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
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.
Bendigo Day Trip with Lunch & Walking Tour (7 Nov & 5 Dec 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.
Czech and Slovak Film Festival of Australia (CaSFFA) (9–18 Oct 2026). Explore Czech and Slovak cinema through the festival’s Horizons program, featuring contemporary films, emerging filmmakers and classic favourites. Highlights include Invincibles, Father, Flood and Chica Checa, with English subtitles for films with dialogue.
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
Melbourne Gluten-Free Expo (17–18 Oct 2026). Sample, taste and shop hundreds of gluten-free products while enjoying free tastings, live cooking demonstrations, expert talks and practical advice from health and dietary professionals.
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.
Melbourne Fashion Week (19–25 Oct 2026). Melbourne Fashion Week returns with more than 300 designers and retailers across over 100 free and ticketed events, including runway shows, fashion conversations, workshops and creative showcases.
New to the Victorian Seniors Festival? Start with our full festival guide — events, deals and free transport dates all in one spot.
Ticketed events & 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.
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.
Sunset Cocktails at Walsh Street (17 Oct 2026). Enjoy an evening at architect Robin Boyd’s celebrated modernist home, with cocktails and time to explore the distinctive residence as the evening light settles over its courtyard and interiors.
Melbourne Fringe Festival (29 Sep–18 Oct 2026). Melbourne Fringe returns with three weeks of independent theatre, comedy, music, art, circus and unexpected performances under the theme “Turn Towards the Heat”. With more than 450 events across Melbourne and thousands of artists, the festival includes free public experiences as well as ticketed shows.
Melbourne International Jazz Festival (16–25 Oct 2026). The Melbourne International Jazz Festival returns for its 29th year with more than 150 performances and 550 artists across ten days. The program spans jazz, soul, funk and blues, with highlights at Hamer Hall, Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne Recital Centre and Bunjil Place.
Margaret Preston (until 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. Read Angie’s review.
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.
You Have a New Memory (until 27 Jun 2027). Explore this thought-provoking exhibition examining memory, technology and the ways our personal experiences are shaped, stored and recalled in an increasingly digital world. State Library Victoria. Free entry.
Taste & Temptation – The Johnston Collection (until 25 Oct 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 (until 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.
All Right, Vegemite! – A Very Australian Celebration (25 Oct 2026). Celebrate Vegemite’s 103rd birthday with illustrator and animator Peter Viska, who will share stories from his career and the much-loved All Right, Vegemite! children’s books. Enjoy original artwork, Australian nostalgia, book signings and light refreshments, with Peter also donating limited-edition signed prints to support the volunteer-run museum.
ENCORE! 50 Objects. 50 Years. One Collection (until 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. Seniors Card tickets $16. Read more here.
Andrew Chapman, City Gallery (until 19 Feb 2027). City Gallery presents free, specialist-curated exhibitions exploring Melbourne’s history, culture, people and city life. The current exhibition is The Green Bus: Andrew Chapman’s 55-year photographic journey through the streets of Melbourne, at City Gallery, Melbourne Town Hall. Open Monday to Friday only. Free entry.
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.
Coburg Multicultural Brunch Tour (more dates coming soon). 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.
Walsh Street Guided Tour (selected dates to 12 Dec 2026). Step inside the iconic modernist home designed by architect Robin Boyd for his family in 1957. The guided tour explores Boyd’s life, influences and design ideas, followed by time to look around the house and take photographs.
More cultural events
Radical Computing Exhibition (until 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. Tickets from $18. National Communications Museum, Hawthorn.
Quiet Corners: The Art of AME Bale (12 Aug–18 Oct 2026). Explore more than 100 works by acclaimed Australian painter AME Bale, whose floral still lifes, interiors, portraits and landscapes reveal her meticulous approach to light, tone and composition. Free entry. Hawthorn Town Hall.
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.
Greek Film Festival – Various cinemas across Melbourne (13–25 Oct 2026). Enjoy 13 days of Greek cinema, with more than 50 films and 120 screenings spanning comedy, drama, documentaries and stories exploring Greek culture and life. Films are screened in seven cinemas around Melbourne, with English subtitles available for Greek-language titles.
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.
Odyssey Literary Festival 2026 (23 Oct 2026). This student-led literary festival from RMIT’s Professional Writing and Editing program brings established and emerging writers together for panel discussions and salon events celebrating the people behind the literary world, with a focus on RMIT alumni, staff and students.
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. Sunday to Friday (closed Saturdays). 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.
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.
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.
Theatre, Concerts & Live Music in Melbourne
Coming Home: NICA’s 25th Anniversary Celebration (19 – 21 Nov 2026). This spectacular anniversary celebration brings together generations of NICA graduates, current students and teachers for an exhilarating journey through 25 years of contemporary circus, featuring aerials, wheels, hoops, bikes and foot juggling, while launching a new student scholarship fund.
