7 events in Melbourne you simply can’t miss

The Australian Grand Prix is a highlight of Melbourne’s bustling events and sporting calendars. Held annually in March at the Albert Park Circuit, the Grand Prix sees revheads from around the country and across the globe descend upon Melbourne to catch a glimpse at the exhilarating action. The event spans four days, featuring practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the main race on Sunday. But the excitement doesn’t end there, there’s a tonne of food stalls, activities and attractions for some off the track entertainment.

For four weeks a year, Melbourne transforms into the comedy capital of the world with their International Comedy Festival. Typically running from late March to April, this month-long festival sees the best of the best in comedy from Australia and beyond head to Melbourne to perform in venues across the city. From skits, to stand-up and short sketches, no matter where you are in the city, you’re bound to have an unforgettable laugh.

The Melbourne Cup Carnival is one of Australia’s biggest sporting events. Held at the iconic Flemington Racecourse, the carnival usually happens in early November with the Melbourne Cup itself traditionally taking place on the first Tuesday of the month. Not only is it a major sporting event, the Melbourne Cup Carnival also sees some of the biggest fashion and social events of the year take place, too.

It’s no secret that Melbourne is a melting pot of rich culinary culture, and the best way to celebrate that is at the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. The annual festival, which is held in March spans several days and is packed with gourmet dinners, food tastings, masterclasses and street food markets – making it a haven for any foodie. The whole city gets involved to show off the best of the best in Victorian cuisine and produce with events taking place at restaurants, rooftops and laneways across the city.

First starting back in 1952, the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) is one of the oldest film festivals in the Southern Hemisphere. Held annually in August, the Melbourne International Film Festival is forum for boundary-pushing documentaries, short films and other cinematography. Whether you’re a casual movie-lover or a full-blown cinephile, you’ll be spoiled for choice with screenings and events taking place across the city.

The Melbourne Fringe Festival the best way to see the pinnacle of Melbourne’s vibrant arts culture. Held annually in October, the festival is a great way to see emerging artists showcasing their work across theatre, dance, music and art. You can expect these events to take place in unconventional venues across Melbourne such as warehouses and basements. The Fringe is renowned for giving space for boundary-pushing new acts to have a platform, if you happen to be in Melbourne during October, this is one event not to miss.

Midsumma Festival is a three-week extravaganza celebrating all things LGBTQIA+, arts and cultural festival, running from mid-January to early February. With dozens of events and activities spanning across theatre, music, visual arts, film and community celebrations, this festival is not to be missed. Though the event runs for three weeks and has dozens of evens, the highlight of the festival is the Pride March in St Kilda which sees over 10,000 marchers strut down Fitzroy Street every year.