What's On in Melbourne: Your Ultimate July Guide

Winter is here, but no matter the forecast, our beloved city is still abuzz with a fantastic rotation of new openings, events, festivals, and exhibitions.

So get ready to have an extra pep in your step as you explore the wonderful array of things to do in Melbourne this month.

Celebrate International Fried Chicken Day at Mr. Miyagi with FREE Unlimited MFC!

Gather your friends and join in on some bottomless fried chicken fun at Mr. Miyagi, for a special celebration this International Fried Chicken Day. For one day only, Mr. M is upgrading its Loose Lunch menu to include unlimited servings of their famous MFC 'Miyagi Fried Chicken'!

Enjoy six crowd-favourite courses along with bottomless cocktails and MFC—it's a weekend brunch event you won't want to miss.

Saturday, 6th July

$69.00 per person for 6 courses plus bottomless cocktails and free MFC

Book here

 99 Chapel Street, Windsor

Make Your Mark 2.0 Melbourne: Free Event for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Squarespace is teaming up with Start Up Creative to deliver a free in-person event for individuals looking to market themselves and their businesses online. Whether you’re a creative, entrepreneur, or someone dreaming of monetising hobbies, this event offers valuable guidance for anyone embarking on or advancing their startup journey.

Kaylene Langford, founder of Start Up Creative, will lead a panel session with inspiring guests who will share the secrets behind their successful brands, including artist Bobby Clark, psychologist Dr. Chris Cheers, and Club Sup founder, Sophie McIntyre. Gain insights from these successful entrepreneurs and discover how their unique online presence helped grow their businesses. 

Guests will be treated to drinks and snacks before the event starts.

Thursday 4th July, 5.00pm to 7.00pm

Free event; register to attend here 

The Commons QV, Melbourne CBD 

Grazeland’s Winter Wonderland 

Farewell the winter blues and welcome delicious foods at Grazeland’s annual Winter Wonderland! From Friday 28th June to 28th July, Melbourne’s foodie playground will be heating things up with tasty food, drinks, and an epic entertainment lineup. It's Christmas in July feels, and we couldn't be more here for it.

Enjoy lively winter displays, including falling snow and neon lights, while cosying up to fire pits. Spirited entertainment will see free face painting, epic fire displays, and roving entertainers throughout the evening. 

Vendors will be serving hearty delights like Nepalese dumplings, oozing raclette, spicy seafood boils, and Indian and Sri Lankan curries. Satisfy your sweet tooth with hot crepes and hot jam donuts, or enjoy hot buttered popcorn. There'll even be spiced mulled wine to keep you toasty. 

28th June to 28th July

20 Booker Street, Spotswood

Friday Nights at NGV - Pharaoh 

Welcoming the winter season, NGV Friday Nights is back, with a recharged and reimagined program celebrating the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition, Pharaoh. 

Expect the usual extended late-night access to this blockbuster exhibition, alongside a vibrant lineup of music residencies, pop-up performances, and Middle Eastern-inspired food and drink.

The exhibition itself will take visitors on a journey through three thousand years of ancient Egyptian art and culture, featuring over 500 works including monumental sculptures, exquisite jewellery, and intricate coffins. 

Each Friday night, the charismatic cabaret queen, Miss Cairo, hosts the evening with exuberant songs and storytelling in the Great Hall, where you'll be able to sip on glasses of Moet & Chandon. The program features an eclectic mix of music from jazz and cabaret to classical, funk, and blues, with guest performances by renowned artists like oud virtuoso Joseph Tawadros AM and the Australian Art Orchestra. Later in the season, Brunswick’s Tempo Rubato and the not-for-profit label Music in Exile will showcase diverse musical talents from all around Australia.

From June 14th to October 4th

Book here

NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne 

The Finders Keepers Design Market

This July, the Finders Keepers Design Market returns to the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton, showcasing over 270 of Australia’s finest independent designers, makers, and foodies.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant market atmosphere. Stroll through the aisles, boogie to live local DJs, savor fresh food, and sample the bars. Connect with and support Australia's creative community while discovering unique, handcrafted treasures. This market is your destination to experience and celebrate the best of Australian design and innovation.

Friday 12th to Sunday 14th July, 4.00pm to 9.00pm (Friday), 10.00am to 5.00pm (Saturday & Sunday)

$6 entry

Book ticket here

Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens, 9 Nicholson Street,
Carlton

Visit the Restore Floor at Element Melbourne Richmond

This month, escape Melbourne’s winter chill and indulge in a unique and rejuvenating experience at Element Melbourne Richmond. This modern, eco-conscious hotel, nestled in native Australian bushland near the Yarra River, offers the perfect setting with its newly launched Restore Floor and restorative packages.

