🏙️ Your Guide to Melbourne’s Major Events in 2025–2026
Melbourne is renowned for its vibrant events calendar, offering experiences for every visitor. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a culture seeker, or a fan of great entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of major upcoming events in chronological order so you can plan your stay at Bayside House accordingly:
🎨 White Night Melbourne
When: February 2025 (Exact dates TBA)
An all-night arts and culture festival that transforms Melbourne into a vibrant hub of creativity with installations, performances, and light shows. A must-see event for art lovers.
🎭 Melbourne International Comedy Festival
When: March 26 – April 20, 2025
A month-long celebration featuring local and international comedians, stand-up shows, and comedy performances across various venues. Learn morepublicholidays.com.au+2hunterandbligh.com.au+2discovermelbourne.au+2
🎬 Melbourne International Film Festival
When: August 7 – 24, 2025
Showcasing a diverse range of films from around the world, this festival is perfect for cinephiles and film buffs. Explore the programausopen.com+28concreteplayground.com+28racenet.com.au+28
🏉 AFL Grand Final 2025
When: Saturday, 27 September 2025
Where: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
The grand finale of the Australian Football League season, where the top two teams compete for the premiership in a thrilling match at the iconic MCG. Event Details
🏇 Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival 2025
A highlight of the Australian sporting calendar, featuring world-class horse racing, fashion, and entertainment across multiple racecourses:
- Manikato Stakes Day – Saturday, 27 September 2025
- Caulfield Cup Day – Wednesday, 22 October 2025
- Cox Plate Day – Wednesday, 29 October 2025
- Victoria Derby Day – Tuesday, 4 November 2025
- Melbourne Cup Day – Thursday, 6 November 2025
- VRC Oaks Day – Saturday, 8 November 2025
- Champions Stakes Day – Saturday, 15 November 2025 Full calendar
🏀 NBA Games in Melbourne 2025
When: Friday, 3 October & Sunday, 5 October 2025
Where: Rod Laver Arena
The New Orleans Pelicans will play pre-season games against Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix, marking the NBA’s debut in Australia. Event details rodlaverarena.com.au+1trip.com+1sports.yahoo.com+4ausopen.com+4news.com.au+4
🎾 Australian Open 2026
When: 12 January – 1 February 2026
Where: Melbourne Park
The first Grand Slam tournament of the tennis season, attracting top international players and fans from around the world. Official Announcement
🏎️ Australian Grand Prix 2026
When: 6–8 March 2026
Where: Albert Park Circuit, Melbourne
The thrilling Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix returns, offering high-speed racing action and vibrant entertainment in the heart of Melbourne. Official calendarjusthorseracing.com.au+2formula1.com+2discovermelbourne.au+2
🏡 Staying at Bayside House
Nestled in the beautiful Bayside area, Bayside House offers a comfortable and convenient base to experience all these incredible events. With easy access to public transport and local amenities, you’ll be just minutes away from Melbourne’s bustling event scene.
📅 Plan Your Visit
Book your stay early to make the most of these exciting events. Whether you’re here for the sports, culture, or simply to soak up Melbourne’s vibrant atmosphere, Bayside House is your perfect home away from home.
