This city sure knows how to throw a winter party. Despite what you might think, some of the best Melbourne festivals and events happen when the weather's cold.
July may be one of the quieter months in our fair city, but there’s still plenty to do if you know where to look. This month is all about eating, drinking and being merry – when the weather gets cold, a hearty meal is well deserved. From hot sake to ooey-gooey French cheeses, there are plenty of goods to sample.
Elsewhere on the calendar, find opportunities to shop from local creators, see some of the country’s most mind-expanding documentaries and even jam out to a band or two.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
No matter if you’re looking for a family-friendly day trip, a chance to try delicious food and drink or exhilarating and enchanting performances, this month’s festivals are not to be missed. Here’s our top picks for festivals and events in Melbourne this July.
The best festivals in Melbourne this month
Lightscape
- Royal Botanic Gardens
- Throughout July
Lightscape returns to the Royal Botanic Gardens after dark, showcasing a reimagined trail and new installations. Explore interactive exhibits like Submergence along with beloved attractions like the Winter Cathedral and Laser Forest at Fern Gully.
Lightscape returns to illuminate Melbourne’s winter nights at Royal Botanic Gardens
East Gippsland Winter Festival
- Gippsland
- Until July 21
Returning for a fourth year, the festival will celebrate How We Winter in the region through a dedicated program of art, performance, music and gastronomy.
East Gippsland Winter Festival has everything for the perfect winter escape
Melbourne Magic Festival
- Various Locations
- July 1 to 13
Officially recognised as the largest festival of its kind in the southern hemisphere, attracting magicians and magic fans worldwide, the Melbourne Magic Festival offers a variety of shows tailored for kids under ten and families.
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Ungrateful Dead Fest
- Cherry Bar
- July 6
Ungrateful Dead Fest presents Brutality 2024, with a lineup of 15 of Australia and New Zealand’s most prominent names in death metal.
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African Festival
- Queen Victoria Market
- July 7
Feel the rhythm of the African Festival Melbourne at Queen Victoria Market, celebrating the city’s diverse African community with tantalising flavours and soul-stirring entertainment.
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Pakka Local Anniversary
- 170 Russell
- July 12
Pakka Local celebrates their first anniversary, redefining South Indian Entertainment in Melbourne.
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Finders Keepers Design Market
- Royal Exhibition Building
- July 12 to 14
Featuring over 270 of Australia’s top independent designers, makers and food vendors, this market offers a vibrant space to connect and support the mindfully made, thoughtfully bought movement while enjoying live local music, fresh food and drinks.
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Electric Wonderland
- Rosalind Park, Bendigo
- Until July 14
Featuring an enchanting sound and light show with interactive exhibits, immersive installations and magical projections, Electric Wonderland is a magical family experience.
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Bastille Day French Festival
- Queen Victoria Market
- July 13 to 14
Immerse yourself in the lively spirit of the Bastille Day French Festival at Queen Vic Market. Trade your winter gear for a touch of French flair and enjoy two days of festivities heralding the start of the countdown to French National Day.
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Melbourne Documentary Film Festival
- Cinema Nova
- July 17 to 31
Experience the finest documentaries from top global film festivals as well as compelling Australian docos this July at Cinema Nova. The festival spans a diverse range of topics and will showcase over 50 stories from across Australia.
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Sake Festival
- Queen Victoria Market
- July 20 to 21
The Queen Victoria Market is hosting a celebration of Sake and Japanese culture, with tastings, delicious food and amazing live talent.
A huge two-day Sake Festival is coming to Melbourne with 200 kinds to taste
Echuca Moama Winter Blues Festival
- Echuca
- July 25 to 28
Echuca-Moama is the ultimate destination for blues music, offering a perfect remedy for winter gloom at its annual Winter Blues Festival, featuring top-notch musicians performing in the Port of Echuca’s heritage precinct and neighbouring venues.
The free Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival reveals lineup for its 2024 edition
Leaps and Bounds Music Festival
- City of Yarra
- July 25 to 28
Originally launched in an effort to support local venues, artists and businesses, Leaps and Bounds has become a cornerstone in the City of Yarra’s cultural scene. From emerging homegrown talent to international sensations, the festival promotes equality, sustainability and diversity, providing a platform for LGBTIQA+ and First Nations musicians.
Leaps and Bounds: Here’s all the hidden gems on at Melbourne’s buzzy inner north music festival
For more on Melbourne festivals and events, head here.
