What’s On This Weekend in Melbourne

There’s no other place that compares to Melbourne in March. There’s a new activity, event or pop-up appearing everywhere you look throughout the city and its surrounds, making it a month of endless fun. 

It all calls for a good dose of inner city arts and culture, followed by wining and dining at the best CBD restaurants.

Here are just some of the many ways to take advantage of what’s on this weekend in Melbourne. 

Getting out of town this long weekend? Check out our guide to the best travel destinations near Melbourne, or stick around for some of Melbourne’s best new restaurants, bars and cafes.

Enjoying Our List of the Best Things to do in Melbourne This Weekend? Check Out…

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Marshmallow Laser Feast: Works of Nature at ACMI

Marshmallow Laser Feast is a London-based collective that has taking over the ACMI with their Works of Nature exhibition. It’s a full blown immersive experience, of large-scale moving image and technology designed to take us on a sensory journey – and help us to consider our place in the natural world. 

From the roots of a majestic Amazonian tree to the unseen branches of the body and the birth of galaxies, this hypnotic exhibition explores the rhythm that cultivates and connects all life – breath.

$20 per ticket

Book timed tickets here

Until 14th April 

NGV Triennial

NGV Triennial is a powerful and moving snapshot of the world today as captured through the work of 100 artists, designers, and collectives at the forefront of global contemporary practice.

Bringing contemporary art, design and architecture together across all four levels of NGV International, the Triennial invites to reflect on the world as it is, while also asking how we would like it to be.

From David Shrigley to Yoko Ono, Sheila Hicks to Petrit Halilaj, the vibrant works on display will truly captivate and inspire. 

Free entry

Finishes this Sunday 7th April

Everyday, 10.00am to 5.00pm

NGV International, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne 

Immerse Yourself in the BBC Earth Experience

Want an awe-inspiring and educational experience this weekend? Head to the Melbourne Exhibition Centre and immerse yourself in the new BBC Earth Experience, narrated by David Attenborough. This is a 360 degree visual journey, as 5000 minutes of raw footage cut down into a 70 minute show projects across various projectors placed strategically throughout the space. Lay back on a beanbag and listen to the surround sound provided by 142 individually programmed speakers – making you feel as though you’re really there. Explore the world’s creatures as you travel all over the globe, from Africa to Europe, Asia to Australia. After the show’s over, head to the interactive part of the exhibition wherein you’ll round up schools of fish and conquer your fears of creepy crawlies.

Everyday until April 28th

Buy your tickets here

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Convention Place, South Wharf, Melbourne

Experience ‘Joy’ at the Immigration Museum

Experience a wave of nostalgia and feelings of pure joy as you step inside the Immigration Museum’s latest exhibition: Joy. Featuring seven new installations from a number of leading Melbourne Creatives, this exhibition delves into the true meaning of joy, what it entails and what causes it. 

From 1st March

Tickets $15

Get your ticket here

400 Flinders Street, Melbourne

Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition 

This Melbourne Museum exclusive exhibition offers a unique chance to explore human stories told through 200+ artefacts recovered from the legendary shipwreck. Set sail for it this month in Melbourne – but watch out for any treacherous icebergs!

$32.50

Book tickets here

Extended until Sunday 21st April

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 June 30th

Regent Theatre, 191 Collins Street, Melbourne

WICKED High Tea

Speaking of WICKED,  The Westin has put a perfectly wicked twist on their traditional high tea in partnership with WICKED The Musical. Their WICKED High Tea is the perfect pre-performance treat, especially if you’re going to see an afternoon show. There is the perfect mix of savoury and sweet, all vividly green, just like Elphaba. 

“Creating this menu has been a lot of fun and the friendship between WICKED’s main characters, Elphaba and Glinda, has been the inspiration to bring it to life…I’ve paired ingredients that share a camaraderie and complement each other when served together, yet hold its own distinct characteristics and identities, just like the main lead,” said Executive Chef, Apoorva Kunte.

From 2nd March

205 Collins Street, Melbourne

Groundhog Day The Musical

We know and love the classic movie plot of waking up into the one repeating day, every single day. But, have you ever seen it in musical form? We didn’t think so.

But, now you can! Groundhog Day The Musical is coming to Melbourne for the first time ever in a 13-week season. Weatherman Phil Connors is trapped inside one day, continuously on repeat. This musical is going to be comedic, heartwarming, and an all-time favourite for theatre lovers. Plus, the award-winning actor, Andy Karl, who was actually the original Phil Connors, will be taking to the stage down under! 

