What's On in Melbourne: Your Ultimate August Guide

Winter is here, but no matter the forecast, our beloved city is still abuzz with a fantastic rotation of new openings, events, festivals, and exhibitions.

So get ready to have an extra pep in your step as you explore the wonderful array of things to do in Melbourne this month.

Shop up a Storm at DOMO’s Design Outlet Store

Contemporary and classic design lovers, this one is for you. For three days only this month, DOMO's Melbourne design outlet store is opening its doors, offering designer indoor and outdoor furniture, lighting and decor from internationally renowned bands for up to 80% off. 

With a new season around the corner the perfect time to give your home a refresh, the exclusive three-day-only event will see ex-display and brand-new, end-of-the-line pieces from DOMO's exclusive brands (think Ligne Roset, Sika Design and HC28) available at incredible prices.

A design lover's dream, this is your chance to score a bargain on sofas, armchairs, coffee tables, dining settings, rugs, mirrors, lights and accessories.

The best part? Stock is replenished daily during the sale, so you're sure to find the statement piece you've been looking for.

Friday 23rd August to Sunday 25th August

10 am - 4 pm 

8 George Street, Sandringham

Embrace the Italian Alps at Johnny’s Green Room This Winter

Celebrate winter in style with Johnny’s Green Room, where every detail evokes the warmth and elegance of the Italian Alps, capturing the spirit of the iconic Italian ski resort, Cortina. The venue’s recent renovations, including retractable awnings and bespoke Waverley Mills blankets, perfectly complement its seasonal drink and dining offering.

Master mixologist Matthew Bax has curated a captivating cocktail menu inspired by the ski runs of the Dolomites. Delight in the fruity allure of the “Out of Season”, the berry-laden “1956 Winter Games”, and the robust “For Your Eyes Only” martini, made with Four Pillars Navy Strength Gin, olive oil and your choice of lemon twist or house-salted Sicilian olives. 

Culinary Director Karen Martini’s winter menu further enhances the experience with a sophisticated array of dishes, including delicate fior di latte mozzarella, irresistible woodfired pizze palloncino, vibrant kingfish crudo, rich San Daniele prosciutto, hearty polpette al sugo, and a luxurious panforte sticky date pudding paired with Pidapipo’s creamy gelato.

Johnny’s Green Room, Level 2/293-297 Lygon Street, Carlton

Warm Up with Chandon Fondue

With the cold weather at its peak, indulge in a delightful fondue feast overlooking picturesque vineyards. Chandon's fondue experience features rich, oozy fondue made in-house from local Yarra Valley cheeses, served with a gourmet array of charcuterie, pickles, and crusty bread, perfect for dipping.

Complement your meal with a tasting flight of Chandon's finest sparkling wines. Priced at $75 per person, this experience is available until the end of August, on weekdays at 11am or 2pm, and weekends at 2pm.

Book your spot online to ensure a cosy and delicious escape from the chill this month in Melbourne.

$75 per person

Until end of August

727 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream 

Head to Arbory for Fondue for Two by the Yarra

Riverside favourite Arbory Bar & Eatery has reintroduced their limited-edition Three-Cheese Fondue special. A creamy blend of Swiss Gruyère, Fontina, and Truffle Pecorino, Executive Chef James Gibson describes it as "rich, hearty, and comforting."

Accompaniments include sliced French baguette, crudités, pretzels, and pickles, with optional cured meats. Mulled wine and hot spiced cider are also available.

The fondue serves two and is available daily from 11am to 10pm through August.

Until end of August

Arbory Bar & Eatery, Flinders Walk, Melbourne 

RESET

Spring into sustainability with Fed Square's RESET festival! From 1st September to 6th October, this month-long celebration invites everyone to reflect, reset, and renew their connection with the environment. Featuring a jam-packed lineup of family-friendly, interactive events, RESET makes sustainable living fun and accessible for all.

Kick things off with Bupa Seek & Find, a walking trail perfect for exploring the Square with loved ones. Get your plant-based fix at the bustling Plant Based Paradise market, or unleash your inner fashionista at All The Rage, where old garments get a new lease on life. Take a stroll along the Yarra with the Greenline Project Walking Tour, or dive into zero-waste living at the Zero Waste Festival.

