The leaves are changing and the school holidays are on the horizon. With comedy on every corner, and delightful food festivals to discover, Melbourne is truly a wonderful place to be this month. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out this list for some of the best things to do in Melbourne this April.
1. Have a laugh at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival
Laugh your way through the month at everyone’s favourite comedy festival. There’s a huge roster of local favourites and international comedians that will hit the stage over three hilarious weeks. The only question is, which one will you see?
The Melbourne International Comedy Festival starts on March 29 and will run until April 23. Learn more here.
2. Wander through the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
Delight your senses at this spectacular show. Try a floral-inspired high tea, see fabulous displays and exhibits, explore the gardens at night and more!
This Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show starts on Wednesday March 29 and ends on Sunday April 2, so you’ll have to move fast. Find more info here.
3. Savour the moment at the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival
The iconic Melbourne Food & Wine Festival is back. The festival program is full of incredible events, including a Filipino fiesta, a celebrity sausage sizzle and a convenience store filled with the best treats that Victoria has to offer.
The culinary festival is on now, and will end on Sunday April 2. Browse through their program here.
4. See the best of contemporary French cinema at the Alliance Française French Film Festival
Feel swept away by drama and romance at this French film festival. See it before it ends on April 5. Check out the schedule here.
5. Have fun over the school holidays at Fed Square
Keep your kids busy over the school holidays by taking them to The Little Food Festival at Fed Square. There will be heaps of free activities, workshops and performances to nourish their inner foodie, and teach them about the food system, health and protecting the environment. This festival will take place on April 19 and 20. Find out more here.
6. Take your taste buds on a trip at the Hawker 88 Night Market
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Asia at Queen Victoria Market. This night market will run on Wednesday nights for five weeks, with a different theme each time. It’ll kick off on April 12 and end on May 10.
7. Check out MPavilion for its final month
Enjoy cultural events, talks, performances, installations and more at MPavilion. These events will end on April 6. See the program here.
8. Race over to the Australian Grand Prix
The Grand Prix is taking over Albert Park from March 30 to April 2. Rev your engines and join in on the fun by checking out some cool events and activities happening around Melbourne. See our list here.
9. Embrace the rhythm at Bluesfest Melbourne
After taking over Byron Bay every Easter weekend since 1990, this contemporary blues & roots music festival is coming to Melbourne for the very first time. Listen to Aussie acts and international talent, then check out family entertainment and their range of food and drink at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Bluesfest Melbourne will run on April 8 and April 9. Learn more here.
10. Explore free art at Melbourne Now
Discover the work of over 200 Victorian artists and creatives at Melbourne Now. This free exhibition is on display at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Fed Square from now until August 20.
11. Feel awed by the ACMI exhibition, Goddess: Power, Glamour, Rebellion
ACMI will pay tribute to formidable women on screen in their blockbuster exhibition, Goddess. See large-scale projections, never-before-seen costumes, cinematic treasures and more. There will also be events and interactive experiences, like curator tours and live music nights. Goddess will run in Melbourne from April 5 to October 1.
12. Find inner peace with the Wellbeing Within program
Take a break and experience meditation, mindfulness, movement, meditative sound baths and yoga at the Immigration Museum. Wellbeing Within will run every Wednesday from April 5 to May 31.
13. Go on an egg-citing Easter Egg hunt
Take your family, and go Easter egg hunting around Melbourne and Victoria this April. From iconic theme parks to gorgeous farms, there’s lots of lovely settings to explore this Easter. Some events are free while others require a booking. See our list here.
14. Celebrate Easter at Queen Vic Market
Enjoy fun and free Easter events at Queen Vic Market. Bring the kids along and watch them have fun with heaps of free cooking workshops. Then, take them to meet the Easter Bunny! Find more details here.
15. Indulge in a delectable Easter high tea
Pullman Melbourne on the Park is celebrating the season with their very own Easter High Tea. Expect delicious delights, including chocolate fountains, bunny cupcakes and a hot cross bun tower at this special high tea inside their restaurant, The Cliveden Bar & Dining. This afternoon tea is available on Easter Sunday, or April 9, from 12:30pm to 3pm.
16. See the pop-tacular Shakespearean musical, & Juliet
See Shakespeare get a remix with some of the most beloved pop anthems in upcoming, Olivier-Award-winning musical, & Juliet. Find it at the Regent Theatre this month. More info here.
17. Feel mesmerised by the work of Monet and more at The Lume
Go on a journey across France in this multisensory experience, with vibrant projections and sounds immersing you in the world of French Impressionism. Take a picture on Monet’s Bridge over a Pond, dance with Degas’ ballerinas, plunge yourself into a world of waterlilies, and much, much more. On select days, you can also do a tranquil yoga session at the Lume, surrounded by blissful projections.
