February is the shortest month of the year, but that doesn’t make it any less exciting! Make each day count by soaking in the sunshine, having fun at festivals, exploring free events and more. There’s heaps of things to do in Melbourne and Victoria this February, so scroll through this list if you need some ideas.
Here’s what’s on in Melbourne this February
Don’t miss the Bridgerton Masquerade Parlour
A pop-up from the world of Bridgerton is coming to Melbourne for a very limited time. Mingle with other fans, visit a pampering station and pose for photos in a luxurious space. Entry to the Bridgerton Masquerade Parlour is free, and will take place on January 31 and February 1.
Feel immersed in the Dome Under Film Festival
Head over to Melbourne Planetarium and watch films projected across a 16-metre domed ceiling at the Dome Under Film Festival. This festival will run from January 30 to February 1. More info here.
Try all the amazing things at Midsumma Festival
Midsumma Festival is back in Melbourne for another fabulous summer. Major events like Midsumma Pride March and Victoria’s Pride Street Party will make a return, and there will also be plenty of cool shows, parties and events for you to check out. It’s all happening from now until February 8.
Celebrate Lunar New Year
Welcome the Year of the Horse with plenty of fun and festivities around Melbourne. See lion dances, festive installations and more. See what’s happening here.
Plan a visit to Spiegel Haus for the ultimate Midsumma 2026 celebration
Midsumma is here! This bold and inclusive celebration of the queer community is always a highlight of the Melbourne calendar and the 2026 edition is no different. This year, plan a visit to Spiegel Haus, the official artist bar of Midsumma 2026! From speciality cocktails to discounted drinks for all performers, crew and staff, as well as a line-up of shows and performances, the Spiegel Haus is not one to be missed this year. Plan your visit now!
Enjoy the outdoor cinema at Fed Square
Spend your summer evenings watching movies for free at Fed Square’s outdoor cinema. This time around, it’s all about satire, with curated films like Kubrick’s Dr Strangelove and How I Stopped Worrying about the Atomic Bomb. The films are screening from February 2 to 5. See the program here.
Have fun at the Frankston Waterfront Festival
Head to Frankston and soak in the summer with live music, rides, food and drink, family-friendly activities and more. Frankston Waterfront Festival will take place on Friday February 6, from 5pm to 10pm, and Saturday February 7, from 12pm to 9:30pm. Learn more here.
Indulge your curiosity at SexEx
SexEx 2026 is coming to Melbourne for a three-day adult lifestyle expo that blends education, exploration and world-class entertainment. See live performances, discover innovative products, learn about sexual wellbeing and more. Find it at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from February 6 to 8.
Feel mesmerised by a free Candlelight concert in Fed Square
Listen to live music under the stars, along with the gentle twinkle of candlelight, at three free events in Fed Square. Back by popular demand, the free Candlelight concerts will feature exciting artists. The event will kick off with a performance from Folk Bitch Trio on February 10. Return for soulful tunes from rising First Nations singer Dean Brady on February 11. Then, listen to pop royalty Tina Arena on February 12.
Feel swept away with free concerts from the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
Pack up a picnic and prepare yourself for the perfect symphonic soirée. Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is coming back with their free concerts at Sidney Myer Music Bowl this February. The concerts will take place on February 10, 11, 12 and 14.
Watch movies under the stars at Moonlight Cinema
Enjoy the summer nights by watching familiar favourites and new releases at Moonlight Cinema. Find it on the lush Central Lawn at Royal Botanic Gardens.
Get dressed up for the Melbourne Fashion Festival
The Melbourne Fashion Festival is turning 30! And it’s coming back to town with runways, talks, exhibitions, workshops and more. The festival will run from February 14 to 28. See more here.
Have a blast at St Kilda Festival
Listen to over 100 live artists, explore market stalls, take part in activities, try delicious food and more at St Kilda Festival on Saturday February 15 and Sunday February 16.