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.
Eliza (until 31 Oct 2026). Melbourne Theatre Company presents a world-premiere psychological thriller about the birth of artificial intelligence, exploring what happens when a pioneering computer program designed to simulate talk therapy begins blurring the boundaries between technology and human connection. Read Kaye’s review.
Prime Time – The Substation, Newport (14–17 Oct 2026). Born in a Taxi brings together a cast aged from 5 to 93 for an intergenerational performance exploring age, identity and the stories that connect different generations through movement, sound and shared experiences. Seniors Card tickets $27. Read our interview with director Penny Baron.
Melbourne International Jazz Festival at Fed Square (16–18 Oct 2026). Celebrate the festival’s opening weekend with free live music, a jazz-themed vinyl listening session and outdoor cinema. Saturday’s program features the Second Line Street Party, BIGYUKI and Allysha Joy, with films shown on the Big Screen across the weekend.
The Open Road (23 Oct 2026). This Australian premiere brings Kate Moore’s song cycle, setting Walt Whitman’s poetry to music, together with Vaughan Williams’ Songs of Travel, performed by mezzo-soprano Margaret Trubiano and a talented ensemble at Melbourne Recital Centre.
The Gospel According to Paul (20 Oct – 1 Nov 2026). Jonathan Biggins returns as former Prime Minister Paul Keating in this acclaimed one-man political satire. Packed with razor-sharp wit, humour and fresh takes on contemporary politics, the award-winning production offers an entertaining and insightful portrait of one of Australia’s most influential leaders. Tickets from $65.
A Simple Act of Kindness (6–21 Nov 2026). Ross Mueller’s comedy follows Sophie and her fiancé Greg as they navigate the property market, a global pandemic and the challenges of living with Sophie’s parents. With family ambitions, financial pressures and a shared home pushing relationships to the limit, this play explores the transactions that shape family life.
My Fair Lady (from 14 Nov 2026). Enjoy the beloved musical’s return to Melbourne in a lavish production based on the Australian staging directed by Julie Andrews. Follow Eliza Doolittle’s transformation from Cockney flower girl to society lady, accompanied by classic songs including ‘Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?’ and ‘I Could Have Danced All Night’.
Brahms’ German Requiem (19 & 21 Nov 2026). The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s Spring Gala features Welsh bass-baritone Sir Bryn Terfel performing spiritual works before the orchestra and MSO Chorus present Brahms’ moving German Requiem, a powerful musical reflection on grief, remembrance and comfort.
California Dreamin’ – The Laurel Canyon Story (20 Nov 2026). Travel back to the golden era of Laurel Canyon with the music of Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, Carole King, Joni Mitchell and other legendary artists, performed by The Beggars, Catlouise Johns and Steve Todd. Clocktower Centre, Moonee Ponds. Tickets from $65.
Noël! Noël! (5 Dec 2026). This much-loved festive tradition combines centuries-old carols and seasonal favourites with fresh arrangements, soaring choral works and instrumental performances from the Brandenburg Choir and Orchestra, led by Paul Dyer.
Christmas Melodies (7 Dec 2026). This festive Morning Melodies concert brings together timeless carols, beloved hymns, a vibrant big band, choir and special guest artists for a joyful Christmas celebration at Hamer Hall.
More concerts & theatre events worth knowing about
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.
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.
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.
Crapbox (27 Oct–7 Nov 2026). Kevin Nemeth’s four short plays explore love, loss, reconciliation and acceptance through gently funny and thoughtful stories about the complexities of everyday life. The production features veteran performers Anne Browning, Peter Houghton and Tom Gutteridge.
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.
Mischa Maisky in Recital with Lily Maisky (6 Nov 2026). Experience renowned cellist Mischa Maisky and pianist Lily Maisky in an evening of expressive classical music, with the father-daughter duo bringing warmth, intensity and remarkable musical connection to the stage.
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 (until 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 (until 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.
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 (until 31 Oct 2026). Delve into 175 years of gold rush history with more than 60 experiences, including the Loddon Valley Arts Trail (2–4 October), the Bendigo Comedy Festival (7 – 17 October) and the Heathcote Wine and Food Festival (10–11 October).
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. Read Alli Harding’s review.
Wangaratta Festival of Jazz & Blues (31 Oct–1 Nov 2026). Enjoy a weekend of jazz, blues, funk and soul, with performances from Australian artists including The Bamboos featuring Kylie Auldist, Fiona Boyes & The Fortune Tellers and Jamie Oehlers Quartet. The festival also features free community events, family activities and the National Jazz Awards.
Ongoing & Recurring Melbourne Events
Library Cinema at narrm ngarrgu (10 Sep, 8 Oct 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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