What’s on in Melbourne This Week for Retirement Rookies Like us
Looking for new and engaging things to do in Melbourne this week and beyond?
Here you will find our master list of Melbourne events and activities happening across town that we think are perfectly suited to retirement rookies like us! Fill your calendar with fun outings in this vibrant city and don’t forget to let us know how you get on.
Related reading: Melbourne Musicals What’s On in 2026: It’s Showtime
What’s on in Melbourne this Month – Our Top Picks
Keepers’ Collection Tour: American History at the ‘G (8 & 9 Sep 2026). Go behind-the-scenes at the MCG for a special Keepers’ Collection Tour exploring America’s mark on the ground’s history, from Camp Murphy to Olympic glory. See fascinating sporting objects up close and hear how the Australian Sports Museum’s Collections team preserves them. Tickets $135. Book here.
Bendigo Day Trip with Lunch & Walking Tour (5 Sep, 3 Oct, 7 Nov 2026). Travel through the scenic Macedon Ranges before exploring Bendigo’s grand gold rush heritage on a guided walking tour with Paul Daffey. Visit historic landmarks, stroll through Rosalind Park and enjoy a relaxed lunch, with free weekend train travel available using a Seniors myki. Tickets $115. Book here.
Craft & Quilt Fair Melbourne (9 – 12 Sep 2026). Melbourne’s popular craft and quilt fair returns to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre with quilt exhibitions, creative workshops, expert demonstrations, handmade crafts and a bustling marketplace for makers and craft lovers. Use our discount code SENIORS10 to save 10% at checkout!
Birrarung Riverfest (27 Sep – 18 Oct 2026). Celebrate the life of the Yarra, Birrarung with more than 70 community events including walks, talks, paddles, art, music, storytelling, wildlife spotting and tree planting. The festival connects people with the river and the communities and environments along its catchment. Various locations across Melbourne and beyond. Ticket prices vary; many events are free.
Reader Outing: Parks & Gardens Cruise (Mon 19 Oct 2026). Enjoy a relaxed morning cruise along the Yarra with Seniors in Melbourne, including tea, coffee and guided commentary. Meet fellow readers and explore Melbourne from the river as you take in the city’s parks and gardens. Melbourne River Cruises, Berth 2 Southbank Promenade. Tickets $32.80. Book here.
Zero Waste Festival (Sat 12 Sept 2026). Celebrate sustainable living with a day of practical ideas, workshops and activities focused on reducing waste and making more environmentally friendly choices. Read more here.
New to the Victorian Seniors Festival? Start with our full festival guide — events, deals and free transport dates all in one spot.
Galleries & Exhibitions in Melbourne
Machu Picchu VR: Journey to the Lost City (until 31 Oct 2026). A new immersive VR experience in Melbourne CBD, giving visitors the chance to walk through the famed ruins of Machu Picchu in extraordinary detail. Seniors card tickets from $37.50. Book tickets here. Read Marjie’s review here.
Beyond the Page Series (5 Aug – 3 Sep 2026). State Library Victoria’s Beyond the Page series brings together leading writers, journalists and health communicators for a trio of thought-provoking conversations. Highlights include Amy Remeikis with Hannah Ferguson (5 Aug), bestselling fantasy author Stacey McEwan with Dee Salmin (13 Aug), and Dr Norman Swan with Dr Preeya Alexander (3 Sep). Tickets on sale from $19 at slv.vic.gov.au.
Rome: Empire, Power, People – Melbourne Museum (until 25 Oct 2026). This major Melbourne-exclusive exhibition brings ancient Rome to life through more than 150 original artefacts—including statues, mosaics and jewellery—exploring the Empire’s power, culture and everyday life through immersive displays and storytelling. Tickets from $38. Read Kathy’s review here. Book tickets.
Ragnar Kjartansson: Mercy (until 4 Oct 2026). The first major Australian exhibition by acclaimed Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson features immersive video installations, music and theatre exploring love, melancholy and human connection. Highlights include the celebrated The Visitors and the Australian premiere of Sunday Without Love. NGV International. Tickets from $22.
