Moomba madness: The jubilant five-day festival celebrates 70 years
Subscribe
X

Get the latest from Beat

16.02.2024

Moomba madness: The jubilant five-day festival celebrates 70 years

Moomba
words by staff writer

Next month, the Melbourne-favourite festival returns for five days of over-the-top fun.

A highlight of the Melbourne cultural calendar, the iconic Moomba festival is set to return to the city from March 7 to 11. Featuring fireworks, interactive art, live music, festivities, workshops, film screenings, sporting events and so much more, the festival is a do-not-miss for anyone on the hunt for a good time.

This year, beloved Australian entertainers Emma Memma (Emma Watkins) and Pete Helliar have been bestowed with the honour of being crowned the 2024 Moomba Monarchs.

Moomba Festival 2024

  • March 7 to 11
  • Alexandra Gardens and  Birrarung Marr
  • Free and ticketed events

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

This dynamic duo brings a blend of comedy, entertainment, and empowerment, promising a spectacular event for both the young and the young at heart.

Adding to the excitement, Moomba Monarch Emma Memma will bravely take the plunge into the Yarra River as part of the Birdman Rally, a thrilling spectacle that not only entertains but also raises funds for Expression Australia, supporting individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing. 14 brave pilots will join her in an attempt to soar across the river.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Emma Memma (@emmamemmamemma)

Each night, a dazzling fireworks display will illuminate the city skyline accompanied by feature films screened on the Moomba stage. Opening day will feature a massive outdoor concert, with performances by The Deans of Soul, Fosters, Olivia Meg, Crooked TP and Del Barrio.

The crowd-favourite Moomba Carnival will bring more than 30 rides to the festival, including the brand new Warrior – Australia’s tallest and fastest travelling ride.

Elsewhere on the program, find a Community Roller Jam, silent discos, face painting, hula hooping, skateboarding, watersport competitions on the Yarra, and African drumming and Bollywood dancing workshops.

Capping off the festivities, the massive Moomba parade will see larger-than-life floats, large-scale puppets and 1800 exuberant performers make their way through Alexandra Gardens. Running since 1955, it’s one of Melbourne’s most magical traditions.

The family-friendly program is truly packed with so much goodness – it’s worth giving it a thorough browse to make sure you don’t miss out on any special moments.

Tickets are on sale now. Grab yours here.