What's On in Melbourne: Your Ultimate December Guide
Everything to see and do this month in Melbourne (and beyond).
Summer is here, and our beloved city is gearing up for a season of sunshine, bayside dining, and a vibrant mix of fresh openings, buzzing events, festivals, and must-see exhibitions.
The days are longer, the sun is brighter, Christmas is near, and we're all full of cheer (or praying just to make it to the end of the year). Get ready to explore Melbourne’s lively streets and soak up all the energy, colour, and excitement this season brings.
Here are our top picks of things to do in Melbourne this month.
What's On in Melbourne This Month: Play
On Track Nights
Get ready for an electrifying evening at On Track Nights, hitting Melbourne's Lakeside Stadium this month. This family-friendly celebration of running, community, and live entertainment promises epic vibes with indie rock legends The Jungle Giants and electronic duo Cosmo’s Midnight taking the stage.
Cheer on elite athletes in the prestigious Zátopek:10, join a fun community 5k run, and enjoy field events, food trucks, flash tattoos, and more.
It’s where sport meets festival – don’t miss the action!
Saturday December 14th
Purchase tickets here; $25 general admission
33 Aughtie Drive, Albert Park
The Return of Van Gogh at The LUME
Step into a masterpiece this summer as Van Gogh at THE LUME Melbourne makes its highly anticipated return on Boxing Day, now with an exhilarating twist! The record-breaking immersive experience unveils Finding Vincent, a world-first VR adventure that lets you and your crew explore Van Gogh’s iconic works like never before. Marvel at the dazzling Starry Night Room, dine under painted skies at Café Terrace 1888, and channel your inner artist in the interactive studio. A must-see this season!
Tickets from $49.90, book here
From Boxing Day onwards
5 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf
Cats & Dogs Exhibition at NGV
A pawfect new exhibition is opening at the NGV this November! 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.
From 1st November until 20th July, 2025
180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Sister Act the Musical
Sister Act is debuting in Australia! After being a smash hit in the UK, this comedic musical is touring Australia from November. Disco diva Deloris’ life takes a turn when she witnesses a murder and is placed under protective custody. Hidden in the one place she shouldn’t be found–a convent–Deloris helps the struggling choir and her fellow sisters find their true voices as she rediscovers her own.
Heartwarming and humorous, this is a must-see show over the holiday season.
3rd November to 26th January
Secure tickets here
191 Collins Street, Melbourne
Holey Moley Funhouse
Funhouse is the latest attraction to Holey Moley, exclusive to Melbourne! Featuring innovative challenges – minus the golf swinging – that you'll complete with teammates to score points, this is a whole lot of fun for everyone. There'll be ball pits, throwing challenges, egg and spoon races, and so much more! Grab your friends, grab a drink and head on down.
590 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne
Sun Chaser Sundays
Sun Chaser Sundays has returned to W Melbourne, kicking off summer and the warmer weather on the right foot. The hotel is teaming up with Olmeca Altos to host their Sun Chaser Sunday sessions throughout spring and summer, where the pool party can go on no matter the weather (thanks, Melbourne).
Guests will be able to pull up a sun lounge and enjoy refreshing pool dips, delicious cocktails, seasonal snacks and live DJ sets on the WET pool deck. 14 storeys in the air and flanked by city skyline views, this is a pool party unlike any other. Enjoy light bites like prawn rolls, avocado and fried tofu rice paper rolls and tuna poke bowls. Plus, Olmeca Altos will be slinging their signature palomas and coconut margarita cocktails.
Every Sunday, 12.00pm to 3.00pm
$95 per person, book here
408 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition
A tribute to travel, photography, community, and adventure, "Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition" takes you on a captivating journey through over 200 of the world's most beautiful and idiosyncratic places, straight from the whimsical world of Wes Anderson.
With 10 themed areas, this exhibition offers a passport to visual inspiration, featuring stunning photography and immersive experiences. Get ready to explore a world of symmetry, warm colours, and enchanting moments.
Arriving in Melbourne in September, this one-of-a-kind exhibition invites you to see the world through a new lens, making it a must-visit for any travel, photography, or Wes Anderson enthusiast.