Margaret Preston (4 Sep 2026 – 31 Jan 2027). This major retrospective brings together more than 200 paintings, prints and sculptures spanning Margaret Preston’s seven-decade career, exploring her influential role in Australian modernism alongside contemporary First Nations responses to her work. Tickets from $33.
More events & exhibitions worth seeing
Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience (until 31 Oct 2026). Embark on an extraordinary virtual reality journey through the universe, exploring distant galaxies, exploding stars and black holes using breathtaking imagery from the Smithsonian, NASA’s Hubble and James Webb telescopes. This immersive experience brings the wonders of space to life for all ages. Tickets from $37.50. Read Siew’s review here.
Kindred People (1–5 Sep 2026). Experience an Indigenous-led festival on Boonwurrung Country, bringing together artistic performances, cultural experiences and opportunities to listen, learn and connect. The program includes dejeemba yalinwa on 5 September, a free community day.
You Have a New Memory (until 27 Jun 2027). Explore this thought-provoking exhibition at State Library Victoria, examining memory, technology and the ways our personal experiences are shaped, stored and recalled in an increasingly digital world. Free entry.
Taste & Temptation – The Johnston Collection (until 27 Sep 2026). Step inside the historic Fairhall house museum for a guided tour exploring the lavish dining traditions of 18th-century Europe, with exquisite decorative arts, rare treasures and elegant afternoon tea served on Wedgwood china. Tickets from $30. Read Terrie’s review here.
Design X Nature (25 Sep – 18 Oct 2026). This free outdoor exhibition transforms the Australian Drylands into an open-air gallery, featuring new artworks by four artists responding to plant life, climate adaptation and the changing natural environment, alongside walks, talks and workshops. Free entry. Read more here.
City Gallery (from 3 Sept). City Gallery presents free, specialist-curated exhibitions exploring Melbourne’s history, culture, people and city life. The current exhibition, The Green Bus: Andrew Chapman’s 55-year photographic journey through the streets of Melbourne, opens on 3 September 2026. City Gallery, Melbourne Town Hall, Melbourne. Free entry.
ENCORE! 50 Objects. 50 Years. One Collection (16 Sep 2026 – 9 May 2027). Celebrate 50 years of the Australian Performing Arts Collection in this spectacular exhibition featuring 50 iconic costumes, props and memorabilia from Australia’s stage, music, opera and theatre history. Tickets from $16. Read more here.
History, Culture & Walking Tours
Under The Clocks: Premium City Walking Tour (Fridays, 10 am – 1 pm). Join us for a guided tour of Melbourne’s laneways, meet new friends and savour revelations about the city you thought you knew. 3-hour walking tour, including coffee or tea mid-way. Tickets $60. Book here. Read Kathy’s review.
Hardware Lane Precinct: 1.5-hour Walking Tour (Fridays, 2 pm – 3.30 pm). Behind Bourke Street, uncover the old warehouses, service lanes and quiet corners revealing how the city has reinvented itself over time. Tickets $40. Book here.
City of Literature: 3-hour Walking Tour (Thursdays, 10 am – 1 pm). This tour is ideal for curious readers, history lovers and anyone interested in the cultural forces that shaped Melbourne. 3-hour walking tour, including coffee or tea mid-way. Tickets $60. Book here.
The Life & Times of Flinders Lane: 1.5-hour Walking Tour (Thurs 2 pm – 3.30 pm). Flinders Lane has lived many lives — and its story is written into the buildings, laneways and corners that most people hurry past. Tickets $40. Book here.
Keepers’ Collection Tour: AFL History (23–24 Sep 2026). Step behind the scenes at the MCG and discover more than 100 years of AFL history told through premiership caps, trophies, medals and other treasured objects. An expert from the Australian Sports Museum’s Collections team will share the stories behind these pieces and how they are preserved. Tickets $135. Book here.
