Winter is a truly magical season, and August is our last chance to truly enjoy wintery things like a cosy cup of hot chocolate, a dip into some hot springs and a visit to the snow. And if you were worried about the chill outdoors, there’s heaps of indoor things to try as well, like film festivals and art exhibitions. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Melbourne and Victoria this August.
Here’s what’s on in Melbourne this August
Experience the best of cinema at MIFF
Celebrate the 73rd anniversary of the Melbourne International Film Festival this August. Look forward to a massive line-up of 275 films, with features, shorts, special events and more. The festival will run from August 7 to 24.
Explore the festival Now or Never
Now or Never is coming back to Melbourne this August. Look forward to a massive program of over 140 free and ticketed events, with live performances, stunning installations and more. This festival will run from Thursday August 21 to Sunday August 31.
Set your sights on Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In The Heights
Before Hamilton and Moana, musical legend Lin-Manuel Miranda released his debut musical, In The Heights. The original Broadway run went on to win four Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Set in New York’s Washington Heights, this musical tells the story of a close community on the cusp of change. See it at the Comedy Theatre from August 1.
Explore the wonders of Melbourne Rare Book Week
Image: Visit Victoria
Explore the world of rare and collectable books at the beloved annual event, Melbourne Rare Book Week. This year, there’s 43 free events to look forward to, with exhibitions, a book fair, behind-the-scenes tours and more. It’s all happening from Thursday July 24 to Saturday August 2.
Have plenty of fun at the new Hijinx Hotel x Archie Brothers
Round up your pals and check yourselves in for a fun day out, because Hijinx Hotel and Archie Brothers are opening up under one roof. These two popular entertainment venues will take over 1,600sqm of floor space on Level 3 at QV. It opens to the public on Friday August 1.
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. Grab your tickets here.
Wander among glowing sculptures at IWAGUMI AIR SCAPE
Head to Prahran Square and explore the free installation, IWAGUMI AIR SCAPE. This immersive landscape features inflatable rocks that shimmer with light and sound. See it for yourself from Friday August 1 to Sunday August 17.
Watch a movie for $5 at Lido Cinemas
Lido Cinemas are turning 10, and to celebrate, all general session tickets will be just $5 from August 7 to 13. Throughout the week, they’re also screening their favourite movies from the past ten years. See what’s playing here.
Check out the new MECCA flagship store
In need of some retail therapy? MECCA is opening a multi-level store on Bourke Street, and will feature over 200 beauty brands and over 80 services. It will open to the public on Friday August 8.
Experience The Artistry at Queen Victoria Market
Visit Queen Victoria Market for The Artistry, a thrilling festival packed with tasty street food, live performances, cultural showcases, market treasures and more. Check it out on Saturday August 9 and Sunday August 10. Learn more here.
Return to the wonderful Winter Night Market
Source: Supplied
Head over to Queen Vic Market and warm up with roaring fires, toasty street food and blazing entertainment. Winter Night Market will run on Wednesday nights from 5pm to 10pm, from now until August 27.
Celebrate science and technology at National Science Week
Source: Museums Victoria/Photo by Eugene Hyland
National Science Week is on from August 9 to 17. To celebrate, Museums Victoria has a program of events at Melbourne Museum and Scienceworks, with exhibitions, activities and more. Find out what’s on the program here. See what else is happening around Melbourne here.
Feast on delicious treats at Westside Wanders
Go for a culinary walking tour of either Sunshine or St Albans, and indulge in local treats like matcha and banh mi. Westside Wanders will take place in Sunshine on August 9, and St Albans on August 16. See the program here.
Wander through twinkling light installations at Lightscape
The gorgeous, after-dark experience, Lightscape, is coming back to the Royal Botanic Gardens for a fourth season. Wander through the green heart of Melbourne and feel enchanted by over 20 new installations. Lightscape will illuminate Melbourne from now until Sunday August 10.
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. Get your tickets here.
Have fun at the NGV Teens: Art Party
Teenagers are invited to a night of dancing, activities, talks and after-hours exhibition access at the NGV Teens: Art Party. This event will take place on Saturday August 9, from 6pm to 9pm. See more here.
Gaze at the French Impressionism exhibition at NGV
Installation view of French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston on display from 6 June to 5 October, at NGV International, Melbourne. Photo: Sean Fennessy
Find over 100 paintings, including works never-before-seen in Australia, by notable artists like Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, and more at NGV. Presented in partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), this will be one of the largest and most significant collections of French Impressionism to visit Australia. See the Winter Masterpieces exhibition from now until October 5.