Unwind in the Infrared Sauna Room, ease away tension in plush massage chairs, and find tranquility in the peaceful Balance Room. These experiences, bookable at an hourly rate, promise a stylish and memorable moment this month in Melbourne. Book an overnight stay-cay and prepare to leave entirely at peace!

588 Swan Street, Richmond 

Get a little 'Hygge' with it at Ovolo

Ovolo Hotels has a winter sale deal we're craving this month in Melbourne - and it's the Hygge package. 'Hygge' in Danish means to create a calm, comfortable time with the people you love, which is why Ovolo is offering 20% off stays of two nights or longer in any of their hotels across Australia.

Each guest will receive a pair of slippers to take home. But the best part? For those cosy nights in, enjoy 10% off Booktopia so you can snuggle up with a good read while sipping on Ovolo's signature winter cocktails.

From 1st July to 29th August

Book here

19 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne 

234 Toorak Road, South Yarra

Lightscape

Experience the magic of Lightscape! This immersive spectacle is lighting up Melbourne’s Botanic Gardens once again, transforming them after dark with a reimagined trail and dazzling new installations.

Wander through the interactive Submergence, the enchanting Winter Cathedral, and the mesmerising Laser Garden at Fern Gully. Delight in delicious food at the welcome zone and savour tasty treats at The Terrace Food Hall.

Lightscape promises an unforgettable evening, perfect for creating new winter traditions with family and friends. Don’t miss this captivating celebration of light, nature, and wonder – it's the ultimate way to embrace winter in Melbourne!

Until 4th August

Book here

Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne 

Perfume Masterclasses with Clive Christian

Luxury British fragrance house Clive Christian is offering a perfume masterclass in collaboration with David Jones this July in Melbourne.

Taking place at David Jones' Melbourne flagship in the CBD, this workshop-style masterclass will be guided by a team of perfume experts and will highlight the curated collection of Clive Christian fragrances.

Guests will enjoy an evening of decadence and discovery, from the rich and regal No.1, to the enchanting and evocative Noble Collection.

Book in and you'll also receive an $89.00 voucher redeemable on the night.

Thursday 4th July, 6.00pm to 7.00pm

$89.00 per ticket 

Book here

Personal Shopping Suite, David Jones Melbourne, 310 Bourke St, Melbourne

Crown Celebrates 30 Years

Crown is celebrating its 30th birthday with a playful rebrand to CR3OWN and a series of exciting events. The festivities kick off on Saturday 29th June with free performances at the Crown Melbourne Atrium, featuring dancers, aerialists, and musicians led by Rhonda Burchmore.

Highlights include the "Fashions of Crown" costume exhibition from 11th July to 22nd August, a weekly $30,000 giveaway every Thursday from 4th July to 5th September, and special $30 cosmopolitan cocktail and Piper-Heidsieck champagne offers throughout the month of July. Guests can also enjoy random surprise and delight opportunities, including room upgrades and complimentary meals.

Don't miss out on the fun and celebrations as Crown Melbourne marks this major milestone.

Find out more here 

8 Whiteman Street, Southbank 

GLOW Winter Arts Festival

Celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Glow Winter Arts Festival as it returns to illuminate Malvern East's historic Central Park across three evenings in July. This free, family-friendly event will transform the park into a mesmerising wonderland with breathtaking light and sound installations.

Explore five stunning works by renowned Australian artists, including a 14-metre inflatable light sculpture, 16-metre bubble clusters, 3-metre luminous flowers, and a dazzling array of 1,000 light-transmitting flowers. Don’t miss ‘Hexadeca,’ an interactive music-making playground with glowing seats.

There'll be gourmet toasted sandwiches, sweet treats and warm beverages to keep things extra cosy. 

July 18th to 21st, from 5.00pm to 10.00pm/11.00pm

Central Park, 148 Burke Road, Malvern East

Diamond Jubilee Celebrations at Sofitel Melbourne 

Celebrate Sofitel's 60th anniversary with a month-long Diamond Jubilee extravaganza at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins. Immerse yourself in French art de vivre and partake in a series of luxurious events specially curated for this milestone.

