy, Reclamation, and Akin through groundbreaking performances, art installations, and world premieres. Expect an unforgettable mix of theatre, music, dance, and radical storytelling—highlighting works like Cut the Sky, BLAKOUT 2.0, and the world premiere of Three Blak Ravers.

A standout event, the Uncle Archie Roach Block Party on Saturday May 10th, will honour the legacy of Uncle Archie and Aunty Ruby Hunter with performances from over 40 First Nations artists, including headliners KANINNA and Snotty Nose Rez Kids, along with celebrated acts like Kutcha Edwards, Jem Cassar-Daley, and the fiery Sam V. With performances that shatter convention and honour heritage, YIRRAMBOI is not to be missed this month in Melbourne.

Join the celebration and witness the power of art to ignite change.

May 1st to 11th, 2025

Titanic A Voyage Through Time

It may have sunk to the bottom of the North Atlantic Ocean, but for a limited time, you can step inside the Titanic in A Voyage Through Time. This isn’t any ordinary exhibition—it’s an immersive VR experience that’ll trick you into believing you’re cruising the seas with Rose and Jack. From it’s grand departure to its tragic gate, you’ll walk the decks and the luxurious halls just like the original passengers in 1912. After the Titanic sinks, you’ll be able to descend the 4000 metres beneath the ocean’s surface 9—from the safety and comfort of your VR headset, of course—and explore the shipwreck in a way that’s reminiscent of a deep-sea scuba dive. This experience isn’t only a feast for the eyes, it’s an emotionally moving retelling that’ll leave you in awe.

Book here

3rd April until 29th June

Level 1, 206 Bourke Street, Melbourne

The Outsiders Melbourne

Melbourne’s street art scene just got a serious glow-up with The Outsiders Melbourne, a world-first exhibition showcasing over 100 iconic works from Australia’s largest street art collection. Running from 12 December until late May, it brings together local legends like Rone, Adnate, and Sofles alongside global icons Banksy, Shepard Fairey, and Invader. Expect a whole room dedicated to Banksy, never-before-seen works, and intimate artist panels. Curated by street art champions Sandra Powell and Andrew King, this free exhibition is a must-see for art lovers and street art fans alike.

Free entry

Until 25th May

167 Flinders Lane, corner of Hosier Lane, Melbourne

Cats & Dogs Exhibition at NGV

A pawfect exhibition the whole family can attend this month, Cats & Dogs explores the cultural, historical and artistic impact of our beloved cats and dogs over time and across different cultures. The exhibition features over 250 works, with pieces by artists such as Rembrandt and Pierre Bonnard to Atong Atem, Alison Lester and Jeff Koons. 

Fun, accessible and perfect for all ages, this exhibition is guaranteed to give you the warm and fuzzies.

Until 20th July

180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Now.Here.This

Have you heard? Now.Here.This has been six years in the making – and it’s all about nurturing our city’s rich and dynamic local music community, in particular its vibrant jazz scene. Each week at The Toff in Town, the Now.Here.This All-Star Band will jam it out alongside a fantastic array of guest singers and musicians.

Get set to hit the dance floor as it shimmers to the sound of live improvised jazz, as projections illuminate the walls, and as music fills the air. It’s about to get a little wild, Melbourne. Will you be there to get in on the spirit? 

Free event, book a table here

Every Tuesday, 9pm to 5am; DJs from 9pm, live jazz from 11:30pm

The Toff, 2F/252 Swanston Street, Melbourne

What’s On in Melbourne This Month: Eat & Drink

Donut Festival at QVM

Donut enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The much-loved Melbourne Donut Festival is back at Queen Victoria Market this month, serving up a weekend of sugary bliss, playful entertainment, and doughnut-fuelled fun. This year’s festival is set to be bigger, dough-ier, and more delicious than ever, with a mix of returning favourites and exciting new traders guaranteed to leave you glazed and amazed.

New to the line-up this year:

Walker’s Doughnuts – A true Melbourne classic, Walker’s delivers nostalgia and comfort with every bite. Think golden cinnamon rings and classic glazed done right.

Crème Brûlée Donuts – This is not your average donut. Each one is flame-brûléed on the spot, delivering that perfect crackly top with a creamy, dreamy filling inside.

(And there’s more where that came from!)

Free entry, 9am to 4pm

Saturday 31st May and Sunday 1st June, 2025

Queen Victoria Market, C & D Sheds

Rocky Road Festival

Prepare to be rocked for the entire month of May at Yarra Glen’s annual Rocky Road Festival. The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie’s Rocky Road Festival is serving up 31 handcrafted flavours—from Nutella Crispy Waffle to Biscoff Honeycomb Crunch. Think tastings, DIY rocky road blocks, and a three-metre cabinet of pure delight. Sweet tooths, this is your moment—don’t miss the ultimate chocoholic day trip.