Learn all about the history and beauty of kimono at NGV
Visitors in Kimono on display from 4 June to 5 October, at NGV International, Melbourne. Photo: Mitch Fong
Explore the timeless kimono and see over 70 garments from the Edo period to today. Curated by NGV, the Kimono exhibition features rare and hand-crafted kimono, and over 30 never-before-seen garments that are new to the NGV Collection. This exhibition will run from now until October 5.
Stay out late at NGV Friday Nights
The popular NGV Friday Nights is back, in celebration of the French Impressionism exhibition. Explore the exhibition after hours, then stick around for live music, food and drinks. The festivities will take place every Friday night from now until October 3, and will run from 6pm to 10pm.
See a movie at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne
Source: Supplied
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne is back for its 16th year. Look forward to screenings, a dance competition, panel discussions and more. This year’s chief guest is Aamir Khan. The festival is on from August 14 to 24. Learn more here.
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. Get your tickets here.
Sip your way through the St Kilda Spirits Festival
The first-ever St Kilda Spirits Festival is coming to town. Taste over 200 samples from 30 local and international distillers. There will also be a couple of food trucks and masterclasses to check out. Find it at St Kilda Town Hall from August 15 to 17. Learn more here.
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.
Have a frightfully fun time at BEETLEJUICE the musical
Supplied/Image: Michelle Grace Hunder
It’s showtime! The eight-time Tony Award-nominated musical BEETLEJUICE is now haunting the Regent Theatre in Melbourne.
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. Get your tickets here.
Brighten your mood with Daffodil Day at the Rialto
Source: Supplied
A blanket of bright daffodils will take over the Piazza at Rialto in support of Cancer Council’s annual Daffodil Day. Admire the flowers and buy a bunch of daffodils, which will go towards funding cancer research. This event will take place on Wednesday August 20 and Thursday August 21. More info here.
Swing by the Cirque du Soleil show, Corteo
Feel dazzled by Corteo, a fantastical show that depicts a joyous funeral procession imagined by a clown. See this Cirque du Soleil production at John Cain Arena from August 22 to 31.
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? Get your tickets here.
See Parasite Live in Concert
Composer Jung Jae-il is coming to Melbourne for a special screening of Parasite. He will lead Orchestra Victoria from the piano, so you can watch the film and listen to the soundtrack live. Find Parasite Live in Concert at Hamer Hall at either 2pm or 8pm on Saturday August 23.
Have a stellar time at the Star Wars Galactic Café
Transport your taste buds to a galaxy far, far away at the Star Wars Galactic Café in Melbourne Museum. This stellar cafe is a first for Star Wars fans in Australia. Dine aboard a Corellian Star Cruiser, then explore the newly opened LEGO Star Wars exhibition.
Feel the Force at a LEGO Star Wars exhibition in Melbourne Museum
Source: Museums Victoria/Image: Eugene Hyland
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.
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 Friday August 29 to Monday January 26.
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 August include a night dedicated to the 90s, a tribute to Taylor Swift and more. See what’s on here.
Lock in plans to check out Alcotraz
In this interactive experience, you’ll smuggle liquor into prison and receive up to four personalised cocktails. Alcotraz is now open in Melbourne. Get your tickets here.
See over 100 ancient artefacts at the Hellenic Museum
Image © Hellenic Ministry of Culture via Hellenic Museum
The Hellenic Museum has teamed up with the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, Greece, to bring a global exclusive exhibition to Melbourne. See 119 ancient artefacts from over a dozen museums and ephorates of antiquities in Greece, including the Acropolis Museum, Hellenic National Archaeological Museum, the Archaeological Museum of Delphi and more. Rituals: Gifts for the Gods is open daily from 10am to 4pm.
Have an adorable time at the Top Dog Film Festival
Image: Top Dog Film Festival
The Top Dog Film Festival celebrates that special bond between humans and dogs, with a variety of heart-warming movies on the festival program. You can catch the film festival at The Astor Theatre on Tuesday August 26, from 7pm to 9:45pm. You can also see it at Village Cinemas in Geelong on Wednesday August 20, from 6:30pm to 9:15pm. Grab your tickets and find out more about the festival here.
