What’s On This Weekend in Melbourne: Our Melbourne Editor’s Top Picks

I absolutely love romanticising my life (just a little)—and crafting the perfect autumn weekend is the best way to do just that. With golden afternoons and just the right amount of chill in the air, the city and its surrounds are brimming with excitement. From street art festivals and warehouse sale madness to free Pilates classes and road trip-worthy beer festivals, there’s an endless lineup of things to do.

If you’re wondering what’s on in Melbourne this weekend, you’re in luck—I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for gallery-hopping, design markets, or spectacular theatrical productions, the city is packed with energy, creativity, and the perfect excuse to get out and explore.

ALMOST WINTER: The Big Design Market

The Big Design Market returns this May with its ‘Almost Winter’ edition — a dreamy, star-lit celebration of Australia’s best independent designers and culinary talents. Wander through a magical space adorned with Irina Nazarova’s botanical artwork, and discover 250+ designers, 70+ food artisans, immersive art installations, fashion runways, and more. Expect ethically made homewares, fashion, ceramics, pet goodies, iconic showbags, exciting new launches, and prizes galore. It’s a full sensory adventure — and the cosiest way to spend a chilly day.

$6 per ticket

Book here

Saturday 24th May, 10am to 7pm; Sunday 25th May, 10am to 5pm

Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens

I DREAMED A DREAM: Les Miserables ‘The Arena Spectacular’

Don’t miss your chance to experience the legendary Les Misérables like never before — in a stunning, large-scale arena production at Rod Laver Arena. With over 65 cast and orchestra members and a jaw-dropping new design made for the big stage, it’s musical theatre at its most epic.

From $69

Book here

Until Sunday 25th May

Rod Laver Arena

Melbourne Design Week

Melbourne Design Week is wrapping up this weekend and it’s your last chance to soak up the creative chaos! With 350+ talks, exhibitions, installations, and workshops across the city, there’s inspo around every corner. Find your still point at ‘Deep Calm’ by Sibling Architecture, pop into the NGV Art Book Fair, or just follow the buzz. It’s all about ideas, beauty, and a touch of magic — get out there and design the weekend you want.

Multiple locations across the city

Korea Festival

K-pop, kimbap and Squid Game IRL? The Korea Festival is taking over Fed Square this weekend in Melbourne, with a jam-packed program of food, music, and culture. Think traditional performances, a K-pop dance comp, a Red Light, Green Light game (yes, with the creepy doll), and kimbap workshops. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s one of the most vibrant cultural takeovers of the year—don’t miss the final weekend!

Saturday 24th to Sunday 25th May

Federation Square

Melbourne Record Fair

Vinyl lovers, rejoice! The Melbourne Record Fair is spinning into Queen Victoria Market this Sunday, from 9am to 4pm. Dive into over 15,000 records from Melbourne’s top vinyl dealers, with DJs setting the vibe and plenty of food stalls to keep you fuelled. Whether you’re after rare finds or just browsing, this free-entry event is a must for music enthusiasts.

Sunday 25th May, 9am to 4pm

D Shed, Queen Victoria Market

FRIDAY NIGHTS AT FENTON FARMHOUSE: Pasta, Wine, and Vibes

Kickstart your weekend at Fenton Farmhouse’s Friday Nights, where the energy is high and the vibes are unbeatable. Every Friday from 5pm to 9pm, this Carlton hotspot serves up $2 oysters and welcomes BYO for your favourite Super Norma pasta dishes. With its farm-to-table ethos and a curated wine list, Fenton’s is the perfect place to unwind, indulge, and kick off the weekend in style. Good food, great company, and pure weekend energy await.

Fridays, 5pm to 9pm

158 Rathdowne Street, Carlton

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.

Writer

Kelsey Harrington

24 May 2025

Kelsey Harrington is a Melbourne-based writer with a sharp eye for the city's ever-evolving food, wine, arts, and culture scene. Her journey into the creative industry took the scenic route—what started as a passion for capturing Melbourne’s energy through a camera lens led her to Sitchu, where she worked her way up to Melbourne Editor. With over four years in the industry, she’s all about uncovering the best places to eat, drink, and explore. Off the clock? You’ll find her diving into a platter of fresh oysters and crudo, gallery-hopping, or sipping an extra dirty martini while plotting her next adventure.