From 18th September
Book here
Level 1, 360 Bourke Street, Melbourne
Tina Turner: The Musical
Get ready to rock out and roll with the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll herself! Experience the electrifying life story of Tina Turner, a true legend who didn’t just break the rules—she rewrote them.
With over 20 of her chart-topping hits, including “Simply the Best,” “River Deep – Mountain High,” and “Proud Mary,” this smash-hit musical promises to turn the Princess Theatre into a vibrant celebration of Tina’s phenomenal career.
Prepare for a night of unforgettable music and inspiration as the story of Tina Turner comes alive on stage this month in Melbourne.
From 21st September
Princess Theatre, Melbourne
Beauty & The Beast
Disney's stunning new production of Beauty and the Beast the Musical premieres this month in Melbourne, promising a feast for the eyes, heart, and soul.
This timeless tale is reimagined on stage in a breathtaking production that will captivate audiences like never before. The original creative team reunites to bring this enchanting musical to life, featuring all the spellbinding songs by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Tim Rice, including "Belle," "Gaston," "Human Again," and "Be Our Guest."
A much-loved classic, this tale as old as time will enchant a new generation, filling hearts with magic and wonder.
Until February 2025
Book here
Her Majesty's Theatre, 219 Exhibition Street, 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.
LUME Melbourne - Leonardo Da Vinci
The LUME is known for putting on captivating exhibitions that celebrate the world's greatest artists - and their latest digital art gallery is doing exactly that. Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius will take over The LUME from the 16th of March, mesmerising audiences as his most famous and lesser known works are projected across the open space, such as the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper.
Sofar Sounds
Global music community Sofar Sounds creates space where music matters. It brings artists and audiences together through unique live music experiences in surprising spaces.
There are four upcoming gigs in September to keep an eye out for, in suburbs that range from Fitzroy to Prahran, St Kilda to Brunswick, so be sure to regularly check their website for any new or upcoming events.
Tickets from $40 per person
Find out more here
Multiple locations around the city
What's On in Melbourne This Month: Eat & Drink
Soak up the Vibes and Sip on Zoncello by the Tap at Afloat Capri
Euro summer has arrived on the Yarra! That’s right, the new iteration of Arbory Afloat is here—Afloat Capri—transforming Melbourne's floating bar scene with a sun-drenched, Italian beach club vibe. Inspired by the magical island of Capri, the venue boasts a sun-drenched, Italian beach club design, vibrant cocktails, and an elevated food menu featuring Neapolitan pizzas, fresh pasta, and indulgent desserts.
Sip Aperol spritzes and Zoncello under striped umbrellas, enjoy stunning Yarra River views, and dive into summer fun with the Aperol Pool Bar & Deck opening soon.
With exciting events like pizza-making parties, festive feasts, and a world-exclusive floating photobooth, Afloat Capri is the place to be this summer.
Don’t miss out—this is La Dolce Vita, Melbourne style!
2 Flinders Walk, Melbourne
Savour Sustainability with Allegro's 'Tide to Table' Dining Experience
Dive into summer with Allegro at The Westin Melbourne, where the Tide to Table menu offers a six-course seafood feast celebrating sustainable Australian and New Zealand catches. Curated by Executive Chef Apoorva Kunte, the menu features dishes like pan-fried barramundi, Spencer Gulf kingfish collar, and Ora King salmon, paired with sustainable wines from Tahbilk. It’s an experience that not only delights your taste buds but also supports marine conservation. A must-try for seafood lovers seeking an eco-conscious indulgence.
Book here
Wednesday to Saturday, $110 per person
Until 6th January, 2025
The Westin Melbourne, Level 1/205 Collins Street, Melbourne
Host the Ultimate Aperitivo Hour with Sandhurst
No longer limited to sojourns to Italian shores, aperitivo hours are trending in a big way—and they've become as much an Aussie tradition as a quick, post-work dip at the beach.
Thanks to Sandhurst, embracing la dolce vita in your own space has never been easier, with a range of fresh and fine ingredients perfect for creating an impressive gourmet spread. Simply create a warm and welcoming space and put on a lavish antipasto platter for your closest mates, and an authentic and memorable experience is all yours.
