What's On in Melbourne: Your Ultimate December Guide

Summer is here, and our beloved city is gearing up for a season of sunshine, bayside dining, and a vibrant mix of fresh openings, buzzing events, festivals, and must-see exhibitions.

The days are longer, the sun is brighter, Christmas is near, and we're all full of cheer (or praying just to make it to the end of the year). Get ready to explore Melbourne’s lively streets and soak up all the energy, colour, and excitement this season brings.

Here are our top picks of things to do in Melbourne this month.

Glow in the Dark Tennis

Baller's Clubhouse is bringing back its glow in the dark tennis right in time for the 2025 Australian Open, and it's bigger, brighter and bolder than ever. Featuring neon courts, lights and great vibes, this fun game is one to experience during the Australian tennis season. Rally under blue, green and orange lights on the court or take the game to a table tennis table. There's a world’s first glow-in-the-dark ball pit with over 100,000 neon balls, and some of the biggest screens available to watch the games ins style.

Plus, with the ‘Game, Set, Match’ cocktail menu, the tennis theme translates to the drinks, too!

10th to 31st January,

2 Coverlid Place, Melbourne CBD

NGV Friday Nights Are Back! 

This summer, NGV Friday Nights is your ticket to a kaleidoscopic celebration of Yayoi Kusama’s world, blending art, music, and culinary delights. Running from December 20th to April 18th, explore Kusama's vibrant exhibition, including her iconic infinity mirror rooms and immersive sculptures like Dancing Pumpkin.

The NGV Garden Restaurant offers an innovative menu by acclaimed chef Martin Benn, while live DJs energise the Great Hall with upbeat J-pop, electronic beats, and more.

Don’t miss special takeovers by Asia TOPA and Midsumma, plus refreshing drinks and summer treats. It’s an unforgettable night out in Melbourne’s cultural heart.

180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

The Outsiders Melbourne

Melbourne’s street art scene just got a major upgrade with The Outsiders Melbourne, a world-first exhibition showcasing over 100 iconic works from Australia’s largest street art collection.

Running from 12th December until late May, the exhibit brings together pieces by local legends like Rone, Adnate, and Sofles, alongside international stars such as Banksy, Shepard Fairey, and Invader. Highlights include a whole room dedicated to Banksy, never-before-seen works, and intimate artist studio panels.

Curated by street art champions Sandra Powell and Andrew King, this free exhibition is a must-see for art lovers and street art fans alike, and one of the best things to do in Melbourne this month. 

Free entry

12th December to 25th May, 2025

167 Flinders Lane, corner of Hosier Lane, Melbourne

On Track Nights

Get ready for an electrifying evening at On Track Nights, hitting Melbourne's Lakeside Stadium this month. This family-friendly celebration of running, community, and live entertainment promises epic vibes with indie rock legends The Jungle Giants and electronic duo Cosmo’s Midnight taking the stage.

Cheer on elite athletes in the prestigious Zátopek:10, join a fun community 5k run, and enjoy field events, food trucks, flash tattoos, and more.

It’s where sport meets festival – don’t miss the action!

Saturday December 14th 

Purchase tickets here; $25 general admission

33 Aughtie Drive, Albert Park 

The Return of Van Gogh at The LUME 

Step into a masterpiece this summer as Van Gogh at THE LUME Melbourne makes its highly anticipated return on Boxing Day, now with an exhilarating twist! The record-breaking immersive experience unveils Finding Vincent, a world-first VR adventure that lets you and your crew explore Van Gogh’s iconic works like never before. Marvel at the dazzling Starry Night Room, dine under painted skies at Café Terrace 1888, and channel your inner artist in the interactive studio. A must-see this season!

Tickets from $49.90, book here

From Boxing Day onwards

5 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf

Cats & Dogs Exhibition at NGV

A pawfect new exhibition is opening at the NGV this November! Cats & Dogs explores the cultural, historical and artistic impact of our beloved cats and dogs over time and across different cultures. The exhibition features over 250 works, with pieces by artists such as Rembrandt and Pierre Bonnard to Atong Atem, Alison Lester and Jeff Koons. 

Fun, accessible and perfect for all ages, this exhibition is guaranteed to give you the warm and fuzzies.

From 1st November until 20th July, 2025

180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Sister Act: The Musical

Sister Act is debuting in Australia! After being a smash hit in the UK, this comedic musical is touring Australia from November. Disco diva Deloris’ life takes a turn when she witnesses a murder and is placed under protective custody. Hidden in the one place she shouldn’t be found–a convent–Deloris helps the  struggling choir and her fellow sisters find their true voices as she rediscovers her own. 

Heartwarming and humorous, this is a must-see show over the holiday season.

3rd November to 26th January

Secure tickets here

191 Collins Street, Melbourne

Holey Moley Funhouse

Funhouse is the latest attraction to Holey Moley, exclusive to Melbourne! Featuring innovative challenges – minus the golf swinging – that you'll complete with teammates to score points, this is a whole lot of fun for everyone. There'll be ball pits, throwing challenges, egg and spoon races, and so much more! Grab your friends, grab a drink and head on down.

