Melbourne Events in August
Winter is a season that Melbourne does well. The cultural heartbeat of the city seems to thrum louder in the cooler months, with bustling laneways, galleries, festivals and markets bringing Melbourne to life. From mesmerising light shows and unique Melbourne dining experiences to world-class exhibitions, take your pick of exciting events in Melbourne this August.
Queen Victoria Winter Night Market
An essential stop is the Queen Victoria Winter Night Market, held on Wednesday nights between 5pm and 10pm. This iconic Melbourne market becomes a hub of activity where you can indulge in street food from around the world, from Spanish paella and fluffy bao buns to Texas-style tacos and chicken souvlaki wraps. Browse artisanal stalls for unique handmade crafts, enjoy live music and performances, and sip mulled wine beside crackling fires at one of Melbourne’s oldest markets.
Lightscape Melbourne
For a mesmerising evening, venture to Lightscape at the Royal Botanic Gardens. This spectacular Melbourne winter event transforms the gardens into a wonderland with innovative light installations. As you wander through glowing landscapes and tunnels of light, the beauty of the gardens is reimagined, creating a magical night-time paradise. Lightscape closes on 4 August, so grab your tickets to avoid missing out.
Magical Winter Igloos
Venture to the romantic banks of the Yarra, where nine igloos offer the ultimate winter dining experience under the stars. Step inside and cosy up beneath a sky of twinkling fairy lights, tucking into a delicious shared grazing board, main course, and selection of drinks. Each igloo, seating 2 to 6 people, features a Bluetooth speaker for personal playlists, heaters, and cosy blankets, ensuring a night to remember in Melbourne.
Melbourne Art Exhibitions in August
Art lovers in Melbourne are in for a treat with an impressive roster of exhibitions this August. The National Gallery of Victoria’s “Pharaoh” delves into the ancient Egyptian era with exquisite artworks spanning three thousand years.
“Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius” at The Lume Melbourne offers an immersive multi-sensory experience through the gallery. The exhibition also features 50 inventions, original pages from his precious Codex Atlanticus notebook and an artist’s studio for visitors to channel their inner da Vinci.
Melbourne International Film Festival
August also marks the return of the Melbourne International Film Festival, featuring more than 250 films from over 62 countries. This winter festival offers a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers to showcase their work, providing audiences with a diverse array of international and local films across various genres, from feature films to global documentaries and virtual, augmented and mixed reality experiences.
Melbourne Theatre Shows in August
Theatre enthusiasts have much to celebrate this August. “WICKED the Musical” continues to dazzle at the Regent Theatre until 25 August, with its magical production and the captivating story of the witches of Oz. Joining the theatrical line up is Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” at Her Majesty’s Theatre, an enchanting performance that brings to life the beloved tale with stunning sets and costumes, running until 29 December.
Now or Never, Melbourne
The city-wide festival Now or Never, from 22-31 August, transforms Melbourne into a vibrant canvas for contemporary expression. This festival curates an innovative blend of art, sound, and technology, featuring digital art experiences, pioneering music and audio-visual performances, and thought-provoking talks. It’s a chance to experience art that shifts perspectives and pushes the boundaries of creativity.
Culinary Delights at Lona Misa
Cap off your day of Melbourne events with a visit to Lona Misa at Ovolo South Yarra. This vibrant bar and kitchen is celebrated for its innovative Latin-inspired cuisine, providing the perfect spot to unwind, reflect and indulge. A lively produce-led restaurant, Lona Misa features a seasonal menu with braised lamb tostadas, Brazilian seafood stew, and chimichurri-marinated steak from the josper, with a side of classic patatas bravas.
Melbourne in August offers a rich palette of experiences and events that blend the city’s cultural, artistic, and culinary offerings into a month-long celebration as the chilly season draws to a close. Whether enveloped in the warmth of an igloo, lost in the magic of a musical, or immersed in ground-breaking art, Melbourne is poised to offer memories that will last a lifetime.