Until April 20th

Secure you tickets here

Princess Theatre, 163 Spring Street, 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.

$49 per person

Book here

From 16th March

THE LUME at The Convention Centre, South Wharf

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.

After each piece has been crafted, artworks are displayed and conversations are initiated around the art-making process, people’s individual experiences and what has been gained through the experience. It’s a prime time for self-reflection and the simple pleasure of putting paint to paper. 

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

$10 per person

Saturdays

Book here

46 Trafford Street, Brunswick

Free Coffee at Little Jin 

Technically, this isn’t on the weekend – but it’s a deal to tempting to not tell you about, regardless!

Nestled within Dorsett Melbourne, Little Jin is the latest coffee hotspot for West Side Place locals and city commuters thirsty for a quick caffeine hit and a buttery bite to eat. 

Starting April 8th, Little Jin is offering a week-long treat: free coffees for the first 25 customers daily! But hurry, it’s a limited offer. Enjoy delicious pastries from beloved bakery Penny for Pound too.

Plus, from 11.00am to 12.00pm on weekdays, Little Jin have a Happy Hour – hello, 50% off coffee orders! You can also bring your KeepCup for a 50c discount anytime (excluding Happy Hour).

Dorsett Melbourne, 615 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne 

Monday 8th April to Friday April 12th, 7.00am to 12.00pm

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

Melbourne Comedy Festival

April is when Melbourne International Comedy Festival takes over town! No matter your comedic style preferences, the MCF will have something for you to enjoy. Take a look at the lineup here. 

Until Sunday 21st April

Multiple locations around the city

Cirque du Soleil: Lucia

Cirque du Soleil is celebrating its 25th anniversary in Australia with its critically acclaimed and jaw-dropping production, Luzia.

Grand visual surprises and incredible acrobatic performances will all be on show. It does a beautiful job of bringing to the stage multiple places, faces and sounds of Mexico, and plays with both tradition and modernity to create something that’s unmissable viewing.

Get set for a vibrant journey through the wonders, playfulness and striking artistry of the world. This performance is not to be missed this month in Melbourne. 

Until May 26th

Book tickets here

Under the Big Top, Flemington Racecourse

Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival

Let your palate guide the way along Australia’s biggest Pie & Tart Trail at this year’s Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival. There’s also a choice of Tipple Trails to take your tastebuds on, or the Edgy Veg Trail. 

Not just defined by any one location, the magic of the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival is that there are more than 50 events taking place throughout the region. It’s hard to know where to start, which is why you should make sure to collect a festival map and passport before you begin your autumnal venturing. 

Alongside the foodie trails, there’s live music to be enjoyed in country halls, workshops, exclusive lunches and tastings, and plenty of guided walks through flurries of amber-hued leaves. Don’t miss it!

5th April to 28th April

Find out more here

Macedon Ranges

Pyrenees Unearthed Food & Wine Festival

Experience the Pyrenees Unearthed Wine and Food Festival along the picturesque Avoca River this month, where over 25 Pyrenees and Grampians wineries showcase their finest wines alongside local beer, cider, and gin.

Indulge in a diverse array of Western Victoria’s flavors through local food and produce while enjoying live entertainment throughout the day.

Don’t miss the chance to bid on rare and valuable vintages at the Wine Auction. This family-friendly event also offers free children’s activities and convenient return buses from Maryborough and Ballarat, making it the perfect day out for all ages.

Saturday 13th April, 11.00am to 5.00pm

$65

Buy tickets here

Avoca River Flat, Dundas Street, Avoca 

Casa Chino Block Party

To celebrate its grand launch, Casa Chino – Melbourne’s suave new 90-seat bar and restaurant concept serving bold Chifa cuisine – is hosting a Block Party for all of Brunswick – and you’re invited! 

From 5 – 7pm, expect an early evening filled with live music, complimentary Prosecco and snacks, and half-price food and drinks from Casa Chino’s delectable menu. Think Chaufa pork and prawn fried rice, crab and prawn toast, and sticky Szechuan chicken wings paired with some of the best Peruvian-style pisco sours in town, a glass of wine, or even a Lucuma Old Fashioned!

Friday April 12th, 2024

5.00pm to 7.00pm

Shop 1, 212-214 Albion Street, Brunswick