590 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne

Sun Chaser Sundays

Sun Chaser Sundays has returned to W Melbourne, kicking off summer and the warmer weather on the right foot. The hotel is teaming up with Olmeca Altos to host their Sun Chaser Sunday sessions throughout spring and summer, where the pool party can go on no matter the weather (thanks, Melbourne).

Guests will be able to pull up a sun lounge and enjoy refreshing pool dips, delicious cocktails, seasonal snacks and live DJ sets on the WET pool deck. 14 storeys in the air and flanked by city skyline views, this is a pool party unlike any other. Enjoy light bites like prawn rolls, avocado and fried tofu rice paper rolls and tuna poke bowls. Plus, Olmeca Altos will be slinging their signature palomas and coconut margarita cocktails.

Every Sunday, 12.00pm to 3.00pm

$95 per person, book here

408 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition

A tribute to travel, photography, community, and adventure, "Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition" takes you on a captivating journey through over 200 of the world's most beautiful and idiosyncratic places, straight from the whimsical world of Wes Anderson.

With 10 themed areas, this exhibition offers a passport to visual inspiration, featuring stunning photography and immersive experiences. Get ready to explore a world of symmetry, warm colours, and enchanting moments.

Arriving in Melbourne in September, this one-of-a-kind exhibition invites you to see the world through a new lens, making it a must-visit for any travel, photography, or Wes Anderson enthusiast.

Until 31st January, 2025

Book here

Level 1, 360 Bourke Street, Melbourne

Tina Turner: The Musical

Get ready to rock out and roll with the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll herself! Experience the electrifying life story of Tina Turner, a true legend who didn’t just break the rules—she rewrote them.

With over 20 of her chart-topping hits, including “Simply the Best,” “River Deep – Mountain High,” and “Proud Mary,” this smash-hit musical promises to turn the Princess Theatre into a vibrant celebration of Tina’s phenomenal career.

Prepare for a night of unforgettable music and inspiration as the story of Tina Turner comes alive on stage this month in Melbourne. 

Until March 2025

Princess Theatre, Melbourne 

Beauty & The Beast

Disney's stunning new production of Beauty and the Beast the Musical premieres this month in Melbourne, promising a feast for the eyes, heart, and soul.

This timeless tale is reimagined on stage in a breathtaking production that will captivate audiences like never before. The original creative team reunites to bring this enchanting musical to life, featuring all the spellbinding songs by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Tim Rice, including "Belle," "Gaston," "Human Again," and "Be Our Guest." A much-loved classic, this tale as old as time will enchant a new generation, filling hearts with magic and wonder. 

The production has announced its final Melbourne performance for the season—20th April, 2025—before it travels to Adelaide and Perth. And after selling over 900,000 tickets, it's a must watch! if you haven't watched the musical yet, now's your final chance.

Until 20th April, 2025

Book here

Her Majesty's Theatre, 219 Exhibition Street, Melbourne 

Sofar Sounds

Global music community Sofar Sounds creates space where music matters. It brings artists and audiences together through unique live music experiences in surprising spaces. 

There are four upcoming gigs in September to keep an eye out for, in suburbs that range from Fitzroy to Prahran, St Kilda to Brunswick, so be sure to regularly check their website for any new or upcoming events.

Tickets from $40 per person

Find out more here

Multiple locations around the city

Check Out The Backyard

The Suburban and Mountain Culture Beer Co have come together for a summer collaboration that's bringing the viebs to Ringwood. 'The Backyard' is a stunning beer garden tucked away behind Eastland Shopping Centre, combining good vibes, simple-yet-tasty food and great beer for the ultimate summer session. Not to mention, the laneway and clearing that the beer garden is quietly sitting in is heritage-listed and filled with stunning street art. Marvel at the works while sipping on some of Mountain Culture Beer Co's creations with your mates, and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere perfect for soaking up the summer sun.

Eastland Town Square, Ringwood

Soak up the Vibes and Sip on Zoncello  at Afloat Capri 

Euro summer has arrived on the Yarra! That’s right, the new iteration of Arbory Afloat is here—Afloat Capri—transforming Melbourne's floating bar scene with a sun-drenched, Italian beach club vibe. Inspired by the magical island of Capri, the venue boasts a beach club design, vibrant cocktails, and an elevated food menu featuring sharing plates, Neapolitan pizzas, fresh pasta, and indulgent desserts.

Sip Aperol spritzes and Zoncello under striped umbrellas, enjoy stunning Yarra River views, and dive into summer fun with the Aperol Pool Bar & Deck.

With exciting events like pizza-making parties, festive feasts, and a world-exclusive floating photobooth (from the same owners of the Flinders Street photo booth), Afloat Capri is the place to be this summer.

Don’t miss out—this is La Dolce Vita, Melbourne style!