Entire month of May

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, 35 Old Healesville Road, Yarra Glen

Coravin World Wine Tour at Clover

There are few foodie moments sadder than craving a glass of wine from a restaurant’s list—only to find it’s not available by the glass, and none of your friends want to split a bottle. Thankfully, that’s not the case this May, thanks to the Coravin World Wine Tour.

For the entire month, top venues around the world will be pouring every single wine on their extensive lists by the glass. Five venues in Australia are taking part, and for lucky Melbourne, that means a stop at the beloved Clover Wine Bar.

Until May 31st

193 Swan Street, Richmond

Market Brunch at Younghusband

Melbourne Farmers’ Markets has launched Market Brunch, a wholesome monthly gathering of talented food makers. Head to Younghusband in Kensington for a perfect Sunday wandering through stalls, sampling artisan goods, and picking up your favourite treats to take home. Grounded in the spirit of a traditional farmers’ market, it’s the ideal outing to share thoughtfully crafted food with friends or family. Each event features around 15 stallholders, including Adam’s Pies, Bill’s Bakeshop, Masses Bagels, and Long Paddock, plus Show & Tell sessions where makers share stories, techniques, and passion.

4th May and 1st June, 10am to 2pm

2/50 Elizabeth Street, Kensington

Porchetta Saturdays at Bottega

Porchetta Saturdays is Bottega’s brand new Saturday lunch offering, and diners are in for an absolute treat. Launching on the 3rd of May, for $45, you’ll be able to indulge in the rich flavours of Cape Otway free-range porchetta, cavolo nero and bio-farmed carrot purée. Alternatively, you can hand over an extra $20 for the full experience, a three-course lunch featuring divine flavours including Wagyu Carpaccio, Bottega’s signature Porchetta and Gianduja tiramisu to end your meal on a sweet note. It’s the ultimate weekend treat!

Saturdays, from 3rd May

Book here

Treat Your Mum to a Mother’s Day High Tea

Mother’s Day has crept up on us once again! And what better way to treat the most important woman in your life than by taking her out for a day filled with bubbles, ribbon sandwiches, scones and miniature desserts? Melbourne is teeming with luxurious high teas to mark the occasion, including the indulgent Dorsett Melbourne’s  Mum, Me & High Tea and a stunning high tea at the Royal Exhibition Building.

For a full list of Mother’s Day lunch and high tea ideas, be sure to check out our guide.

Pint of Origin

Get ready to embark on a globetrotting beer adventure with Pint of Origin! This May, Melbourne is set to transform into a haven for beer lovers, with 23 venues each showcasing regional and international brews. Explore over 800 unique beers, many exclusive to the festival, as you sip your way through themed tap takeovers, beer cocktails, bar crawls, and foodie experiences. Whether you’re a local or a traveller, the Pint of Origin digital passport adds an exciting twist, offering rewards and prizes as you discover Melbourne’s best pubs and breweries.

It’s the ultimate beer festival you can’t miss!

May 9th to 18th

Multiple bars and breweries around the city

La Dolce Vita at Tippy-Tay

Transport yourself to the heart of Italy for an unforgettable evening at Tippy-Tay, Garden State Hotel’s Italian-inspired gem. On Thursday, 8th May, indulge in a four-course shared feast featuring irresistible dishes like cacio e pepe bucatini served from a glorious cheese wheel, accompanied by three Aperol cocktails to kick things off. Enhance the experience with wine pairings or an Aperol Fountain, all set to the tunes of a roaming accordion. Cap it all off with a pistachio and raspberry tiramisu—deliziosa! It’s the perfect way to treat yourself to la dolce vita—good food, great drinks, and the best of Italian charm. Buon appetito!

Thursday 8th May, sittings at 6:00pm, 6:15pm, 6:30pm, and 6:45pm

$145 per person (includes three Aperol cocktails and a four-course Feed Me menu; wine pairing an extra $45 per person, or Aperol fountain 500ml for $80 / 1 litre for $155)

Garden State Hotel, 101 Flinders Lane, Melbourne 

First Look: Fondue Chalet Brings the French Alps to Fed Square

Melbourne got a taste of winter magic last week as Fondue Chalet unveiled its cosy French alpine dining experience with a one-day pop-up at Fed Square—complete with free fondue tastings that had crowds queuing for a taste of what’s to come. Now, from 15th May to 22nd June, Fondue Chalet will transform Fed Square into a snow-kissed Alpine escape, featuring 18 private timber chalets nestled among twinkling lights and pine trees.

Guests can indulge in gooey cheese fondue, warming mulled wine, and a menu designed to melt hearts. Perfect for groups of six or eight, it’s an unforgettable setting for winter nights, special occasions, or just a cheeky fondue fix. Step inside, slow down, and savour the French Alps—no passport required.

Book your cosy Fondue Chalet experience here.