18. See Bugs Bunny at the Symphony by Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
Experience Looney Tunes like never before with the help of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Watch over a dozen cartoons, accompanied by live original scores. See it at Hamer Hall from April 27 to 29. More info here.
19. Celebrate pop culture at Supanova
Explore the best in comics, anime, gaming, fantasy, nostalgia and more at Supanova. Dress up in cosplay, find merch at exhibitors, meet celebrities and much, much more. Check it out at Melbourne Showgrounds on April 22 and 23. More info here.
20. Have a splashing good time with WET Sunday Sessions
Spend your Sundays lazing by the gorgeous pool in W Melbourne, sipping on cocktails and admiring the gorgeous Melbourne skyline. These poolside parties take place every Sunday and run from 2pm to 6pm.
21. See the Alexander McQueen exhibition at NGV
Alexander McQueen: Mind, Mythos Muse is the first major Australian exhibition to explore his thought-provoking work, sources of inspiration and creative process. This exhibition showcases over 120 garments and accessories, alongside over 80 works of art. The Alexander McQueen exhibition is now on at NGV International, and will run until April 16.
22. Wander through this vivid reimagining of The Parthenon at NGV
See this gorgeous installation, complete with colourful artworks from local creators, in the Grollo Equiset Garden at NGV for free.
23. Stay late at NGV Friday Nights
Browse the McQueen exhibition in the evening, then listen to live DJs, visit pop-up bars and try some English-inspired dining. This event will run from 6-10pm on Friday Nights, from now until April 14.
24. Have a practically perfect time at the Mary Poppins musical
Everyone’s favourite nanny is has flown into Melbourne. See Mary Poppins, Bert and more beloved characters come to life in this spectacular stage adaptation by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh at Her Majesty’s Theatre.
25. Explore the dome of the Royal Exhibition Building
The dome of the Royal Exhibition Building is now open to the public. Head up there and see it for yourself, and take in gorgeous views of the Melbourne skyline.
26. See Bernhardt/Hamlet at Southbank Theatre
Melbourne Theatre Company will take you on a comedic journey to Paris in 1899, when legendary actress Sarah Bernhardt is both famous and broke. She sets her sights on the role of Hamlet, scandalising society along the way. This show will run from now until April 15. See more here.
27. Have a good time at Live at the Bowl
Head to Sidney Myer Music Bowl for some fantastic contemporary music events this April. Party at electronic music festival, Ultra, listen to Fatboy Slim and more. See the program here.
28. Go back in Time with this Rone exhibition in Flinders Street Station
Step into the mysterious third floor and ballroom of Flinders Street Station, and discover a forgotten era of Melbourne. Explore 11 large-scale installations, meticulously placed around the heritage-listed space. This exhibition will run until Sunday April 23.
29. Be whisked away to Hogwarts with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
The magical story of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has been reimagined as a one-part play. See a whole new generation of young wizards take the stage, with fascinating illusions, a heartfelt story and more. Return to Hogwarts at the Princess Theatre.
30. Experience Candlelight
The candlelit performances have taken place at venues like The Athenaeum and The Astor Theatre as well as at The Timber Yard, the Meat Market and Fed Square. With more venues being added to the growing list, there’s a Candlelight concert around every corner.
Candlelight concerts in April feature tributes to Taylor Swift, Queen, and Elton John. as well as the best in anime soundtracks. See what’s coming up here.
31. Check out the Sri Lankan Festival at Queen Victoria Market
Celebrate the Sri Lankan New Year with two days of special food stalls at Queen Vic Market. There will also be live bands, traditional dance performances and workshops for you to try. Find the festival on April 15 and 16, from 9am to 4pm. More info here.
32. Dive in to Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium
Go on an immersive journey with their digital exhibition, Submerged, and see the wonder of underwater worlds. Peppa Pig will also make an appearance for the school holidays from April 7 to 25.
33. Hop aboard The Wizardry Express
Looking for some magic in Melbourne this April? Look no further than The Wizardry Express. Your journey begins at Flinders Street Station, where you’ll board a magical steam train. There, you’ll find plenty of wizard-themed photo opportunities, interactive skits, snacks and craft activities for all ages. Dressing up is encouraged. The Wizardry Express will run on April 15 and 16. More details here.
34. Celebrate the weird and wonderful at Fantastic Film Festival
Head to Lido Cinemas and get your fix on cult and arthouse cinema. This film festival will run from April 14 to 30. Find out more here.
35. Snack your way through this sushi train experience by Poh
Poh has created her first in-restaurant experience at QT Melbourne. Nibble your way through eight delicious dishes, and pair it with some whiskey cocktails. This slow-moving culinary train is available to book from now until the start of May.
