Melbourne gardens transform into outdoor concert venue for three special nights
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27.11.2025

Melbourne gardens transform into outdoor concert venue for three special nights

melbourne
words by staff writer

Sunset Music Series brings three special Sunday evenings of live music to Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne this summer.

Running across February, the series transforms Southern Cross Lawn into an outdoor concert venue as the sun sets over the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. Each night features a different musical experience, from classical compositions to contemporary tributes, creating atmospheric performances that take full advantage of the natural setting.

Mozart by Moonlight opens the series on 1 February, celebrating the composer’s timeless works in an outdoor environment. We May Never Meet Again follows on 8 February, featuring Elly Poletti’s tribute to Amy Winehouse that explores the late artist’s soul-filled catalogue. The Burt Bacharach Songbook closes out the series on 15 February, diving into the composer’s collection of pop standards.

Sunset Music Series – Melbourne

  • Where: Southern Cross Lawn, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
  • When: Sunday 1 February (Mozart by Moonlight), Sunday 8 February (Amy Winehouse tribute), Sunday 15 February (Burt Bacharach Songbook)
  • Tickets: here

Check out our gig guide, our festival guide, our live music venue guide and our nightclub guide. Follow us on Instagram here.

Mozart by Moonlight leans into classical repertoire, bringing centuries-old compositions to an outdoor setting that contrasts with the formal concert halls where such music typically lives.

Elly Poletti’s Amy Winehouse tribute on 8 February celebrates the British artist’s impact on contemporary soul and jazz. Winehouse’s music translates well to outdoor settings, with her vocal style and lyrical depth suited to the intimate atmosphere the gardens can provide as evening settles in.

Closing with The Burt Bacharach Songbook on 15 February brings a different flavour entirely. Bacharach’s compositions have been covered by countless artists across decades, making his catalogue instantly recognisable even to casual listeners. His melodic approach to pop songwriting creates sing-along moments that work well for outdoor audiences.

Sunset timing means temperatures should be manageable as February can still push into warm evenings. Arriving early to claim a good spot on the lawn is key, with the gardens offering plenty of space to spread out a picnic blanket and settle in before the music starts.

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne continues expanding its summer programming beyond traditional horticultural experiences. Live music under the stars taps into the same appeal that makes Moonlight Cinema successful at the same location, proving there’s demand for outdoor evening events in the gardens.

For more information, head here.