15th May to 22nd June, 2025

Fed Square, Melbourne CBD

Sip, Savour & Learn: The Torbreck Long Lunch at The Vic Hotel

The Vic Hotel is set to host an exquisite long lunch, offering guests a chance to indulge in a beautifully curated four-course feast. Each dish will be expertly paired with seven exceptional Torbreck wines, chosen by Ben Yoffa, Torbreck’s Sales Manager and Ambassador. As the afternoon unfolds, Ben will guide guests through a masterclass, sharing the fascinating stories behind each wine.

The event will feature magnums of red, exclusive cellar door pricing, and the chance to win a signed magnum. For just $150 per person, this is an afternoon of indulgence and discovery not to be missed.

Book here

Saturday 17th May, 12pm to 4pm

Do More Than Dine Fundraising Gala Dinner

Mark your calendar for Do More Than Dine, Scarf’s unmissable fundraising gala dinner at Square One Rialto in the city. This heart-filled evening supports Scarf’s hospitality training programs for young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds. Enjoy a one-night-only 5-course menu from Melbourne’s finest—including Rosheen Kaul, Helly Raichura and Calendar Cheese—alongside a live auction led by Matt Preston.

Hosted by Dani Valent and Scarf graduate Thelma Rutsate, it’s a celebration of impact, flavour and community.

Thursday 1st May, from 6pm

Buy tickets here

Square One Rialto, 525 Collins Street, Melbourne

Sip Society at The Douglas Club: Melbourne’s Luxe Happy Hour Fix

Forget ordinary happy hours—The Douglas Club is redefining cocktail indulgence with Sip Society, a daily ritual of expertly crafted classics at just $16, paired with luxe bites from $3. Think Negronis with arancini, Old Fashioneds with steak tartare, and martinis with oysters. Set within Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street, this plush, old-world cocktail lounge is where serious drinks meet effortless elegance. No bookings. No fuss. Just incredibly good cocktails and some serious swagger. Make a mental note to swing by this month to experience Melbourne’s most stylish sip-and-snack affair.

Monday to Sunday, 4pm to 7pm

The Douglas Club, 472 Bourke Street, Melbourne

L’Enoteca’s ‘Mercoledì Di-Vino’

Melbourne’s favourite Italian dining hub, il Mercato Centrale, has opened its latest stall, l’Enoteca. This wine bar goes against the grain of traditional, more formal settings, and instead invites guests to casually experience and learn about wine. And now, they’ve introduced a brand new wine tasting series: Mercoledì Di-Vino. This monthly series celebrates the beauty and diversity of wine paired with authentic Italian culinary delights in a fun, casual setting,a nd allows people to ecplore and hone their palette.

“I want to show Melbournians how Italians view and consume wine. You do not need to be an expert to understand the difference between wines but rather be open to tasting and experiencing it in its truest form,” says founder, Clarissa Lorenzato.

Upcoming Mercoledì Di-Vino sessions include:

• 30th April: Southern White Symphony
• 28th May: Bold & Beautiful: Anglico Spotlight
• 25th June: The Aromatic Affair

Secure your tickets here

546 Collins Street, Melbourne 

Soak Up the Vibes and Sip on Zoncello at Afloat Capri

Afloat Capri is keeping the Italian beach club vibes alive on the Yarra! The latest iteration of Arbory Afloat, this stunning riverside venue offers a taste of Capri with vibrant cocktails, indulgent Neapolitan pizzas, fresh pasta, and delectable desserts. Despite autumn’s arrival, Afloat Capri continues to capture the essence of sun-soaked Mediterranean moments, inviting you to sip Aperol spritzes under striped umbrellas, take in panoramic Yarra River views, and indulge in unforgettable events like pizza-making parties and festive feasts.

With its exclusive floating photobooth and laid-back luxe atmosphere, Afloat Capri remains the ultimate European escape this season—Melbourne style!

2 Flinders Walk, 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 to 2:00pm

Second Saturday of every month

What’s On in Melbourne this Month: Regional Adventures

Djaara Lights in Bendigo

Step into the story of the land at Djaara Lights, a mesmerising fusion of art, culture, and technology illuminating Bendigo’s Oscars Walk and Bath Lane Precinct. Through stunning Dja Dja Wurrung artwork and augmented reality, experience the six seasons of Djandak as told by the Traditional Owners. It’s immersive, moving, and a must-see this month.

Daily, 7pm to 11pm

Until March 2027

Bendigo, Victoria

Frida Kahlo: In Her Own Image

Frida Kahlo: In Her Own Image offers a rare, intimate glimpse into the life of one of the 20th century’s most iconic artists. For the first time in Australia, discover personal belongings, from her vibrant clothing to her medical prostheses, on loan from the Museo Frida Kahlo. This rediscovery reveals the bold, multi-layered expression of Kahlo’s artistry, where personal pain and political statements are woven into every brushstroke and meticulously crafted detail.

15th March to 13th July

Bendigo Art Gallery, Bendigo

Looking for more fun things to do in Melbourne this autumn? We have plenty to keep you entertained. From Melbourne’s best new restaurants and bars to friendly pubs, cafes and late-night cocktail haunts, here’s all you need for an epic weekend in the city.