Top Spring Events in Melbourne (Sept–Nov 2025)

Spring in Melbourne bursts with exciting events. Around every city corner, through lush urban parklands, and further afield past the outskirts of the CBD, you’ll find something to dazzle and delight.

The city plays host to world-class theatre performances and art exhibitions alongside avant-garde fringe festival pop-ups. Surrounding suburbs boast thrilling sporting events, gaming conventions, craft beer festivals, and fashion-forward race carnival thrills.

Melbourne offers an unforgettable experience every spring. So, here's your guide to the top spring events in Melbourne from September to November 2025.

When is Spring in Melbourne?

Melbourne spring months are September, October and November. It’s a season marked by mild weather, longer days than winter, and an exciting array of events, making it perfect for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Spring in Melbourne is also the perfect time of year to enjoy all of the city’s beautiful parklands and outdoor attractions. The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, South Wharf precinct, Southbank promenade and Docklands come to life in spring—and they’re all easily accessible (and quite close) to Dorsett Melbourne.

Spring Weather in Melbourne: Tips & Temperatures

Spring is a beautiful balancing act in Melbourne: the crispness of winter has eased, and the peak heat of summer is yet to arrive, making this season ideal for exploring outdoors.

Keep in mind that, as with most times of year, spring in Melbourne can have slightly unpredictable weather, so it's best to come prepared. You can expect average temperatures ranging from 9°C in the early mornings to around 23°C during the day. 

Spring weather in Melbourne remains on the cooler side during September, then gradually warms up over October and November. If you prefer a little extra warmth, we recommend travelling at the end of spring.

While sunny days are frequent, Melbourne is known for its “four seasons in a day”, so layering your outfits is key. A light jacket or sweater will keep you comfortable, while a scarf or umbrella might come in handy for the occasional spring shower.

Melbourne Events in September

Beetlejuice The Musical

Where: The Regent Theatre, Melbourne CBD

When: Runs until 11th September

Don your striped suit and get ready for the wonderfully strange at Beetlejuice The Musical. Based on Tim Burton's classic film, the musical rendition brings to life on stage the tale of Lydia Deetz and her antics with a deceased couple and a black-and-white-striped demon.

With eight Tony nominations under its belt, the Broadway hit is playing at Melbourne's stunning Regent Theatre until the 11th of September. The set is spectacular, the visual effects unbelievable, and, of course, the music is superb.

It’s an easy tram from Dorsett Melbourne to the theatre, so if you’re searching for the best spring events Melbourne has on offer, this is one to attend. Tickets are on sale now with seats selling fast.

Melbourne Royal Show

Where: Melbourne Showgrounds, Ascot Vale

When: 25th September to 5th October

For many locals, spring in Melbourne means one thing: the iconic Melbourne Royal Show. Back in September for its 2025 edition, this family-friendly festival transforms the Melbourne Showgrounds into a sprawling, colourful, brimming-with-excitement spectacle that just has to be on your spring itinerary (especially if you’re visiting with kids).

The Royal Show boasts carnival rides, sideshow alley games, farm animals and petting zoos, live shows like woodchopping and dog agility, food stalls, showbags, and agricultural displays that showcase the best of regional Melbourne.

Related: Hungry for more activities? Check out these top family-friendly attractions in Melbourne to keep the little ones happy while you travel.

French Impressionism Exhibition 

Where: The National Gallery of Victoria, Southbank

When: Runs until 5th October

Developed in partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the NGV's French Impressionism exhibition offers an entrancing look at the radical movement that defined late 19th-century France. 

Featuring over 100 iconic works from artists like Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas and Mary Cassatt, the exhibition highlights their bold rejection of artistic norms throughout ten thematic sections scattered across the NGV’s ground floor.

Melbourne Events in October

Credit: Melbourne Fashion Week

Melbourne Fringe Festival

Where: Various locations around the city

When: 30th September to 19th October

The Melbourne Fringe Festival is a 20-day celebration of all things independent and experimental in the Arts scene, with over 450 events across theatre, music, dance, performance art, film and comedy.