Read more of our tips on indulging with quality ingredients and delicious recipes here.
Hendrick's x Strato Melbourne Grand Gin Cabaret Dinner
Hendrick's has launched an exciting new gin, the limited 'Grand Cabaret' fruity gin, and to celebrate, they've partnered with Strato Melbourne to deliver a dinner you won't forget. While there may not be any cabaret dancers, what you can expect is incredible cocktails paired perfectly with an exquisite three-course meal.
You'll be welcomed with beetroot cured Victorian Barramundi, followed by a juicy and delicious black Angus tenderloin and a naughty dark fantasy for dessert.
Until January 2025
40/202 Normanby Road, Southbank
Piccolo Cocktails at Mill Place Merchants
Say hello to the ultimate aperitivo hour in Melbourne this month. Melbourne’s favourite new speakeasy bar is offering their iconic cocktails in Piccolo sizes, perfect for a mid-week treat. Sip on inventive creations like the Pink Lady, Juschu, or Cardinale without committing to a full-sized drink.
Whether you’re trying one or a tray of three, it’s the ideal option for tasting and sharing.
Just make sure you pair your Piccolos with Mill Place Merchants' delectable snacks. Jamon Serrano and cheese croquettes or pulled pork sliders, anyone?
Piccolo Cocktail – $14
Cocktail & Snack – $18
Tray of 3 Piccolos – $38
Tuesdays to Thursdays, 5pm to 7pm
Ground Floor, 2 Mill Place, Melbourne
Queen Victoria Summer Night Market
The Summer Night Market is back this month! From November 20th, head to the Queen Victoria Market every Wednesday night to enjoy a celebration of all things food. There will be food trucks from a variety of different cultures, local businesses and makers selling their goods, live entertainment, and more!
It's bound to be a fun time, so make sure you keep your Wednesdays free!
Sitchu tip: go early, because it can get extremely busy!
20th November to 12th March 2025, 5.00pm to 10.00pm
Queen Victoria Market (corner of Queen and Therry Street)
Woodford Reserve
Old Fashioned Week is back this November, but Woodford Reserve is extending the celebrations to be all month long! All month long, 50 of the nation’s finest bars will be serving up complimentary Old Fashioneds, including their own unique takes on the world’s most popular classic cocktail.
Participating Victorian Bars include:
- White Oaks Saloon Bar and Dining
Whisky & Alement
Lily Blacks
The Atlantic
E fifty five
Ludlow Dining
Black Kite Commune
Workshop
Union Electric Bar & Rooftop
All you need to do to claim your complimentary cocktail is fill out the form here.
Plus, bartenders from Florence’s famed Locale Firenze will be taking over the bar at Society from Tuesday the 12th of November to Thursday the 14th of November, so Melbourne whisky fans are truly in for a treat!
1st November to 30th November
Discover Global Flavours at Brunswick Kitchen’s December Cooking Classes
This month in Melbourne, immerse yourself in the art of global cuisine with Brunswick Kitchen’s interactive cooking classes. For $140 per person, learn from renowned chefs like Tracey Lister and guest chef Almay Jordaan. Classes run the gamut of Food From Hanoi to a Persian feast to Ottolenghi-inspired Fish Dishes.
$140 per person
Various times and dates, see here for details
1/288 Albert Street, Brunswick
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?
$2.00 entry
8.00am to 2.00pm
Second Saturday of every month
What's On in Melbourne This Month: Out of Town
The Victorian Cherry Trail
The Victorian Cherry Trail is back, offering a sweet excuse to escape to the countryside this month. With seven orchards across the Yarra Valley, Macedon Ranges, and Upper Goulburn Valley, you can pick your own cherries or buy them farm-fresh. Explore varieties like Bing, Lapin, and Sweetheart while enjoying a day out with family or friends. Perfect for festive gifting or snacking straight from the tree, Victorian cherries are a delicious summer treat. Plan your cherry adventure today!
Multiple locations around Victoria
Looking for more fun things to do in Melbourne this winter? 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.