Coburg Multicultural Brunch Tour (26 Sept 2026). Experience six foodie stops showcasing cuisines from around the globe without ever leaving Melbourne. Food, community, connection, and the simple joy of breaking bread! Tickets $65. Book here.
Orchid Conservation Tours (5 Sep – 1 Oct 2026). Go behind the scenes of Australia’s largest endangered orchid conservation program and discover how scientists are helping protect Victoria’s threatened native orchids from extinction. This fascinating guided tour explores cutting-edge conservation, propagation and reintroduction work rarely seen by the public. Tickets $35.
Celebration in the Gardens (19 Sep 2026). Celebrate a century of Maranoa Botanic Gardens with guided walks, talks, children’s activities and more in this special community event. Free entry.
Guided Walks: Swing and Big Bands in St Kilda (20 Sep 2026). Step into St Kilda’s lively 1940s music scene with music historian Sally Moore and artist, journalist and author Paulie Stewart. Hear fascinating stories about the dance bands, venues and musicians that helped shape the area’s musical history. Heroes Lounge, St Kilda Army and Navy Club (RSL), 88 Acland Street, St Kilda.
More cultural events
Radical Computing Exhibition (19 Sep 2026 – 21 Feb 2027). Explore the history and creative possibilities of personal computing in this interactive exhibition featuring early computers, creative coding, digital art and works by artists exploring how technology can be reimagined.
Spirits and Ales Haunted Pub Tour – Melbourne CBD (Thursday evenings). Enjoy spirits and ales at a former police station with an unsolved murder, Melbourne’s oldest pub haunted by unrequited love, a 5 Star Hotel shrouded in mysteries and a scandalous members club. Tickets $39. Book here.
Tall Ship Harbour Sailing from Williamstown (various dates). Set sail on a historic tall ship from Williamstown, enjoying a scenic harbour cruise under full sails, guided commentary and unforgettable views of the bay — a unique outdoor experience that’s both relaxing and adventurous. Tickets from $50.
Portable Iron Houses (Open the First Sunday of each Month). Visit three rare 19th-century prefabricated iron homes in South Melbourne—among the last of their kind—offering a glimpse into Melbourne’s Gold Rush era. Tickets from $7.
Meet the Author: Marny Lishman (15 Oct 2026). Join psychologist and author Marny Lishman for an insightful author event exploring wellbeing, mindset and the ideas behind her work. A great opportunity to hear her share practical insights and connect with fellow readers. Tickets $10.
One Enchanted Evening Mystery Book Night (27 Oct 2026). Enjoy a special evening celebrating books, storytelling and the magic of live author events at Mary Martin Books. Tickets include a mystery book, a cosy venue, a glass of wine, and a moderated author session with signing. Tickets $50.
FREE Events in Melbourne this Week
World of the Book exhibition (until 16 May 2027). The largest and longest-running rare book exhibition in Australia has reopened at The State Library of Victoria. Major highlights this year include Jane Austen’s first editions on show for the first time and a tribute to the highest-selling author of all time, Agatha Christie, marking 50 years since her passing. Free entry. Read Angie’s review.
Hoddle Grid: The Great Land Grab (until 11 Nov 2026). This compelling exhibition explores Melbourne’s origins through the 1837 land auctions led by Robert Hoddle, revealing the stories of early settlers—from convicts to merchants—whose ambitions shaped the city, while tracing how the original allotments on Wurundjeri Country have evolved into today’s CBD. Free entry.
Rebel Heart: Love Letters and Other Declarations (until 27 Jan 2027). A free exhibition at State Library Victoria exploring centuries of romantic devotion, heartbreak and bold confessions through intimate letters, diaries and rare manuscripts that celebrate defiant expressions of the heart. Free entry.
Pride Centre Tours (Saturdays at 2 pm). Visitors can join free guided tours at the Pride Centre in St Kilda to learn about LGBTQIA+ history, culture and community in Victoria through engaging stories and exhibitions. Free entry.
