Subscribe
What’s On This Weekend in Melbourne: Our Melbourne Editor’s Top Picks
Looking for things to do in Melbourne this weekend? I've got you covered.
I absolutely love romanticising my life (just a little)—and Melbourne in summer is the perfect place to do just that. The city and its surrounds come alive with an exciting energy, with new activities, events, and pop-ups around every corner, making this season one of endless enjoyment.
If you’re wondering what to do in Melbourne this weekend, you’re in luck—there’s something for everyone. From Friday BYO pasta nights and dreamy Sunday lunch spots to immersive life-drawing classes and the incredible Yayoi Kusama exhibition, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s always something special to discover in Melbourne.
POP INTO A FRUIT & FLOWER WONDERLAND: Marionette’s Liqueur-Infused Pop-Up
Food & Drink
Over two weekends (and through the week) this February, step into a sensory dreamland as Marionette—Australia’s leading liqueur company—brings an unmissable fruit and flower pop-up to Johnston Street, Fitzroy. Over 11 days, expect a dazzling collision of bold flavours, creative cocktails, and some of Melbourne’s most exciting culinary minds.
Guided by World-Class Bartender Nick Tesar, this brilliant experience showcases local produce in unexpected ways—think peach snow cones, elderflower panna cottas, and slushie-style cocktails made with Marionette’s brand-new elderflower liqueur. Highlights include Tortas and Tacos’ peach-topped tostadas, affogatos with Marionette-spiked ice cream, and a boozy scone spread with apricot and Earl Grey tea.
Catch rum maestro Jason Chan from Burdekin Rum on Friday night for a tropical takeover of the shaved ice machine, or join an edible flower workshop to perfect your next dinner party aesthetic. Whether you’re here for a quick sip or a long, lazy afternoon, this pop-up promises a feast for the senses.
Friday 13th to Sunday 23rd February
Weekdays 12pm to 9pm, Saturday 12pm to 9pm, Sunday 12pm to 6pm
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy
FENTON FARMHOUSE FRIDAY NIGHTS: Pasta, Wine, and Vibes
Food & Drink
Kickstart your weekend at Fenton Farmhouse’s Friday Nights, where community spirit meets culinary delight. Every Friday from 5pm to 9pm, this Carlton gem transforms into a lively evening spot, offering $2 oysters and a welcoming BYO policy for your favorite Super Norma pasta dishes.
Fenton Farmhouse, known for its farm-to-table ethos and community-focused dining, provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxed yet vibrant evening. Pair your meal with a selection from their curated wine list, and let the week’s stresses melt away in this cosy neighborhood setting.
The only way to gear up for the weekend ahead, Fenton Farmhouse’s Friday Nights promise good food, great company, and undeniable vibes.
Fridays, 5pm to 9pm
158 Rathdowne Street, Carlton
A TASTE OF ART: Martin Benn at NGV
Food & Drink
Indulge in a one-of-a-kind dining experience with Martin Benn at NGV Garden Restaurant. Inspired by the vibrant Yayoi Kusama exhibition, the menu features stunning dishes like miso toothfish and spanner crab risotto. Opt for a two- or three-course lunch, or go all out with a five-course dinner on Friday nights, including a ticket to the exhibition. A perfect blend of art, food, and culture!
From $84
Daily until 16th February, 11:30am to 4pm; Friday nights from 6pm
Book here
NGV Garden Restaurant, 180 St Kilda Road, Southbank
POLKA DOTS & BEATS: NGV Friday Nights with Yayoi Kusama
Arts & Culture
Step into a kaleidoscopic world of polka dots, pumpkins, and immersive art at NGV Friday Nights, exclusively after-hours. Explore the largest Yayoi Kusama exhibition ever staged in Australia, featuring infinity mirror rooms and vibrant installations, while DJs spin beats and drinks flow. Tickets give you unlimited entry to the exhibition from 6 to 10pm—book in advance to secure your spot!
Fridays until 18th April, 2025, 6pm to 10pm
$45 per person
Book here
NGV International, 180 St Kilda Road, Southbank
180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
A SUNDAY SUMMER LUNCH SERIES: Bar Bellamy
Food & Drink
Rosheen Kaul (of Etta acclaim) is back in Melbourne and taking over Bar Bellamy with a series of vibey Sunday lunches alongside some of Australia’s best chefs. Each week, Kaul’s teaming up with heavyweights like Shannon Martinez (cooking non-vegan for the first time publicly) and Vue de Monde’s Hugh Allen, plus rising stars like Jett Alexander. Expect soulful, share-style menus that break from the usual fine-dining mould.
Seating is extremely limited, so keep an eye on Bar Bellamy’s website—tickets drop two weeks before each event.
Sundays
Book here
164 Rathdowne Street, Carlton
UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY: Life Drawing at Hope Street Radio with Lani Mitchell
Arts & Culture
Join the whimsical world of Lani Mitchell this November at Hope Street Radio for a delightful series of life drawing sessions every Sunday at 1pm. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned artists, Lani creates a welcoming and calm atmosphere where you can explore your creativity without pressure.
All drawing materials are provided, so all you need to bring is your imagination! Each session runs until 3pm, allowing plenty of time to capture the magic of the moment. And to keep the vibes flowing, enjoy a DJ set following the drawing—transforming your Sunday into a joyful artistic escape!
Sundays, 1pm to 3pm
Book here
Hope Street Radio, 35 Johnston Street, Collingwood
Getting out of town this long weekend? Check out our guide to the best travel destinations near Melbourne, or stick around for some of Melbourne’s best new restaurants, bars and cafes.
Subscribe