For the nature enthusiasts, Beehive Tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at Fed Square's rooftop hives, while Our Environment Film Program connects us to the natural world through thought-provoking cinema. You can even join the community in cleaning up the Birrarung on World Clean Up Day or celebrate World Rivers Day with music and storytelling along the river.

From music-making with marigolds to swapping toys for sustainability, RESET at Fed Square is your go-to for a refreshing, eco-friendly spring! Let's all reset, together, this month in Melbourne. 

Federation Square: The Atrium, The Edge, Main Square, River Terrace, and Swanston Street Forecourt

Now or Never Festival

The Now or Never Festival is back for its second year, running from Thursday 22nd August to Saturday 31st August. This innovative event, brought to you by the City of Melbourne, is a must-see for anyone curious about the intersection of art, sound, technology, and ideas. With cutting-edge music, immersive art installations, and mind-bending talks, the festival promises to push the boundaries of creativity.

Mark your calendar for this dynamic event, which transforms Melbourne’s cityscape into a playground for artists and thinkers from around the globe. 

See the full program here 

Affordable Art Fair

Celebrate the return of the Affordable Art Fair to Melbourne from Thursday 29th August to Sunday 1st September. Marking the 25th global anniversary, this year’s event promises to be the largest yet in Australia, featuring over 60 boutique galleries from around the nation and the world. With thousands of original works priced transparently from $100 to $10,000, it's the perfect opportunity to discover and acquire stunning art pieces. Don't miss out on this incredible event!

Thursday 29th August to Sunday 1st September

Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens

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

Melbourne International Film Festival

Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) returns this August with a bold and original program featuring over 250 films from 62 countries. Enjoy special events, international guests, food and film experiences, Q&As, and the vibrant MIFF Festival Hub with drinks, food, and film trivia.

The MIFF Regional showcase will bring must-see titles to theatres statewide on the weekends of 16-18 and 23-25 August.

For those unable to attend in person, MIFF Online offers digital access Australia-wide to a selection of festival highlights from 9-25 August.

8th to 25th August

Don’t miss this premier cultural event celebrating cinema in Melbourne and beyond. See the program here

15th Annual Indian Film Festival

The 15th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) is a must-visit cultural highlight in Melbourne this August, running from the 15th to the 25th.

Celebrating the best of Indian cinema, IFFM will showcase over 65 films, including six world premieres and numerous works by female directors.

The festival will feature star-studded events, such as the world premiere of My Melbourne and screenings of Headhunting to Beatboxing and Girls Will Be Girls.

Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in vibrant storytelling, meet Indian film icons, and experience Melbourne’s largest celebration of Indian culture. 

Various locations around the city

SIX The Musical

Following sensational sell-out seasons, the pop phenomenon SIX the Musical returns to Melbourne's Comedy Theatre!

Globally celebrated and winner of 35 major international awards, including two Tony Awards and a Grammy nomination, SIX offers a high-octane 80-minute experience where feisty Tudor Queens boldly rewrite history.

Don’t miss this "Herstoric" musical, an unforgettable production that promises to have you losing your head!

Until 20th October

Book here 

Comedy Theatre, 240 Exhibition Street, Melbourne

Movie Nights at Bianchetto

Escape the cold with Bianchetto in Kew's cosy movie nights every Wednesday and Thursday in August and September! For just $33, indulge in truffle popcorn, lasagne, and piccolo dolce from the adjoining Mister Bianco, plus a drink on arrival (Negroni Sbagliato, anyone?). Enjoy classic films like "It Started in Naples," "La Dolce Vita," or "The Italian Job" for the perfect midweek treat.

Book tickets here

Bianchetto, 26-28 Cotham Road, Kew

“Keep the Fire Burning” Exhibition at Bluethumb

Celebrate NAIDOC Week 2024 with Bluethumb's largest-ever exhibition of Indigenous artworks, "Keep the Fire Burning."

This extraordinary event, which will run until the 9th of September, offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the richness of Indigenous culture. The exhibition features over 100 original works by renowned First Nations artist Maria Watson-Trudgett and talented artists from eight leading Indigenous Art Centres across Australia, including Inkwareny Artists of Yuelamu, Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre, and Injalak Arts.

Bluethumb's collaboration with these centres highlights the vibrant contemporary Indigenous art scene, bringing remote community artists' works to broader audiences.