Enjoy a Japanese-inspired cocktail while watching a magic show at Maho Magic Bar
Maho Magic Bar is back in Melbourne, taking up residence at Spiegel Haus this summer. The neon-lit Japanese bar is a feast for the senses, with some of Japan’s best magicians dazzling audiences with tricks and illusions. Of course, the bar is well stocked with Japanese spirits and a menu offering up cocktails, wine and beer – as well as non-alcoholic options. Maho Magic Bar is open now until February 15 with various times available from Tuesdays-Sundays (and family-friendly matinees on some days before 4pm). Get your tickets now!
Catch jaw-dropping aerial acts at Blanc de Blanc Encore
Blanc de Blanc Encore is no ordinary night at the circus – it is an adults-only extravaganza, combining sexy circus, sultry cabaret and risqué comedy. The opulent show has arrived at Spiegel Haus for a summer season, and this is not one to be missed. Expect to be dazzled and delighted by a line-up of world-class performers, all set within the immersive and intimate Spiegel Haus venue. Tickets are now on sale – get yours fast!
See awesome movies at the Best Biggest IMAX Film Festival
The IMAX at Melbourne Museum is showcasing some incredible movies like Sinners, Dune, Oppenheimer and The Dark Knight Trilogy as part of the Best Biggest IMAX Film Festival.
Explore Our Wondrous Planet at Melbourne Museum
Explore our planet’s incredible range of natural environments, from polar ice flats to colourful reefs, at the multisensory gallery, Our Wonderous Planet. See over 800 animals from the museum collection, learn about interconnected ecosystems and hear stories from First Peoples around the world. This permanent gallery is now open at Melbourne Museum. See more here.
Strut your way to NGV’s Westwood | Kawakubo exhibition
Head to NGV and chart the careers of two influential fashion designers – Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo, founder of Comme de Garçons. Marvel at nearly 150 designs, including pieces from the NGV collection and loans from international museums and private collections. The Westwood | Kawakubo exhibition is open at NGV International from now until Sunday April 19.
Party at NGV Friday Nights
The popular NGV Friday Nights are back this summer, in celebration of the exhibition about Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons. Stay out late and enjoy the exhibition, then stick around for live music, food and drinks. The festivities will take place every Friday night from now until April 17, and will run from 6pm to 10pm.
Marvel at the dazzling DIVA exhibition
Celebrate legendary performers like Maria Callas, Judy Garland, Elton John, Lady Gaga, Prince and more at the DIVA exhibition. See over 250 objects, including costumes, photography, jewellery, art and more. Find it at the Australian Museum of Performing Arts from now until April 26.
Feel dazzled by Ballet of Lights
Watch as talented ballet dancers bring your favourite stories to life, while performing in glowing costumes. Find Ballet of Lights at the Capitol Theatre.
Embark on a Sunset Safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo
Hop on a safari bus and witness some of the world’s most majestic animals roam about the savannah at dusk. Immerse yourself in this stunning natural adventure at Werribee Open Range Zoo on Saturdays from now until February 21, from 5:30pm to 9pm.
Embrace the warmer nights at the Summer Night Market
The iconic Summer Night market has returned to Queen Victoria Market. Sip on cocktails, feast on delicious food, browse through stalls, enjoy live entertainment and more. Find it on Wednesday nights from now until March 11.
Embrace nostalgia with ANASTASIA The Musical
Journey to the past to St. Petersburg and Paris with a trip to see ANASTASIA The Broadway Musical at The Regent Theatre. The spectacular Broadway hit is in Melbourne for a strictly limited run, until February 20. This show is inspired by the rumours of Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov’s escape in the early days of the Russian Revolution, as well as the beloved animated film from 20th Century Fox. Get your tickets and see it now!
Don’t miss My Brilliant Career
After a sold-out premiere season, My Brilliant Career is back for a limited encore. This reimagining of Miles Franklin’s classic novel features a score that blends contemporary pop, bush ballads and pub rock. See it at Southbank Theatre from January 23 to February 28. Learn more here.