Make every moment shimmer with warmth and elegance during this remarkable Diamond Jubilee celebration with either a:

Stay & Win Sofitel & Courbet Diamond Jewelry Experience

Book an indulgent, eco-luxury stay and get a chance to win a coveted Courbet Diamond Jewelry Set. Enjoy overnight accommodation for two in a luxurious room or suite, a buffet breakfast at No35 Restaurant with breathtaking views of Melbourne, a bottle of French sparkling wine, and valet car parking. 

$389.00 per night, runs until July 31st

A Royal Jubilee High Tea at No35

Experience the epitome of elegance with this Royal Jubilee High Tea at No35 Restaurant. Enjoy a modern degustation menu featuring delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and intricate pastries, all paired with a special array of premium brewed teas.

Live piano melodies will add timeless charm to your afternoon. Each guest receives a glass of Champagne Deutz on arrival, with unlimited espresso coffee and freshly brewed tea.

June 29th & July 6th, 12.30pm to 1.00pm

$125.00 per adult / $60.00 per child + $25.00 for guaranteed window table; 12.30pm & 1.00pm seatings

Collins Place, 25 Collins Street, 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. 

From 28th June

Book here

Her Majesty's Theatre, 219 Exhibition Street, Melbourne 

Breaking The Waves 

Experience the powerful new opera by Missy Mazzoli, adapted from Lars von Trier's film about a young woman’s shocking sacrifices made for her husband.

Bess McNeill, deeply in love with Jan, an oil rig worker, faces a profound test when an accident leaves him paralysed. Bound by her vows and unwavering love, she fulfills Jan's request to sleep with other men and recount her experiences to him.

As von Trier explores extreme emotional depths through cinema, Mazzoli does so with opera. Her adaptation has been acclaimed as one of the 21st century’s best, showcasing why she is one of the most exciting composers today. Do not miss it. 

Friday 26th July, 7.30pm to 10.30pm

Book here

Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St Kilda Road, Southbank

Piinpi: Contemporary Indigenous Fashion

Discover the vibrant world of Indigenous fashion at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre with "Piinpi: Contemporary Indigenous Fashion."

Curated by Shonae Hobson, this groundbreaking exhibition showcases 24 hand-crafted garments by 36 Indigenous artists and designers, celebrating the diversity and creativity of Australia’s First Nations creatives.

From ethereal silk creations to bold geometric pieces, "Piinpi" highlights the significance of Indigenous fashion in storytelling and cultural continuation.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the beauty and innovation of First Nations designers and artists at Bunjilaka.

Tuesday 28th May until 17th November 2024

Free with Melbourne Museum entry ticket here

Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Centre, Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street Carlton 

Alcotraz: Immersive Cocktail Experience 

Combining the allure of a speakeasy-style cocktail bar with the excitement of immersive theatre and Old Hollywood-style storylines, Alcotraz: Immersive Cocktail Experience offers a unique adventure for cocktail enthusiasts and thrill seekers alike.

Guests, acting as ‘inmates’, must creatively smuggle contraband liquor past the Warden. Encounter shady characters and a bootlegging gang who transform the smuggled liquor into bespoke cocktails. Winners gain access to secret areas to hatch an escape plan.

This fully immersive experience includes real metallic cells, orange jumpsuits, and interactive storytelling, making you part of the thrilling narrative.

Bring your favourite bottle of liquor and see it turned into four bespoke cocktails in front of your eyes.

From Friday 28th June 

Book here

592 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne 

Whisky, Wine & Fire Festival

Caulfield's popular Whisky, Wine and Fire Festival returns from 18 to 21 July after a 5-year hiatus. This year, the festival takes place in Caulfield's new subterranean precinct, offering a tasting journey that warms patrons from the inside out. Explore a line-up of local boutique and distinguished distilleries and winemakers into the dusk of the night. Fine food purveyors will cook using fire as both heat and theatre, delivering smoky, saucy comfort foods perfect for winter feasting. Celebrate all things roasted, smoked, and spiced next to the warmth of a fire at this must-visit event.

Thursday 18th to 21st July, starts 5.30pm Thursday & Friday, 5.00pm Saturday, and 4.00pm Sunday 

Book here

Caulfield Racecourse

Africa Fashion at the NGV

The NGV is always filled to the brim with fun and exciting exhibitions, and this latest one is no exception. Africa Fashion features an incredible collection of designs and designers from over 20 countries, all borrowed from the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. This exhibition has almost 200 works, ranging from ready-to-wear fashion all the way to bespoke and couture pieces. Celebrating the creativity and innovation of African fashion from the mid-twentieth century to today, this exhibition is an explosion of colour, texture and patterns, and the perfect thing to go and see if you're a fashion enthusiast.