How to Dress for Old Age – Peta Murray and David Carlin Author Talk Preston Library (29 Oct 2026). Hear authors Peta Murray and David Carlin discuss their book How to Dress for Old Age, which explores caring for ageing parents and confronting the realities of our own later years. Free entry, bookings required.
More free exhibitions in Melbourne
The Swinging Sixties Exhibition (until 2027). Discover life in Victoria during the 1960s — from miniskirts to The Beatles, protest to the Pill. Explore whether Victoria truly “swung” in the sixties at this free exhibition at the Old Treasury Building. Free entry.
EMERGENCE[Y] (until 5 Dec 2026). This major free exhibition brings together artists, scientists and collaborators from around the world to explore how we adapt to a rapidly changing planet. Spanning ecological, technological and social transformation, it features works on topics such as climate resilience, biotechnology, First Nations knowledge, regenerative systems and future cities. Science Gallery. Free entry.
Ngarn Wa’ngal: Art of the Gum Tree (until 21 Nov 2026). This major free exhibition explores the cultural, environmental and artistic significance of the eucalypt through more than 160 historical and contemporary works. Featuring renowned artists including Arthur Boyd, Albert Namatjira, Vincent Namatjira and Christian Thompson, alongside new commissions created for the exhibition. The Potter Museum of Art, Parkville. Free entry.
Requiem in Power (RIP) (until 24 Oct 2026). This thought-provoking exhibition by Gabrielle Skye Nehrybecki and Olive Guardiani explores the connections between ecology, memory and mortality through sculpture inspired by the La Trobe Solar Farm and Preston Cemetery, reflecting on environmental loss and human rituals. Bundoora Homestead Art Centre. Free entry.
Theatre, Concerts & Live Music in Melbourne
Behind The Veil: NICA’s Second Year Ensemble (15–19 Sep 2026). Enter a kooky circus world where perfection is manufactured, productivity is worshipped and individuality is treated as a dangerous defect. NICA’s second-year ensemble combines breathtaking physical feats with dark satire as performers challenge a perfectly engineered existence and reclaim their freedom.
We Call It Ballet: The Sleeping Beauty Dance & Light Show (various dates). Experience “Sleeping Beauty” reimagined with glow-in-the-dark costumes and local dancers at Melbourne’s Capitol Theatre in a captivating 60-minute show.
Mostly Mozart: Play with Fire (3 Sep 2026). ANAM musicians present a fiery morning of classical music featuring works by Haydn, De Falla, Debussy, Scriabin and Mozart. Complimentary morning tea is included before the concert. Tickets from $52. Book here.
FUSE Festival (5–13 Sep 2026). Darebin comes alive with contemporary art, music, performance, exhibitions, workshops and community events across streets, parks, theatres and galleries.
Zerial – Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne (16 – 20 Sep 2026). Experience a bold contemporary theatre production that brings fresh energy and theatrical invention to the stage. Tickets from $45.
More concerts & theatre events worth knowing about
Grand Organ Festival (3 – 5 Sep 2026). Experience the magnificent Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ across a weekend of spectacular concerts featuring the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, acclaimed organist Joseph Nolan and Duruflé’s stirring Requiem. The festival celebrates one of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest pipe organs with orchestral performances and solo recitals.
Morning Melodies: Silvie Paladino (14 Sep 2026). Acclaimed musical theatre star Silvie Paladino celebrates her remarkable career with an uplifting performance of Broadway favourites and personal stories. Part of the popular Morning Melodies daytime concert series.
Melbourne Magic Show – Impossible Occurrences (Fridays, 7.30 pm or 9.30 pm). Experience mind-blowing illusions and mind-reading up close in this intimate magic performance by master magician Luke Hocking at the Marriott Hotel, Melbourne, blending sleight of hand, theatrical flair and audience interaction.
