What's on in Melbourne this summer

Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there’s so much to see and do in Melbourne this summer. In fact, there are so many things happening, you may not know where to start. To help, we’ve put together a list of this season’s best attractions, sure to deliver a great experience.

Moonlight Cinema

The stars, a picnic blanket and a good flick, what a way to spend a summer night! Showing advanced screenings, new releases and cult classics, Moonlight Cinema is Australia’s most popular outdoor cinema. And don’t worry, if picnic blankets just aren’t your thing, you can upgrade to a Gold Grass ticket which includes a Bean Bed in a premium viewing location with food and drinks delivered before the movie starts.

When: 1 Dec 2017 - 1 Apr 2018 Where: Central Lawn in the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

Australian Open

Superstar tennis players, colourful fans and live entertainment, the Australian Open is taking over Melbourne this summer for two weeks of non-stop tennis action. Watch the drama unfold as players such as Novak Djokovic, Serena Williams, Andy Murray, Simona Halep and Roger Federer fight to take the first Grand Slam title of the season.

When: Mon 15 – Sun 28 Jan 2018 Where: Rod Laver Arena and Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne

Zoo Twilights

Over fourteen nights, Melbourne Zoo will be hosting so me of the best local and international music talent to help fight against wildlife extinction. With a ticket to Zoo Twilights you can enjoy all of the animals as per normal plus an after hours private viewing and entry to the concert.

When: Friday 26 Jan - Saturday 10 Mar 2018 Where: Elliott Ave, Parkville

Welcome to Thornbury

Welcome to Thornbury is a permanent food truck venue in Melbourne’s inner north. Each month it is home to over forty different food trucks that rotate on a daily basis. There’re also two bars where you can grab a beer, wine or giant cocktail jug to share. With the summer sun out and shining, make sure you get there early to secure a table under an umbrella.

When: Everyday

Thursday 5–11pm | Friday 4pm–1am | Saturday 11am–1am | Sunday 11am–1am

Monday 5–11pm | Tuesday 5–11pm | Wednesday 5–11pm Where: 520 High Street, Northcote

St Kilda Festival

Attracting more than 400,000 people, St Kilda Festival is Australia’s largest free music festival. Over nine days, see Australia’s hottest musicians perform on several stages as well as a range of other performances, workshops, kids’ entertainment, carnival rides, extreme sports, dance classes and more! Just a heads up, make sure to plan your trip as most of the roads will be closed in the area, public transport will be the best way to go.

When: 11 Feb 2018 Where: Around St Kilda

White Night Melbourne

Inspired by the international Nuit Blanche movement, White Night Melbourne is one of Australia’s most celebrated summer events. From dusk ‘til dawn, the city is lit up with colourful projections and artworks, while the streets are filled with live performances. Whether you go every year or if this is your first time, mark your calendars as this is an event you will not want to miss!

When: 7pm – 7am, 17/18 Feb 2018 Where: Melbourne CBD

Luna Park

Luna Park is the perfect place to soak up the sun while having fun on carnival rides and eating delicious food. From the Scenic Railway Roller Coaster and Cooney Island Drop to the Street Legal Dodgems and Carousel, there’s sure to be a ride everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re a little kid or a big kid, a day at Luna Park is a must when visiting Melbourne.

When: All year round Where: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda

Stay the night

With so many amazing things happening in Melbourne this summer, you’re going to need to stay a few days. From 4.5 star luxury to comfortable budget studios, Bell City offers a range of great accommodation options to suit everyone.