Visit Bluethumb Studio Gallery 2 in Richmond to experience this captivating showcase and immerse yourself in beautiful Indigenous art.

Until 9th September

Bluethumb Studio Gallery 2, 330 Bridge Road, Richmond

Friday Nights at NGV - Pharaoh 

Welcoming the winter season, NGV Friday Nights is back, with a recharged and reimagined program celebrating the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition, Pharaoh. 

Expect the usual extended late-night access to this blockbuster exhibition, alongside a vibrant lineup of music residencies, pop-up performances, and Middle Eastern-inspired food and drink.

The exhibition itself will take visitors on a journey through three thousand years of ancient Egyptian art and culture, featuring over 500 works including monumental sculptures, exquisite jewellery, and intricate coffins. 

Each Friday night, the charismatic cabaret queen, Miss Cairo, hosts the evening with exuberant songs and storytelling in the Great Hall, where you'll be able to sip on glasses of Moet & Chandon. The program features an eclectic mix of music from jazz and cabaret to classical, funk, and blues, with guest performances by renowned artists like oud virtuoso Joseph Tawadros AM and the Australian Art Orchestra. Later in the season, Brunswick’s Tempo Rubato and the not-for-profit label Music in Exile will showcase diverse musical talents from all around Australia.

From June 14th to October 4th

Book here

NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne 

Get a little 'Hygge' with it at Ovolo

Ovolo Hotels has a winter sale deal we're craving this month in Melbourne - and it's the Hygge package. 'Hygge' in Danish means to create a calm, comfortable time with the people you love, which is why Ovolo is offering 20% off stays of two nights or longer in any of their hotels across Australia.

Each guest will receive a pair of slippers to take home. But the best part? For those cosy nights in, enjoy 10% off Booktopia so you can snuggle up with a good read while sipping on Ovolo's signature winter cocktails.

From 1st July to 29th August

Book here

19 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne 

234 Toorak Road, South Yarra

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. 

From 28th June

Book here

Her Majesty's Theatre, 219 Exhibition Street, Melbourne 

Piinpi: Contemporary Indigenous Fashion

Discover the vibrant world of Indigenous fashion at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre with "Piinpi: Contemporary Indigenous Fashion."

Curated by Shonae Hobson, this groundbreaking exhibition showcases 24 hand-crafted garments by 36 Indigenous artists and designers, celebrating the diversity and creativity of Australia’s First Nations creatives.

From ethereal silk creations to bold geometric pieces, "Piinpi" highlights the significance of Indigenous fashion in storytelling and cultural continuation.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the beauty and innovation of First Nations designers and artists at Bunjilaka.

Tuesday 28th May until 17th November 2024

Free with Melbourne Museum entry ticket here

Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Centre, Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street Carlton 

Alcotraz: Immersive Cocktail Experience 

Combining the allure of a speakeasy-style cocktail bar with the excitement of immersive theatre and Old Hollywood-style storylines, Alcotraz: Immersive Cocktail Experience offers a unique adventure for cocktail enthusiasts and thrill seekers alike.

Guests, acting as ‘inmates’, must creatively smuggle contraband liquor past the Warden. Encounter shady characters and a bootlegging gang who transform the smuggled liquor into bespoke cocktails. Winners gain access to secret areas to hatch an escape plan.

This fully immersive experience includes real metallic cells, orange jumpsuits, and interactive storytelling, making you part of the thrilling narrative.

Bring your favourite bottle of liquor and see it turned into four bespoke cocktails in front of your eyes.

From Friday 28th June 

Book here

592 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne 

Africa Fashion at the NGV

The NGV is always filled to the brim with fun and exciting exhibitions, and this latest one is no exception. Africa Fashion features an incredible collection of designs and designers from over 20 countries, all borrowed from the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. This exhibition has almost 200 works, ranging from ready-to-wear fashion all the way to bespoke and couture pieces. Celebrating the creativity and innovation of African fashion from the mid-twentieth century to today, this exhibition is an explosion of colour, texture and patterns, and the perfect thing to go and see if you're a fashion enthusiast.

31st May to 6th October

180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

WICKED the Musical

If you haven't experienced the beautiful story and impressive musicality of WICKED the Musical, here is your chance, Melbourne! 