2 Flinders Walk, Melbourne

Savour Sustainability with Allegro's 'Tide to Table' Dining Experience

Dive into summer with Allegro at The Westin Melbourne, where the Tide to Table menu offers a six-course seafood feast celebrating sustainable Australian and New Zealand catches. Curated by Executive Chef Apoorva Kunte, the menu features dishes like pan-fried barramundi, Spencer Gulf kingfish collar, and Ora King salmon, paired with sustainable wines from Tahbilk. It’s an experience that not only delights your taste buds but also supports marine conservation. A must-try for seafood lovers seeking an eco-conscious indulgence.

Book here

Wednesday to Saturday, $110 per person

Until 6th January, 2025

The Westin Melbourne, Level 1/205 Collins Street, Melbourne

Hendrick's x Strato Melbourne Grand Gin Cabaret Dinner

Hendrick's has launched an exciting new gin, the limited 'Grand Cabaret' fruity gin, and to celebrate, they've partnered with Strato Melbourne to deliver a dinner you won't forget. While there may not be any cabaret dancers, what you can expect is incredible cocktails paired perfectly with an exquisite three-course meal. 

You'll be welcomed with beetroot cured Victorian Barramundi, followed by a juicy and delicious black Angus tenderloin and a naughty dark fantasy for dessert.

Until January 2025

40/202 Normanby Road, Southbank

Piccolo Cocktails at Mill Place Merchants

Say hello to the ultimate aperitivo hour in Melbourne this month. Melbourne’s favourite new speakeasy bar is offering their iconic cocktails in Piccolo sizes, perfect for a mid-week treat. Sip on inventive creations like the Pink Lady, Juschu, or Cardinale without committing to a full-sized drink.

Whether you’re trying one or a tray of three, it’s the ideal option for tasting and sharing.

Just make sure you pair your Piccolos with Mill Place Merchants' delectable snacks. Jamon Serrano and cheese croquettes or pulled pork sliders, anyone?

Piccolo Cocktail – $14

Cocktail & Snack – $18

Tray of 3 Piccolos – $38

Tuesdays to Thursdays, 5pm to 7pm

Ground Floor, 2 Mill Place, Melbourne

Queen Victoria Summer Night Market

The Summer Night Market is back this month! From November 20th, head to the Queen Victoria Market every Wednesday night to enjoy a celebration of all things food. There will be food trucks from a variety of different cultures, local businesses and makers selling their goods, live entertainment, and more!

It's bound to be a fun time, so make sure you keep your Wednesdays free!

Sitchu tip: go early, because it can get extremely busy!

20th November to 12th March 2025, 5.00pm to 10.00pm

Queen Victoria Market (corner of Queen and Therry Street)

Discover Global Flavours at Brunswick Kitchen’s December Cooking Classes

This month in Melbourne, immerse yourself in the art of global cuisine with Brunswick Kitchen’s interactive cooking classes. For $140 per person, learn from renowned chef Tracey Lister and her regular rotation of guest chefs. Classes run the gamut of Food From Hanoi to a Persian feast to Ottolenghi-inspired Fish Dishes. Some upcoming classes we're excited to attend include:

• Wednesday 15th January - Tracey Lister: Food from Hanoi - Vietnam's Vibrant North
  Friday 17th January - Tracey Lister: Penang Cuisine
  Wednesday 22nd January - Tracey Lister: Sri Lankan Classics
  Friday 7th February - Tracey Lister: Persian Feast
  Wednesday, 19th Febuary - Tracey Lister: Ottolenghi-Inspired Fish Dishes
  Saturday 22nd February - Tracey Lister: Vietnamese Street Food

$140 per person

Various times and dates, see here for details

1/288 Albert Street, Brunswick 

Regional Farmers Monthly Market at Abbotsford Convent 

The Abbotsford Convent has got a new monthly farmers market, with more than 45 stalls of organic fruit and vegetables, locally sourced dairy, homemade desserts and more on offer. After the Convent's beloved weekend farmers market closed down in December last year, its beyond exciting to have a vibrant and community-minded space to return to market once more. Embrace the spring sunshine and stroll through the bustling stalls, with highlights include Spring Creek Organics, Heathmont Honey, the fresh kefir and vintage cheddar at Blue Bay Cheese, and the delightful desserts at Pudding Nana. Bread and butter pudding, anyone? 

$2.00 entry

8.00am to 2.00pm

Second Saturday of every month

The Victorian Cherry Trail

The Victorian Cherry Trail is back, offering a sweet excuse to escape to the countryside this month. With seven orchards across the Yarra Valley, Macedon Ranges, and Upper Goulburn Valley, you can pick your own cherries or buy them farm-fresh. Explore varieties like Bing, Lapin, and Sweetheart while enjoying a day out with family or friends. Perfect for festive gifting or snacking straight from the tree, Victorian cherries are a delicious summer treat. Plan your cherry adventure today!

Multiple locations around Victoria

Looking for more fun things to do in Melbourne this winter? We have plenty to keep you entertained. From Melbourne's best new restaurants and bars to friendly pubs, cafés and late-night cocktail haunts, here's all you need for an epic weekend in the city.