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.
Events in Melbourne – ON NOW: Victorian Seniors Festival October 2024
Related reading: Melbourne Musicals What’s On: It’s Showtime
Exhibitions and Events in Melbourne on Now
The Museum of Falling, City Gallery (until 14 Feb 2025). Curated by Patrick Pound, this exhibition explores the intersection of civic space and human experience through a unique exhibition of falling images and objects. Free entry, open during business hours.
Leonardo da Vinci (until 9 Dec 2024). Experience art in a whole new light at THE LUME Melbourne. Open daily, with a seniors discount available at $40. Book tickets here.
RMIT 100 Years Film Festival (until 5 Nov 2024). Enjoy $10 movies at Melbourne’s iconic 100-year-old cinema, The Capitol! Book tickets via the RMIT website here.
Arts Centre Melbourne Theatres Building 40th Anniversary Tours (until 9 Nov 2024). Explore the legacy of Sir Roy Grounds and John Truscott’s luxurious designs, along with the Public Art Collection.
Melbourne’s Storied Laneways (until 1 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.
Tina – The Tina Turner Musical (until 1 Dec 2024). Experience the inspiring life story of Tina Turner, the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, who didn’t just break the rules – she rewrote them.
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 Dec 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.
“Spirit of the Animals” and “Let’s Shake” (until 24 Nov 2024). With free entry and a diverse range of artworks, this gallery invites reflection on Indigenous culture, storytelling, and the significance of animals in First Peoples’ traditions.
The Art of Banksy (until 3 Nov 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.
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.
Beauty And The Beast (until 16 Feb 2025). 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
Play In A Day ‘Timon of Athens’ (Thurs 7 Nov 2024). This script reading offers audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the rehearsal process. Enjoy drinks and snacks while engaging with expert insights, making for an enriching afternoon at the accessible Union Theatre. Free entry.
Victoria State Rose and Garden Show (Sat 9 Nov & Sun 10 Nov 2024). Marvel at thousands of blooming roses, attend informative presentations by gardening experts and participate in creative workshops. Enjoy delicious food, live entertainment, and engaging activities for the whole family in a picturesque setting.
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.
Springs Decline (Thurs 14 Nov 2024). A thought-provoking play by Jason O’Leary that intertwines the stories of Thomas Midgley Jr. and Jonathan Shanklin. Free entry.
Melbourne Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Market (Fri 6 – Sun 8 Dec 2024). Step into a festive wonderland with over 150 producers offering the best in artisan food, wine and curated gifts perfect for the holiday season. Tickets from just $15.
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
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.
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! Wheelchair friendly. 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.
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.
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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