This Broadway sensation looks at what happened in the Land of Oz… but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin, who is smart, fiery, misunderstood and possessing an extraordinary talent.

When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships… until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”

Book here

Until August 25th

Regent Theatre, 191 Collins Street, Melbourne

Art of the Brick

Got any LEGO fans in the family? The you need to take them to this awe-inspiring exhibition, Art of the Brick. Returning to Melbourne at the Showgrounds from the 14th of Spril, this immersive exhibition explores how LEGO can be used to create all sorts of masterpieces. This may be one of the most unique art shows you ever attend, in the best way possible.

Until 1st September 

Buy tickets here

Epsom Road, Ascot Vale

LUME Melbourne - Leonardo Da Vinci - Plus, this month kids have FREE access!

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 Geniuswill 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.

Great news for parents seeking weekend adventures with the kids: THE LUME Melbourne is offering a Kids Go Free deal throughout August! From August 1-31, children 14 and under get free entry when accompanied by an adult. It’s the ideal way to escape the cold and enjoy a memorable experience together.

Victoria The T.Rex 

Get ready for the arrival of Victoria the T.Rex at Melbourne Museum! This state-of-the-art exhibition features the real 66-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus fossil, film, AR, and holography. Experience the Cretaceous period with the largest T. rex fossil ever displayed in Australia, spanning over 12 metres.

Friday 28th June to Sunday 20th October

Book here

Melbourne Museum, Carlton Gardens

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 July 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

Garlic Bread Festival

Get ready to indulge in carb-loaded heaven at Welcome to Thornbury’s 5th Annual Garlic Bread Festival.From 12pm to 8.30pm, enjoy a day dedicated to all things garlicky and delicious. Expect creative twists on classic garlic bread from a variety of food trucks like Mr Burger, Pasta Face, and Love Schnak Langos. Sip on a garlic and rosemary Martini and warm up at the soup bar.

Gather your garlic-loving crew and reserve your spot here for groups of 6-20, or simply walk in if you're a smaller group.

Don’t miss this savoury sensation!

Saturday 31st August, 12pm to 8.30pm

520 High Street, Northcote 

Truffle Season at Hazel

One of our favourite spots is embracing the truffle season with a decadent $90 per person five-course set menu. Hazel’s latest offering promises an exquisite dining experience, featuring optional premium upgrades like NSW truffles, oysters, Oscietra caviar, and MB 6+ wagyu scotch fillet.

Begin with a pecorino custard paired with brioche, elevated by a delicate 1g of truffles. Delight in a housemade charcuterie selection featuring exquisite mortadella and a distinctive kangaroo and pepperberry salami. Experience the rich, almost gamey Warialda beef tartare with anchovy cream. The menu continues to impress with the likes of wood-roasted pork belly with charred leek and black garlic, culminating in a decadent chocolate crémeux to finish.

We highly recommend upgrading to the Wagyu Scotch fillet, accompanied by a sensational lemon drop pepper sauce for an extra touch of luxury. It's melt-in-your-mouth perfection. 

For an opulent culinary adventure, Hazel’s new menu is a must-try for your next lunch or dinner outing - in fact, we cannot recommend it highly enough. 

164 Flinders Lane, Melbourne 

Yarra Botanica - 6-Course Truffle Dining Experience

Celebrate truffle season with Yarra Botanica's luxurious six-course tasting menu, featuring the best of Victorian truffles. Indulge in decadent dishes like Gippsland steak tartare with matchstick chippies and black truffle béarnaise, and baked truffle brie with wild honey and fennel jam.

Priced at $85 with wine pairing or $80 with non-alcoholic cocktails, this exquisite experience is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 1pm to 3pm.

Saturdays and Sundays, lunch

Southbank Promenade, Southbank

South African-inspired Cooking Class at Brunswick Kitchen

Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours of South Africa and Mozambique with a hands-on cooking class led by acclaimed chef Almay Jordaan of Neighbourhood Wine and Old Palm Liquor.

On Saturday, 17 August, join Almay at Brunswick Kitchen for an exclusive winter menu experience. Discover how to prepare tantalising dishes like tart mango and herb salad with biltong floss, spicy Peri Peri chicken with spinach, and the renowned Old Palm Liquor flatbread with labneh and sumac. This culinary journey promises to be a feast for the senses.