Find something beautiful at the Affordable Art Fair
Source: Supplied
Explore a mixture of emerging and established artists from galleries around Australia at Affordable Art Fair. After a successful debut in 2019, this art fair is returning to Melbourne and setting up shop at Royal Exhibition Building. Check it out from August 28 to 31. Learn more here.
Discover the Night Sky at Melbourne Planetarium
Get ready to Discover The Night Sky in all its glory in this monthly event for adults only. Taking place on the last Thursday of each month, you’ll learn about a different topic each time at Melbourne Planetarium, hosted by astronomer Dr Tanya Hill. The next event will occur on August 28.
Feel a sense of Joy at the Immigration Museum
Source: Museums Victoria/Image: Eugene Hyland
Seven Victorian-based artists are sharing what joy means to them with a variety of delightful rooms at the Immigration Museum. Journey back in time to a 90s video store, cuddle up with a gigantic soft toy rabbit and more. The Joy exhibition is now open for you to explore, and will stay in town until August 29.
Have fun at Preston Market’s Italian Day Festival
Celebrate at the vibrant Italian Day Festival with pop-up food stalls, live performances, dancing and more. It’s all happening at Preston Market from 8am to 3pm on Sunday August 31.
Sip on wine at Healesville Sanctuary’s Wine & Wildlife
Source: Supplied
Head to Healesville Sanctuary for their winter event, Wine & Wildlife. Sample tasty drop from 22 local wineries, breweries and distilleries. Then, warm up by the fire, look at the animals and listen to live acoustic music. Check it out on Saturday August 30 and Sunday August 31.
Play mini-golf in the ballroom of Flinders Street Station
Supplied/Image: Eugene Hyland
Head up to the mysterious Flinders Street Station Ballroom and check out Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf. This playable art exhibition features nine imaginative mini-golf holes from female-identifying artists. This fun experience will run until Sunday August 31.
Join a thrilling immersive arcade game experience at 123Boom!
You’ll be on the edge of your seat throughout your time at 123Boom!, an immersive puzzle adventure where you and your team are tasked with diffusing a ‘bomb’ to save the day. To do so, you’ll require teamwork, skill, and problem-solving, all racing against the clock as the story advances and the seconds tick down. It’s open now, and you can find your tickets here.
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.
Warm up at the cosy Hot Chocolate Festival
Escape to chocolateries in the Yarra Valley, Great Ocean Road or Mornington Peninsula to try 31 rotating flavours of hot chocolate across the whole month of August. There will also be tasting sessions where you can make your own personalised flavour to take home.
Taste your way through the pie trail in Ballarat
This August, 36 sweet and savoury pies from restaurants and cafés will compete for the title of Ballarat’s Best Pie. Awards will be given out on August 2, but you can try the pies for yourself from August 1 to 31. Find more info here.
Explore the Dark Side of Wine at Rutherglen
Source: Supplied
Journey up north to Rutherglen for their winter festival, the Dark Side of Wine. This festival will light up the region for ten days with roaring fires, stargazing, murder mysteries and plenty of flowing wine. It’s all happening from Friday August 8 to Sunday August 17. Learn more here.
Wander over to the Words in Winter literary festival
Escape to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs over two weekends for the Words in Winter Festival. Look forward to 45 events and over 80 artists in conversations, storytelling, workshops and more. Check it out from August 22 to 24 and 29 to 31. See more here.
Go on a Highland adventure at Kryal Castle
Source: Supplied
Feel transported to Scotland at Kryal Castle’s Highland Spectacular. Listen to pipe bands, see highland dancing, watch warriors on mighty steeds and more. The festival will run on August 30 and 31. More info here.
Have a frothy time at Bendigo on the Hop
Love a good beer? Indie brewers are taking over this regional city for Bendigo on the Hop. Head to pubs, cafes, restaurants and more around town to sip your way through some tasty brews. This event will take place on Saturday August 30 from 11am to 6pm. Learn more here.
Go for a ride on the Walhalla Winter Light Train
Hop aboard a historic train in Walhalla, and go for a ride under the stars across trestle bridges and down gorges. The Walhalla Winter Light Trains will depart at 7pm each Saturday night in August. Bookings are essential.
Escape to the snow this winter
Source: Visit Victoria
Snow season is here! Discover the amazing alpine regions of Victoria, hit the slopes, build a snowman and more. Find out where to see snow in Victoria here.