1. Engage your senses with Monet & Friends 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.
2. 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, 2023.
3. Embrace the warmer nights at the Summer Night Market
The iconic Summer Night market is returning to Queen Vic Market. Sip on cocktails, go market browsing, and try food from over 125 stalls, shops and bars. It starts on Wednesday November 23, and will continue on until March 15, 2023.
4. Explore the Temple of Boom at NGV
A colourful recreation of The Parthenon, an Ancient Greek temple, is coming to NGV. Temple of Boom will be on display for free, from Wednesday November 16.
5. Listen to the music of the night at Phantom of the Opera
This legendary musical has finally come to Melbourne. Fall in love with The Phantom of the Opera at Arts Centre Melbourne.
6. Eat your way through the Night Noodle Markets
After a two year hiatus, Melbourne’s Night Noodle Markets are finally coming back to Birrarung Marr. There’s around 70 dishes to choose from, as well as live entertainment and pop-up bars. Night Noodle Markets will return from Thursday November 10 to Sunday November 27.
7. Feel captivated by Titanic the Musical: In Concert
The five-time Tony Award-winning production, Titanic The Musical, is coming to Melbourne for a special concert series. Based on real people aboard the Titanic, this production focuses on the hopes, dreams and ambitions of the ill-fated passengers. Titanic The Musical: In Concert will feature a 26-piece orchestra, alongside a stellar Australian cast. See it at Melbourne Town Hall for four performances, on November 4, 5 and 6.
8. Feel terrified by the UK stage play, Ghost Stories
The two-time Olivier Award nominee is here in Melbourne, after haunting the UK with its terrifying twists and turns. Brought to you by Realscape Productions, the nightmarish world of Ghost Stories is something you won’t forget anytime soon. See it, if you dare, at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre from now until Saturday November 5.
9. Discover over 100 stalls at the Makers & Shakers Market
Head to Williamstown for a special Christmas Gift Market. Expect over 100 stalls, with homewares, fashion, food and more. The Makers & Shakers Market will take place on Saturday November 5 and Sunday November 6.
More info here.10. See a film at the Bourne Local drive-in cinema
Setting up at Morris Moor in Moorabbin, Bourne Local is going to be showing a selection of recent release films on Friday nights in November, starting on November 4. Watch DC League of Super Pets, Bullet Train, Paws of Fury and Black Adam.
11. Check out the Myer Christmas Window launch
Are you ready to see the 2022 Myer Christmas Windows? The launch event will take place on Sunday November 6, from 11am to 11:45am. There will be performances from Cody Simpson and the Australian Girls Choir. Santa will also make an appearance. Dress up in your most festive costume for the chance to win prizes. It’s all happening at the Myer on Bourke Street Mall.
12. Check out the exhibition, Naadohbii: To Draw Water at Melbourne Museum
This exhibition brings together over 20 contemporary First Peoples artists from Australia, Aotearoa (New Zealand) and Turtle Island (Canada). Explore the solidarity between First Peoples nations around environment, political and cultural connections, and relationships with water.
On Tuesday November 8, there will be a Future Forums: First Nations for Water Justice talk. Listen to Kimberley Moulton, lead curator of the exhibition, in conversation with First Nations voices who are leading solutions for sustainable water resource management. More info here.
13. Have a blooming good time at Fleurs de Villes Noël
Discover a festive floral wonderland at Emporium. Some of Melbourne’s favourite florists have created a Christmas-themed showcase, with couture mannequins and more to discover. Check out a pop-up flower market, enjoy creative holiday workshops and more. Fleurs de Villes will take over Emporium from November 10 to 20.
14. Enjoy a week of celebrations at Victor Churchill
This award-winning butcher and grocery in Armadale is celebrating its first birthday. Join in on the fun with complimentary canapes, featuring their signature charcuterie, parfait and terrines, gateau opera cake and champagne. This will take place from November 7 to 13.
