Australia Day Events Melbourne – 26th January

Are you celebrating Australia Day in Melbourne? January 26th sees annual celebrations to commemorate the arrival of the first British fleet to Australian shores, over 200 years ago. With a deep respect for the world’s oldest surviving indigenous culture, the Aboriginals, are also celebrated far a wide. There is loads’ going on across Melbourne so we’ve outlined a great budget itinerary packed full of culture, arts, music and food. Check out our round up of the best Australia Day events in Melbourne here…

Australia Day Eve

Asian Beer Café – Wed 25th Jan, 8pm-1am
Start on Australia Days’ Eve and head to the Asian Beer Cafe in your coolest Aussie dress! Start the party a day early and show off your moves on the dance floor hosted by DJ Damas!
Melbourne Central, 211 La Trobe Street
asianbeercafe.com.au

Australia Day Lat Morning

Australia Day Parade – 11am – 12pm
Join the thousands and line the streets of Melbourne CBD for this colourful and vibrant procession from over 90 community and cultural groups. Proudly celebrating a culturally diverse community this will certainly give you a great respect for the meaning of Australia Day.
CBD, Melbourne
www.australiaday.vic.gov.au

During The Day

Coburg Velodrome Foodtruck Festival – 26th – 29th Jan
Featuring grub from every continent – it’s a food glorious food kind of event! Combined with eating contests, live entertainment and an outdoor cinema, tantalise your taste buds at this Australia Day long weekend event!
30 Charles St, Coburg
www.foodtruckfest.com.au

Blindside: The Bureau for the Organisation of Origins Exhibition  – 25th Jan – 11th Feb
You’re in Melbourne – culturally diverse and artistic by its very own nature! Take a moment to immerse in the artistic scene and discover this thought provoking exhibition, which explores the Australian identity. Curated by Ben Sheppard, see a host of global pieces feature alongside indigenous artists work.
37 Swanston Street
www.blindside.org.au

Evening Australia Day Events

Australia Day Celebration Fireworks – 6pm-10:30pm
Head to the Harbour Esplanade where roaming artists and entertainment will make for a lively atmosphere. Enjoy a great ‘Aussie’ BBQ whilst watching the showdown firework display ignited from the top of the Ethiad Stadium!
the final show down
Harbour Esplanade, Docklands
www.docklandscc.com.au

Want to party on into the night? Here’s some great bars in Melbourne

by Gemma Glover