The best free festivals in ³Ô¹ÏÍø
Don't let an empty wallet stop you from enjoying ³Ô¹ÏÍø. 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.
Antipodes Festival
Street food, live performances, market stalls and cultural experiences for everyone.
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.
Holi Festival ³Ô¹ÏÍø
Immerse yourself in Indian culture, music, dance, food and drinks at the Festival of Colours.
Lunar New Year at NGV
Celebrate Lunar New Year at NGV with a whole day of festivities, food and fun.
Festival of Veterans Arts
Enjoy this veteran-led arts festival with exhibitions, performances, workshops and family events.
Afro Caribbean Carnival
Free day-to-night dance party, featuring Sister Nancy, General Levy and local sound systems.
Designing with Wool: Australian Wool Board's Fashion Impact
A panel discussion about how fashion designers and manufacturers have championed Australian wool.
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.
Library Cinema at narrm ngarrgu
Each month, watch a movie on the big screen, including contemporary, classic and documentary films.
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 Fri 26 Dec 2025
Only In The City
The best pop-up and outdoor cinemas in ³Ô¹ÏÍø
Find the best outdoor cinema, pop-up theatres and free movies.
Moonlight Cinema
Kick back with a film under the stars at ³Ô¹ÏÍø’s most spectacular open-air cinema.
³Ô¹ÏÍø's essential night-time events
From hidden laneway markets to epic pop-ups, ³Ô¹ÏÍø gets lit once the lights go out.
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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 best hidden Christmas events and laneway pop-ups in ³Ô¹ÏÍø
Find the best laneway street parties, free workshops, pop-up events and gigs.