Starry Night – Monash Chorale (Sat 10 Oct 2026). Enjoy an uplifting evening of choral music inspired by the beauty and mystery of the night sky. Performed by Monash Chorale with guest artists, the program features a rich selection of classical and contemporary works celebrating the wonder of the stars.
Mostly Mozart: Concert Four – Melbourne Recital Centre (Thurs 29 Oct 2026). The final concert in the Mostly Mozart series showcases more of Mozart’s timeless masterpieces alongside works by his contemporaries, performed by leading Australian musicians in the intimate setting of Elisabeth Murdoch Hall. Tickets from $52.
I Am Woman – Morning Melodies, Arts Centre Melbourne (Mon 26 Oct 2026). Celebrate the songs of Australia’s most iconic female performers in this uplifting Morning Melodies concert. Featuring timeless hits and unforgettable stories, it’s a tribute to the women who shaped Australian music across the decades. Tickets $35.
Mozart, Salieri & Pleyel – Australian Brandenburg Orchestra (15-18 Oct 2026). Explore the music and rivalry of Mozart and Salieri, alongside the elegant works of Ignaz Pleyel, in a sparkling performance by the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra on period instruments. Receive our exclusive 20% discount on A & B reserve seats using code SENIORSMELB20
The Eagles Story – Another Tequila Sunrise Tour (various dates and locations 2026). Australia’s premier Eagles tribute show brings the legendary band’s greatest hits to life with stunning harmonies and musicianship, performing classics like Hotel California, Take It Easy and Desperado across venues in Victoria and beyond.
Teddy Tahu Rhodes and Georgia Wilkinson: A Little Glamour and a Lot of Joy (9 Nov 2026). Join internationally celebrated opera stars Teddy Tahu Rhodes and Georgia Wilkinson for a morning of music, laughter and charm. Their commanding voices and irresistible stage presence come together in a joyful performance featuring opera favourites and musical classics. Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne, Southbank. Tickets from $22.
Kitty Flanagan: Glad Game (27 – 28 Nov 2026). Kitty Flanagan brings her award-winning stand-up show Glad Game to Melbourne for an encore season, tackling big questions about modern life, social media and everything in between with her trademark sharp wit. Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne, Southbank. Tickets from $69.
The Jazz Room (various dates). Set in the charming Brunswick Ballroom, enjoy an hour of dynamic music, improvisation, and delicious dining. Secure your tickets!
Find more shows in our guides:
- Melbourne Musicals Guide: It’s Showtime
- Music Concerts in Melbourne: Free Midweek Recitals & More
- Halftix Melbourne: the Original Bricks-and-Mortar Home for Show Deals
What’s On in Outer Melbourne
Nadège Philippe-Janon: Ecologies of Attention (1 Aug – 25 Oct 2026). This free immersive exhibition features kinetic sculptures powered by wind, sunlight, microbes and other energy sources, inviting visitors to slow down, reconnect with nature and reflect on how technology shapes our attention and everyday lives. Counihan Gallery, Brunswick.
Heidi Schoenheimer: Around Here (until 24 Oct 2026). This intimate solo exhibition captures the beauty of everyday life through paintings of local streets, markets and familiar neighbourhoods. Inspired by fleeting moments, light and colour, the works celebrate the quiet charm of ordinary places. Bundoora Homestead Art Centre. Free entry.
Back to the Unconscious (17 Jul – 19 Nov 2026). This thought-provoking exhibition series brings together contemporary artists exploring emotion, identity and the unconscious through experimental artworks that reflect on today’s rapidly changing world.
Cyanotypes Printing Workshop (Every Wed from 26 Aug– 16 Sept 2026). Discover the historic art of cyanotype printing and create striking blue-and-white botanical prints using sunlight and natural materials in this creative hands-on workshop. General admission: $15 per session. Season ticket: $60. Bundoora Homestead Art Centre.
7 Dances for 7 People (9 – 19 Sep 2026). Award-winning choreographer Tra Mi Dinh brings together seven exceptional dancers in a mesmerising new work inspired by the symbolism and mystery of the number seven. Expect hypnotic movement, precision and endurance in this 55-minute contemporary dance performance. Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, Northcote. Tickets from $10.