$140 

Book here

Saturday, 17 August, 5pm to 7.30pm

Brunswick Kitchen, 1/288 Albert Street, Brunswick East 

Munich Brauhaus South Wharf Celebrates 10 Years!

Munich Brauhaus South Wharf is throwing a week-long 10th anniversary bash featuring traditional German dance, BBQ, carnival games, and boat tours. The festivities kick off with a pre-party on August 16th.

Enjoy a special menu with the top 10 food items, beers, and schnapps, plus a $250 voucher draw. Don't miss the Big Birthday Bash on August 23rd and 24th, featuring Oktoberfest games, a boat party, traditional German dancers, market stalls, keg taps and more.

Family Fun Day on August 25th will delight kids with a bouncy castle, face painting, and ice cream; and VIPs are invited to a sneak peek boat tour on August 16th. Find out more here. 

August 19th to 25th

45 South Wharf Promenade, Melbourne

Bang Bang Taking Over 2 Brothers Brewery Kitchen 

2 Brothers Brewery in Moorabbin is elevating its dining experience this month with the addition of Bang Bang’s Asian-inspired menu. Enjoy dishes like spicy chicken wings, tempura potato scallops, and Bang Bang favourites such as Hiramasa kingfish and crispy fried Sichuan eggplant.

Don’t miss the Thursday and Friday lunch special: a Katsu Roll and pint of 2 Brothers beer for $25.

From Thursday August 8th 

Bingsoo - Grand Opening Celebration

Sweeten your winter with a visit to Melbourne’s newest dessert hotspot, Bingsoo.

This cult Korean shaved ice sensation is making waves in the CBD with its celebrated Korean street food and desserts. To mark the grand opening on Saturday August 10th, Bingsoo will treat the first customers from 12pm to 3pm to a complimentary Korean corn dog or savoury thick toast.

Arrive early to snag one of the limited tokens and indulge in this exclusive offer. Don’t miss out on this exciting addition to Melbourne’s cheap eats scene!

Saturday August 10th

Shop 3/260 La Trobe Street, Melbourne

Discover Global Flavours at Brunswick Kitchen’s August Cooking Classes

This August, 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 Persian feast to Ottolenghi-inspired Fish Dishes. 

$140 per person

Various times and dates, see here for details

1/288 Albert Street, Brunswick 

Ferragosto Renaissance Dinner at Grossi Florentino

Indulge in opulence at Grossi Florentino’s Ferragosto Renaissance Dinner. This exclusive event combines a sumptuous five-course Italian feast crafted by renowned chef Guy Grossi with a live opera performance that echoes the grandeur of Italy’s rich cultural heritage. The evening promises an immersive experience into Italian artistry and fine dining, and is the perfect way to celebrate Ferragosto in style! 

Wednesday 14th August, 6.30pm to 9.30pm

$285 per person

Secure tickets here

80 Bourke Street, Melbourne

Warm Up with Da Paolo’s Pizza Residency at Bahama Gold

Warm up your winter evenings at Bahama Gold, Brunswick's beloved bottle shop and public bar, with their exciting Da Paolo Residency. It delivers a rotating menu of authentic Italian pizzas to complement Bahama Gold’s curated selection of house-made, imported, and local wines. Enjoy the perfect pairing of delectable pizza and fine wine and vibe out to smooth vinyl sounds. 

Every Monday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 5.00pm to 10.00pm

135 Lygon Street, Brunswick East 

Hanoi Hannah: Soup Series

Mark your diaries! Starting Thursday, 1 August, Hanoi Hannah's popular annual Winter Soup Series is back for its third year. Running for four weeks, the series features a rotating menu of seasonal soups, with proceeds going to the hospitality industry charity, Scarf.

Soup Schedule:

• Week 1 (1 – 11 August): Spicy chicken and prawn wonton noodle soup
• Week 2 (12 – 18 August): Mi Vit Tiem – Slow braised duck, egg noodle soup
• Week 3 (19 – 25 August): Pho bo Luc Lac – Shaking beef noodle soup
• Week 4 (26 August – 1 September): Coconut, lemongrass, soft shell crab, and prawn

Soups are $25 each and available at Hanoi Hannah Prahran and Elsternwick, or for takeaway via their website. Don't miss out!

