Melbourne festivals and events season has kicked into full gear and we're so ready for it!
The sun’s out and we’re ready to dance, sing, eat, drink and soak it all in. This month, there’s oh so much going on. With three major events going on – Fringe, Jazz Fest and Games Week – as well as a ton of smaller fun stuff in between, October is a big one.
Whether you’re looking for comedy, culture, cuisine or community, there’s something that’ll suit you. Here are our top picks for Melbourne festivals and events this October.
Read about the best festivals in Melbourne all year long here.
Fringe Festival
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- Across Melbourne
- 1-20 October
Melbourne Fringe Festival is returning with over 450 unique events that span comedy, cabaret, dance, music and more. This festival is all about celebrating the unconventional, bringing daring ideas and creativity to life across the city for three weeks of fun and artistic expression.
Melbourne Bachata Festival
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- Transit Dance
- 4 October
Get ready for a thrilling weekend of Latin dance as Melbourne hosts some of the biggest names in Bachata, with international stars like Cornel & Rithika and Sergio & Ana.
City North Fest
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- RMIT University
- 5 October
City North Fest combines art, technology and sustainability. Enjoy performances from Melbourne Fringe artists, explore immersive digital experiences and discover innovative concepts like zero-waste food and robotics, all set in the heart of Melbourne’s university district.
Mode Festival
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- PICA
- 5 October
Returning for its third edition, Mode brings some of the world’s finest DJs and producers to Melbourne and Sydney, including Young Marco, Sweely, Bored Lord, Jasper Tygner, Tommy Holohan and more.
Melbourne Marathon Festival
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- Yarra Park
- 10-13 October
The Melbourne Marathon Festival, Australia’s largest, invites participants of all ages and abilities to take part in five events, ranging from a family-friendly 2.5km walk to the full 42.195km marathon. Starting near Rod Laver Arena and finishing with a lap around the MCG, it’s a celebration of fitness and endurance with thousands taking part.
Melbourne International Games Week
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- Various Locations
- 3-13 October
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Melbourne International Games Week showcases the latest and greatest in games, technology and culture, with career opportunities, esports tournaments, game debuts and free community events.
NGO International Film Festival
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- Treasury Theatre
- 14 October
A global gathering of filmmakers and activists, the NGO International Film Festival addresses pressing social issues through cinema. This year’s Melbourne edition features thought-provoking films and discussions, encouraging collaboration on global challenges.
4H Fest – Latin Rap and Hip Hop Festival
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- Wax Music Lounge
- 18 October
Celebrate Latin hip-hop culture at 4H Fest, featuring live performances from top Latin rap artists. With a mix of music, dance and community vibes, this event brings together fans for an exciting night at Wax Music Lounge.
Melbourne International Jazz Festival
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- Various Locations
- 18-27 October
Melbourne International Jazz Festival brings some of the world’s best jazz to the city with over 100 performances from renowned international and local artists. Spread across concert halls, intimate clubs and city streets, this festival is a jazz lover’s dream.
Ability Fest
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- Alexandra Gardens
- 19 October
With all proceeds going to the Dylan Alcott Foundation, this accessible music festival is an oasis for fans of all ability levels, with Auslan interpreters, viewing platforms, a tactile silent disco and more. Cub Sport, ONEFOUR, Ocean Alley and King Stingray lead this year’s lineup.
Indian Festival Melbourne
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- Queen Victoria Market
- 20 October
Experience a day of Indian culture at Queen Victoria Market, featuring traditional music, vibrant dances and a variety of mouth-watering street food. It’s a colourful celebration that brings the flavours and energy of India to Melbourne.
Victorian Festival of Diwali
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- Fed Square
- 26 October
Celebrate India’s Festival of Lights at Federation Square, a day filled with cultural performances and workshops. Experience dazzling performances, craft activities and delicious Indian street food.
Melbourne Cat Lovers Festival
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- Melbourne Showgrounds
- 26 October
The Cat Lovers Festival brings together feline fanatics with engaging demonstrations, breed parades and expert insights. Meow-tastic!
Melbourne Dog Lovers Festival
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- Melbourne Showgrounds
- 27 October
The Melbourne Dog Lovers Festival celebrates everything dog-related with breed showcases, expert talks and interactive activities for pets and their owners. It’s the perfect event for dog enthusiasts to connect and learn more about their furry companions.
Melbourne’s Halloween Fest
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- Caribbean Park, Scoresby
- 26-27 October
Celebrate the spooky season at this fun-filled family Halloween event, with candy, games, dancing and prizes. This festival is free for kids aged 3 and under and includes trick-or-treating, a horror magic show, a reptile show and many more fun events for all ages.
Asia Oasis Street Food Festival
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- Alexandra Gardens
- 24-27 October
Asia Oasis Street Food Festival offers a delightful blend of authentic Asian street food, entertainment and chilled-out vibes by the Yarra. Stroll through stalls under glowing lanterns, savour unique dishes not found in local restaurants and enjoy live performances, all with a chance to win exciting prizes.
For more on Melbourne festivals and events, head here.