CIRCUS FIRE Spectacular (15 – 18 Oct 2026). Watch internationally awarded ZAP Circus bring fire, acrobatics, dazzling special effects and sharp comedy to Prahran Square for four spectacular nights. This high-energy 45-minute show promises plenty of thrills, laughs and jaw-dropping stunts. Prahran Square, Prahran. Free entry.
More events in Melbourne’s neighbourhoods
Chogh (چوغ) (until 24 Oct 2026). Curated by Alia Qasim Zada and Elyas Alavi, this powerful group exhibition brings together six Australian-Hazara artists exploring migration, identity, gender and belonging through painting, textiles and installation. Inspired by the Hazaragi word for “thread”, the exhibition reflects on memory, resilience and connection. Bundoora Homestead Art Centre. Free entry.
Day’s Walk, Talk & Harvest Farm Tour – Day’s Walk Farm (Various dates 2026). Experience a behind-the-scenes organic farm tour in Keilor where visitors can explore regenerative farming practices, harvest their own veggie box and enjoy a guided walk, Q&A and morning tea with expert growers.
Boroondara Cemetery Walking Tours – Kew (Various dates 2026). Step back in time with guided walking tours through the historic Boroondara Cemetery, uncovering fascinating stories, notable figures and hidden heritage across themed experiences like Ned Kelly – Hero or Villain and Love Stories for the Ages, all led by passionate local historians.
Kew Court House Live (every Thursday and Fri). Discover a new side of Melbourne’s live music scene every Thursday and Friday night in the heart of Kew.
Rachael Grace – Live Shows & Concerts (Various dates & venues 2026). Acclaimed vocalist Rachael Grace performs a range of live shows across Victoria — from intimate piano bar performances to her celebrated Australian Barbra Streisand Show — with multiple dates and venues including Geelong, Ballarat, Dandenong and Frankston throughout 2026.
Free Guided Garden Walks – Melbourne & Cranbourne (Daily except Mondays). Hear stories about plants, design, and the unique landscapes that make these gardens so special, with an expert guide. Free and running daily. Bookings essential.
Candlelight Concerts (various dates). Discover the beauty of Candlelight Concerts in iconic venues across Melbourne, showcasing a variety of musical genres under the soft glow of candlelight. Various dates and venues. Tickets from $25. Book tickets here.
What’s on in Regional Victoria
BLOOM – Bendigo & Heathcote (14 Aug – 31 Oct 2026). Celebrate spring across the Bendigo region with more than 60 experiences, including colourful flower displays, the Cornella Canola Walk, open gardens, food and wine events and Bloom After Dark.
Tesselaar Tulip Festival (12 Sep – 11 Oct 2026). Celebrate the festival’s 70th year as more than one million tulips fill the Dandenong Ranges with colour, alongside live music, cultural performances, market stalls, tractor rides and themed events throughout the four-week celebration.
CherryHill Orchards Blossom Festival (18 Sep – 4 Oct 2026). Celebrate spring among thousands of blossoming cherry trees at CherryHill Orchards, with live music, tastings, lawn games, market stalls and food vendors adding to the colourful orchard experience. Use our discount code: SMBlossom10 at checkout to save 10%.
Blossom, Wine & Dine Mid-Week Package (21 Sep – 2 Oct 2026). CherryHill Orchards has teamed up with neighbours Rochford Wines for a relaxed, self-drive day combining a proper sit-down lunch with an afternoon among the blossoms. Tickets $105. Book here.
Open House Latrobe (9 – 11 Oct 2026). Explore the architecture, heritage, industry and cultural identity of the Latrobe Valley through a weekend of building tours, walking tours, talks, exhibitions and behind-the-scenes experiences across Traralgon, Morwell, Moe, Churchill, Yinnar and surrounding areas. Various locations across Latrobe Valley. Free entry; selected programs require a $7 booking fee.