186 High Street, Windsor

306 Glen Huntly Road, Elsternwick 

Pipis Kiosk's Chef's Dining Series

Chase away the winter blues with Pipis Kiosk's Chef's Dining Series, featuring four exciting guest chef collab events. Kicking off this Sunday, 28th July, Chef Ross Magnaye from Serai will bring a festive Filipino Christmas in July lunchtime feast. Enjoy a three-course menu with snacks ($85 per person) against the stunning backdrop of Port Phillip Bay.

Upcoming events include:

18th August: Northern-Thai menu by Chef Aaron Turner (Songbird, IGNI)

15th September: Braai on the Beach by Chef Almay Jordaan (Neighbourhood Wine, Old Palm Liquor)

5th October (dinner) and 6th October (lunch): Modern Malaysian menu by Chef Johnson Wong (Restaurant Gen, Malaysia)

Book here

129a Beaconsfield Parade, Albert Park 

Dine & Sing at Yum Sing House

Experience mid-week dining with a twist at Yum Sing House, a contemporary Chinese diner and karaoke bar tucked away in the CBD. Their Dine & Sing offer on Wednesdays and Thursdays pairs a delectable feast with lively entertainment. Enjoy a choice of three entrees, a shared main, steamed rice, and then unleash your inner star with an hour of karaoke.

On Wednesdays, get set to indulge in $2 Pacific Oysters for an extra treat. It’s the perfect blend of great food and fun to dial up your weeknights to a new level.

$60 per person

Wednesdays and Thursdays

Book here

22 Sutherland Street, Melbourne 

Try a drool-worthy Italian-style sundae at Gigi's Gelato

For August only, Gigi’s Gelato is bringing a touch of Italian elegance to Yarraville with their exclusive paciugo, a beloved dessert with Portofino origins. This delectable treat, which translates to ‘mess’ in Ligurian, combines rich chocolate and fiordilatte gelato with fresh raspberry compote, velvety whipped cream, and candied cherries. Yum! Think of it as an ice-cream sundae, but better.  

15 Anderson Street, Yarraville

Hakata Gensuke celebrates 10 years in Australia with a TanRei Ramen Series

Hakata Gensuke is celebrating ten years in Australia with the launch of their new TanRei ramen series. Known for their rich, full-bodied ramens, the popular venues in Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth are introducing a lighter, more elegant broth to create a fresh experience for their fans.

Chapter One features two new ramens: a soy milk based Tonyu Ramen, and a unique Basil Ramen. These delicious offerings will be available for six weeks before Chapter Two unveils two more TanRei ramens in mid-July.

In Japanese Kanji, "淡Tan" symbolizes "Lightness," while "麗Rei" embodies "Beauty."

Don’t miss this opportunity to taste a new, refined take on Hakata Gensuke’s iconic tonkotsu broth. No regrets, just cosy, satiating ramen that will keep you in good stead throughout these chilly months. 

Multiple locations around the city

Warm Up Your Winter with Piemonte Flavours at OGI

Indulge in a taste of Italy at Officina Gastronomica Italiana (OGI) this winter with their $89 Piemonte Set Menu. Each Tuesday, experience the rich culinary traditions of Piemonte with a heartwarming selection of dishes, including traditional favourites and decadent desserts. It's a gorgeous, cosy dining experience to book this month in Melbourne. 

$89 per person 

Tuesdays, 5.30pm to 10.00pm

Book here

532-534 Malvern Road, Prahran

Experience a German Christmas Market at Hofbräuhaus

This winter, Hofbräuhaus has transformed into a festive German Christmas market with a new menu featuring seasonal comfort foods. Enjoy raclette, langosh (deep-fried garlic bread, also know as heaven), hearty roasts, and traditional German mulled wine and rum-infused hot chocolate. 

18-28 Market Lane, Melbourne

Winter Night Market 

The Winter Night Market returns to the iconic Market sheds, offering a cosy atmosphere every Wednesday this month in Melbourne. Enjoy the city's finest street food, warming beverages, specialty shopping, crackling fires, and unique entertainment.

Experience the popular Guru Dudu Silent Disco and savour must-try drinks like spiced Milo, mulled wine, butterbeer, and hot gin toddies. The market is bringing back beloved favourites and introducing new and exciting traders too. 

