What’s On In Melbourne This Week For Golden Oldies Like Us
Looking for new and engaging things to do in Melbourne this week?
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!
From art and history collections, to live music and social activities, there’s so much variety out there to keep us active and exploring this great city. Have a look at what’s on in Melbourne this week and fill your calendar with fun outings in this vibrant city.
Related reading: Melbourne Musicals What’s On: It’s Showtime
Exhibitions and Events in Melbourne on Now
Pharaoh at NGV (until 6 Oct 2024). An unmissable event that celebrates 3000 years of ancient Egyptian art and culture. More than 500 ancient artefacts on display. Adult tickets are $38 and a seniors card discount is available on Wednesdays only at $35. NGV International.
Leonardo da Vinci (until 29 Oct 2024). Experience art in a whole new light at THE LUME Melbourne. Open daily, with a seniors discount available at $40. Book tickets here.
Melbourne’s Storied Laneways (until Nov 2024). Delve into the history of these iconic spaces, curated by David Thompson, and explore the city’s hidden stories. Royal Historical Society of Victoria, 239 A’Beckett St, Melbourne. Free entry.
Albrecht Dürer’s Material Renaissance (until 29 Nov 2024). Experience Albrecht Dürer’s artistic innovation at the University of Melbourne’s exhibition, showcasing rare prints and objects from the Renaissance era. Arts West Gallery, University of Melbourne, Parkville. Free entry.
Candlelight Concerts (until 22 Oct 2024). 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.
The Art of Banksy (until 22 Sep 2024). Step into the captivating realm of Banksy’s art at the Melbourne exhibition featuring over 70 original works. Witness the artistic genius of this renowned street artist through photos, sculptures, and installations. Book tickets here.
SIX The Musical (until 20 Oct 2024). In this high-octane 80-minute musical experience, the feisty Tudor queens boldly rewrite five hundred years of history.
Exquisite Classical Experiences (Various dates available). Celebrate 15 years of music excellence with captivating contemporary and chamber music experiences at Melbourne Recital Centre throughout 2024.
BEINGS at ACMI (until 29 Sep 2024). Dive into a whimsical world of wonder at Universal Everything’s “Beings” exhibition, where imagination takes on a digital form. Tickets: Full $20, Seniors/Concession $10.
Beauty And The Beast (until 13 Oct 2024). A beloved theatrical production that brings the classic fairy tale to life on stage. Her Majesty’s Theatre. Book tickets here.
Upcoming Melbourne Events: Mark Your Calendar
A Chorus Line (from 7 – 22 Sept 2024). Experience the award-winning A Chorus Line at National Theatre, St Kilda, featuring memorable songs and dynamic choreography, as performers audition for their dream roles.
Radiant Pavilion (from 14 – 22 Sept 2024). A biennial event celebrating contemporary jewellery and object practice. It will showcase local artists while honouring the ancestral lands and traditions of the Kulin Nations. Held in various venues across Melbourne.
Live at Toorak Synagogue: James Morrison Quartet in Melbourne (Wed 13 Nov 2024). Experience an unforgettable evening with jazz legend James Morrison at Toorak Synagogue, featuring captivating performances in stunning acoustics
Ongoing Daytime: Melbourne Events & Activities
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.
Lunchtime Meditation, Atrium Fed Free Workshops (Tuesdays 12.30 pm). Escape the stress and busyness of modern life to discover the peace of meditation for yourself in these free 30-minute meditation sessions, suitable for beginners and regulars. Federation Square. Free entry.
Flagstaff Gardens Guided Walk (Mondays at 11 am). Enjoy a 75-minute guided walk run by Royal Historical Society of Victoria. Bookings essential, $10 each (children under 16 free).
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.
Senior Swans Ballet (weekly). Casual or term-based ballet classes with joint-friendly body movements great for strength-building, improved balance, and brain activity. Various locations across Melbourne and Victoria.
Related reading: 31 Itinerary Ideas For Spending One Day in Melbourne CBD
Ongoing Evening: Melbourne Events & Activities
Sea Shanties & Folk Songs (Thursdays at 7 pm). Head along to a free evening of music, history, and seafaring spirit! Wheelchair friendly. Free entry.
Lido Comedy (Tuesdays 7.30 pm). Acts like Dave Thornton, Luke Kidgell, Claire Hooper, Dilruk Jayasinha, Reuben Solo, and Lizzy Hoo have graced the stage, making each night unforgettable. Lido Cinemas, Hawthorn.
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.
Motley Jazz (Saturdays 5 pm). Unwind with smooth jazz tunes at this free weekly event featuring talented musicians at The Motley Bauhaus in Carlton.
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.
Social Events for Seniors 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 seniors here.