Discovering the Impressionists, Geelong Gallery (until 11 Oct 2026). This exhibition flows across five galleries, presenting more than 70 paintings from across two generations of Impressionist artists, the majority from private collections in France and never before seen in Australia. Tickets from $25.
There is also a free exhibition pairing Claude Monet’s celebrated Haystacks, midday with works by leading Australian Impressionists.
More events in regional Victoria
The McFarlane Dress Collection: Fashion Through the Ages (19 – 20 Sep 2026). Admire a rare collection of beautifully restored vintage gowns, formal wear and antique sewing machines celebrating the artistry of fashion through the decades. The free exhibition also features stories behind the garments, with a special Sunday afternoon tea and live fashion parade showcasing selected pieces from the collection.
The Q Train Experience – Q Class (Mondays, Thursday & Fridays). Swerve your way through the heart of the Bellarine Peninsula as you dine on the iconic Q Train departing Drysdale. Be welcomed with a drink on arrival before taking a seat in the Q Class dining area for a sumptuous degustation, showcasing the exceptional produce from the region.
Hidden Lanes Ballarat City Tour (various dates). This leisurely 2–2.5 hour walking tour, limited to small groups, explores heritage buildings and captivating stories from the Goldfields era.
Queenscliffe Maritime Museum Events (Various dates 2026). Enjoy a range of engaging talks, guided tours and special experiences that bring Victoria’s rich maritime history to life at the Queenscliffe Maritime Museum.
Archibald Prize 2026 (5 Sep – 1 Nov 2026). Australia’s most prestigious portrait exhibition comes to Shepparton for its only Victorian showing, featuring the 2026 Archibald Prize finalists from the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Showcasing portraits of notable Australians by leading artists, this acclaimed exhibition offers a fascinating snapshot of contemporary Australian life and creativity.
Ongoing & Recurring Melbourne Events
Library Cinema at narrm ngarrgu (10 Sept 2026). Held monthly, contemporary, classic and documentary films on the big screen. Stay for snacks and a chat afterwards.
Live Music at Prahran Market (Saturdays & Sundays). Enjoy free live music every Saturday and Sunday in the Market Square at Prahran Market, where different local bands play from around 12 noon to 3 pm while you shop, dine and relax in one of Melbourne’s most beloved food destinations.
Morning Melodies (throughout 2026). Experience joy with Morning Melodies at Arts Centre Melbourne—enjoy 11 captivating performances in 2026, perfect for music lovers!
ACMI Matinees (Fri – Sun, ongoing 2026). Enjoy a curated program of local and international films at ACMI Cinemas with relaxed daytime screenings every Friday, Saturday and Sunday — perfect for a laid-back cinema experience with new titles rotating regularly.
Australian Brandenburg Orchestra 2026 Program (throughout 2026). Audiences can enjoy a blend of classical brilliance, innovative performances, and festive celebrations that promise unforgettable evenings. Receive our exclusive 20% discount on A & B reserve seats using code SENIORSMELB20
Silent Disco Walking Tours (various dates). Participants don wireless headphones and dance to beloved disco tracks, led by a spirited guide. This engaging experience is perfect for all ages, fostering a sense of community while exploring the city’s hidden gems, laughter, and joy every step of the way.
Melbourne Live Lecture Series (Various dates). Expand your horizons with this engaging series of talks led by researchers, academics and experts covering topics from science and history to psychology, medicine and current affairs. Each evening includes a thought-provoking lecture, audience Q&A and the chance to continue the conversation over food and drinks in a relaxed social setting.
Read our guide to upcoming Melbourne Concerts.
Ongoing Daytime: Melbourne Events & Activities
Purpose Precinct at Queen Vic Market (various dates). Join a tour of the Purpose Precinct and learn about the amazing local businesses doing great things for people and planet. Or take a class in the Moving Feast Kitchen to upskill in low-no waste cooking! Read our review.