See Shakespeare Under the Stars
Shakespeare Under The Stars is coming back to Royal Botanic Gardens with a production of Twelfth Night. Sprawl out on Southern Cross Lawn and enjoy the show from January 24 to February 28. More info here.
Experience the magic of a Candlelight concert
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 February include a Valentine’s Day special, movie soundtracks at the aquarium, a Lord of the Rings performance and more. See what’s on here.
Feel swept away by music in The Jazz Room
Listen to talented musicians bring your favourite jazz songs to life in The Jazz Room. Grab a drink, soak in the tunes, and feel amazed by spontaneous solos and improv. There’s a few sessions happening around Melbourne for you to enjoy.
Watch some silent cinema with live film scores
Watch classic films for free on the main screen at Fed Square, accompanied by live music. Silent Cinema with Live Scores will run from February 16 to 20. See more here.
See the penguins in St Kilda
See a colony of adorable little penguins for free from the new 150-metre elevated platform at St Kilda Pier. Just note that you will need to make a booking before you go.
See a movie at Sunset Cinema
Spend a leisurely evening at St Kilda Botanical Gardens, and watch movies under the stars at Sunset Cinema,from now until March 21.
Pop over to Balloon Story
After delighting visitors in New York, Balloon Story has landed at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Float over to this imaginative wonderland filled with intricate sculptures made from over 400,000 balloons.
Make a new FRIEND in this cool robot exhibition
Robots of all shapes and sizes have come to Melbourne for the new exhibition, FRIEND, at the National Communication Museum. As you move through the space, you’ll encounter cuddly cushions with wagging tails, an old robot that plays music, little robots that need help and more. This exhibition is on from now until April 26.
Play the ‘Among Us’-style game, Saboteurs
Head to The District Docklands and go on a space adventure at Saboteurs. Play with your friends inside converted shipping containers, complete tasks, and eject any suspicious imposters.
Catch all the action at Summer Jam
Australia’s biggest summer basketball festival returns to St Kilda this February. Head to Peanut Farm Reserve from February 20–22 for three days of hoops, beats, eats and a whole lot more. Find out more about the Summer Jam Championship here.
Feel amazed by Melbourne Art Fair
See the work of over 200 artists and designers and over 60 leading galleries at Melbourne Art Fair. Along with the pieces, you can also expect creative workshops, guided tours, books and more! Find it at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from February 19 to 22. See more here.
Join the party in Fed Square at the Afro Caribbean Carnival
Follow the booming bass to this massive street party in Fed Square. At the Afro Caribbean Carnival, you can expect tunes from pioneering Jamaican dancehall artist Sister Nancy and UK artist General Levy. Have a dance, and keep your energy going with delicious street food. It’s all happening from 6pm to 10pm on Saturday February 21. See more here.
Enter a courtroom drama in The Jury Experience
You’ve been called for jury duty. In this live theatre courtroom drama, you’ll listen to the case and decide who is guilty or not guilty. There’s a few different sessions around Melbourne of The Jury Experience for you to try.
Feel the beat at MJ The Musical
The Tony Award-winning show, MJ The Musical, is now playing in Melbourne. Set in 1992, this production offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Michael Jackson’s Dangerous World Tour. Hear over 25 of MJ’s greatest hits, including Beat It, Thriller and Smooth Criminal. Find it at Her Majesty’s Theatre. Learn more here.
Celebrate the 35th anniversary of Terminator 2: Judgement Day
In this exciting experience, you’ll watch Terminator 2 in 4K, along with a reimagined live score and laser show. Hear a dynamic electronic soundscape from Belgian music producer Peter Van Hoesen, along with the Melbourne Electronic Sound Studio (MESS) Synthesiser Ensemble. Feel mesmerised by lasers from Robin Fox as the film unfolds. The screening will take place at Hamer Hall from February 25 to 28. More info here.