Known for its adventurous spirit, the festival brings together emerging and established artists to showcase their bold and creative work for all to enjoy. It's all about inclusivity, with a focus on supporting fresh talent and giving audiences the chance to experience something truly innovative. 

Keep an eye on the Fringe Festival website for the full 2025 program, expected to release soon!

PAX Aus

Where: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Wharf

When: 10th to 12th October

Gamers, this one's for you. PAX Aus is the ultimate 3-day celebration of gaming and gaming culture, bringing together everything fans love in the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Meet and greet some of the world's best game publishers and independent studios, and immerse yourself in interactive game demos. There are also panels with industry experts, thrilling tournaments and live music throughout the weekend. 

Saturday tickets are almost sold out, so secure your spot to one of the most exciting Melbourne events in October.

Melbourne International Jazz Festival

Where: Various locations around the city

When: 17th to 26th October

Get a little smooth, a little smoky, and super vibey at the renowned Melbourne International Jazz Festival this October. Unlock a renewed love for one of the world’s best musical genres inside some of the city’s best jazz club hideaways and laneway bars, which only add to the spellbinding scene of this acclaimed festival.

The full 2025 program is being released soon, but in the meantime, you’ll find a handful of headliner shows on early sale. Grab tickets to US saxophonist Gary Bartz, Panamanian pianist Danilo Pérez, and Grammy-winning bassist composer Linda May Han Oh (to name a few).

Melbourne Fashion Week

Where: Various locations around the city

When: 20th to 26th October

High fashion meets local flair at Melbourne Fashion Week (M/FW), a chic and ultra unique celebration of Melbourne’s quintessentially diverse fashion scene. As Australia’s longest-running fashion event, it brings together the best of Melbourne’s creativity and style, showcasing everything from big-name designers to fresh independent talent.

The week is packed with exciting events, including:

• Fashion runways: Watch new collections from established and up-and-coming designers in some of Melbourne’s most iconic venues. 

• Fashion Capsules exhibitions: Explore curated exhibitions that highlight Melbourne’s independent designers and artists. These shows are scattered across the city’s top locations for a truly immersive experience.

• Independent partner events and pop-ups: Beyond the main program, local creatives host a range of workshops, exhibitions and runway shows, giving you even more opportunities to discover Melbourne’s fashion scene.

Melbourne Events in November

Credit: Victoria Racing Club

Melbourne Cup Carnival

Where: Flemington Racecourse

When: 1st to 8th November

The crowning jewel of spring events Melbourne comes with a splash of fascinator colour and a thrilling racetrack experience. The iconic Melbourne Cup Carnival is one of the world’s most famous horse racing and fashion events, and it’s without a doubt one of the city’s largest spectacles of the year—making spring the best time to visit the city.

Throughout the Flemington Racecourse precinct, guests can enjoy live music, food and beverage stalls, Fashions on the Field, a family-friendly area at The Park, and plenty of fabulous photo ops.

This prestigious week includes several major events, including:

• Victoria Derby Day (Saturday 1st November): The historic black-and-white dress code event kicks off Melbourne Cup with horse races and a fashion focus, alongside plenty of entertainment, live music and restaurant-level food stalls.

• Lexus Melbourne Cup Day (Tuesday 4th November): It’s the race that stops a nation, and being there is nothing like watching it on TV. The official Melbourne Cup race day takes place at Flemington Racecourse halfway through the carnival and features elite thoroughbreds and their jockeys vying for the prestigious title. 

• Fashions on the Field (throughout the festival): Racing meets style at everyone’s favourite fashion competition. Fashions on the Field is a Melbourne Cup icon in its own right, and invites guests to enter various contest categories while showing off their best-dressed spring fashion flair. 

Related: Keen to shop for the ultimate Fashions on the Field fit? Here are Melbourne’s best shopping centres to visit while you’re here.

