With the New Year comes new beginnings, and with the summer in full swing, there’s plenty happening around Melbourne to get the year off to a brilliant start. If your resolution was to have more fun, see more shows, try delicious food and do more things, then our January 2026 guide is perfect for you. There’s so many exciting things to do in Melbourne and beyond this January, so let’s get started.
The best things to do in Melbourne this January
Try all the amazing things at Midsumma Festival
Midsumma Festival is coming back to Melbourne for another fabulous summer. Major events like Midsumma Carnival and Midsumma Pride March 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 January 18 to February 8.
Check out the action at the Australian Open
The Australian open is back from January 12 to February 1 with some of the world’s biggest tennis stars descending on the city. Thrilling matches are guaranteed, and there are extra brilliant events to look forward to, including a stacked schedule of live music. Learn more here.
Let loose at Melbourne’s newest entertainment hub, Spiegel Haus
Nights out in Melbourne’s CBD just got a whole lot livelier, as Spiegel Haus has thrown open its doors to reveal a grand array of cabaret, magic, music, comedy, and plenty more entertainment. They’ve given Secret Melbourne exclusive access to share the secrets of your new favourite nightlife venue, and we’re positively giddy over what’s in store. See our Spiegel Haus primer here, and don’t forget to follow along on Instagram for giveaways, sneak peeks, and much more! Oh, and when you’re visiting Spiegel Haus, make sure to snap a shot in the Secret Lounge or at the photobooth and tag us on socials; we’ll share a selection of our favourites from time to time.
Enjoy the outdoor cinema at Fed Square
Spend your summer evenings watching movies for free at Fed Square’s outdoor cinema. Look forward to a fun mixture of musicals and action films, like Mamma Mia! and The Terminator. Cinema screenings are on from January 3 to 8. See the program here.
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!
Watch movies under the stars at Moonlight Cinema
Enjoy the summer nights by watching festive favourites and new releases at Moonlight Cinema. Find it on the lush Central Lawn at Royal Botanic Gardens.
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 January 8 to March 1.
See a movie at Sunset Cinema
Spend a leisurely evening on the Heritage Lawn at Abbotsford Convent, and watch movies under the stars at Sunset Cinema. The season will run from December 4 to January 4. After that, it will take over St Kilda Botanical Gardens from January 8 to March 21.
Have a sizzling time at the Vida Melbourne Latin Festival
Celebrate Latin American culture with live music, dance, workshops, food and more at the Vida Melbourne Latin Festival. It’s free to attend, and will take over Tom’s Block in King’s Domain on January 10 and 11. More details here.
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 January 10 to February 21, from 5:30pm to 9pm.
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.
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.
Have fun at the NGV Kids Summer Festival
Children, teens and families will find plenty to do at NGV for Kids Summer Festival. Check out the Let’s Party! Fashion for Kids: Designed by Danielle Brustman exhibition in the Children’s Gallery, then get crafty with free activities, take part in dance parties, see live performances and more. This festival is on from January 10 to 16. Learn 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.
Dare to try a frightful Darkfield experience
Step into a shipping container at Arts Centre Melbourne, and feel swept away on an immersive audio journey. Darkfield is back in town with a new experience. In Invisible, you’ll be guided by The Invisible Man as he teaches you how to disappear, and the consequences. Otherwise, try discover two worlds, to realities and two outcomes to your journey on the popular Flight experience. This experience is available until January 11. Learn more about it 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.
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.
Play on a floating tennis court
AFLOAT will transform into a floating tennis club this January. Grab a bite to eat or something to drink, watch a game on the big screen, then check out their 20+ metre long court extension. Le Club Lacoste Melbourne will run from January 16 to February 1.
Feel dazzled by DroneArt Show
Visit Caulfield Racecourse and watch the night sky transform into a work of art with hundreds of synchronised drones. Along with the drones, you’ll listen to live strings, surrounded by the gentle glow of candlelight. DroneArt Show will take place on January 16 and 17. Get your tickets here.
Play a round of mini-golf at Pixar Putt
See plenty of interactive putt-putt holes inspired by the stories and characters of Pixar, such as Toy Story, Cars, Monsters Inc., The Incredibles and more. Find Pixar Putt at Marvel Stadium from now until January 18.
Have a dance at Sunset Sounds
Pack a picnic and head to Malvern Public Gardens for Sunset Sounds. This free festival will be headlined by duo Electric Fields, and joined by Parvyn and MC DJ Lyndelle Wilkinson. Soak in the good vibes, have a dance, and grab a bite from one of the food trucks while you’re there. Check it out on Sunday January 18 from 5pm to 8pm. Learn more here.
Feel swept away by ANASTASIA The Musical
Journey to the past to St. Petersburg and Paris when the spectacular musical, ANASTASIA, comes to Melbourne. 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. Find it at the Regent Theatre.
