As the chilly air settles over Melbourne, the city bursts into life with a dazzling array of winter festivals and events that transform the cold into a season of warmth and excitement.
From the twinkling lights of winter events to the tantalising aromas of lavish winter feasts, Melbourne in winter is a wonderland of experiences that you simply cannot miss!
Check out the winter events happening in Melbourne this year!
Source: thenightmarket
Each winter, the historic Queen Victoria Market becomes a vibrant hub of culture, cuisine, and community with its annual tradition, the Winter Night Market.
Packed with rows of food stalls, the market is a haven for foodies. From steaming bowls of ramen and spicy Indian curries to Argentinean grilled meats and Dutch pancakes, you can embark on a global gastronomic journey without leaving the market!
Moreover, if you’re an international student missing the taste of home, you might find that one dish you’ve been craving at the Winter Night Market.
Beyond the food, the market is a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted goods by local artisans and designers. If you’re seeking one-of-a-kind items that reflect Melbourne’s creative spirit, this is the ideal place for you.
Worried about the cold? There are fire pits strategically placed throughout the market, so you can stroll through the market with a cup of spiced apple cider and watch the dazzling fire performers light up the night!
Source: Lightscapes
Did you miss Melbourne’s previous largest illuminated event? Perk up ’cause it’s back!
This immersive experience is more than just a light show; it’s a night-time adventure with captivating light installations and soundscapes.
Lightscape is designed to engage all your senses, and 2024’s run will feature brand-new installations. As you move through the trail, you’ll be surrounded by ambient music, nature, and specially crafted audio pieces that add depth to the multisensory experience.
Imagine walking through a tunnel of twinkling fairy lights that seem to stretch into infinity or standing beneath towering trees adorned with shimmering lanterns.
The installations are interactive, inviting visitors to pause, play, and fully immerse themselves in the enchanting environment. Their highlights, “Field of Light” and “Cathedral of Light,” are must-sees before leaving for the best experience!
Oh, and be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they sell out fast!
Source: Eynesbury
Set against the backdrop of Eynesbury’s historic charm and natural beauty, the Eynesbury Winter Festival offers a captivating blend of activities and experiences that make this winter season a time to celebrate rather than endure.
At its heart is the enchanting ice skating rink – a favourite for both locals and visitors. Glide across the ice surrounded by twinkling fairy lights and live music from local artists, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Right next to the ice rink is the Winter Village, a cosy haven filled with charming wooden chalets offering a variety of artisanal goods and gourmet delights! Their array of culinary delights includes pop-up restaurants and food trucks, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Check out their official site for the full itinerary and ticket info.
Source: East Gippsland Winter Festival
Nestled in one of the most picturesque regions of Australia, this festival is a winter wonderland filled with artistic light displays adorning the streets and public spaces—a perfect show of adding creativity and innovation to natural landscapes and urban settings.
As the festival celebrates East Gippsland’s thriving arts and culture scene, there will be many art exhibitions, open studios, and gallery tours where you can discover the works of local artists, from traditional paintings and sculptures to contemporary mixed media and digital art installations.
You will also be able to sample a selection of fine wines crafted from local vineyards or tour the region’s renowned wineries. If you’re a wine enthusiast, this is the winter festival you won’t want to miss!
For our adventure seekers, you’ll definitely love the range of outdoor activities offered! Experience the thrill of East Gippsland’s diverse landscapes while enjoying the crisp winter air with activities like guided nature walks, wildlife tours, kayaking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Check out their official site for more information.
Source: Ballarat Winter Festival
This annual event is a beloved highlight of the winter calendar in the historic city of Ballarat. With the winter solstice as its central theme, it adds a touch of ancient magic to the modern festivities.
Other than the typical programs (i.e. market, ice rink, entertainment), their special solstice events include candlelit processions, fire performances, and lantern parades, where participants carry beautifully crafted lanterns through the city to symbolise the return of light after the longest night.
As darkness falls, you’ll get to watch Ballarat’s streets, parks, and historic buildings bathed in a warm, ethereal glow, creating a magical atmosphere that captures the essence of winter.
The highlight is, of course, the spectacular Winter Wonderlights at Sovereign Hill. An immersive experience that transports visitors back to the 1850s, the recreated gold rush town is illuminated with over 25,000 LED lights. Truly, it’s a feast for the eyes!
Check their official site for more info.
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With our state-of-the-art facilities and easy access to public transportation, local amenities and top universities, you can explore the city to your heart’s content without breaking the bank!
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