After a hearty feast, stroll through the sheds and laneways to explore over 60 specialty stalls offering treasures like upcycled furniture, vinyl records, vintage fashion, and handmade jewellery. 

Wednesdays from 5th June, 5.00pm to 10.00pm

Free entry

Queen Victoria Market, Queen Street, 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? 

$2.00 entry

8.00am to 2.00pm

Second Saturday of every month

Truffle & Cheese Dinner at The Cosmopolitan Hotel

Later this month, The Cosmopolitan Hotel in Trentham invites you to indulge in their highly anticipated Truffle & Cheese Dinner. This exclusive four-course event, featuring a collaboration with local producers Truffle Treasures and Long Paddock Cheese, promises a true gastronomic journey.

The evening begins with a truffle hunt in the hotel’s historic gardens, accompanied by a sparkling wine and canapés reception. Guests will then enjoy a lavish four-course menu, with optional wine pairings from the award-winning Lyons Will Estate.

This unique dining experience offers truffle enthusiasts an unforgettable blend of history, flavour, and local produce. 

Saturday August 17th, from 5.00pm

$120 to $180 per person

Book here

21 High Street, Trentham 

Kangaroo Hoppet

Whether you're an elite athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply love the outdoors, Falls Creek offers exhilarating XC skiing experiences in the Alpine National Park. Each year, on the fourth Saturday of August, over 1,000 skiers of all ages and abilities gather for the Kangaroo Hoppet cross country ski event.

This unique celebration of cross country skiing in Australia features the 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, part of the Worldloppet and Ski Classics series, attracting elite and passionate skiers alike. For a less demanding challenge, the 21km Australian Birkebeiner and 7km Joey Hoppet offer fun and safe options for all.

Spectators can revel in the lively atmosphere of the Falls Creek Nordic Bowl, cheering participants at the start and finish lines.

Nordic Bowl, Bogong High Plains Road, Falls Creek

Discover the Werribee Public Art Walking Tour

This free, self-guided 1km trail and audio tour includes some of Melbourne’s most prominent street artists. Beginning at Wyndham Cultural Centre and finishing at the Holiday Inn Werribee, it takes approximately 60 minutes to complete with opportunities for coffee or a snack along the way.

Highlights include the award-winning First Nations mural 'Mooroop Yarkeen' by Indigenous artist Tommy Day (Jirri Jirri), recognised with a Maggolee Award and best viewed in the late afternoon sun. The trail also showcases works by Ash Keating, Tom Gerrard, Ghostpatrol, Minna Leunig, Makatron, DREZ, and David Lee Pereira.

Scan QR codes at each artwork to access audio interviews with the artists. The tour is perfect for all ages and pairs well with a visit to the many food options along Watton Street, Werribee’s very own ‘Eat Street’.

Sitchu Tip: For a complete experience, follow the footbridge to Wyndham Park and enjoy 'River Whispers,' a 25-minute audio experience about the Werribee River.

Werribee, Victoria

Whale Watching in Portland

Spotting one of nature's most magnificent mammals is an unforgettable experience, and Australia's whale capital, Portland, ensures you never miss a sighting with their Whalemail alerts.

When the whale flag flies outside the Portland Visitor Information Centre, visitors have a great chance to see southern right whales, humpback whales, and occasionally orcas.

Southern right whales, with their distinctive white bumps, migrate from the deep Southern Ocean to the warmer waters of southern Australia to mate and calve from May to October. Humpback whales, meanwhile, can be seen playing and feeding as they travel between their tropical breeding grounds and Antarctic feeding areas.

Portland Whale Viewing Platform, Wade Street, Portland

Bendigo On The Hop

Craft beer is about local ingredients, flavour, and aroma, enjoyed with friends and a touch of flair. Thanks to Bendigo Beer's hard work, central Victoria now boasts over fifty craft beer venues.

Bendigo On The Hop, Australia's premier winter craft beer festival, pairs top local venues with the nation’s best breweries. Meet the brewers, enjoy live music, and connect with fellow beer enthusiasts as you stroll through beautiful Bendigo. Your ticket includes a souvenir tasting glass and an event booklet with a free sample from each of the 20 participating breweries.

Delicious beer, great food, fabulous music, and good times await!

31st August, 11am to 6pm

Bendigo CBD, Pall Mall, Bendigo

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.