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.
Have a magical time at Harry Potter: The Exhibition
Feel like you’ve Apparated from Melbourne to Hogwarts at Harry Potter: The Exhibition. See authentic props and set pieces from the films, and go on your own magical journey. Conjure your own Patronus, test your Quidditch skills and more! Find it at the Fever Exhibition and Experience Centre in Brunswick.
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 January include the best of Bridgerton on strings, movie soundtracks at the aquarium, a tribute to Taylor Swift and more. See what’s on here.
See art and food collide in the 7 Paintings dining experience
Feast your way through seven courses, inspired by beloved artists like Banksy, Van Gogh, Michelangelo and Dali. 7 Paintings is now open, and takes place on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. You’ll find it at Mr Tompkins restaurant inside Rendezvous Hotel.
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.
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?
Drive through the West Gate Tunnel
Keen to check out the West Gate Tunnel, but don’t want to pay the toll? Travel through the West Gate Tunnel will be free on weekends in January.
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.
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.
Feel the Force at a LEGO Star Wars exhibition in Melbourne Museum
Fly to a galaxy far, far away and feel amazed by LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition. Marvel at towering structures, awesome starships and your favourite characters, then join in on the fun with your own builds. LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition is now open at Melbourne Museum, and must close on January 26.
See rare objects from the Galloway Hoard at Melbourne Museum
See one of the most significant Viking Age discoveries ever found from the United Kingdom, right here in Melbourne. Found in southwest Scotland in 2014, the Galloway Hoard was buried around AD 900 during a time of upheaval in the region. This treasure trove of jewellery and unique objects offers a fascinating insight into this period of time. Treasures of the Viking Age: The Galloway Hoard will be on display at Melbourne Museum from now until Monday January 26.
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.
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 February 8 in 2026.
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.
Have a sublime time at the Malibu Barbie Cafe
A cheerful Malibu Barbie Cafe has popped up at Chadstone. Treat yourself to themed dishes and drinks, then have fun at the roller rink. The cafe will stay at The Social Quarter in Chadstone until summer 2026.
Set sail on Titanic: A Voyage Through Time
Experience the tragedy of the Titanic like never before with this virtual reality experience. Dive to the wreck site, then journey back in time to explore iconic spaces around the ship, such as the Grand Staircase. Along the way, you’ll meet characters based on real passengers and crew members. Titanic: A Voyage Through Time is now open at 206 Bourke Street in Melbourne.
Celebrate the 40th Australian anniversary of Cats the Musical
Pounce over to Hamer Hall and have a purr-fect time at Cats the Musical. The show is on until January 31. Learn more here.
Discover the potential of your senses 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, and is suitable for visitors over the age of 7.
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.
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.
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.
Have fun at this Cherry Picking Festival
CherryHill Orchards are throwing a delightful Cherry Picking Festival. Wander through rows of trees in either Wandin East or Coldstream, eat as many cherries as you like straight from the tree, and pack some cherries to take home. Have a picnic while you’re there, sample some cherry ice cream and treat yourself to some refreshing drinks. Learn more here.
Have a wild time out at this photography exhibition
See some incredible nature photography, on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. Find it at the National Wool Museum in Geelong from now until May 17. Learn more here.
Spend a day at the Portarlington Mussel Festival
Whisk yourself away to the coast this summer for the Portarlington Mussel Festival. Every January, 30,000 people journey to this seaside town to celebrate and try their delicious mussels. On top of the famous seafood, there will be market stalls, wine tastings, exhibitions, cooking demonstrations and entertainment. It’s all happening on Saturday, January 10.
Listen to live music on The Blues Train
Head to Queenscliff and hop aboard a steam train. Roam between four carriages, and listen to four, distinct music acts along the way. The Blues Train is back for the season, with shows available on weekends. See more 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.
Watch something at the Peninsula Film Festival
If you’re relaxing on the Mornington Peninsula this summer, why don’t you swing by the Peninsula Film Festival? Held in Rosebud, you can look forward to special screenings, filmmaking workshops and a short film festival. Check it out from January 9 to 11. More info here.
Swing by the Macedon Ranges for Summertime Fling
Spend the long summer days leisurely sipping on wine and grazing on food in the splendid Macedon Ranges. Look forward to a rotating line-up of cellar door experiences, tasting flights, long lunches, outdoor cinemas and more. Summertime Fling is on from January 9 to 31. See the schedule here.
Go for a ride on Victoria’s largest miniature railway
A delightful new miniature railway has just opened in Harcourt, and is the largest 7¼” gauge railway in the state. Round up the whole family and make your way to the Victorian Miniature Railway. Set on 65 picturesque acres, this space features 2.7km of track carrying steam and diesel locomotives. It’s now open every Sunday from 11am to 5pm.