36. Celebrate the end of Ramadan at Eid Festival
After a month of fasting for Ramadan, immerse yourself in the flavours of Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and more at Eid Festival. This celebration will have plenty of delicious food, as well as live performances, interactive experiences and more. Find it at Queen Vic Market on April 22 and 23, from 9am to 4pm. More info here.
37. Browse through the Makers & Shakers Market
Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or find a gift for someone else, you’re sure to find the perfect thing at the Makers & Shakers Market. This two-day event has over 100 handmade stalls for you to discover, featuring homewares, sustainable fashion, lifestyle products and delicious food. There’s also cool craft workshops for you to try, like watercolour painting for beginners. This market will take place in Williamstown on April 22 and 23. More info here.
38. Support charity at the Feast to Feed dinner
Enjoy a five-course degustation dinner made with signature dishes from top chefs around Australia. This includes Adam D’Sylva (Lollo), Tom Sarafian (Sarafian), Alessandro Luppolo (ex-Attica) and more. The dishes will be accompanied by a premium selection of drinks, including wine, beer and cocktails. All raised funs will support Alex Makes Meals to provide delicious and nutritious foods to those struggling around Melbourne. Feast to Feed will take place in St Kilda on Thursday April 27 from 6pm to 11pm. More info here.
39. Celebrate at the South Asian Festival
Head to Birrarung Marr this April and celebrate the New Year of South Asian countries. This free festival will feature stage performances, food trucks, carnival rides, community stalls, a parade, fireworks and more! The South Asian Festival will take place on April 29 and 30. Stay up-to-date here.
40. Unleash your creativity at Chaos Lab
From the Control Room to the Science Lab, the Mirror Maze to the Ball Pit, Chaos Lab is a fun experience for all kids who want to play, explore and create. Find it at The District Docklands. Tickets are on sale now.
41. Make your mark at the Rites of Passage Tattoo Festival
Head to Royal Exhibition Building for this terrific tattoo festival. Over 350 of the best Australian artists will be tattooing live at the festival. There will also be live music, live art activations, a food truck park, retail offerings, giveaways and prizes. Check it out from April 28 to 30. Find out more here.
42. Find something wonderful at this craft fair in Queen Vic Market
At CRFT*WRK, you’ll discover locally-made goods from independent creators at Queen Vic Market. Find art, ceramics, jewellery, homewares and more. This festival will run on Saturday April 29 from 9am to 4pm.
43. Wander over to Mornington Peninsula for Drift Arts Festival
Celebrate art and music at this annual festival in the Mornington Peninsula. Explore the region and discover installations, projections, film, food, wine, performances and more. This event will run from April 21 to 30. Learn more here.
44. Frolic in the Tesselaar KaBloom Festival of Flowers
Immerse yourself in fields of colourful flowers this autumn at the Tesselaar KaBloom Festival of Flowers. Wander through 25 acres of gardens, and be greeted by over 3 million bright blooms. In this spectacular festival, flowers and circus acts will collide to create something extraordinary.
Head out to the Dandenong Ranges, and see this festival from now until April 25. Learn more here.
45. Hop It around the Bellarine
Drink all the wine you wish without worrying about a designated driver thanks to the Hop It bus service. They’re opening a new route in the Bellarine Peninsula on April 1, so you can visit all the different brewers and distillers that the region has to offer. Find out more here.
46. Wander through Blue Lotus Water Garden
This dazzling lotus and waterlily garden will be closing for the season soon, but you still have time to admire some breath-taking autumn flowers, like bougainvillea, sunflowers and salvias. Journey along the scenic trails and admire the calm lakes, from now until April 10. See more here.
47. Lose yourself in this mirror maze in Bendigo
The mesmerising Kaleidoscope installation is taking over Rosalind Park in Bendigo. Navigate through a maze of corridors and a world of shifting illusions. This experience will stay in Bendigo for the whole month of April.
48. Frolic at the magical Unicorn Festival in Kryal Castle
Head to Kryal Castle over the school holidays and feel enchanted by the Unicorn Festival. Put on your best unicorn-inspired clothes, and journey to the castle for a day filled with unicorn-themed activities, entertainment, magical creatures, makeovers and more. It’s all happening from April 7 to April 22. While you’re there, stay the night at the brand new BIG4 Kryal Castle Holiday Park.
49. See autumn leaves around the state
Put on a cosy jumper and go for lovely afternoon walks underneath the autumn trees. Find our recommendations here.
50. Take part in some exciting autumn festivals
Head out of Melbourne this April, and embrace the wonders of the autumn season with fantastic events like the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival or the Bright Autumn Festival.