Penrite Oil Sandown 500

Where: Sandown International Motor Raceway, Springvale

When: 14th to 16th November

Sticking with sports, the Penrite Oil Sandown 500 motor sports event is a must-attend spring event in Melbourne for racing enthusiasts. Experience all the best Supercars zoom the circuits of the Sandown Raceway over three action-packed days.

There are various ticket options, some of which include access to the Paddock, a sprawling exhibition-style area that takes you behind the scenes. Get up close with your favourite Supercars drivers at official autograph sessions and watch the teams in action as they work in the garages and transporters, then make your way to the stands for roaring races.

Williamstown Heritage Beer and Cider Festival

Where: Seaworks Maritime Precinct, Williamstown

When: 29th November

Fondly dubbed “Willy Beer Fest,” the Williamstown Heritage Beer and Cider Festival is the ultimate way to kiss spring goodbye and welcome in the warmth of summer in Melbourne. This annual event celebrates Victoria’s rich brewing history with a huge array of craft beers, ciders, boutique wines and delicious food.

This year’s line-up features over 100 beers and ciders from 20+ independent breweries in the region. There’s also live music on tap and plenty of free activities for kids, so it’s a fabulous day out for the whole family.

Melbourne Events All Spring Long

Credit: Melbourne Museum

LEGO® Star Wars: The Exhibition

Where: Melbourne Museum, Carlton

When: Runs until January 2026

For the whole family, LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition at the Melbourne Museum brings the iconic saga to life with intricate LEGO models of spaceships, characters, and more. Perfect for kids and Star Wars fans of all ages!

Annie the Musical

Where: Princess Theatre, Melbourne CBD

When: Runs until 8th November

Little orphan Annie is singin’ it big time on the historic Princess Theatre stage this spring. One of the best and most beloved stories of all time, this heartwarming production captures hearts and wows crowds.

Annie in Melbourne is  perfect for families and theatre lovers, and might be just the thing to cap off their September school holidays with a bang.

MJ the Musical 

Where: Her Majesty's Theatre, Melbourne CBD

When: 9th September to 2nd November

Experience the incredible story of the King of Pop with MJ the Musical, an electrifying tribute to Michael Jackson. From his childhood to his rise to stardom, this musical is a must-see for fans of the legendary artist.

Fans will love the biggest classics and boldest moves of the moonwalk king brought to life in Her Majesty’s Theatre, surrounded by the theatre’s incredible lavish architecture and atmosphere.

Extra Tips for an Unforgettable Melbourne Spring

With so many exciting events, beautiful spring weather, and endless things to explore, Melbourne is the place to be this September through November. Keep these tips in mind for easy, comfortable travel:

• Book early: With so many events taking place, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation and event tickets early to avoid missing out on your preferred shows and activities.

• Pack layers: The weather can vary, so layering your clothing is the best way to stay comfortable while enjoying Melbourne’s spring events.

• Plan ahead: Many events in Melbourne can get busy, so plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your visit. 

• Leave room in your suitcase: With spring being the fashion season in Melbourne, you’ll come across plenty of fabulous fashion finds to wear at your events. Leave room in your suitcase to take a few treasures home! 

Where to Stay in Melbourne

For the perfect base to enjoy all the events Melbourne has to offer this spring, Dorsett Melbourne is the place to stay. Located in the heart of the city, Dorsett Melbourne offers easy and close access to all major event venues, shopping districts and cultural landmarks

You’ll also find plenty of trams and public transport options within easy reach, alongside Southern Cross Station just a 12-minute walk away.

Enjoy spacious rooms, modern amenities and friendly service throughout your stay. Say cheers to a cocktail and charcuterie board at Jin Bar before (or after) your evening spring event, and start the next morning right with a coffee and pastry from our Little Jin Coffee window.

Book your stay at Dorsett Melbourne and experience the best of the city’s spring offerings.

Looking for more? Discover more must-do Melbourne events happening in 2025.