31st May to 6th October

180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

WICKED the Musical

If you haven't experienced the beautiful story and impressive musicality of WICKED the Musical, here is your chance, Melbourne! 

This Broadway sensation looks at what happened in the Land of Oz… but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin, who is smart, fiery, misunderstood and possessing an extraordinary talent.

When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships… until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”

Book here

Until August 25th

Regent Theatre, 191 Collins Street, Melbourne

My Country: Country Road + NGV First Nations

The Country Road + NGV First Nations Commissions is a national, biennial mentorship and exhibition program where emerging Australian First Nations artists and designers are paired with one of eight esteemed industry mentors.

Together, they've created ambitious new works, responding to the exhibition theme of My Country.

It's a groundbreaking showcase, and a beautiful representation of diverse practices, from textiles to large-scale paintings and innovative installations. These works celebrate Indigenous Australian heritage and artistic talent. 

Free event 

Until 4th August, 10.00am to 5.00pm daily

Ian Potter Centre, Level 3 at Fed Square

Art of the Brick

Got any LEGO fans in the family? The you need to take them to this awe-inspiring exhibition, Art of the Brick. Returning to Melbourne at the Showgrounds from the 14th of Spril, this immersive exhibition explores how LEGO can be used to create all sorts of masterpieces. This may be one of the most unique art shows you ever attend, in the best way possible.

Until August

Buy tickets here

Epsom Road, Ascot Vale

Top Arts

The ever-popular Top Arts is celebrating its 30th year in 2024 - and it's set to feature the works of forty-five talented VCE students/artists. 

This exhibition has always gone above and beyond, providing a platform to celebrate the most exceptional work from students who completed the new VCE study designs of Art Making and Exhibiting and Art Creative Practice in the year previous.

The art on show were chosen for their strong conceptual development, imagination, individuality, and technical excellence across a diverse array of mediums and interests. From this multi-faceted display, themes such as perception and chaos, space and repetition emerge.

Top Arts promises a fascinating survey of the curious and creative spirit of young local artists.

Free entry

Until 14th July, 10.00am to 5.00pm daily

The Ian Potter Centre at Fed Square, Melbourne CBD

Da Vinci Remixed 

Dive into a reimagined exploration of Da Vinci's masterpieces this month in Melbourne, where classical art merges with modern beats for two nights in July. It'll see The LUME morph into a dynamic after-hours venue, where attendees can also savour a selection of Italian-inspired food and drinks, including Sofi Spritz cocktails, Pidapipo gelato, and antipasto platters.

Acclaimed DJs Flex Mami and Tanzer will remix Italian operatic scores with Pop, RnB, House and Disco tracks, infusing new energy into the legendary figures and stories of the Renaissance within THE LUME’s vast gallery space.

Thursday 4th & Thursday 11th July, 6.30pm to 8.30pm

$49.90

Book here

5 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf, Melbourne

LUME Melbourne - Leonardo Da Vinci

The LUME is known for putting on captivating exhibitions that celebrate the world's greatest artists - and their latest digital art gallery is doing exactly that. Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Geniuswill take over The LUME from the 16th of March, mesmerising audiences as his most famous and lesser known works are projected across the open space, such as the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper.

Victoria The T.Rex 

Get ready for the arrival of Victoria the T.Rex at Melbourne Museum! This state-of-the-art exhibition features the real 66-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus fossil, film, AR, and holography. Experience the Cretaceous period with the largest T. rex fossil ever displayed in Australia, spanning over 12 metres.

Friday 28th June to Sunday 20th October

Book here

Melbourne Museum, Carlton Gardens

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 July 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

Honey Bones Arts Club

An open space for the community to explore art-making, expression and self-inquiry, the Honey Bones Art Club is one of our top picks of things to do in Melbourne this month. These group art sessions are held every Saturday morning, hosted by Honey Bones Gallery and Arts Therapist, Donika Fazliu. You're invited to explore a prompt/theme, like a self-portrait, with no set instructions as to how to interpret the theme. From there it's a 2 hour art-making class, that allows individuals to fully immerse in the interpretation and expression of the prompt.

An inclusive space, all are welcome to participate, regardless of artistic skill. 

Saturdays, 10.00am to 12.00pm

$10 per person, book here

46 Trafford Street, Brunswick

MOULD 

Get ready to say cheese as MOULD, Australia’s premier cheese festival, returns for 2024! Bigger, smellier, and more 'matured' than ever, Mould promises a brie-lliant experience with over 100 varieties of artisanal cheese from 27 producers.