15. Snap up a treat at the Ministry of Crab pop-up
One of Sri Lanka’s most renowned restaurants, Ministry of Crab, has landed in Melbourne. Try it for yourself at Crown, from October 14 to November 12.
16. Celebrate Polish culture at this festival in Fed Square
Enjoy a taste of Poland in the heart of Melbourne. Enjoy performances, delicious food, music and more. The Polish Festival will take place on Saturday November 12.
More info here.17. See over 70 works of art from Tate at ACMI
Journey through 200 years of art history, involving painting, photography, sculpture, drawing, kinetic art, installation and the moving image. Think classic works from Claude Monet to more contemporary creations from Yayoi Kusama. Light: Works from Tate’s Collection will stay in town until November 13.
18. Explore the dome of the Royal Exhibition Building
For the first time in 100 years, the dome of the Royal Exhibition Building is open to the public. Head up there and see it for yourself, and take in gorgeous views of the Melbourne skyline.
19. Get into the holiday spirit by watching A Christmas Carol
Five time Tony Award winner and West End sensation, A Christmas Carol, will have its Australian premiere in Melbourne this November. This production stars David Wenham as Scrooge, and will hit the Comedy Theatre from November 12 to Christmas Eve.
20. Live your best life at Summer Camp festival
Celebrate music, art, freedom and diversity at the inaugural Summer Camp festival. This exciting event will provide a platform for queer artists, as well as feature plenty of drag shows, dances, installations, food and more. Summer Camp will take over Coburg Velodrome on November 12.
More info here.21. Check out Innocent Bystander’s Vegan Garden Party
Head to Innocent Bystander in Healesville and enjoy their new vegan menu at the Vegan Garden Party. Celebrate with an afternoon of live music, vegan wine and vegan dishes. This event will take place on Saturday November 13, from 12pm to 10pm.
22. 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, St James’ Old Cathedral and Fed Square. With more venues being added to the growing list, it feels like there’s a Candlelight concert around every corner.
See upcoming shows here.23. See the Olivier award-winning play, Emilia
A ground-breaking historical play, inspired by the 17th century poet and revolutionist Emilia Bassana, is coming to Melbourne. This fierce mixture of comedy and fury takes a look at Emilia, a writer, wife, lover, and potentially, the ‘Dark Lady’ of Shakespeare’s sonnets. See its Australian debut at Arts Centre Melbourne from November 10 to 27.
24. Step into this festival for all things sneakers
Discover Australia’s biggest sneaker and streetwear convention at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Sneakerland will run on Saturday November 19, from 10am to 5pm.
More info here.25. Journey to the Upside Down at the Stranger Things musical parody
Are you ready for the off-Broadway sensation, Stranger Sings? Go back to Hawkins in 1983, and join the gang as they go on a night of adventure, featuring dancing monsters, heavy synth, and perhaps, finally, justice for Barb. See it at Meat Market from November 4 to 19.
26. Join the fun at the ICC T20 Men’s World Cup Fan Zone
Expect a carnival atmosphere outside the MCG in Yarra Park, for each match day at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The fan zones will be full of music, food and free entertainment. Check out the fan zones on Sunday November 6 and Sunday November 13.
27. Feel dazzled by Illuminate the River
A free and all-ages festival is coming to the banks of the Maribyrnong River. This nine-hour event will feature an incredible line-up of Australian musical talent, including Baker Boy and Something for Kate. On top of that, there will be heaps of family-friendly events and activities, including an inflatable regatta, carnival rides and a dazzling laser and water show on the river. Illuminate the River will take place on Saturday November 19.
28. Spark your creativity at this LEGO exhibition in Melbourne Museum
Have fun in six interactive build zones, gaze in amazement at over 150 models, and see incredible life-sized animals and other fantastical creations at Bricktionary: The Interactive LEGO Brick Exhibition.
