The best free festivals in ³Ô¹ÏÍø
Don't let an empty wallet stop you from enjoying ³Ô¹ÏÍø this silly season. These festivals and street parties offer free entry and tons of entertainment.
Free festivals
Christmas in the city
See the city light up with dazzling displays, festive events and activities for the whole family.
Boxing Day Test Summer Fest
The energy spills beyond the boundary as the Boxing Day Festival returns to Yarra Park.
Fed Square Holi: Festival of Colours
Get ready for a vibrant explosion of colours and fun at the Fed Square Holi Festival of Colours!
³Ô¹ÏÍø CBD Holi Festival of Colours
Be covered in vibrant colours and dance to music at the Treasury Garden's Holi.
Midsumma Carnival
Midsumma Carnival launches the 2026 festival with a full day of music, stalls and summer fun.
Book Signing: The Pearl Prize 2026
Purchase a copy of The Pearl Prize 2026 and join this exclusive event with writers and publishers.
Antipodes Festival
Street food, live performances, market stalls and cultural experiences for everyone.
More free fun
Summer Night Market
Gather your crew for ³Ô¹ÏÍø’s favourite summer tradition – Wednesday nights from 5pm to 10pm.
MECCA X NGV Women in Design Commission: Nipa Doshi
Designer Nipa Doshi explores beauty, plurality and diversity in her handcrafted cabinet.
Distraction
An exhibition that plugs into the torrent of content and places we go when craving distraction.
The best free and cheap family activities
Find family-friendly fun and free events in ³Ô¹ÏÍø this Christmas.
The ultimate guide to ³Ô¹ÏÍø's best Christmas lights and decorations
Where to see stunning Christmas trees, the best Christmas lights and more beautiful decorations.
Last updated on Wed 12 Nov 2025
Christmas
Christmas things to do
The city’s wrapped and ready with magical moments, twinkling lights and festive fun.
Christmas eat and drink
Savour the city’s festive flavours with rooftop bars, laneways and menus made for merry moments.
Discover more
The best Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix events in ³Ô¹ÏÍø
Map out your perfect Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix weekend in ³Ô¹ÏÍø.
Where to enjoy a European-style winter in ³Ô¹ÏÍø
Embrace the chill with warming treats, pop-ups and events worthy of a Northern Hemisphere winter.
The Pearl Prize Awards Gala
Celebrating LGBTQIA+ and allied writers, legends, young creatives and industry paragons.