Presented by Revel, this festival celebrates the best of Australian cheese with tastings, exclusive releases, and gourmet accompaniments.

From hard to soft, stinky to mild, there's a dairy delight for every palate. Don't miss out on this ultimate cheese extravaganza, featuring delicious dishes, premium beverages, and a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Tickets include all tastings and a complimentary cooler bag for cheese purchases.

Friday June 28th (5.00pm to 9.00pm) to Saturday June 29th (11.00am to 3.00pm, 4.00pm to 8.00pm)

Book here

Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton

Matteo's 30th Birthday Celebrations

Celebrate a culinary milestone with Matteo’s in North Fitzroy, marking 30 years of hospitality excellence this July.

The festivities begin on Wednesday July 3rd, with a Middle Eastern feast crafted by Michelin-starred chef Greg Malouf. On Wednesday, July 17th will see the Iconic Victorian Wines Dinner, featuring a discussion panel of winemakers from Matteo’s GenX Young Guns dinners of the early 2000s, including the likes of Bindi’s Michael Dhillon, Elanto’s Sandro Mosele, and Jasper Hill’s Emily Laughton.

Each panellist will have their wines on the evening’s menu, alongside other iconic Victorian drops from Giaconda, Bass Phillip, Mount Mary, and Craiglee.

The celebration culminates in a Gala Dinner on Friday, August 2nd, showcasing remastered versions of Matteo’s most beloved dishes from the past three decades.

Don't miss this nostalgic and delicious journey!

533 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

Hakata Gensuke celebrates 10 years in Australia with a TanRei Ramen Series

Hakata Gensuke is celebrating ten years in Australia with the launch of their new TanRei ramen series. Known for their rich, full-bodied ramens, the popular venues in Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth are introducing a lighter, more elegant broth to create a fresh experience for their fans.

Chapter One features two new ramens: a soy milk based Tonyu Ramen, and a unique Basil Ramen. These delicious offerings will be available for six weeks before Chapter Two unveils two more TanRei ramens in mid-July.

In Japanese Kanji, "淡Tan" symbolizes "Lightness," while "麗Rei" embodies "Beauty."

Don’t miss this opportunity to taste a new, refined take on Hakata Gensuke’s iconic tonkotsu broth. No regrets, just cosy, satiating ramen that will keep you in good stead throughout these chilly months. 

Multiple locations around the city

Pure South Dining - 'A Chef's Tour of Tasmania' 

Iconic Southbank restaurant, Pure South Dining has launched a limited-edition dinner series ‘A Chef’s Tour of Tasmania’ in celebration of their 20th Birthday this month in Melbourne.

This dining experience honours the deep relationships co-owners Philip and Peter have cultivated with Tasmanian producers and farmers over the past two decades. Featuring a six-course degustation menu curated by Executive Chef David Hall, the series will showcase premium ingredients from trusted suppliers like St Helens 'Lease 65' Oysters, Mount Gnomon Farm, and Pyengana Dairy.

Delight in dishes such as vanilla poached beetroot with Tongola Farm goats curd, Hanslow's Farm free-range duck with fig, parsnip, coq au vin, and cime de rapa. Conclude your meal with a luscious creme brulee made with Pyengana Dairy Farm cream.

Guests will also have the unique opportunity to meet the producers, gaining insight into their sustainable practices and the rich stories behind each ingredient.

Every Friday & Saturday night from June 28th to July 31st

$145/$235 with matching Tasmanian wines 

Book here (select '6 Course Tasmanian Degustation Menu')

MR6 Mid-Level Southgate Building, 3 Southgate Avenue, Southbank 

St Andrews Hotel x Dal Zotto Wines Dinner

St Andrews Hotel in Fitzroy, the oldest hotel in the area, is celebrating its rich history and family ownership with a special event. Join new owners Jasmin Vujic and Rob Turner for "All About Family," a delightful dinner in collaboration with another esteemed family-owned business, Dal Zotto Wines.

The evening will feature a sumptuous four-course dinner paired with exquisite wines from the King Valley, curated by the St Andrews team and the Dal Zotto family.

Wednesday July 24th

$100 per person

Book here

124 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy

Firebird x Aurum Poultry Co. Beak to Feet Dinner

For one night only, Firebird will be partnering with Aurum Poultry Co to deliver an incredible one-night only dinner. This one-off six-course menu is the art of 'beak to feet,' featuring an array of unique dishes that showcase the versatility and richness of every facet of the Aurum’s Fook Wong Chicken and Moorabool Valley Duck. This is a night of sensory adventure, and one you won't want to miss out on.