29. Visit Warratina Lavender Farm for their Harvest Festival
Celebrate the start of lavender season with this Harvest Festival in the Yarra Valley. Feel mesmerised by rows of vibrant lavender, and enjoy live music and entertainment, check out a market, watch lavender demonstrations and more. This festival will take place on November 19 and 20.
30. Have a blast at the African Music and Cultural Festival
The incredible African Music and Cultural Festival (AMCF) is coming back to Fed Square for its ninth year. See over 35 African countries and community organisations represented through music, food, fashion, film, dance, art and culture. Check it out from Friday November 18 to Sunday November 20.
31. Feel spellbound by 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.
32. Dart over to the new social dining experience Oche
After taking over Amsterdam, Göteborg, London and Brisbane, the gastro-gaming venue Oche is finally coming to Melbourne. This immersive culinary experience from Oslo fuses dining and gameplay to create one memorable night out. Oche will open its doors in the CBD on Friday November 18.
33. Feast on a spring lunch at Avani Wines
This award-winning winery has partnered up with Chef Harry Mangat from Biji Dining to create a special, four-course lunch experience. Enjoy this Spring Series pop-up every weekend, from now until the end of December.
34. Watch the Melbourne Queer Film Festival
Australia’s largest celebration of queer film is back in town. Take part in the film festival at ACMI, Cinama Nova, Jam Factory or on the Rooftop Cinema at the Victorian Pride Centre. This festival will run from November 10 to 21.
See the program here.35. Relax and unwind with Wellbeing Within at Immigration Museum
Slow down and take a breath at the Immigration Museum this October. Explore free meditation, movement, sound healing and more on Wednesdays from now until November 30.
36. See Ron Mueck’s Mass at The Ian Potter Centre
Originally commissioned for the 2017 NGV Triennial, you can now see Mass for free at NGV. Look at 100 large-scale sculptures of the human skull, and discover other free exhibitions at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia in Fed Square.
37. Frolic in Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland
Follow the sound of sleigh bells to Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland, a new Christmas event coming to Burnley Oval. This exciting Christmas paradise will feature multiple themed zones, activities, skating, food and more. Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland will ring in the festive season from Friday November 25 to Saturday December 24.
38. Delight in Parisian bottomless high tea
Enter a lavish Parisian salon and indulge in a marvellous selection of French finger foods. There will also be free flowing champagne to enchant your taste buds. Tickets are on sale now.
39. Feel dazzled by Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat
This feel-good musical is premiering at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne this November, direct from the West End. See it from November 13 onwards.
40. Join the revolution and see Hamilton
Don’t throw away your shot! The ground-breaking musical, Hamilton, is here. Be swept away by the thrilling score and lyrics, which blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway. Rise up and see it at Her Majesty’s Theatre. Check out their website for booking information and more.
41. Feel transported to the Balearic Islands at Arbory Afloat
Embrace the changing seasons and feel whisked away to islands off the coast of Spain at this iconic open-air venue.
42. Wander through a nocturnal world at Tyama
Go on a multi-sensory journey through Victoria’s natural world at this stunning exhibition. Informed by First Peoples knowledge, this exhibition features interactive worlds that respond to movement and sound. Journey from the night sky, through caves and into the sea at Melbourne Museum this November.
43. Stay out late with Saturday Sessions at Melbourne Museum
Enjoy a night at the museum in this monthly series. Check out all of their cool exhibitions, then enjoy a line-up of performances, listen to DJs, check out the pop-up bar, listen to curator talks and more. The museum will stay open until 9pm on Saturday November 19.
44. Go for a romantic boat ride at Royal Botanic Gardens
Go on a tranquil boat ride around Ornamental Lake. Dogs are welcome to come too! Bookings for Punting on the Lake are available now.
45. Visit a hawker-style market at the Durian Festival
Feast on durian from Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam at Queen Vic Market. There will also be street eats, sugarcane, coconut and other delicious fruits to try. There will also be roving entertainment and performances from across Southeast Asia. The festival will take place on Saturday November 19 and Sunday November 20, from 9am to 4pm.