Play your way through the Game Worlds exhibition at ACMI
This exciting exhibition will put you inside the worlds of 30 videogames, and 20 of them will be playable. Explore pioneering games from the 1970s and continue on to beloved modern titles. Expect original concept art, rare objects, playable demos and more. Game Worlds is now open at ACMI and will stay in town until March 29.
Immerse yourself in a sensory experience at SENSAS
Round up some friends and tackle some fun challenges at SENSAS. Test all five of your senses in some wacky experiences. This playful space is now open. Get your tickets here.
Stay cool with a $2 swim
City of Melbourne residents can swim in either Carlton Baths or North Melbourne Pool for just $2 on weekdays this summer.
Try to escape Prison Island
Challenge yourself and your teammates to escape Prison Island. Instead of breaking out from a single room, you’ll take on a series of tasks in multiple cells and race against the clock. Find it at The District Docklands.
Sip your way through the Prosecco Festival
The Prosecco Festival is returning to Abbotsford Convent for its 9th year. There’s over 50 types of prosecco to try, as well as craft beer, spritz, Italian food and more. Check it out on Saturday February 28.
Don’t miss the Greek street party, Antipodes Festival
Celebrate Greek culture at this colossal festival on the historic Lonsdale Street Greek Precinct. Look forward to plenty of delicious food, live entertainment, market stalls and more. Antipodes Festival will take place on Saturday February 28 and Sunday March 1. See more here.
Go up to Rooftop Racquet Club
Rooftop at QT is celebrating the season with Rooftop Racquet Club. Play in the pop-up pickleball court, sip on cocktails like the Match Point Paloma and graze on share plates. On Fridays and Saturdays from 6pm to late, and Sundays from 3pm to 6pm, there will also be DJs playing laid-back beats. The Rooftop Racquet Club is on from now until March 2.
Experience The Fab Four like never before with The Beatles Dub Club
After taking over stages in Glastonbury, Boomtown, Latitude and more, The Beatles Dub Club is coming to Melbourne. Hear the music of The Beatles with a fresh spin, in a DJ set that spans reggae, ska, Latin, hip hop, dub and more. The show is free to attend, and will take place at Fed Square on February 26. See more here.
Be a dancing queen at the Gimme Gimme Disco
Throw it back, and dance all night long to your favourite disco tunes from ABBA, The Bee Gees, Cher and more. Disco attire is encouraged! Find the Gimme Gimme Disco at Ms Collins on Friday February 27.
Feel the sparks at the Museum of Desire
At the Museum of Desire, you’ll find over 20 sensory-rich experiences that explore desire and pleasure. Feeling curious?
Experience a world of colour at Holi Festival Melbourne
Celebrate Holi across two massive days, with live music, dance performances, food and drink, and of course, a rainbow of plant-based, non-toxic colours. Holi Festival Melbourne will take place in Ron Barassi Snr Park (West) in Docklands on February 28 and March 1. More details here.
Explore Blue Lotus Water Garden
Spanning over 14 acres, Blue Lotus Water Garden contains over 40 different ponds, lakes and water features. Here, you’ll find the biggest display of lotus and waterlily flowers in the Southern Hemisphere. This dreamy garden is open from December 26 to April 19.
Cool down at this magical Ice Cream Festival
Beat the heat this summer with limited-edition ice cream flavours at the Ice Cream Festival. Find it at the chocolateries in the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and on the Great Ocean Road, from February 11 to 22.
Walk among cheerful sunflowers
Brighten up your summer by searching for some radiant sunflowers around Victoria. February is a usually a great time to see them, and we’ve rounded up our favourite spots here.
Pack some mints for the South Gippsland Garlic Festival
Celebrate all things garlic with this massive festival at Korumburra Showgrounds. Browse through over 70 stalls, with garlic varieties, garlic products, garlic-inspired dishes and more. There will also be cooking demonstrations, live entertainment and activities for the kids. The South Gippsland Garlic Festival will take place on Saturday February 28. More info here.