Winter in Melbourne is anything but dull. As the air turns crisp, the city comes alive with a vibrant mix of events. Whether you're a culture lover, foodie, or sports fan, there's something stirring around every corner this winter. And with our Melbourne Mood Offer giving you up to 37%* off your stay, there’s never been a better time to plan your trip and experience the magic for yourself.
Ready to discover what makes Melbourne so magical in the colder months? Join us to unpack the best winter events in 2025, and our top tips for making the most of your city escape.
In This Blog
- When Does Winter Start and End in Melbourne?
- Major Events & Festivals in Melbourne This Winter
- Must-Visit Winter Markets & Food Events
- Winter Sporting Highlights in Melbourne
- Live Music & Musicals Not to Miss
- Essential Visitor Tips for Winter in Melbourne
- Embrace the Magic of Winter in Melbourne
When Does Winter Start and End in Melbourne?
Melbourne's winter season officially runs from June 1st to August 31st. During these months, you can expect daytime temperatures to hover between 6°C and 14°C, with the coldest period typically occurring in July. The season brings shorter daylight hours and occasional rainfall, but also crystal-clear sunny days that showcase the city's stunning architecture, cultural precincts and natural environment in a completely different light.
Major Events & Festivals in Melbourne This Winter
Credit: Tourism Victoria
Melbourne's winter calendar bursts with world-class events and festivals that showcase why the city is renowned as Australia's cultural heart. From cutting-edge contemporary arts festivals to family-friendly spectacular shows, winter in Melbourne offers something to delight every taste and interest.
French Impressionism at NGV (June - October)
The National Gallery of Victoria presents masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, and Degas in this major international exhibition. Special talks, workshops, and evening events provide deeper insights into the impressionist movement, while the gallery’s own impressive collection offers hours of immersion perfect for those colder days!
Lightscape at Royal Botanic Gardens (June - August)
After-dark magic illuminates the Royal Botanic Gardens with trails of light installations creating a spectacular winter wonderland in the heart of the city. Interactive displays respond to movement while projection mapping transforms iconic garden spaces. This unique experience combines art, nature, and technology in ways that celebrate the gardens' winter beauty.
Firelight Festival (4-6 July)
Melbourne's Docklands transforms into a spectacular wonderland of light, fire, and performance art during this enchanting winter festival. Interactive fire installations, live performances, and immersive light displays create a magical atmosphere perfect for the colder months. Stroll through the precinct and witness artists working with flame and light in ways that celebrate winter's unique beauty.
Disney On Ice (16 - 20 July)
Rod Laver Arena transforms into a magical wonderland where beloved Disney characters come to life through stunning choreography and breathtaking costumes. This year's production - Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero features your favourite characters from a whole range of Disney stories including Moana, Encanto and Frozen. Multiple sessions accommodate different schedules during the school holidays.
Melbourne International Film Festival (7-24 August)
One of the world's oldest film festivals transforms Melbourne into a cinematic paradise across multiple CBD venues. From premieres and documentaries to international features and short films, MIFF showcases the very best in contemporary cinema. Industry panels, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and special screenings create an immersive cultural experience. The festival's diverse programming ensures there's something for every film enthusiast, making it the perfect indoor winter activity for culture lovers.
Must-Visit Winter Markets & Food Events
Credit: Tourism Victoria
Beyond the festival circuit, the cooler months bring out the best in Melbourne's passionate food culture, creating intimate gatherings where local producers, international cuisines, and artisanal creators showcase their finest offerings. These events provide the perfect opportunity to experience Melbourne's famous foodie reputation while staying warm and discovering new flavours that define the city's diverse culinary landscape.
Winter Night Market at Queen Victoria Market (Wednesdays, June - August)
Every Wednesday, Queen Victoria Market transforms into Melbourne's most vibrant evening destination. Over 70 food stalls serve everything from German bratwurst and Spanish paella to modern Asian fusion. Live music, roving entertainers, and festoon lighting create a magical atmosphere, while mulled wine and hot chocolate provide perfect winter warmers. The best part? It’s a short walk from your stylish accommodation at Dorsett Melbourne.
The Little Food Market (18 - 20 July)
This boutique weekend market celebrates Melbourne's finest local producers and artisanal creators. Meet award-winning cheesemongers, winemakers, craft bakers, and specialty coffee roasters while enjoying tastings and workshops. The intimate setting encourages conversation with makers, while cooking demonstrations inspire home entertaining during winter months.
St Kilda Spirits Festival (15 - 17 August)
Melbourne's cocktail culture takes centre stage at this all-weekend event, with premium spirits, craft distilleries, and innovative mixology. Expert bartenders demonstrate techniques while visitors sample Australian whisky to artisanal gin, with food pairings designed to complement each spirit. Masterclasses reveal distillation secrets, making it perfect for discovering your next favourite cocktail.
Winter Sporting Highlights in Melbourne
Credit: Tourism Victoria
Winter coincides perfectly with the AFL season, international rugby tours, and other key pillars of the Australian sporting calendar. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply looking to experience the electric atmosphere that Melbourne crowds are famous for creating, 2025 has you well and truly covered.
AFL Matches at the MCG (June - August)
The Melbourne Cricket Ground becomes electric during AFL season, with 100,000 supporters creating a legendary experience. Pre-game entertainment, half-time shows, and post-match celebrations make each game well worth the ticket price. The best part? Nearby restaurants and bars mean you can easily make a day or night of it.