46. Lose yourself in Imaginaria
Be immersed in a futuristic installation of light and sound. Located in Docklands, Imaginaria is a playful space where imagination and technology combines into an amazing experience.
47. Have a furbulous time at Theme Bark
This doggy playground is all about having a good time. Your pooch can show off their skills at a giant dogstacle course, play in a ball pit, eat treats and more! Theme Bark will take place at Port Melbourne Industrial Centre for the Arts (PICA) on Saturday November 19.
48. Go roller skating at the Collingwood Artisan Market
Enjoy a fun day out at Collingwood Artisan Market, which will light up Hoddle Street with a full-size roller rink, plenty of cool stalls, gourmet food and live music. See it on November 27.
49. Check out the East Malvern Food & Wine Festival
Discover a wide range of Victorian wineries, dine on some delectable treats, and check out some live entertainment at this leisurely festival. This event will take place on Sunday November 20, from 11am to 5pm.
50. Pivot your way to Friends! The Musical Parody
Could this BE more exciting? The hilarious Friends! The Musical Parody is playing at the Athenaeum Theatre from November 23 to December 17.
51. 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 November 26 from 9am to 4pm.
52. Mingle at the Dating with Dogs event
If you’re a dog owner, or you just love dogs, spend an afternoon mingling with other single pet parents. Bring your pooch along for some fun games and activities. This casual singles mixer will take place on Saturday November 26 at The Fitzroy Beer Garden.
53. Solve the murder mystery at Labassa Mansion
Labassa Mansion is home to an interactive and immersive Murder Mystery experience where players get to roam its rooms and search for clues. Do you have what it takes to put two and two together or will the true assassin/s of Labassa Mansion’s wealthy widow escape justice?
Get your tickets here.54. Explore SWARM at Science Gallery Melbourne
Delve into the science and art behind what it means to be a part of a pack. The gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, 11am to 5pm.
55. Head to regional Victoria for the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival
Celebrate the best of Victorian food and drink, with special dinners in Ballarat, Crawl and Bite tours in the High Country, and a special village feast in Gippsland, made from the best chefs around Victoria and Australia. The Regional Edition of Melbourne Food & Wine Festival will run from Friday November 18 to Sunday November 27.
See the program here.56. Have fun at this Cherry Picking Festival
CherryHill Orchards are throwing a fun Cherry Picking Festival. Wander through their rows of trees in either Wandin East or Coldstream, and pick some plump cherries to take home. During the festival, there will also be food trucks, box sales, drinks and cherry ice cream to try. The Cherry Picking Festival will start on Monday November 14, and last until early January.
57. Get your Christmas shopping done at the Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Market
This market will feature a curated line-up of over 100 small producers, offering artisan food and wine, as well as plenty of gift inspiration. Find it at the Royal Exhibition Building, from November 25 to 27.
58. Party after dark at Melbourne Museum’s Nocturnal
The electrifying, after-hours party, Nocturnal, is returning to Melbourne Museum. This summer series will feature DJs, dance floors, late-night access to exhibitions, pop-up performances, museum tours, curator talks and classes. The first event will kick off on Wednesday November 30.
59. Listen to a special concert from Melbourne Symphony Orchestra at TarraWarra Estate
Treat yourself to a very special twilight concert and dinner at Yarra Valley winery, TarraWarra Estate. This acclaimed destination will host musicians from the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO). Listen to the unique performance, then enjoy a seasonal dinner with wine. This event will take place on Friday November 28.
60. Check out the Japanese Film Festival Japanese Film Festival
Returning to the cinema for its 26th year, this festival showcases the latest and greatest in Japanese cinema. There will be plenty of action, drama and classics in this year’s jam-packed schedule, so you’ll have plenty of films to choose from. Join the festival at the Kino Cinemas or at ACMI from November 30 to December 4.