St Paul’s Cathedral Lunchtime Concerts (Wednesdays at 1 pm). These half-hour concerts showcase young local talent and offer a delightful blend of fine music and a tranquil space for contemplation. Wheelchair friendly. Free entry.
Lunchtime Organ Recitals (Thursdays at 1 pm). From timeless classics of Bach to modern pieces from the likes of Fletcher and Farjeon, it’s free for visitors to come in and enjoy live music on the impressive grand organ. Wheelchair friendly. Free entry.
Music Matinee Concert Series (on most Tuesdays at 1 pm). Music Matinee is a not-for-profit organization based in Melbourne, focused on delivering live and free classical music performances. Since its inception in 2018, it has partnered with prestigious music institutions to support young musicians, offering them valuable public performance opportunities in an inspiring venue, the Scots’ Church. View the calendar of events here.
Austral Salon Recital (fourth Monday of the month). With a rich history dating back to 1890, the Austral Salon of Music supports emerging musicians through monthly recitals in the CBD. Join this musical community in celebrating 134 years of talent. Wheelchair friendly. Visitors $20. Students $10. Members $15. Tea/coffee and biscuits provided – BYO sandwiches.
Making Modern Melbourne (until 31 Dec 2026). This free exhibition traces Melbourne’s transformation from the early 20th century to today, exploring major events including the World Wars, the Great Depression, postwar migration and the rise of multiculturalism. It features historic photographs and modern reimaginings that show how the city has evolved over time.
Related reading: 32 Itinerary Ideas For Spending One Day in Melbourne CBD
Ongoing Evening: Melbourne Events & Activities
Dave O’Neil’s Comedy Funhouse (Wednesdays 6.00 pm). Dave’s relaxed and funny style makes this a great midweek comedy fix, with a line-up of talented comedians to keep you entertained.
Sea Shanties & Folk Songs (Thursdays at 7 pm). Head along to a free evening of music, history, and seafaring spirit! Free entry.
Motley Jazz (Saturdays 5 pm). Unwind with smooth jazz tunes at this free weekly event featuring talented musicians at The Motley Bauhaus in Carlton.
Sunday Night Stand-Up Comedy (Sundays 7.30 pm). Every show is a mix of comics from the TV, radio, and TikTok, alongside some of the future stars of Australian comedy. Club Voltaire, North Melbourne. Book $10 tickets here
Live Music Sundays (Sundays from 2.30 pm). Each Sunday afternoon the Elsternwick Club feature a band. Head along for the low cost of $15 and enjoy, have a drink and a dance if you wish to.
Related reading: 10 Top Comedy Shows Melbourne: A Guide to Laughter in the City
Social Events, Groups & Clubs in Melbourne
Chatty Cafe at City of Melbourne Bowls Club (Mondays at 10.30 am). Head to the Bowls Club in Flagstaff Gardens on Mondays for a cuppa and a casual chat with people of all ages and interests. The event is free and you don’t need to register.
Melbourne Men’s Shed at Fed Square (Mon, Tues, Wednesdays). Melbourne Men’s Shed provides a range of activities for both working and retired men, from cards and digital photography to woodwork as well as opportunities to become involved in volunteer work, a walking group and social activities.
Seniors Tea with NGV (Monthly). Join friendly NGV Guides in the Gallery each month for an hour of informal conversation about selected artworks and stay on for a cup of tea in the café to continue the discussion!
U3A Network Victoria. The slogan of the U3A Network is LIVE LEARN ENJOY. There are over 60 U3A clubs in Victoria alone – all providing a diverse range of activities for retired or semi-retired Australians over the age of 50.
Read our extended list of fun social activities for older Victorians here.
Not able to head out this week? Enjoy these free online concerts by the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music from the comfort of your home.
Tried a spot from our guide? Let them know Seniors in Melbourne sent you! It helps us keep supporting local favourites.
Heading off on your own Melbourne adventures? Join our Facebook Group and share your stories, ask questions and connect with others for further inspiration.
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