Wrexham Down Under Tour - Marvel Stadium (11 July)
Football fans are in for a treat with the arrival of Wrexham AFC, the Welsh club co-owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. This marks the club's historic first visit to Australia as part of their 2025 pre-season tour, featuring matches against top A-League teams. The Marvel Stadium showdown promises to be a unique sporting spectacle, combining the excitement of international football with the celebrity appeal of the club's famous owners. Located just a short stroll from Dorsett Melbourne, this once-in-a-lifetime sporting event offers the perfect opportunity to witness football history in the making.
ASICS Run Melbourne (13 July)
Thousands of runners embrace crisp winter air in this popular running event showcasing Melbourne's scenic cityscape. Multiple distances cater to all fitness levels, from family fun runs to challenging marathons. The course winds through Melbourne's most beautiful areas with enthusiastic crowd support and post-race celebrations.
British & Irish Lions Rugby Tour (July - August)
Two historic matches offer once-in-a-generation sporting experiences. The First Nations team faces the touring Lions on July 22nd at Marvel Stadium, showcasing Indigenous rugby talent just a short stroll from Dorsett Melbourne. The Wallabies then battle the Lions at the MCG on July 26th. These matches occur only every 12 years, making them essential viewing for visiting sports fans.
Super Netball Grand Final (2 August)
The climax of Australia's premier netball competition brings the nation's best teams to Rod Laver Arena for an electrifying showdown. Featuring the country's most talented athletes competing at the highest level, the Grand Final is sure to deliver intense action, incredible athleticism, and passionate crowds - regardless of who’s playing!
Live Music & Musicals Not to Miss
Melbourne's reputation as a live music and theatre destination is certainly validated this winter, with the city's venues playing host to everything from West End-style musicals to chart-topping international acts.
Hadestown (from 8 May)
This Tony Award-winning musical captivates audiences with its haunting retelling of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth. Folk, jazz, and blues music combine with innovative staging that transforms the theatre into the underworld, creating immersive winter entertainment with themes of hope and perseverance.
Beetlejuice (until 29 June)
Based on the beloved Tim Burton film, this wickedly funny musical brings spectacular staging, outrageous costumes, and memorable songs to life at the Regent Theatre. Gothic humour and supernatural elements create perfect winter entertainment, while high-energy performances ensure thoroughly entertaining evenings.
Annie (10 July–3 August)
The beloved musical returns to the Princess Theatre during school holidays, bringing a heartwarming story and unforgettable songs to new generations. This classic production offers ideal family entertainment fit for little ones.
Kimberly Akimbo - Melbourne Theatre Company (July-August)
The Melbourne Theatre Company presents this Pulitzer Prize-winning musical that combines heart, humour, and humanity in an unforgettable theatrical experience. Following a teenager with a rare aging condition, this critically acclaimed production offers both laughs and tears through its touching exploration of family, friendship, and living life to the fullest. The intimate theatre setting creates a perfect winter cultural experience that showcases why Melbourne's theatre scene is world-renowned.
Tyler, The Creator (20 - 24 August)
Hip-hop innovator and Grammy winner Tyler, The Creator brings his Chromakopia World Tour to Melbourne with a show that's equal parts concert and theatrical experience. Known for his elaborate stage designs, colourful visuals, and unpredictable performances, Tyler is set to wow the city with an experience that showcases his evolution from Odd Future founder to critically acclaimed solo artist.
Keith Urban (25 August)
Country music superstar Keith Urban closes the winter season with an electric arena show showcasing his guitar mastery and iconic stage charisma. Known for his audience engagement, his Rod Laver Arena show is set to have the whole city singing along.
Camila Cabello (27 August)
Grammy-nominated pop sensation Camila Cabello brings her dynamic Yours, C tour to Margaret Court Arena this winter. Known for her powerful vocals and engaging performances, the former Fifth Harmony member delivers a high-energy show featuring songs from her solo career including hits like "Havana" and "Señorita.
Essential Visitor Tips for Winter in Melbourne
Making the most of your winter adventure in Melbourne requires some insider knowledge and smart planning. These essential tips will help you navigate Melbourne like a local, ensuring you stay warm, comfortable, and perfectly positioned to enjoy everything the city has to offer during the winter months.
Master the Myki Card System
Melbourne's trams and trains are your best friends during winter. A Myki card provides seamless travel across the network, keeping you warm and dry while exploring all corners of the city. Located just near Dorsett Melbourne, the city also has a ‘Free Tram Zone’ for cost-free travel between major attractions.
Book Popular Events Early
While there are plenty of experiences on offer, be warned - some of these premier events sell out fast! Secure tickets for Disney On Ice, The British & Irish Lion Tour, and major concerts in advance.
Layer Up and Explore
Melbourne's changeable weather means dressing in layers is essential. This allows you to stay comfortable whether you're exploring outdoor markets or warming up in cosy venues.
Embrace the Magic of Winter in Melbourne
Keen to explore Melbourne’s incredible winter event lineup? A stay at Dorsett Melbourne puts you right in the centre of it all. With plenty of luxe room options, on site dining and a relaxing fitness & wellness centre, your stay also puts you within walking distance of many of the major experiences above, while our concierge team can assist with helping you book and navigate public transport for those that are further away.
Discover Your Melbourne Mood: Up to 37%* Off Your Stay!
For a limited time, enjoy up to 37%* off your stay when booking direct, plus even more perks to warm up your winter escape — including complimentary early check-in (from 10 am) and late check-out (to noon)*, 15% off drinks and dining at Jin Bar, and discounted valet parking at just $60 per day.
Book before the 31st of August and take advantage of this offer through winter and beyond.
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