3rd July, from 7.00pm

$79 per person, additional drinks package for $56 per person

Book now

223 High Street, Prahan

Winter Night Market 

The Winter Night Market returns to the iconic Market sheds, offering a cosy atmosphere every Wednesday this month in Melbourne. Enjoy the city's finest street food, warming beverages, specialty shopping, crackling fires, and unique entertainment.

Experience the popular Guru Dudu Silent Disco and savour must-try drinks like spiced Milo, mulled wine, butterbeer, and hot gin toddies. The market is bringing back beloved favourites and introducing new and exciting traders too. 

After a hearty feast, stroll through the sheds and laneways to explore over 60 specialty stalls offering treasures like upcycled furniture, vinyl records, vintage fashion, and handmade jewellery. 

Wednesdays from 5th June, 5.00pm to 10.00pm

Free entry

Queen Victoria Market, Queen Street, Melbourne

Jaffles in July at Pullman Melbourne on the Park 

Pullman Melbourne on The Park is embracing the nostalgic comfort of jaffles with a modern twist for their "Jaffles in July" activation.

Indulge in unique creations like the cheeseburger jaffle, featuring locally sourced Angus beef, caramelised onion, pickles, and American cheese. Other must-tries include the chicken sous vide jaffle with tender chicken, truffle cheddar, truffle cream cheese, onion soubise, sage and pecorino, and the ‘Piggy Bundy’ - insanely good, melt-in-your-mouth twice-cooked crispy pork belly, with gochujang, daikon, saltbush kimchi, kewpie aioli, and provolone cheese. 

Don't, we repeat, do not skip out on dessert. The Nutella bread and butter pudding, made with raisin brioche, banana, candied pecan, salted caramel sauce, and shaved dark chocolate, has us genuinely salivating in anticipation.

From 1st to 31st July

Cliveden Bar & Dining, 192 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne

Alumni - a MasterChef x Crown Restaurant

Crown have opened another restaurant, but it's only for a limited time - and trust us when we say you won't want to miss out on this new and exciting venture. Alumni is a collaboration between MasterChef and Crown, which will showcase dishes from the cast of MasterChef Australia's 16th season. The roster will rotate every three weeks, and it kicks off with Kishwar Chowdhury before moving onto Callum Hann, Khanh Ong, and then a surprise fourth MasterChef Australia cook to be announced at the end of June. Each chef is showcasing refined cuisine from their cultural background, with reservations for Kishwar Chowdhury’s Bangladeshi and regional Indian menu now available.

From 16th May

Book here

8 Whiteman Street, Southbank

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

Moama Lights - Enchanted Nights: A Celebration of Light 

Get ready as Moama Lights returns to illuminate the Murray River this July. This award-winning event will transform Moama's Horseshoe Lagoon into a mesmerising sound and light trail, celebrating nature with state-of-the-art installations, indigenous artworks, and projections.

It's set to share stories from across the region while paying homage to Banjo Paterson's evocative poem "The Daylight is Dying.”

The light and soundscapes have been designed by Mandylights, the masterminds behind VIVID Sydney. 

This spectacular festival is a must-see, offering a magical journey through captivating colours, sounds, and local art. Enjoy the ice-skating rink and neon light magic of it all, before retiring for a bevvy or two in the American Hotel beer garden.

5th to 28th July 

Discover the Werribee Public Art Walking Tour

This free, self-guided 1km trail and audio tour includes some of Melbourne’s most prominent street artists. Beginning at Wyndham Cultural Centre and finishing at the Holiday Inn Werribee, it takes approximately 60 minutes to complete with opportunities for coffee or a snack along the way.

Highlights include the award-winning First Nations mural 'Mooroop Yarkeen' by Indigenous artist Tommy Day (Jirri Jirri), recognised with a Maggolee Award and best viewed in the late afternoon sun. The trail also showcases works by Ash Keating, Tom Gerrard, Ghostpatrol, Minna Leunig, Makatron, DREZ, and David Lee Pereira.

Scan QR codes at each artwork to access audio interviews with the artists. The tour is perfect for all ages and pairs well with a visit to the many food options along Watton Street, Werribee’s very own ‘Eat Street’.

Sitchu Tip: For a complete experience, follow the footbridge to Wyndham Park and enjoy 'River Whispers,' a 25-minute audio experience about the Werribee River.

Werribee, 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.